What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 11:33? But I was lowered Paul has been contrasting proud self-promotion with the kind of “boasting” that highlights weakness so Christ’s strength can shine (2 Corinthians 11:30). The simple word “But” ties this thought to a real incident that proves the point: the apostle’s ministry began, not with applause, but with being let down like contraband. As he elsewhere reminds us, “I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Key reminders: • God often moves forward His plan through humble, even awkward moments. • The Lord honors obedience, not image. Cross reference: Acts 9:23-24 describes the hostile plot that made such a lowering necessary. in a basket Nothing glamorous here—no royal entourage, no miracle chariot—just a large wicker or rope basket, the sort used for hauling goods. Similar everyday objects had already carried God’s purposes (John 6:13; twelve baskets of bread). Acts 9:25 confirms: “But his disciples took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.” Consider: • God can turn the most ordinary tool into a vehicle of rescue. • Following Jesus sometimes looks like squeezing into tight, uncomfortable places. through a window in the wall Ancient cities, including Damascus, housed rooms built against outer walls. Such windows looked out over the surrounding terrain—perfect for a quiet getaway. Scripture offers parallels: Rahab sent Israel’s spies away “through the window” in Jericho’s wall (Joshua 2:15), and Michal “let David down through the window, and he fled and escaped” (1 Samuel 19:12). Each account underscores God’s provision when His servants face lethal opposition. Points to note: • The Lord often supplies hidden exits before crisis strikes (1 Corinthians 10:13). • Trust means acting on those providential openings without delay. and escaped his grasp “His” refers to the governor under King Aretas, acting on behalf of hostile Jewish leaders (2 Corinthians 11:32; Acts 9:24). Paul’s deliverance showcases both God’s sovereignty and the human responsibility of swift obedience. Later Paul tells Timothy, “The Lord rescued me from all of them” (2 Timothy 3:11). Echoing the psalmist, “We have escaped like a bird from the snare of the fowler” (Psalm 124:7). Takeaways: • God protects until our mission is complete (Psalm 91:2, 11). • Escape is not retreat but repositioning for continued ministry (Galatians 1:17-18). summary 2 Corinthians 11:33 offers more than an intriguing escape story. It vividly illustrates how God uses humble means, everyday objects, hidden pathways, and timely deliverance to advance His gospel through servants willing to embrace weakness. Paul’s basket ride out of Damascus stands as living proof that the Lord’s power is perfected in vulnerability and that no wall, ruler, or scheme can thwart His calling on a surrendered life. |
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