A Rare and Radical Maturity

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

Sunday, September 5, 2021

Dr. Kelly B. Burton

             One writer said 2 Corinthians fills much the same place in the New Testament as does the Book of Job in the Old. The Apostle Paul exhibits a rare and radical maturity in this letter. He has come to the place in his life that he can glory in his    sufferings because it is there that he discovers the all-sufficient grace of Christ. Will you try to do the same?

Sermon in a Sentence: Suffering can be an opportunity to demonstrate your integrity; discover God’s all-sufficient grace.

12:1-6 An Opportunity for Arrogance

Phillips Translation of 2 Co. 11:23, “Since all the others are so proud of themselves, let me do a little boasting as well.”

12:7-8 A Divine Thorn for Inflated Egos

Any of you with long, ongoing physical pain can find kinship with Paul. His thorn was painful and physical.

12:9-10 A Rare and Radical Maturity

There are two strategies at work in every suffering Christian: One is G________’s aim to deepen your trust. The other is S__________’s aim to pervert your thinking.