001- Introduction
Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh An Exhaustive Commentary Includes Briefs from Scholars, Theologians, Lexicons & Classic Books By William Vigue “
Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh
Introduction
Like a snow skier we choose what trail to take down the mountain. We have choices that lead us down the path of our belief system. Ones perspective about the Will of God is greatly molded from the influences surrounding us. Denominational lines generally guide the direction of views. Therefore, the theological path in which one chooses to view Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” is often cast in stone. He who reads this will be challenged to transcend denominational lines in a sincere search for truth. How one interprets Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” greatly influences their understanding of many other scriptures which speak among other things about divine healing, answered prayer and perseverance in ministry. As expressed by Paul to the Corinthians, (1 Corinthians 12:1-3) there are views in Christendom more rooted in speculation than sound truth! The Apostle Paul said we have weapons that are “not carnal but mighty through God.” He added that we are to use those weapons in a specific fight to; “the pull down strong holds, down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God”. One translation says to; “destroy speculations”. Another translation says we are to “demolish arguments and every pretension”.
There are many questions. What was the message and who was the messenger?” Paul called it, “a messenger of Satan”. Some contend that since the message was “allowed”, regardless of how it came, it was a message from God, who merely used Satan as the messenger. I suggest that contradicts the wisdom of scripture.
“He that sends a message by the hand of a fool cuts off the feet, and drinks damage (violence).” Proverbs 26:6
Satan is a cutter and the master fool. I question the suggestion that God would send a message to his servant through the master of fools? The result of such a thing cuts into our progress and brings forth a cruel injustice called damage or violence to ones faith to receive healing.
Misrepresenting “Paul’s thorn in the flesh” can cut people off from faith in receiving divine healing and cut into their prayers for a miracle. I think it also cuts people off from thinking deeper on the things concerning the Kingdom of God. Misunderstanding any portion of scripture is produced by one of two things. Either we are not taking the time to investigate the subject or God is still keeping us in the dark. I doubt the latter. Let us therefore, not fail to search out a matter by thinking God doesn’t want us to understand. This book examines Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” thoroughly and offers a fresh insight into the subject. Let it provoke you to think!