Why is it important to acknowledge God's mysteries as Paul does in 2 Corinthians 12:3? The Setting of Paul’s Testimony 2 Corinthians 12:3 – “And I know that this man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows—” • Paul treats his ascent to the “third heaven” (vv. 2-4) as a historical event. • Yet he freely confesses the limits of his own perception: only God knows the full details. Why Paul Publicly Admits “God Knows” • Humility before divine sovereignty—he resists the urge to embellish (cf. Deuteronomy 29:29). • Integrity—he reports exactly what happened without speculation. • Protection of sacred truths—some realities remain “inexpressible” (v. 4), reserved for God’s timing. Why We Must Echo Paul’s Attitude Toward Mystery • Guards us from pride: “Who has known the mind of the Lord?” (Romans 11:33-34). • Deepens worship: mystery draws the heart to adore rather than dissect (Psalm 145:3). • Strengthens faith: trust flourishes when knowledge ends (Hebrews 11:1). • Promotes obedience: we act on what God has revealed, not on what He has withheld (James 1:22). Scriptures that Reinforce This Posture • 1 Corinthians 2:7 – “We speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God.” • 1 Corinthians 13:12 – “Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror.” • Job 38 – 42 – God’s questions silence Job’s speculations. • Daniel 2:22 – “He reveals deep and hidden things; He knows what lies in darkness.” • Revelation 10:4 – John is told to seal up the seven thunders, showing that even prophetic insight has limits. Practical Ways to Honor Divine Mysteries Today • Celebrate what God has shown—study, memorize, and obey it. • Accept unanswered questions with the confidence that they have answers in Him. • Speak truthfully: “I don’t know, but God knows,” rather than forcing explanations. • Encourage one another to wonder, not wander—keep curiosity tethered to Scripture. • Focus on Christ, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). Living in Both Revelation and Mystery The Lord has unveiled enough to save and sanctify us; He has withheld enough to keep us humble and dependent. Paul’s simple phrase “God knows” models a posture that embraces every revealed promise while bowing before every unopened secret. |
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