How does 2 Corinthians 12:6 teach humility in sharing personal spiritual experiences? Setting the Scene Paul has just described being “caught up to the third heaven” (2 Corinthians 12:2-4), an extraordinary encounter with God. Yet instead of elaborating on every detail, he immediately turns to keeping his audience from over‐estimating him. Verse Spotlight: 2 Corinthians 12:6 “For even if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me.” Humility Modeled by Paul • Truthful yet restrained – Paul acknowledges he could tell more and still be telling the truth, but he chooses restraint. • Guarding the listener’s perspective – He refuses to let extraordinary experiences inflate people’s view of him. • Centering on observable fruit – Paul prefers that others judge him by what they “see” and “hear,” not by hidden visions. • Avoiding self-promotion – The apostle suppresses details that could shift attention from Christ to himself. Principles for Sharing Spiritual Experiences Today • Verify with Scripture first – Let every experience be measured against the written Word (Isaiah 8:20). • Speak when it builds up others, not self (Ephesians 4:29). • Keep Christ central; He must increase, we must decrease (John 3:30). • Emphasize obedience and character over sensational details (James 1:22). • Accept that some revelations are meant for private encouragement, not public platform (Luke 2:19). Related Scriptures That Reinforce Humility • Proverbs 27:2 – “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.” • Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride.” • Matthew 6:1 – “Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them.” • 1 Peter 5:5-6 – “Clothe yourselves with humility… that He may exalt you in due time.” Practical Takeaways • Choose modest language when recounting God’s work in your life. • Invite accountability; let others confirm the authenticity of your experience. • Focus testimonies on God’s faithfulness rather than personal greatness. • Remember that genuine authority comes from visible, Spirit-produced fruit, not mystical stories. |
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