Chapter Summary

God's dealing with Paul.

Discussion Questions for 2 Corinthians, Chapter 12

1. Who is the man that Paul is talking about in verses 1-4? Why does Paul bring this up in context of the surrounding verses?
2. People have debated for centuries what Paul's "Thorn in the Flesh" (verse 7, CSB) was. What do you think it was? Are there any clues in this chapter what it might be?
3. Paul, an apostle, prayed that his thorn in the flesh would leave him three times, but the Lord denied this request. Why does the Lord answer prayers with a "no" sometimes? How has the Lord answered your prayers with a "no" in your life? How have these denials affected your life?
4. When Paul asked for the thorn in his flesh to be taken from him, the Lord responded by reminding Paul that "My grace is is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness" (verse 9, CSB). How was this reminder helpful for Paul? How is God's power perfected in a person's weakness? How is this reminder helpful for you?
5. Why should a person boast about their weakness? What weaknesses do you have that you can boast about?
6. Who were these "super-apostles" that Paul mentions? How does understanding these individuals help us interpret this chapter?
7. Paul's deep love for this church is evident in this chapter, despite some of the harsh words he has for them. How is this reflected in the text? Does the modern church show this kind of love? Why or why not?
8. Paul emphasizes his commitment to preaching the Gospel, regardless of the challenges. How can we stay faithful and true to our faith in the face of opposition or skepticism? What opposition have you faced in your life?
9. Paul never demanded payment from this church. Why do you think he did this? Are pastors supposed to be paid? Why or why not?
10. Paul was afraid that when he returned to this church that he would find them in unrepentant sin. If Christ has already paid the price for our sin, why do we need to continue to repent?

Key Words/Phrase

Glorying (in Christ), v. 5.

Characters

God, Christ, Holy Spirit, Paul, Titus, Satan.

Strong Verse(s)

9, 10.