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2 Corinthians 12:9
Verse
Context
Paul’s Thorn and God’s Grace
8Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.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
My grace is sufficient for thee - Thou shalt not be permitted to sink under these afflictions. Thy enemies shall not be able to prevail against thee. My strength is made perfect in weakness - The more, and the more violently, thou art afflicted and tried, being upheld by my power, and prospered in all thy labors, the more eminently will my power be seen and acknowledged. For the weaker the instrument I use, the more the power of my grace shall be manifested. See at the end of this chapter, (Co2 12:21 (note)). Will I rather glory in my infirmities - Therefore, his infirmities do not mean his corruptions, or sins, or sinfulness of any kind; for it would be blasphemous for any man to say, I will rather glory that God leaves my corruptions in me, than that he should take them away. That the power of Christ may rest upon me - Επισκηνωσῃ επ' εμε· That it may overshadow me as a tent, or tabernacle; affording me shelter, protection, safety, and rest. This expression is like that, Joh 1:14 : And the word was made flesh, και εσκηνωσεν εν ἡμιν and made his tabernacle among us - full of grace and truth. The same eternal Word promised to make his tabernacle with the apostle, and gives him a proof that he was still the same - full of grace and truth, by assuring him that his grace should be sufficient for him. Paul, knowing that the promise of grace could not fail, because of the Divine truth, says: Most gladly, therefore, will I rather glory in my afflictions, that such a power of Christ may overshadow and defend me. The words are also similar to those of the Prophet Isaiah, Isa 4:5 : On all the glory shall be a defense. God gives the glory, and God gives the defense of that glory. The apostle had much glory or honor; both Satan and his apostles were very envious; in himself the apostle, as well as all human beings, was weak, and therefore needed the power of God to defend such glory. Grace alone can preserve grace. When we get a particular blessing we need another to preserve it; and without this we shall soon be shorn of our strength, and become as other men. Hence the necessity of continual watchfulness and prayer, and depending on the all-sufficient grace of Christ. See on Co2 11:30 (note)
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
said--literally, "He hath said," implying that His answer is enough [ALFORD]. is sufficient--The trial must endure, but the grace shall also endure and never fail thee [ALFORD], (Deu 33:25). The Lord puts the words into Paul's mouth, that following them up he might say, "O Lord, Thy grace is sufficient for me" [BENGEL]. my strength--Greek, "power." is made perfect--has its most perfect manifestation. in weakness--Do not ask for sensible strength, FOR My power is perfected in man's "strengthlessness" (so the Greek). The "for" implies, thy "strengthlessness" (the same Greek as is translated "weakness"; and in Co2 12:10, "infirmities") is the very element in which My "power" (which moves coincident with "My grace") exhibits itself more perfectly. So that Paul instead of desiring the infirmity to "depart," "rather" henceforth "glories in infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest (Greek, 'tabernacle upon,' cover my infirmity all over as with a tabernacle; compare Greek, Joh 1:12) upon" him. This effect of Christ's assurance on him appears, Co2 4:7; Co1 2:3-4; compare Pe1 4:14. The "My" is omitted in some of the oldest manuscripts; the sense is the same, "power" (referring to God's power) standing absolutely, in contrast to "weakness" (put absolutely, for man's weakness). Paul often repeats the word "weakness" or "infirmity" (the eleventh, twelfth, and thirteenth chapters) as being Christ's own word. The Lord has more need of our weakness than of our strength: our strength is often His rival; our weakness, His servant, drawing on His resources, and showing forth His glory. Man's extremity is God's opportunity; man's security is Satan's opportunity. God's way is not to take His children out of trial, but to give them strength to bear up against it (Psa 88:7; Joh 17:15).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I am become a fool in glorying,.... This is either to be understood conditionally, if he had acted as a fool in commending himself, or was to be reckoned and called so by others, for glorying of himself, his visions and revelations; or as an ironical concession, allowing himself to be a fool for so doing, as he knew he should be traduced by his enemies; which concession he makes with a view to remove the blame from himself, and cast it upon the Corinthians: ye have compelled me: they were not only the occasion of his glorying, but they had forced him to it by their conduct; for he was obliged either to take this method for the vindication of his character, and preserve his future usefulness, or else to suffer the false apostles to triumph over him, to the great detriment of the Gospel, and of this church at Corinth particularly; whereas both might have been prevented, had they acted the part that became them: for I ought to have been commended of you; when the false apostles reproached him, and insinuated things among them to his disadvantage, they ought not only to have turned a deaf ear to them, and to have checked and reproved them, and so have put a stop to their calumnies; but they should have spoke in commendation of him, and have declared how faithfully he had preached the Gospel to them; how useful he had been to their souls, for conviction, conversion, edification, and comfort; how laborious and indefatigable he had been in his ministry; what success attended him, and what wonderful things were done by him in proof of his divine mission; all which they were conscious of, and could with the utmost safety have affirmed of him: for in nothing, says he, am I behind the very chiefest apostles; meaning either the false apostles, who set themselves upon an equality with the true ones, and above him; or rather the real apostles of Christ, and those that were of the greatest note among them, as Peter, James, and John; for though he was behind them in time, yet not in gifts, labour, and usefulness: but lest this should be thought to savour of vain boasting, he adds, though I be nothing; which may be considered either as a declaration of his own thoughts of himself, and an humble acknowledgment of his own nothingness; that he was nothing as a man, as an Hebrew, a Pharisee, with respect to his external privileges and righteousness, not more and better than others; and nothing as an apostle and a Christian of himself, but was wholly and entirely what he was by the grace of God; or as the judgment and opinion of the false apostles concerning him, who spoke of him, and treated him as a worthless man, of no account, and not to be regarded.
2 Corinthians 12:9
Paul’s Thorn and God’s Grace
8Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.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
Interview 1974
By Corrie Ten Boom12K07:20PSA 139:1MAT 5:44ROM 5:5ROM 8:262CO 12:9This sermon shares the powerful testimony of a woman who endured imprisonment and suffering during World War II, highlighting how God's grace sustained her through the darkest times. It emphasizes the importance of faith, prayer, forgiveness, and experiencing God's love even in the midst of hatred and cruelty. The message encourages Christians to pray for leaders, forgive others, and trust in God's victory even in times of suffering.
Intercessory Prayer - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill12K29:32Intercessory PrayerMAT 6:33JHN 1:1ROM 12:22CO 12:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the different perspectives of Jesus presented in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Matthew portrays Jesus as a king, while Mark emphasizes his role as a servant. Luke presents Jesus as a man who is dependent on his Father and is known for his deep prayer life. The preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and obedience in the Christian life, using examples from the Bible such as Moses and Abraham Lincoln. The sermon concludes with a warning about the consequences of disobedience and the importance of trusting and obeying God.
A Target of Satan's Envy
By David Wilkerson9.8K51:01SatanMAT 6:33ROM 8:372CO 12:9EPH 6:10JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 4:4In this sermon, the preacher begins by encouraging the congregation to seek strength and guidance from God in their spiritual battles. He acknowledges that despite hearing numerous sermons, it can be challenging to apply the teachings to one's own life. The preacher reflects on his own experience as a pastor for 50 years and admits that he sometimes forgets the lessons he has preached. He emphasizes the importance of having a hunger for God and a desire to know Him, regardless of one's current spiritual state. The sermon concludes with the preacher reminding the audience that as believers, they are targets of Satan's envy and should seek God's protection and guidance.
If Any Man Be in Christ - Part 1 (Cd Quality)
By Leonard Ravenhill9.4K56:49Christ In YouMAT 6:33ROM 8:11CO 1:272CO 5:172CO 12:9GAL 2:20REV 2:18In this sermon, the preacher starts by discussing the story of Paul's shipwreck and how he cast four anchors into the sea when all hope seemed lost. He then shares a personal anecdote about a wealthy man who faced a terrifying experience during a storm on his yacht. The preacher emphasizes the importance of respecting the sea and relates it to the trials and challenges we face in life. He goes on to talk about the judgment day and how our works will be tested by fire, highlighting the significance of the quality rather than the quantity of our actions. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the Apostle Paul and his boldness in proclaiming the message of being a new creation in Christ.
Brokenness Study #2 - the Purpose
By Charles Stanley9.1K50:38BrokennessEXO 2:11EXO 3:4MAT 6:33ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 3:13In this sermon, the speaker discusses the incredible task that God gave to Moses. He was instructed to go to Pharaoh and demand the release of the Hebrew people. Moses was initially hesitant and overwhelmed by the enormity of the task, but God assured him that He would be with him every step of the way. The speaker emphasizes the importance of brokenness and surrender in our lives, as it allows God to work through us and fulfill His plans for us.
In Tribute to Kathryn Kuhlman - Part 1
By Kathryn Kuhlman6.4K29:45TributeMAT 6:33JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ROM 8:111CO 15:532CO 12:9PHP 4:13In this sermon, Catherine Coogman reflects on her role as a preacher and the responsibility that comes with it. She describes the anticipation and fear she feels before stepping onto the stage to deliver her message. Coogman acknowledges the sacrifices made by the audience members who have traveled far to attend the service. She also discusses the limitations of the human body in handling the power of the Holy Spirit, but asserts her ability to endure long hours of preaching without fatigue. Despite medical predictions of her physical limitations, Coogman remains steadfast in her dedication to her work and compares it favorably to that of any man.
Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire Book Reading Clip
By Jim Cymbala6.3K01:52Book ReadingMAT 4:182CO 12:9In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal journey of discovering the power of weakness and honesty in preaching the word of God. He emphasizes that God is attracted to those who humbly admit their need for Him and that our weakness allows room for His power to work through us. The speaker also highlights the importance of being natural and sincere in preaching, rather than trying to put on a ministerial front. He encourages the congregation to trust in God's guidance and to study His word diligently, while embracing their own unique style of preaching.
Christ a Stranger (1984 Conference)
By David Wilkerson6.2K49:13RebukePSA 119:105EZK 22:26ROM 8:12CO 12:91TI 6:6HEB 4:12JAS 1:12In this sermon, the preacher highlights the lack of time people have for prayer and Bible study due to their busy lives and distractions. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing God and spending time with Him. The preacher challenges the audience to consider if they would still love and serve Jesus if they received no worldly blessings or miracles. He also references biblical stories where Jesus demonstrated his power over death and the devil, but was rejected by his own people in Nazareth. The sermon concludes with a call for a revival of Bible study and a personal testimony of a friend who experienced a spiritual transformation.
(2 Corinthians) ch.12:1-13:14
By Zac Poonen5.6K43:45MAT 7:152CO 12:9In this sermon, the Apostle Paul addresses the Corinthians and emphasizes that he will not show leniency when dealing with sin in their midst. He assures them that his power comes from Christ speaking through him, despite his unimpressive personality and lack of eloquence. Paul compares his weakness to that of Jesus, who was crucified in weakness but brought to life by the power of God. He then discusses his own experiences and visions, but refrains from boasting about them to avoid being seen as greater than he truly is. Overall, Paul emphasizes the importance of assessing a person's character based on their words and conduct.
How the Strong Can Backslide!
By Carter Conlon5.3K1:00:07BackslidingGEN 1:1MAT 6:33ACT 3:11ROM 8:112CO 12:9PHP 4:13REV 22:13In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for the audience to have a deeper understanding of the word of God and to look beyond human speakers and ministries. The preacher then turns to Acts chapter 3, emphasizing the need to turn away from self-accomplishments and focus on Jesus as the only one who can bring victory in life and eternity. The sermon highlights the desire of God to make believers perfectly whole and to walk in abundance through the manifested presence of Jesus Christ. The preacher shares the personal testimony of finding strength, hope, and joy in Christ alone and encourages the audience to lay hold of this truth and stand with perfect soundness before God and men.
(Basics) 2. God Makes Evil Work for Good
By Zac Poonen5.3K12:28GEN 50:20ISA 54:17ROM 8:28ROM 16:202CO 12:9JAS 4:71JN 3:8In this sermon, the preacher shares a story of a businessman who drifted away from God as his business prospered. Despite the elders of his church trying to bring him back to faith, he was too occupied with his success. However, when his youngest son fell seriously ill after being bitten by a poisonous snake, the father realized the importance of turning back to God. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus Christ has the power to undo the works of Satan and untie the knots in our lives. He explains that God uses evil and Satan to further His purposes, ultimately bringing people to salvation. The sermon highlights the almighty power of God and how He makes a fool of Satan by using evil to deliver people from his clutches.
Fresh Power Book Reading Clip
By Jim Cymbala5.1K02:16Book ReadingMAT 6:33LUK 11:13JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:262CO 12:9EPH 3:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit in empowering ordinary people to work for Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit enables believers to fulfill God's will, overcome Satan's devices, and extend the kingdom of Christ on earth. The speaker highlights the neglected truth that many Christians do not know how to pray and rely on their own abilities rather than seeking the Holy Spirit's assistance. The speaker shares a personal experience of the Holy Spirit helping him in a moment of weakness and providing the boldness needed to overcome a challenging situation.
All Fulness in Christ
By C.H. Spurgeon4.8K54:23EXO 20:2PSA 16:5MAT 6:331CO 2:92CO 12:9EPH 3:20COL 1:19In this sermon, the preacher calls upon angels and redeemed spirits to sing praises to the Lamb that was slain. The preacher emphasizes that all fullness and grace is found in Jesus, and encourages sinners to be reconciled to God through Him. The preacher highlights the sovereignty of God and the pleasure of the Father in having all fullness dwell in Jesus. The sermon concludes with an invitation for sinners to come to Jesus and find salvation, emphasizing the mediatorial fullness and the ability of Jesus to save to the uttermost.
Life of David
By Alan Redpath4.8K44:26David1SA 24:12PSA 37:7MAT 6:33ROM 8:282CO 12:9EPH 6:12In this sermon, the preacher begins by referencing the story of Peter in the 12th chapter of Acts, where he was imprisoned and about to be beheaded. The preacher then transitions to the story of David and his men hiding in a cave while their enemy approaches. David's men urge him to take advantage of the opportunity to kill their enemy and end their troubles, but David refuses, saying it would be wrong to harm his master. The sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and following His will, even in difficult situations.
Contrast of Faith
By Peter Marshall4.8K06:27Transformation through GodFaith in AdversityPSA 34:18ISA 41:10EZK 37:14MAT 11:28JHN 14:27ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 4:13JAS 1:21PE 5:7Peter Marshall contrasts two maritime disasters to illustrate the evolution of faith in society. He reflects on the survivors of the Athenia, who sang lighthearted songs in the face of danger, compared to the Titanic's orchestra, which played 'Nearer, My God, to Thee' as they faced their fate. This shift in attitude highlights a decline in deep faith and resilience over time. Marshall emphasizes the importance of being both a realist and an idealist, using the metaphor of an oyster that transforms pain into beauty. He encourages listeners to rely on the Spirit of God for strength and transformation in difficult times.
Attributes of God (Series 2): The Divine Infinitude
By A.W. Tozer4.6K48:38Attributes of GodMAT 22:37JHN 1:29JHN 14:6ROM 1:202CO 12:9EPH 2:81TI 1:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the infinite nature of God and how it allows us to be bold and brave in the universe. He compares this boldness to that of a young child who feels brave when their father is around. The preacher acknowledges that he can only point people to God and the Lamb of God who takes away sins, but it is up to individuals to have a personal relationship with God. He also discusses the difference between knowing about God and truly knowing God, emphasizing the need for a spiritual rebirth through the Holy Spirit.
A Heart After God Is Better Than Skils by K P Yohannan
By K.P. Yohannan4.4K05:021SA 16:7PSA 51:17PRO 3:5MIC 6:8MAT 23:121CO 1:272CO 12:9PHP 2:3JAS 4:10This sermon shares a powerful testimony from Tripura, India, where the love of Christ transformed warring tribes into brothers and sisters, uniting them in faith. It highlights the impact of a humble and transparent leader, Anil D. Verma, whose dependence on the Lord surpassed his administrative skills. The message emphasizes the importance of prioritizing inner life reality and knowing the Lord, as God uses those who are honest, sincere, humble, and broken for His work.
Overcoming the Voices of Fear
By Carter Conlon4.4K52:34Fear1SA 16:18MAT 4:4JHN 14:262CO 12:9PHP 4:19In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of David and his experience in a cave with his followers. The speaker emphasizes the power of praise and worship in magnifying the Lord and increasing faith. They describe how David's worship in the cave inspired his men to have confidence in God's plan and ability to use them. The speaker also discusses the importance of seeking the Lord and trusting in His deliverance from fears. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about the speaker's encounter with a pastor who tried to instill fear and doubt, but the speaker relied on Jesus for strength.
Our God Can Fix Anything - Part 1
By David Wilkerson4.2K30:08GEN 18:14PSA 100:4MAT 19:26MRK 9:23LUK 18:272CO 12:9PHP 4:6HEB 11:6JAS 1:6Pastor Wilkerson of Times Square Church welcomes worshippers from various nationalities and encourages them to draw closer to Jesus through worship and preaching. The sermon emphasizes the belief in God's ability to fix any situation, drawing from the story of Abraham and Sarah to illustrate the power of trusting in God's ability to do the impossible.
Discernment - Part 4
By Vance Havner4.0K41:29DiscernmentPSA 84:6ISA 26:3MAT 17:42CO 6:102CO 11:242CO 12:92TI 4:13In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of living a genuine and authentic Christian life. He warns against the dangers of subjectivism and relying solely on emotional experiences. The preacher emphasizes the need for self-examination to ensure that one is truly in the faith. He shares a story about a counterfeit bill that was able to deceive people for a while but was eventually discovered. The sermon concludes with a powerful anecdote about an old general who had fought in World War II and remained faithful until the end, serving as an inspiration for believers to persevere in their faith.
Who Are the Meek and What Do They Inherit
By Carter Conlon3.6K51:25MeeknessEXO 5:21MAT 6:33JHN 8:32ACT 4:12ROM 8:282CO 12:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenges faced by Moses when he was sent by God to deliver the Israelites from the grip of Pharaoh. Despite coming with a message of freedom, Moses faced opposition and criticism from the very people he was meant to bless. The speaker emphasizes the importance of not being discouraged by the negative voices that may come against us when we are following God's calling. The sermon also highlights the need for rest and relaxation in our lives, as being wound up too tight can lead to unnecessary stress and tension.
He Must Become More and More
By A.W. Tozer3.5K47:42Christ Is AllMAT 16:24MAT 23:12LUK 9:23JHN 3:302CO 12:9PHP 2:5JAS 4:10In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the life of John the Baptist and describes him as a great man who became less and less in the eyes of the world. Despite this, John grew spiritually and became closer to God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of humility and selflessness, using the example of John the Baptist and the teachings of Jesus and Paul. The sermon encourages listeners to embrace the concept of being crucified with Christ and to give up worldly desires in order to live a truly meaningful and powerful life.
Message for Youth for Christ
By A.W. Tozer3.3K25:53MessagePRO 3:34MAT 4:17MAT 23:12LUK 24:49ACT 13:22CO 12:9JAS 4:6In this sermon, the speaker presents thirteen key points or "theses" for the evangelical church. The first thesis is about the importance of repentance and how the whole life of a faithful believer should be an act of repentance. The speaker emphasizes the need for true worshipers who are filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. He warns against relying on the sponsorship or approval of influential people and highlights the significance of humility and simplicity in demonstrating true Christianity. The speaker calls for a reformation within the church and urges the youth for Christ to be leaders who set a positive example for others.
K-139 Endtime Overview
By Art Katz3.2K1:14:43End TimesPSA 23:1ISA 40:31MAT 6:33ACT 20:35ROM 11:312CO 12:9REV 12:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a Jewish hobo who displayed ingratitude towards a fellow Jew who had shown him kindness. This story serves as a warning to the audience about the severity of the tests that will come in their lives. The speaker emphasizes the need for character and spiritual preparation to withstand these tests, as they will only come once and not be given again. The sermon also references Revelation 12, which speaks about a woman fleeing to the wilderness and being protected by God during a time of great tribulation. The speaker highlights the importance of a strong and tested community to bear the load of these trials, emphasizing that mere Sunday Saints will not be sufficient.
Any Old Bush Will Do
By Major Ian Thomas3.0K22:56Christian LifeEXO 2:11EXO 3:41CO 1:271CO 9:262CO 12:9PHP 2:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses how Moses lost his way and the lessons we can learn from his story. The speaker highlights the moment when Moses, moved by compassion, defended his Hebrew brother against an Egyptian oppressor. However, this act of righteousness ultimately led to Moses' downfall and 40 years of exile in the desert. The speaker emphasizes the importance of humility and avoiding the attitude of resignation and spiritual non-entity. The sermon also emphasizes the need for restful availability and prompt obedience to God's leading, rather than being caught up in the pressure to do more and be more.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
My grace is sufficient for thee - Thou shalt not be permitted to sink under these afflictions. Thy enemies shall not be able to prevail against thee. My strength is made perfect in weakness - The more, and the more violently, thou art afflicted and tried, being upheld by my power, and prospered in all thy labors, the more eminently will my power be seen and acknowledged. For the weaker the instrument I use, the more the power of my grace shall be manifested. See at the end of this chapter, (Co2 12:21 (note)). Will I rather glory in my infirmities - Therefore, his infirmities do not mean his corruptions, or sins, or sinfulness of any kind; for it would be blasphemous for any man to say, I will rather glory that God leaves my corruptions in me, than that he should take them away. That the power of Christ may rest upon me - Επισκηνωσῃ επ' εμε· That it may overshadow me as a tent, or tabernacle; affording me shelter, protection, safety, and rest. This expression is like that, Joh 1:14 : And the word was made flesh, και εσκηνωσεν εν ἡμιν and made his tabernacle among us - full of grace and truth. The same eternal Word promised to make his tabernacle with the apostle, and gives him a proof that he was still the same - full of grace and truth, by assuring him that his grace should be sufficient for him. Paul, knowing that the promise of grace could not fail, because of the Divine truth, says: Most gladly, therefore, will I rather glory in my afflictions, that such a power of Christ may overshadow and defend me. The words are also similar to those of the Prophet Isaiah, Isa 4:5 : On all the glory shall be a defense. God gives the glory, and God gives the defense of that glory. The apostle had much glory or honor; both Satan and his apostles were very envious; in himself the apostle, as well as all human beings, was weak, and therefore needed the power of God to defend such glory. Grace alone can preserve grace. When we get a particular blessing we need another to preserve it; and without this we shall soon be shorn of our strength, and become as other men. Hence the necessity of continual watchfulness and prayer, and depending on the all-sufficient grace of Christ. See on Co2 11:30 (note)
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
said--literally, "He hath said," implying that His answer is enough [ALFORD]. is sufficient--The trial must endure, but the grace shall also endure and never fail thee [ALFORD], (Deu 33:25). The Lord puts the words into Paul's mouth, that following them up he might say, "O Lord, Thy grace is sufficient for me" [BENGEL]. my strength--Greek, "power." is made perfect--has its most perfect manifestation. in weakness--Do not ask for sensible strength, FOR My power is perfected in man's "strengthlessness" (so the Greek). The "for" implies, thy "strengthlessness" (the same Greek as is translated "weakness"; and in Co2 12:10, "infirmities") is the very element in which My "power" (which moves coincident with "My grace") exhibits itself more perfectly. So that Paul instead of desiring the infirmity to "depart," "rather" henceforth "glories in infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest (Greek, 'tabernacle upon,' cover my infirmity all over as with a tabernacle; compare Greek, Joh 1:12) upon" him. This effect of Christ's assurance on him appears, Co2 4:7; Co1 2:3-4; compare Pe1 4:14. The "My" is omitted in some of the oldest manuscripts; the sense is the same, "power" (referring to God's power) standing absolutely, in contrast to "weakness" (put absolutely, for man's weakness). Paul often repeats the word "weakness" or "infirmity" (the eleventh, twelfth, and thirteenth chapters) as being Christ's own word. The Lord has more need of our weakness than of our strength: our strength is often His rival; our weakness, His servant, drawing on His resources, and showing forth His glory. Man's extremity is God's opportunity; man's security is Satan's opportunity. God's way is not to take His children out of trial, but to give them strength to bear up against it (Psa 88:7; Joh 17:15).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I am become a fool in glorying,.... This is either to be understood conditionally, if he had acted as a fool in commending himself, or was to be reckoned and called so by others, for glorying of himself, his visions and revelations; or as an ironical concession, allowing himself to be a fool for so doing, as he knew he should be traduced by his enemies; which concession he makes with a view to remove the blame from himself, and cast it upon the Corinthians: ye have compelled me: they were not only the occasion of his glorying, but they had forced him to it by their conduct; for he was obliged either to take this method for the vindication of his character, and preserve his future usefulness, or else to suffer the false apostles to triumph over him, to the great detriment of the Gospel, and of this church at Corinth particularly; whereas both might have been prevented, had they acted the part that became them: for I ought to have been commended of you; when the false apostles reproached him, and insinuated things among them to his disadvantage, they ought not only to have turned a deaf ear to them, and to have checked and reproved them, and so have put a stop to their calumnies; but they should have spoke in commendation of him, and have declared how faithfully he had preached the Gospel to them; how useful he had been to their souls, for conviction, conversion, edification, and comfort; how laborious and indefatigable he had been in his ministry; what success attended him, and what wonderful things were done by him in proof of his divine mission; all which they were conscious of, and could with the utmost safety have affirmed of him: for in nothing, says he, am I behind the very chiefest apostles; meaning either the false apostles, who set themselves upon an equality with the true ones, and above him; or rather the real apostles of Christ, and those that were of the greatest note among them, as Peter, James, and John; for though he was behind them in time, yet not in gifts, labour, and usefulness: but lest this should be thought to savour of vain boasting, he adds, though I be nothing; which may be considered either as a declaration of his own thoughts of himself, and an humble acknowledgment of his own nothingness; that he was nothing as a man, as an Hebrew, a Pharisee, with respect to his external privileges and righteousness, not more and better than others; and nothing as an apostle and a Christian of himself, but was wholly and entirely what he was by the grace of God; or as the judgment and opinion of the false apostles concerning him, who spoke of him, and treated him as a worthless man, of no account, and not to be regarded.