ESV Global Study Bible :: Footnotes for 2 Corinthians 12

2 Cor. 12:1–13 Because his opponents boast in their spiritual experiences as well as in their ethnic identity, Paul is also forced to boast, however foolishly, in his own visions and revelations (see 11:1; 16; 12:11). But then in vv. 7–10 he returns one last time to boasting in his weakness, revealing the presence of a “thorn in the flesh” as the appropriate means for glorifying God’s grace and power in his life and ministry. In vv. 9–10 he clearly states the principle behind this aspect of his self-commendation (1:3–11; 2:14–17; 4:7–12; 6:3–10; 11:23–33): Paul’s earthly weaknesses, not his revelations, are to be the platform for demonstrating the Lord’s power and grace.

2 Cor. 12:2–3 I know a man . . . this man. Paul’s hesitancy to boast of his visions is reflected in his use of the third person (as if it had happened to someone else). the third heaven (that is, the highest; see 1 Kings 8:27). This phrase reflects a distinction between (1) the atmosphere where birds can be seen to fly, (2) the higher area where the sun, moon, and stars can be seen, and (3) the unseen realm where God dwells (paradise). fourteen years ago. Sometime between a.d. 42–44, before his first missionary journey (Acts 9:29–30; 11:25–26). There is no other known record of this vision.

2 Cor. 12:7 a thorn was given me (by God, who is sovereign over all things) in the flesh, a messenger of Satan. The nature of this “thorn” or “messenger” is uncertain. The most frequently proposed possibilities include: (1) Paul’s inner psychological struggles (such as grief over his earlier persecution of the church, sorrow over Israel’s unbelief, or continuing temptations); (2) Paul’s opponents, who continued to persecute him (compare Num. 33:55 and Ezek. 28:24, where thorns refer to Israel’s enemies); (3) some kind of physical affliction (possibly poor eyesight, malaria, or severe migraine headaches); or (4) some kind of demonic harassment (“a messenger of Satan”). Most commentators prefer the third view, since “thorn in the flesh” would seem to suggest a physical condition.

2 Cor. 12:9–10 My grace is sufficient. Paul says that God’s grace “is sufficient” (in the present tense). This emphasizes the constant availability of God’s grace, for Paul and for every believer (see Rom. 8:31–39). my power is made perfect in weakness. Paul’s earthly weaknesses (not his revelations) were God’s way of demonstrating his power. This is the basis of Paul’s self-defense throughout 2 Corinthians.

2 Cor. 12:11 super-apostles. See note on 11:5–6. even though I am nothing. Paul was the “least of the apostles,” having persecuted the church (1 Cor. 15:8–9). He owes everything to the grace and call of God in his life (1 Cor. 15:10; 2 Cor. 3:4–6).

2 Cor. 12:12 the signs of a true apostle . . . among you with utmost patience. Refers to the work of the Spirit through Paul’s ministry. This work is seen in the conversion and gifting of the Corinthians (3:1–3). It is also seen in Paul’s Christlike behavior (6:4; 10:1–12:10). with signs and wonders and mighty works. A threefold description of miraculous acts that accompanied and proved an apostle’s ministry (see Rom. 15:18–19; Gal. 3:1–5). These terms tie God’s saving work under the new covenant to the signs and wonders at the exodus. This shows the unity within redemptive history (e.g., Ex. 3:20; 7:3; 10:1–2; Deut. 4:34; Ps. 105:27–36; see the Overview of the Bible).

2 Cor. 12:13 With playful irony, Paul says that the only wrong he did the Corinthians was not asking them for money (see 11:9b–14 for the reason).

2 Cor. 12:14–13:10 In final preparation for his third visit (12:14; 13:1), Paul commends his apostleship one last time (12:14–21) and challenges the rebellious to test the genuineness of their professed faith (13:1–10).

2 Cor. 12:14–15 for the third time I am ready to come to you. On his first visit Paul planted the church at Corinth (Acts 18:1–18). His second visit was the “painful visit” (see 2 Cor. 2:1 and note on 2:1–2).

2 Cor. 12:16–18 crafty . . . deceit . . . take advantage. Paul rejects the idea that he used the collection to take money from the Corinthians. There is no evidence for such a charge.

2 Cor. 12:20 find you not as I wish. That is, still unrepentant, rebellious, and continuing in their sinful lifestyles. All of these would indicate that they are not genuine believers (see 13:5). find me not as you wish. If the Corinthians do not repent, Paul will have to exercise God’s judgment. He cannot wait patiently for their repentance as in the past (see 1:23–2:4).

2 Cor. 12:21 God may humble Paul before the Corinthians by using Paul as an instrument of their judgment. This will mean Paul may have to mourn over the rebellious.