2Cor 12:7-10 | TNotes | STEP | Summary for 2Cor 12:7-10: 12:7b-10 We do not know what the thorn in Paul’s flesh was (cp. Num 33:55 ; Ezek 28:24 ; Hos 2:6 ); we only know that its purpose was to keep him from becoming proud , to prick the bubble of pride. • It was a messenger from Satan —that is, something or someone evil—so Paul prayed to the Lord to take it away . The Lord answered each petition the same way: “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” Paul’s human weakness was an opportunity for the power of Christ to work through him by God’s grace. Paul accepted his suffering because Christ’s strength showed itself through his weakness.

a12:7b-10►

bNum 33:55►

cEzek 28:24►

dHos 2:6►

‏ 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

Summary for 2Cor 12:7-10: 12:7b-10 ^a We do not know what the thorn in Paul’s flesh was (cp. Num 33:55 ^b; Ezek 28:24 ^c; Hos 2:6 ^d); we only know that its purpose was to keep him from becoming proud, to prick the bubble of pride.

• It was a messenger from Satan—that is, something or someone evil—so Paul prayed to the Lord to take it away. The Lord answered each petition the same way: “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” Paul’s human weakness was an opportunity for the power of Christ to work through him by God’s grace. Paul accepted his suffering because Christ’s strength showed itself through his weakness.