What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 12:6? Even if I wanted to boast “Even if I wanted to boast, …” (2 Corinthians 12:6a) • Paul acknowledges that, from a human standpoint, he actually has grounds to glory in the dramatic visions and revelations God granted him (2 Corinthians 12:1–5). • Yet he chooses not to drape himself in spiritual credentials, echoing 1 Corinthians 9:16—“woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” His service is duty, not self-promotion. • Cross reference Philippians 3:4–8, where Paul lists remarkable achievements only to label them “loss” compared with Christ. I would not be a fool “ … I would not be a fool, …” (2 Corinthians 12:6b) • “Fool” here describes someone bragging about things that lack substance (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:16–21). • Since Paul’s experiences are real, he says such boasting would not be empty or irrational. • Ecclesiastes 7:25 warns against folly; Paul insists his testimony would stand up to scrutiny. Because I would be speaking the truth “ … because I would be speaking the truth.” (2 Corinthians 12:6c) • His encounters with heaven (2 Corinthians 12:2–4) are factual, just as Luke records verifiable miracles in Acts 14:8–10. • John 19:35 models the same integrity: “He who saw it has testified … his testimony is true.” • Truthful testimony glorifies God, yet Paul knows truth can still be weaponized into pride if motives stray (1 Corinthians 4:7). But I refrain “ But I refrain, …” (2 Corinthians 12:6d) • He chooses restraint, mirroring Proverbs 27:2—“Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.” • Holding back protects both the messenger and the message; it keeps the spotlight on Christ (2 Corinthians 4:5). So no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me “ … so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me.” (2 Corinthians 12:6e) • Paul wants people to evaluate him on observable faithfulness, not mystical experiences. Compare 1 Thessalonians 2:10, where he appeals to the Thessalonians’ firsthand witness of his conduct. • Acts 20:18 shows Paul pointing to his own transparent lifestyle at Ephesus as proof of sincerity. • This protects the church from celebrity culture and preserves Christ as the only rightful object of exaltation (Colossians 1:18). summary Paul could legitimately parade extraordinary revelations, yet he opts for humble silence. His credibility rests not on spectacular stories but on consistent, truthful living that others can see and hear. By refusing self-promotion, he safeguards the church from misplaced admiration and keeps glory where it belongs—on the Lord who gave the revelations in the first place. |
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