The Blog

Paul was angry that the false teachers had impressed and deceived the Corinthians. Therefore, he had to reestablish his credibility and authority by listing the trials he had endured in his service for Christ. Some of these trials are recorded in the book of Acts. Because Paul wrote this letter during his third missionary journey, his trials were not over. He would experience yet further difficulties and humiliations for the cause of Christ. Paul was sacrificing his life for the gospel, something the false prophets at that time would never do. The trials and tribulations we experience for Christ’s sake build our character, demonstrate our faith, and prepare us for His purpose for each one of our lives.

2 Corinthians 11:23-29
23 Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. 24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26 I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. 27 I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. 28 Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?