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2 Corinthians 12:10
Verse
Context
Paul’s Thorn and God’s Grace
9But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me.10That is why, for the sake of Christ, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Therefore I take pleasure - I not only endure them patiently, but am pleased when they occur; for I do it for Christ's sake - on his account; for on his account I suffer. For when I am weak - most oppressed with trials and afflictions, then am I strong; God supporting my mind with his most powerful influences, causing me to rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
take pleasure in--too strongly. Rather as the Greek, "I am well contented in." infirmities--the genus. Two pairs of species follow, partly coming from "Satan's messenger," partly from men. reproaches--"insults." when--in all the cases just specified. then--then especially. strong--"powerful" in "the power of Christ" (Co2 12:9; Co2 13:4; Heb 11:34).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you,.... Not only the doctrine which he preached, the power that attended it, and the success it met with among them, were clear signs and evident proofs of his being sent by Christ; not only they themselves, who were converted under his ministry, were testimonials and seals of his apostleship, but also the many other wonderful works done by him confirmed the same, and showed him to be an apostle, and that he was not a whit behind, but equal to the chiefest of them: nor does he refer them to signs that were wrought by him, among others, and in other places, which were many; but to those which they themselves were witnesses of, and therefore might and ought to have spoken of them in defence of him; and in order to stop the mouths of the false apostles, a particular enumeration of these signs follows: in all patience; it is one sign, and what is here mentioned in the first place of an apostle and minister of Christ, that he patiently bears all injuries and indignities, reproaches, persecutions, and all manner of afflictions, for Christ's sake and the Gospel's; and this the apostle did; and had he not been sent by Christ, it is not reasonable to imagine that he would have exposed himself to so many evils and dangers; or would have bore with so much patience the ill usage of men, and particularly the unkindness and ingratitude he met with at Corinth; but he took all patiently, having their good and the glory of Christ at heart: in signs and wonders, and mighty deeds; meaning preternatural and miraculous performances; such as raising the dead, healing the sick, cleansing lepers, casting out devils, speaking with divers tongues, and the like, which were confirming evidences of apostleship; so , "wonders and powers", or "mighty deeds", are mentioned together by the Jews (i), as the same things. (i) Zohar in Exod. fol. 96. 2. & 97. 1.
2 Corinthians 12:10
Paul’s Thorn and God’s Grace
9But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me.10That is why, for the sake of Christ, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"Challenge Demon Power"
By Leonard Ravenhill13K00:242CO 12:10This sermon challenges believers to embrace tribulations and reproaches, drawing inspiration from the Apostle Paul's attitude of glorying in difficulties. It emphasizes the need for spiritual maturity despite facing criticism and mockery from those around us who may not understand our pursuit of holiness and closeness to God.
(Exodus) Exodus 3:9-14
By J. Vernon McGee3.3K06:26EXO 3:131KI 18:362CO 12:10In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the conversation between Moses and God regarding the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. The preacher highlights how Moses, who was once confident and arrogant, has now become humble and aware of his own weakness after spending forty years in the desert. The preacher emphasizes that God often trains his servants by humbling them and making them realize their dependence on Him. The preacher also mentions examples from the Bible, such as David and Elijah, who were also humbled before God used them mightily. The sermon concludes with God revealing His name to Moses as "I am that I am."
Pure Heart, Pure Church (Full Video)
By Leonard Ravenhill3.1K1:21:58PSA 51:102CO 12:10GAL 2:20GAL 5:24PHP 4:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of purity of heart and the need for God to cleanse us from sin completely. It delves into the concept of being crucified to the world and the world being crucified to us, leading to a life of holiness and spiritual health. The message highlights the joy and peace that come from a restored relationship with God, even in the midst of trials and tribulations.
Desperation Revelation Resignation
By Keith Daniel3.0K1:23:34SurrenderJER 1:4JER 1:9JER 15:152CO 12:10In this sermon, the speaker shares anecdotes from his childhood, including a story about being chased by monkeys and baboons. He then transitions to discussing the impact of John Wesley, a preacher who brought about a spiritual revival in England. Despite facing numerous challenges and even physical attacks, Wesley's preaching led to a transformation in the nation, with both the rich and the poor coming to Christ and showing compassion towards one another. The speaker encourages the audience to reflect on the life and ministry of Jeremiah, who was called by God to be a prophet, and emphasizes the importance of looking back to the beginning of one's calling.
Knowing God
By George Verwer2.3K55:232CO 12:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of perseverance and spiritual growth amidst struggles and failures. It shares personal experiences of battling fears, worries, lust, ego, extremism, doubts, and discouragement, highlighting the need for continuous learning and reliance on God's grace. The speaker encourages self-acceptance, developing biblical strategies for overcoming sin, and embracing a journey of growth in faith.
1992 Missions Conference Talk - Part 7
By Richard Wurmbrand2.0K05:48MAT 5:44MAT 10:28MAT 24:13ROM 8:352CO 12:10PHP 1:21HEB 13:31PE 3:141PE 4:16REV 2:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of love, compassion, and faith in the face of persecution, particularly focusing on the struggles of persecuted Christians in various countries. It highlights the need for support, prayer, and understanding for those facing persecution, especially in communist and Muslim nations. The message encourages believers to show love, strength, and courage in the midst of adversity, following the example of persecuted Christians who demonstrate unwavering faith and love even in the most challenging circumstances.
Duty, Responsibility and Practice
By Charles E. Fuller1.7K50:45ResponsibilityMAT 24:13ROM 12:142CO 12:10REV 12:11In this sermon, Dr. Charles E. Fuller shares a personal story about a man who became one of his best friends after showing kindness and compassion. He emphasizes the importance of recompensing good for evil and not seeking revenge. Dr. Fuller then transitions to the topic of duty, responsibility, and practice as outlined in the Book of Romans Chapter 12. He highlights the transformation that occurs when one accepts Jesus Christ, leading to a humble and compassionate nature. The sermon concludes with a call to become a new creation in Christ and the assurance that God will be with believers throughout their journey of life.
Pure Heart, Pure Church - Part 9
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K09:40PSA 40:2ACT 17:112CO 12:10GAL 2:20PHP 4:4This sermon emphasizes the need to crucify worldly desires and idols, focusing on the transformation that occurs when one is truly saved by Christ's life. It highlights the joy and strength found in adversity and tribulations, contrasting worldly success with spiritual fulfillment. The message encourages believers to find joy in God despite challenging circumstances, echoing the Apostle Paul's example of rejoicing in the Lord even in the midst of trials.
The Fear of the Lord and the Cross of Christ
By William Carrol1.4K40:36LUK 23:322CO 12:22CO 12:10In this sermon, the preacher begins by reading from Luke 23:32, where Jesus is crucified between two criminals. He challenges the common belief that a deathbed conversion is the only way for a lifelong sinner to be saved. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of acknowledging Jesus as the Savior and surrendering to His grace and strength. The preacher then moves on to 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, highlighting the power of God's grace in our weaknesses. He encourages the congregation to put their faith and hope in Jesus, recognizing the need for Godly fear and surrendering their own efforts to rely on God's strength.
Desperation, Resignation - Part 3
By Keith Daniel1.4K09:392CO 12:10This sermon emphasizes the concept of embracing weaknesses and challenges as opportunities for God's power to be manifested in our lives. It discusses how God's ways often involve allowing difficulties to reveal our need for His strength, leading to a deeper reliance on Him. The speaker highlights the importance of brokenness as a pathway to greatness and how God's wisdom is displayed through giving us 'thorns in the flesh' to humble us and point us to Christ.
How God Makes Us New Covenant Servants (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.3K56:21ISA 53:3ISA 53:10MAT 8:17MAT 11:282CO 3:62CO 12:101TH 5:18HEB 13:161PE 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of being servants of the new covenant, highlighting the need to go through trials and experiences to understand and help others effectively. It discusses the significance of giving thanks in all circumstances, being content with weaknesses and insults, and finding ministry opportunities through personal struggles. The speaker encourages a mindset of gratitude, readiness to face challenges, and a commitment to serve others with compassion and encouragement.
Philemon 3
By Ken Baird1.1K43:192CO 11:132CO 11:232CO 12:10PHP 3:13In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the tendency to look backwards and reminisce at the end of the year. He shares personal experiences of loss and encourages the audience to press forward and forget the past. The speaker emphasizes the importance of service to the Lord and being a part of the body of Christ. He also highlights the need to keep our eyes forward and upward, anticipating the second coming of Jesus Christ and the recompense of the reward. The speaker concludes by reminding the audience of the challenges faced by the Apostle Paul and encourages them to persevere in their faith despite difficulties.
Survivalship - Part 1
By George Verwer89042:49SurvivalshipPRO 27:17ISA 59:19ROM 8:12CO 12:10PHP 4:13JAS 1:21JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker explains the reason for having two speakers in the evening meeting, which is to provide a comprehensive understanding of biblical principles. The speaker shares how different principles help different people and how criticism can be both a difficulty and a blessing in life. The sermon emphasizes the importance of biblical principles in overcoming challenges and continuing to serve Christ. The speaker also highlights the significance of casting every care upon God and dealing with worry in the journey of discipleship.
Perfect Love and the Glory of Jesus
By Joshua Daniel81053:10MAT 6:24MRK 12:411CO 4:92CO 12:10PHP 4:12REV 3:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God, highlighting the challenges of teaching and learning faith in a materialistic world. It encourages believers to rely on God's provision and not be swayed by the love of money or comfort. The speaker shares personal stories and reflections on faith, sacrifice, and the true meaning of perfect love as demonstrated through selflessness and dedication to God's work.
(Elijah Legacy) 6. Restoring the Altar of the Lord
By David Davis55610:14IsraelJDG 7:161KI 17:2PSA 51:17MRK 14:3LUK 9:31ROM 4:32CO 12:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the concept of brokenness as a crucial aspect of one's relationship with God. He refers to various biblical examples, such as the story of Gideon and the revival in Galilee, to illustrate how God uses broken people for His purposes. The preacher also highlights the significance of the cross as the altar of the Lord and encourages individuals to surrender their egos, pride, and sinful desires to be transformed by God. Ultimately, the message emphasizes the need for individuals to be broken before God in order to experience His mercy, grace, and transformation in their lives.
The Stealing of the Devotion of Jesus
By Jim Cymbala52545:22ISA 40:31JHN 10:10ACT 20:21ROM 8:372CO 12:101TH 5:17JAS 5:16REV 2:4This sermon emphasizes the theme of God recovering stolen property, highlighting how Satan tries to steal our first love, boldness, calling, and even our children, but God is able to restore what has been taken. Through personal testimonies and biblical insights, the speaker encourages humility, deep prayer, and a return to God's calling and devotion.
Thankful for the Thorns
By Charles E. Cowman1PSA 34:17ISA 41:10ROM 5:3ROM 8:182CO 4:162CO 12:10PHP 4:13HEB 12:11JAS 1:21PE 4:12Charles E. Cowman delves into the profound truth of finding strength in weakness and joy in hardships for the sake of Christ. He emphasizes the transformative power of embracing our limitations, insults, challenges, and persecutions, as they lead us to a place of complete reliance on God's sufficiency. Through the examples of A. B. Simpson and George Matheson, he highlights the shift in perspective needed to see trials as opportunities for blessing and growth, ultimately leading us to a deeper understanding of the value of our struggles and the beauty that can emerge from pain.
(Living as Jesus Lived) 7. Living by the Power of God
By Zac Poonen0Dependence On GodPower of the Holy SpiritGEN 2:19LUK 4:1LUK 5:16JHN 15:5ROM 11:361CO 2:12CO 12:10EPH 5:18HEB 4:15REV 19:8Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity of living by the power of God rather than relying on human soul-power, which can lead to deception and superficiality in Christian life and ministry. He illustrates how Jesus exemplified complete dependence on the Father through prayer and the Holy Spirit, rejecting the allure of human abilities and charisma. Poonen warns against the counterfeit practices in Christendom that mimic genuine spiritual gifts but ultimately serve to elevate human personalities instead of glorifying God. He encourages believers to recognize their weakness and seek the true power of God for effective ministry, highlighting that only what is done through God's power will endure. The sermon challenges listeners to evaluate whether they are truly living and laboring by the power of God.
God's Promises
By K.P. Yohannan0Encouragement in TrialsGod's PromisesDEU 33:25PSA 23:1PSA 27:1PSA 68:19PRO 28:1ISA 53:5ISA 54:17JOL 3:10JHN 17:23ROM 8:152CO 5:172CO 12:10PHP 4:13PHP 4:19HEB 13:5JAS 4:7REV 5:9K.P. Yohannan encourages believers to turn to the Lord during times of discouragement, using every challenge as an opportunity to seek Him. He emphasizes the importance of remembering and boldly confessing God's promises found in the Bible, which affirm His goodness, love, and provision. By declaring these truths, believers can find strength and encouragement, knowing that they are redeemed, supported, and never forsaken by God. Yohannan reassures that God's faithfulness and mercies are renewed each day, providing hope and restoration for the weary soul.
Contentment
By David Wilkerson0FaithfulnessContentmentMAT 6:19ACT 9:15ACT 9:20ROM 8:182CO 12:10PHP 3:8PHP 4:111TI 6:61TI 6:8HEB 13:5David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound lesson of contentment in the life of Paul, who, despite his significant calling and the promise of God, remained faithful and content in his circumstances. Paul understood that true fulfillment comes not from worldly success or recognition but from a deep relationship with Christ, which allowed him to rejoice in both abundance and lack. He did not envy others who seemed to achieve more; instead, he focused on his personal mission and the eternal reward awaiting him. Wilkerson highlights that for Paul, the ultimate goal was to see Jesus, and that the sufferings of this life pale in comparison to the joy of knowing Christ.
Personally Weak but Strong in Him
By A.W. Tozer0Strength in WeaknessTransformation in ChristISA 40:29ROM 6:4ROM 8:371CO 1:272CO 5:172CO 12:10GAL 2:20EPH 2:1PHP 4:131PE 5:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes the transformative power of Christ, illustrating how believers exchange their sin for righteousness and death for life through faith. He highlights the paradox of strength in weakness, as exemplified by Paul's declaration of being crucified with Christ yet living through Him. Tozer contrasts human efforts to improve oneself with God's method of creating a new being, where true strength is found in acknowledging one's weakness. This divine exchange leads to a deeper understanding of God's ways, which often diverge from human logic. Ultimately, believers find strength in their reliance on God, as Paul states, 'When I am weak, then am I strong.'
As Christ in the Father
By Andrew Murray0Abiding in ChristDivine LoveJHN 6:57JHN 15:4JHN 15:9JHN 17:22ROM 8:382CO 12:10EPH 3:19PHP 4:132TH 1:121JN 4:16Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound connection between Christ and the Father, urging believers to abide in Christ's love as He abides in the Father's love. He explains that this union is rooted in divine life and infinite love, and that true dependence on Christ leads to strength and glory. Murray encourages believers to see their relationship with Christ as a reflection of His relationship with the Father, highlighting that through this abiding, they can experience joy, rest, and empowerment. He reassures that this calling is not a burden but a natural outflow of a life transformed by love. Ultimately, he calls believers to trust in Christ's love, which is the foundation for their own lives in Him.
From 1787 to 1791 Inclusive
By Nathan Bangs0MAT 5:10MAT 10:22ACT 4:13ACT 5:41ROM 8:181CO 1:272CO 12:102TI 3:121PE 3:141PE 4:14Dr. Coke and Bishop Asbury faced challenges and opposition as they spread Methodism in America, encountering dissatisfaction and misconceptions among American brethren. Despite controversies over titles and authority, they worked diligently to establish Methodist societies and circuits, facing ridicule and persecution from those who misunderstood their mission. Revivals of religion, marked by powerful conversions and manifestations of the Holy Spirit, spread through Baltimore and Maryland, leading many to experience profound spiritual transformations. The Methodist preachers persevered through ignorance, opposition, and ridicule, continuing to preach the Gospel and establish Methodist churches in New England, where they faced resistance from established Congregationalist beliefs.
Exposition on Psalm 20
By St. Augustine0PSA 19:1MAT 3:9JHN 11:48JHN 12:32JHN 17:1ROM 9:30ROM 11:252CO 12:10HEB 7:25St. Augustine preaches a psalm of David, where the prophet speaks to Christ, foretelling things to come. The psalm expresses prayers for protection, help, and fulfillment of Christ's sacrifice and counsel. It also highlights exultation in Christ's salvation, the magnification of His name, and the fulfillment of His petitions. The psalm ends with a plea for the Lord to save the King, who offers sacrifices as a Priest raised from the dead, and to hear the prayers of His people.
Exposition on Psalm 59
By St. Augustine01SA 19:11MAT 27:37JHN 19:21ACT 7:58ROM 5:20ROM 9:22ROM 11:252CO 12:10EPH 2:20EPH 6:17HEB 12:6St. Augustine preaches about the conversion of the Jews and Gentiles, highlighting the importance of humility and the dangers of pride. He discusses the sins of the Jews, their blindness to Christ, and the need for confession and repentance. St. Augustine emphasizes the mercy and grace of God, the power of humility, and the unity of believers from different backgrounds in the Church. He encourages believers to rely on God's strength, confess their sins, and seek perfection through humility and faith.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Therefore I take pleasure - I not only endure them patiently, but am pleased when they occur; for I do it for Christ's sake - on his account; for on his account I suffer. For when I am weak - most oppressed with trials and afflictions, then am I strong; God supporting my mind with his most powerful influences, causing me to rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
take pleasure in--too strongly. Rather as the Greek, "I am well contented in." infirmities--the genus. Two pairs of species follow, partly coming from "Satan's messenger," partly from men. reproaches--"insults." when--in all the cases just specified. then--then especially. strong--"powerful" in "the power of Christ" (Co2 12:9; Co2 13:4; Heb 11:34).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you,.... Not only the doctrine which he preached, the power that attended it, and the success it met with among them, were clear signs and evident proofs of his being sent by Christ; not only they themselves, who were converted under his ministry, were testimonials and seals of his apostleship, but also the many other wonderful works done by him confirmed the same, and showed him to be an apostle, and that he was not a whit behind, but equal to the chiefest of them: nor does he refer them to signs that were wrought by him, among others, and in other places, which were many; but to those which they themselves were witnesses of, and therefore might and ought to have spoken of them in defence of him; and in order to stop the mouths of the false apostles, a particular enumeration of these signs follows: in all patience; it is one sign, and what is here mentioned in the first place of an apostle and minister of Christ, that he patiently bears all injuries and indignities, reproaches, persecutions, and all manner of afflictions, for Christ's sake and the Gospel's; and this the apostle did; and had he not been sent by Christ, it is not reasonable to imagine that he would have exposed himself to so many evils and dangers; or would have bore with so much patience the ill usage of men, and particularly the unkindness and ingratitude he met with at Corinth; but he took all patiently, having their good and the glory of Christ at heart: in signs and wonders, and mighty deeds; meaning preternatural and miraculous performances; such as raising the dead, healing the sick, cleansing lepers, casting out devils, speaking with divers tongues, and the like, which were confirming evidences of apostleship; so , "wonders and powers", or "mighty deeds", are mentioned together by the Jews (i), as the same things. (i) Zohar in Exod. fol. 96. 2. & 97. 1.