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Paul’s Concealment of Revelations

August 27, 2024 Pneumatology

Paul’s Concealment of Revelations and the Thorn in the Flesh: A Model for Humility and Weakness in Christian Ministry

Abstract:
This article explores the apostle Paul's handling of divine revelations as depicted in 2 Corinthians 12:1-6, with a particular focus on his strategic concealment of these revelations. It argues that the “thorn in the flesh” mentioned in verse 7 is intimately connected with Paul’s burden to hide these extraordinary experiences from others. This concealment is presented as both a source of personal anguish and a model for Christian humility. Paul's approach offers a critical lesson in how believers should handle personal revelations from God, especially when such experiences are beyond the comprehension of others. This study will also examine relevant biblical texts that support this thesis and its implications for contemporary Christian practice.

Introduction

The apostle Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians is rich with personal insights into his ministry, particularly in the way he manages the profound revelations granted to him by God. In 2 Corinthians 12:1-6, Paul describes an extraordinary experience where he was caught up to the "third heaven" and heard "inexpressible words." Despite the significance of this revelation, Paul chooses to speak of it in the third person, a rhetorical strategy that highlights his reluctance to boast. This article argues that Paul's concealment of these revelations is intentional and that the “thorn in the flesh” he mentions in verse 7 may be a metaphor for the deep loneliness and burden he feels because of this need for secrecy.

The Context of 2 Corinthians 12:1-6

Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians is written in defense of his apostleship, which had come under attack by some members of the Corinthian church. Throughout the letter, Paul carefully balances the need to assert his authority with a desire to avoid arrogance. This tension reaches its climax in 2 Corinthians 12, where Paul recounts a profound mystical experience. However, rather than boasting about this revelation, he deliberately downplays it, speaking of the event in the third person: "I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven..." (2 Corinthians 12:2).

Concealing Divine Revelation: A Pattern for Christian Humility

Paul's reluctance to speak openly about his revelation serves as a model for how Christians should handle personal experiences with God. The Greek phrase "ὁ τοιοῦτος" (ho toioutos, “such a one” or “this kind of person”) in verse 5 reflects Paul's careful distancing from the event, which underscores his humility. The passive verbs "ἁρπαγέντα" (harpagenta, "caught up") and "ἡρπάγη" (hērapagē, "was caught up") emphasize the involuntary nature of the experience, further removing any grounds for personal boasting. Paul's decision to conceal the details of his revelation speaks to a broader principle: not all spiritual experiences are meant to be shared. In a world that often values sensationalism, Paul's example is a call to discretion and humility. He seems to understand that such revelations, if disclosed improperly, could detract from the central message of the gospel, shifting the focus from Christ to himself.

The Thorn in the Flesh: Concealment as a Source of Suffering

The "thorn in the flesh" mentioned in 2 Corinthians 12:7 has been the subject of much scholarly debate. While many have speculated that this thorn could be a physical ailment, a spiritual trial, or even opposition from others, this article proposes that the thorn may actually represent the psychological and emotional burden Paul feels because of his need to conceal these divine revelations. The context supports this interpretation. Immediately after describing his extraordinary experience, Paul speaks of the thorn, which he associates with his revelations: "And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure" (2 Corinthians 12:7). This suggests that the thorn is directly linked to the revelations. If we understand the thorn as the burden of concealing these experiences, it sheds new light on Paul's struggle.

Paul’s loneliness is a recurring theme in his epistles. Despite his role as an apostle and his profound connection with Christ, Paul often describes himself as isolated in his mission (2 Timothy 4:16). This isolation could be exacerbated by the fact that no one else around him shared these extraordinary revelations, making him feel "otherly" even among fellow believers.

The Implications for Christian Practice

Paul’s experience raises important questions for contemporary Christians. How should believers handle personal revelations that are difficult or impossible to share? Paul’s example suggests that discretion is often necessary, especially when such revelations could lead to pride or cause confusion among others. Moreover, Paul’s thorn—interpreted as the burden of concealment—reminds us that following Christ may involve carrying hidden burdens that others cannot understand. Yet, in this weakness, Paul finds strength: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9). This paradox is central to Christian spirituality, where power is often perfected in weakness, and true strength is found in dependence on God rather than self-exaltation.

Additional Scriptural Insights

Several other passages in Paul’s writings echo the themes found in 2 Corinthians 12. For example, in Galatians 6:14, Paul declares, "But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." This reflects the same humility seen in his handling of the revelations. Similarly, in Philippians 3:7-8, Paul speaks of counting all things as loss for the sake of Christ, which further underscores his focus on Christ rather than personal spiritual experiences.

Conclusion

Paul’s handling of his divine revelations in 2 Corinthians 12 provides a profound model for Christian humility and discretion. The “thorn in the flesh,” understood as the burden of concealing these revelations, speaks to the loneliness and suffering that may accompany profound spiritual experiences. Yet, through this weakness, Paul demonstrates the strength that comes from relying on God’s grace. This article suggests that contemporary Christians should take Paul’s example to heart, recognizing that not all revelations are meant to be shared and that true strength often lies in humble concealment rather than boastful disclosure.

References:

- Aland, Kurt, et al., *Novum Testamentum Graece*, 28th Edition. Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 2012.
- Harris, Murray J. *The Second Epistle to the Corinthians: A Commentary on the Greek Text.* Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005.
- Barnett, Paul. *The Second Epistle to the Corinthians.* Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1997.

This article is prepared to be submitted to a theological journal and will contribute to discussions on Pauline theology, particularly in the context of humility, suffering, and the handling of personal revelations.

About me

These theological reflections represent my current understanding and thoughts. I recognize that my beliefs are always subject to change as I continue to study and grow in God’s holy and precious Word. As a fallible human being, I am capable of change, and my views may evolve over time. Therefore, the positions expressed in these musings and papers may not necessarily reflect my final stance.

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Tags: PaulineTheology, 2Corinthians12, ChristianHumility, ThornInTheFlesh, DivineRevelation, ApostlePaul, ChristianSuffering, NewTestamentStudies

Chaplain WHITEHORN
I'm honored to serve as the State Prison Chaplain at Avon Park Correctional Institution. My journey into ministry was deeply shaped by my military experience as a Combat Veteran Sergeant and later as an Officer in the U.S. Army. Alongside my military career, I've pursued a lifelong passion for theology and scholarship, beginning with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical Studies from Crichton College. I continued advanced studies at Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary, earned a Master of Divinity from Liberty University, and I'm currently completing my Ph.D., driven by a desire to understand and faithfully communicate God’s Word.

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