2 Corinthians 12:5-6; Now I Forbear

2 Corinthians 12:5-6 Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities. 6 For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.

The Apostle Paul has glorious spiritual experiences in the course of his ministry and spiritual life. He has experienced the presence of God with him in an intimate way that has been an encouragement to himself personally. But he will not be too forward to share these lest he is perceived to call attention to himself. He understood that it was God who had chosen to reveal to him rather than any merit of his own. As such, he would rather not build his spiritual credibility upon such experiences.

Hendriksen observed well on v6, “This sentence must be understood in the context of Paul’s opponents taunting him to boast about his credentials. If there should be anyone in the church who could glory in status, Paul would be the person. He had founded churches in Asia Minor, Macedonia, and Greece. He had worked much harder, had suffered more frequently, and had been exposed to more dangers than anyone else. And he had been given a celestial experience that placed him far above his co-workers and certainly above his detractors… But he does not wish to be a fool bragging irrationally, a behaviour that apparently characterized his adversaries. Speaking foolishly reveals the sin of lying and shading the truth. Paul, however, refuses to put himself on the level of his antagonists and to participate in their foolishness.” In fact, “He wants the Corinthians to think of him as a spiritual brother in the Lord. They must look at Paul as a man with many flaws (Romans 7:14-25), a person who had to cope with external weaknesses, hardships, and humiliations. Thus, he boasts not about himself, but about his weakness.”

He was a sinner saved by grace just like they are. It was by the grace of God that he has understood the truths of God and willingly obeyed. He sought that the Corinthian church, identifying themselves with him, would be obedient to the truths of God’s Word and not be hoodwinked by the enemies of the gospel.

Thank God for the wisdom granted to His servant. Amen.