Expert: Marilyn - 7/29/2007

Question
marilyn, i have often wondered what the thorn in paul's side might be. do you have any thoughts on what it may have been? thanks so much, larry.

Answer
Hi Larry;

Scholars have debated this question for quite awhile.  Most believe Paul's thorn in the flesh was some kind of physical weakness or affliction.  In Galatians 6:11 Paul says, "See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!"  Some scholars believe he had poor eye sight; we know he ordinarily dictated his letters to companions.

Another scholar believes the thorn refers to the constant heckling Paul endured when he tried to preach.

Paul suffered: I Corinthians 4:9-13; II Corinthians 11:21-33; Acts 14:19 & 20; Acts 17 & 22, for example.

Jesus tells Annanias in Acts 9:15, "...I will show him how much he must suffer for My Name."

Perhaps the exact nature of the affliction is not revealed because its ambiguity makes the concept applicable to every person who prays for healing and doesn't receive it or deals with constant setbacks and persecutions.  God tells Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My Power is made perfect in weakness," II Corinthians 12:9.

Afflictions of all kinds may be permitted to keep God's people humble, to keep us dependent upon Him, to keep our prayers pure and to exhibit for the world God's Grace in the face of trials, sometimes a greater witness than miraculous healings etc.  

Sincerely,

Marilyn