What does 'abundance of the revelations' have to do with Paul's thorn in the flesh?
The abundance of revelations describes what Paul saw and heard, which could have led people to worship him and exalt him above measure. To keep him humble, a thorn in the flesh was given as a constant pestering reminder not to get puffed up or reveal everything.
Les explains that Paul had been given an abundance of revelations—things he saw and heard in an extraordinary experience. Paul says he dared not share them, because if he did, people would fall at his feet and try to worship him. Therefore, to keep him humble and prevent him from being exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to him. Les describes it as a constant pestering thorn, a reminder: “Paul, don’t you repeat these things. Don’t you get puffed up. Don’t you try to reveal to the world all that I’ve shown you.” The context identifies this thorn as “the messenger of Satan,” and Les pauses to ask whether God ever inflicts discomfort or pain Himself, saying he does not think so.
And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
More Questions
What was the abundance of revelations Paul talked about in 2 Corinthians 12:7?
The 'abundance of revelations' Paul received refers first to the revelations of the doctrines of grace, the Gospel, and the church-age teachings.
What does Les think Paul's thorn in the flesh actually was?
Les's most logical explanation for Paul's thorn in the flesh is that it was a common eye disease of that period, which was repulsive in appearance, painful, and limited Paul's eyesight — though he does not claim to have the only answer.
What does Paul call the thorn in the flesh in 2 Corinthians 12:7?
The thorn in the flesh is called the messenger (or angel) of Satan, given to buffet or attack Paul, lest he be exalted above measure.