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"Even when your thorn stays, Christ stays. And his grace is enough." - Malachi Tresler | 2 Corinthians 12:1-13
This week, we'll be studying 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 under the theme “A Thorn in the Flesh.” In a church captivated by impressive spiritual leaders and visible strength, Paul points not to his visions or credentials, but to the weakness he once begged God to remove. As Christ strips away false strength, he teaches his people to rest not in themselves, but in the sufficient grace that meets them in weakness.Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.
There's one essential Truth every believer must grasp: grace equals power—supernatural power that can raise a dead soul to life and carry you through the darkest seasons. In this episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef anchors your heart in God's promise to Paul: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Dr. Youssef explains why thorns matter: without weakness, we would rarely see—or be able to testify to—the sufficiency of God's grace. Grace is most clearly displayed when self-reliance collapses, when circumstances feel heavy, and when you realize you need God more than you need relief. You'll also be reminded of God's steadfast commitment to finish what He started in you (Philippians 1:6), to empower you for godly living (2 Peter 1:3), and to keep you secure in His hands forever (John 10:28–29). No sin is beyond the atoning reach of Christ's blood, and no trial is too dark for the Gospel's sustaining hope (2 Corinthians 4:16–18). If you've been staring so long at the thorn that you can't see the rose of grace, this devotional calls you to look up—remember God's promises—and rejoice in the power of His sufficient grace. Prayer: Lord, help me to take my eyes off my thorn. May my gaze instead be fixed upon Your throne. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God's grace given me through the working of his power” (Ephesians 3:7). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon series The Secrets of Positive Living: LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.
Have you slipped into self-sufficiency—trying to navigate life with your own wisdom, grit, and ingenuity—only to feel discouraged, depleted, or stuck? In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef reminds you that God never intended you to live on human strength. Paul learned this firsthand through his persistent “thorn,” pleading for relief—only to hear God's life-changing answer: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Instead of viewing weakness as failure, Paul came to see it as the very place where Christ's power rests most clearly—turning hardship into holy dependence and defeat into spiritual strength. Dr. Youssef also highlights Paul's prayer in Colossians 1:9–12, showing what God's power is meant to produce in everyday life: deeper understanding of God's will, a life that pleases the Lord, fruitfulness in good works, growing knowledge of God, and supernatural endurance marked by joyful gratitude. God doesn't only want you to acknowledge Him as Creator—He wants you to know His power personally, especially when you feel weakest. Prayer: Mighty God, thank You for Your power that is available to me personally. Forgive me for the times I have worked in my own strength instead of finding my rest in You. Help me to depend on Your power today so that I can serve You and those You have put in my life. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe” (Ephesians 1:18-19). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon series The Secrets of Positive Living: LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.
The apostle Paul had a thorn in his flesh. He pleaded with God to take it away. This week we discuss that prayer and God's answer. Our guest in Pastor Jon Bilitz.
The apostle Paul was given a thorn in his flesh. He didn't like it and wanted it removed. God saw things differently. Pastor Jon Bilitz is our guest this week and he will help us learn more about this helpful section of 2 Corinthians 12.
This week, we share a sermon offered by Rev. Bill Haley back in 2018. He reflects on 2 Corinthians 12 and the connection Paul draws between God's grace and our gratitude, especially in our areas of greatest weakness. In cultivating that gratitude, we develop true courage to face anything life throws at us.View Our Complete Archive of “Space for God” Prayer PracticesLearn More About Spiritual Direction through CoracleExplore the Full Archive of Bill's Sermonsinthecoracle.org | @inthecoracleSupport the showFor the Journey is a resource of the Coracle Center of Formation for Action and is made possible through the generous support of men and women across the globe.
In 2 Corinthians 12, the Apostle Paul writes about a “thorn in the flesh” that was given to him to keep him humble as he was allowed heavenly revelations. Though the exact nature of the thorn remains unknown—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—it served a divine purpose: to remind Paul that God's grace is sufficient and… The post Thorn in the Flesh appeared first on Calvary Chapel At The Cross.
Sermon by Dr. Mike NorrisRecorded May 3, 2026
Join Derek as he delves into the topic of Paul's thorn in the flesh, exploring its significance and implications for faith and healing. This lecture examines traditional interpretations, biblical contexts, and theological insights to shed light on this often-misunderstood passage. Discover how suffering and weakness can lead to a deeper reliance on God's grace and strength. One common objection to the claim that it is God's will to heal His people is Paul's THORN in the FLESH. Many say that it was a sickness that God gave Paul to keep him humble, and that when Paul asked to be healed God said 'No.' In this video, Derek proves that this interpretation is wrong. The key questions are: (1) what is Paul's Thorn?, and (2) where did it come from - from God or the devil? The answers are made clear in God's Word. We also explore the significance of God's answer to Paul: "“My GRACE is sufficient for you, for My STRENGTH is made perfect in WEAKNESS.”
Join Derek as he delves into the topic of Paul's thorn in the flesh, exploring its significance and implications for faith and healing. This lecture examines traditional interpretations, biblical contexts, and theological insights to shed light on this often-misunderstood passage. Discover how suffering and weakness can lead to a deeper reliance on God's grace and strength. One common objection to the claim that it is God's will to heal His people is Paul's THORN in the FLESH. Many say that it was a sickness that God gave Paul to keep him humble, and that when Paul asked to be healed God said 'No.' In this video, Derek proves that this interpretation is wrong. The key questions are: (1) what is Paul's Thorn?, and (2) where did it come from - from God or the devil? The answers are made clear in God's Word. We also explore the significance of God's answer to Paul: "“My GRACE is sufficient for you, for My STRENGTH is made perfect in WEAKNESS.”
Happy Easter! This week, we share a "Space for God: BIBLE” devotional from Rev. Bill Haley (Coracle Executive Director). Bill guides us through Paul's impassioned, free-wheeling defense of his apostolic authority in 2 Corinthians 11-12. Specifically, he highlights the deep insight Paul is granted from God as he comes to grips with God's refusal to remove his “thorn in the flesh.” Bill helps us encounter God's all-sufficient grace through our own areas of weakness.View Our Complete Archive of “Space for God” Prayer PracticesLearn More About Spiritual Direction through CoracleExplore the Full Archive of Bill's SermonsExplore More Lenten Resourcesinthecoracle.org | @inthecoracleSupport the showFor the Journey is a resource of the Coracle Center of Formation for Action and is made possible through the generous support of men and women across the globe.
Paul's Thorn in the Flesh. What was Paul's thorn in the flesh? Many think it was sickness. Discover the truth from the Word of God and much more on this episode of Fight To Win with Pastor Kurt Owen.Tactical Tip: Many of our videos contain a short section we call Tactical Tips. Most offer ways to improve personal safety and security.Request the Free Offer: https://www.fighttowin.tvLearn More, Register for Events & Donate:https://www.kurtowen.com/***UPDATED TEXT TO GIVE INFORMATION***Text GIVEKOM to 44321Prefer to Watch the Video?https://youtu.be/VsWhbgOQC38Become a supporter of this podcasthttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fight-to-win-tv-with-kurt-owen--5638799/support.
Bible Conference | March 24th, 2026 | Pastor Bixler | A Thorn in the Flesh | 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Bible Conference | March 24th, 2026 | Pastor Bixler | A Thorn in the Flesh | 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
What if the very thing you've begged God to remove is the tool He's using to bless you? In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef explores the mystery of Paul's “thorn in the flesh”—a lingering burden Paul pleaded with God to take away (2 Corinthians 12:7–9). While Paul could confidently say he counted everything as loss compared to knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8), he still carried a private pain God chose not to remove. Why? Dr. Youssef explains that God's grace shines brightest through weakness—not self-sufficiency. Paul recognized his thorn kept him humble, dependent, and focused, making his life and message authentic under scrutiny. Even more, Paul's obedience remained unconditional. Knowing suffering awaited him, he still pressed forward to fulfill God's call, declaring his single aim: to finish the race and testify to the Gospel of grace (Acts 20:24). This devotional will encourage you to: stop interpreting weakness as disqualification, view your “thorn” through the lens of God's purpose and grace, and trust that God uses physical and emotional pressures to draw you nearer and prepare you for His work. This episode closes with a short prayer. Today's MY Devotional has been provided by Leading The Way. The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.
Have you ever looked at the rubble of your own life and wondered, How could God ever use me? In this episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef reminds you that spiritual transformation doesn't come from striving harder—it comes through God's grace. While we often fixate on what we are right now, God sees what we can become in Christ. Dr. Youssef points to the apostle Paul, who endured trials, opposition, and a persistent “thorn” that kept him dependent on the Lord. Instead of hiding his weakness, Paul learned to delight in it—because it became the very place where Christ's strength was most clearly displayed: “For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10). If you're facing hardship, feeling stretched thin, or hanging on by a thread, this devotional will encourage you to: stop measuring your future by your present weakness, humble yourself before God and trust His purposes, and thank Him in advance for what He can accomplish through your struggle. Prayer: Lord, as I face difficulty in my life, give me the strength to continue by Your grace. I know You will accomplish Your will for my life even through my weaknesses as I trust in You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. Today's MY Devotional has been provided by Leading The Way. The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.
2/18/26. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: 2 Corinthians 12:7. A Thorn in the Flesh. Resources: biblehub.com; logos.com; ChatGPT; Faithlife Study Bible. Listen daily at 10:00 am CST on https://kingdompraiseradio.com. November 2021 Podchaser list of "60 Best Podcasts to Discover!" LISTEN, LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE! #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailybiblestudy #dailydevotional #Christian_podcaster Podcast website: https://www.hwscott.net/podcast.php https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9zaXqv64YaCjh88XIJckA/videos https://m.youtube.com/@hhwscott
There is a position of weakness that yields great POWER!
In defending his ministry, Paul mentions a thorn in his flesh that God has not seen fit to remove. This was almost surely the 'super apostles' who have been leading astray the gentiles that Paul has brought into the Kingdom. He also says he intends to visit Corinth again and hopes that he will not have to use the authority given to him by Christ to chasten the Corinthians.
In this message, Pastor Caleb discusses the victory Jesus had over the thorns of His flesh. His victory affords Christians victory over their thorns. His crucifixion and resurrection provide victory for anyone who chooses to receive it. Jesus gave us the ability to deal with the thorns in our flesh and not succumb to these issues. May more Christians have victory through Jesus Christ because His grace and influence are great in their lives. Send us a textSupport the showFor more information for our church visit AGCSparta.org.
In this message, Pastor Caleb discusses the victory Jesus had over the thorns of His flesh. His victory affords Christians victory over their thorns. His crucifixion and resurrection provide victory for anyone who chooses to receive it. Jesus gave us the ability to deal with the thorns in our flesh and not succumb to these issues. May more Christians have victory through Jesus Christ because His grace and influence are great in their lives. Send us a textSupport the showFor more information for our church visit AGCSparta.org.
In this message, Pastor Caleb discusses the thorn in the flesh that the Apostle Paul describes in 2 Corinthians. Thorns are meant to hinder those who serve God and not allow the focus to remain on Jesus. Looking at Joshua, the plan to remove those who influence disobedience to God is vital, or those same people will become thorns in the side and briers in the eyes. God has called His people to overcome and be victorious. Send us a textSupport the showFor more information for our church visit AGCSparta.org.
2 Corinthians 12:1-10/Thorn in the flesh
In this message, Pastor Caleb discusses the thorn in the flesh that the Apostle Paul describes in 2 Corinthians. Christians should realize thorns are designed to choke out the Word of God in their lives, as described by Jesus in His parable of the Sower and the Seed. God wants His people victorious, not vulnerable or defeated. May Christians use the resources He has given them to obtain their victory. Send us a textSupport the showFor more information for our church visit AGCSparta.org.
In this message, Pastor Caleb discusses the thorn in the flesh that the Apostle Paul describes in 2 Corinthians. Christians should not allow a thorn in the flesh to make them vulnerable, but lead them to victory by overcoming obstacles with the resources God gives in His Word and by His Spirit. God wants His people victorious, not vulnerable. Send us a textSupport the showFor more information for our church visit AGCSparta.org.
In this message, Pastor Caleb discusses the thorn in the flesh that the Apostle Paul describes in 2 Corinthians. Although the exact details of this thorn may be unknown, many Christians still face various thorns in their lives that should not be excused; they should be addressed and dealt with. May Christians not be vulnerable but obtain victory through Jesus Christ as God's plan for each person. Send us a textSupport the showFor more information for our church visit AGCSparta.org.
2022-01-10 - The Thorn in the Flesh: 2 Corinthians 12_7-10 [Uucjzy8ydzo] by Salvador Flores III
Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 12 reveal a surprising truth: the very weaknesses we wish would disappear may be the places where God is doing his deepest work. When we feel inadequate, overwhelmed, or worn thin, we may actually be closer to true spiritual strength than we realize. God’s grace meets us not after we overcome our struggles, but right in the midst of them. Listen to this sermon as Jason Harris unpacks how God’s power is made perfect in weakness. ________ Sign up for Central’s newsletters here. Visit us on our website to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.
Paul's Thorn in the Flesh. What was Paul's thorn in the flesh? Many think it was sickness. Discover the truth from the Word of God and much more on this episode of Fight To Win with Pastor Kurt Owen.Tactical Tip: Many of our videos contain a short section we call Tactical Tips. Most offer ways to improve personal safety and security.Request the Free Offer: https://www.fighttowin.tvLearn More, Register for Events & Donate:https://www.kurtowen.com/***2025 UPDATED TEXT TO GIVE INFORMATION***Text GIVEKOM to 44321Prefer to Watch the Video?https://youtu.be/tteTNQObIbsBecome a supporter of this podcasthttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fight-to-win-tv-with-kurt-owen--5638799/support.
Why did Paul say his thorn in the flesh was a “messenger of Satan to buffet me”? What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 12:7?
Equipping Hour - Caleb
What was Paul's thorn in the flesh and why didn't God remove it? Discover how weakness can reveal God's power and reframe your own struggles.
Message by Pastor Stacey ShiflettText: 2 Corinthians 12:7October 29, 2025 - 7PM
For generations, believers have misunderstood Paul's thorn in the flesh—using it as a reason to doubt God's willingness to heal. But what if we've been reading it wrong?In this eye-opening message, Cory unpacks the truth behind 2 Corinthians 12 and shows that Paul's thorn wasn't sickness at all—it was opposition from other people. Scripture makes it clear: the “thorn” was a messenger of Satan, not a disease from God.You'll see how religion has twisted this passage to create doubt and confusion when God's Word consistently reveals a Father who heals, restores, and empowers His people. Jesus never turned anyone away who came to Him in faith—and He's not starting now.God's grace doesn't mean you have to tolerate sickness. It means you have the power to overcome it. His answer is always yes. His will is always healing.
SYNOPSIS Pastor Joe Granieri discusses the nature of Paul's Thorn in the Flesh, arguing against the common interpretation that it was a physical sickness. Instead, the Joe interprets the "thorn" as a messenger of Satan or a demonic spirit that brought persecution to Paul, a view supported by scripture such as 2 Corinthians 12. Joe then addresses the broader topic of whether born-again Christians can be oppressed by demonic spirits in their minds and bodies, concluding that they can be attacked, but not possessed in their spirit. Throughout the sermon, Joe emphasizes that the fullness of salvation includes forgiveness, healing, and deliverance, urging listeners to recognize their identity in Christ to overcome spiritual bondage and fear.Pastor Joe Granieri discusses the nature of Paul's Thorn in the Flesh, arguing against the common interpretation that it was a physical sickness. Instead, the Joe interprets the "thorn" as a messenger of Satan or a demonic spirit that brought persecution to Paul, a view supported by scripture such as 2 Corinthians 12. Joe then addresses the broader topic of whether born-again Christians can be oppressed by demonic spirits in their minds and bodies, concluding that they can be attacked, but not possessed in their spirit. Throughout the sermon, Joe emphasizes that the fullness of salvation includes forgiveness, healing, and deliverance, urging listeners to recognize their identity in Christ to overcome spiritual bondage and fear. ATONEMENT, SALVATION, HEALING, AND DELIVERANCE Joe interprets salvation, healing, and deliverance as intrinsically linked concepts that are all fully provided for in the atonement of Jesus Christ. Interpretation in Relation to the Atonement He emphasizes that healing, salvation, and forgiveness are all part of the atonement. This understanding is derived, in part, from 1 Peter 2:24, which states, "by whose stripes you were healed". The sources teach that once a person realizes this truth, they understand that they can be healed just as they were born again. Salvation (Sozo) The Greek word for salvation, sozo, is interpreted as encompassing more than just forgiveness; it includes healing and deliverance. The message of the kingdom of God is defined as forgiveness, healing, and deliverance. Key aspects of salvation highlighted by this ministry include: • Forgiveness and the Breaking of Sin's Power: Through Jesus's death, he died to sin once and for all, breaking the power of sin. This death accounted for the penalty, the punishment, and the imputation of sin. God no longer imputes sin to believers, and he forgives their iniquities and remembers their sins no more. • No Condemnation: Being in Christ Jesus results in no present-tense condemnation. Condemnation is identified as a spirit that attacks the mind and heart, and the gift of no condemnation is a freedom Christ gives. • Freedom from the Fear of Death: Through his death, Jesus destroyed him who had the power of death (the devil) and released those who were subject to bondage through the fear of death. The ministry teaches that fear of death is bondage, which leaves a person who understands the fullness of their salvation. Healing Healing is considered an element of salvation. It is associated with the resurrection power of Christ, which resides in the spirit of the believer. Joe teaches that: • Spiritual Component: Healing sometimes has a spiritual or demonic component to it. A physical problem in a person may have a spiritual component attacking them. • Pathway to Healing: When a person is delivered from spiritual oppression, they are on the pathway to healing. Deliverance Deliverance is presented as a vital part of the gospel of the kingdom and was a major facet of Jesus's ministry, often preceding healing. • Demonic Oppression: The ministry holds that born-again Christians can be oppressed by demonic spirits in their mind and body, although their spirit (where Jesus lives) is perfect and cannot be possessed. • Torment and Weakness: Demonic spirits manifest as "torment". Paul's "thorn in the flesh" is interpreted as a "messenger of Satan"—a demon spirit sent to torment him by stirring up persecution, riots, arrests, and beatings. This is viewed as a form of attack against which Paul was helpless, requiring total reliance on Jesus. • Deliverance from Oppression: Deliverance is necessary to overcome spiritual bondage caused by spirits of religion, fear, guilt, bitterness, condemnation, and infirmity. The crown of thorns Jesus wore during the atonement was specifically meant to deliver believers from all the oppression that would attack their minds. • Jesus's Methodology: In Jesus's ministry, approximately 50% of the miracles involved deliverance from demonic spirits. For example, the woman crippled for 18 years was first set free from her infirmity (a spirit of infirmity), and then Jesus laid hands on her, and she straightened up. Joe emphasizes that to receive freedom, one must know the truth, as "the truth shall set you free". If a person believes wrong things (such as believing God causes sickness or that demonic spirits cannot attack them), they may not be set free or healed. PERFECT LOVE CASTS OUT FEAR Fear is described as a master spirit and one of the most dominant things in the world. The ministry teaches that fear involves torment, which is how it operates. Although Joe acknowledges, "Do I have perfect love? It's a quiz. No, I don't have perfect love", he clarifies that Jesus has perfect love. Therefore, the love of Christ that's in your spirit can free you from fear. Joe also connects fear to other concepts: • Bondage: Fear of death is explicitly identified as bondage. • Torment: Fear brings torment with it. • Faith's Opposition: Faith is described as the enemy of fear, noting that they cannot operate at the same time; a person is either in faith or in fear. Joe advises that if a believer is living in the fear of death, they are subject to bondage, and they can pray that the love of Christ will release it out of their spirit so they can overcome it.
Paul's "thorn in the flesh" has sparked countless theories about physical ailments and personal struggles, but the answer may be simpler than we think. Seth and David explore Paul's third heaven experience and show how his thorn in the flesh connects to the pattern of Old Testament prophets and God's power being made perfect in weakness.
Join us as our lead pastor Jeff Martin continues our series in 2 Corinthians with chapter 12:1-10. As we make our way through this series, please feel free to email info@rccjc.church with any questions you may have. Thanks for listening!Be sure to check out our website: https://www.rccjc.church/Find us on social media:Instagram: redeemerjcFacebook: Redeemer Community ChurchYoutube: Redeemer Community Church
River of Life is an inter-denominational, interracial, Spirit-filled church located in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share the sermons from our services in the hopes they'll reach others determined to worship God in spirit and truth.
River of Life is an inter-denominational, interracial, Spirit-filled church located in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share the sermons from our services in the hopes they'll reach others determined to worship God in spirit and truth.
River of Life is an inter-denominational, interracial, Spirit-filled church located in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share the sermons from our services in the hopes they'll reach others determined to worship God in spirit and truth.
“A thorn in the flesh” can be anything or anyone that causes you pain or suffering. Paul did not define exactly what his was, but it may have been physical affliction or external opposition. Either way, his "thorn" was painful and difficult, and he learned much from his trial as he persevered through it. How well do you handle the pain in your life? What is your “thorn in the flesh” and how should you persevere through it? Pastor Gary gives an encouraging word to help those who are going through trials in today's study from 2 Corinthians 12.
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In this sermon from NewCity Orlando's Preach Your Heart Out series, Pastoral Intern Connor Bonello explores the surprising strength found in weakness through the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:1–10. Paul recounts a profound spiritual experience yet shifts focus to his "thorn in the flesh"—a persistent trial that keeps him dependent on God. Rather than removing the affliction, God assures Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."Connor invites listeners to consider how God's grace meets us not in spite of our weakness but because of it. Rather than striving to escape our limitations, we are called to embrace them as opportunities for Christ's power to rest upon us. In a culture obsessed with strength, competence, and control, this message offers a countercultural hope: that in our frailty, we are not disqualified—but uniquely qualified—to reflect the sufficiency of Christ.
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