The Affliction of the Thorn Part 1 (2 Corinthians 12:7–10) By Babatunde Olugboji
In this passage, Paul discusses the affliction he refers to as a “thorn in the flesh,” which arose following his extraordinary heavenly encounter. While contemporary readers might envision a minor thorn from a rosebush, the Greek term used (skolops) can also refer to something as substantial as a stake used for impalement.
This thorn caused more than simple irritation; it inflicted profound suffering that paralleled the magnificence of the revelations Paul experienced in the highest realms. Although this affliction likely entered Paul’s life 14 years earlier, verses 8–10 suggest that it remains a current struggle, indicating a persistent and enduring pain. 
However, what exactly was this thorn? Engaging in speculation is unproductive, as we do not have a definitive answer. This ambiguity serves a purpose, allowing individuals with different types of afflictions to relate to Paul’s teachings without feeling excluded. It is likely that Paul chose to remain vague not only to enhance the applicability of his message but also to avoid drawing excessive attention to his own circumstances. The focus of Paul’s message lies not in the specific nature of the thorn but in its underlying purpose.
What, then, is that purpose? It is to foster Paul’s humility: “to keep me from becoming conceited.” The Greek verb used here (hyperairōmai) conveys the idea of being elevated or lifted up. The intention behind the thorn is to prevent Paul from becoming overly proud of his extraordinary heavenly experience. After all, who would not risk becoming inflated with pride without a thorn to puncture that sense of self-importance?
Thus, the Lord, in His loving, gentle, and sovereign manner, afflicts His beloved apostle. But was it truly the Lord? The text attributes the thorn to Satan or one of his agents, indeed. The thorn was intended to “harass” Paul—undoubtedly a manifestation of the Devil’s work. However, this desire to torment is enveloped in a divine purpose to humble Paul, which is emphasized twice in the verse, both at the beginning and the conclusion. The intent of Satan is interwoven with God’s overarching plan.
In a profound interplay of divine sovereignty and malevolence, even actions stemming from evil, including those of Satan, fall under the umbrella of God’s sovereign will. God is not the originator of evil in a manner that implicates Him morally; He is incapable of any morally flawed action. Nevertheless, even the most heinous acts in human history were foreordained by God (Acts 2:23; 4:27–28), and this principle applies to lesser evils as well. 
In his plea to the Lord, Paul, as described in 2 Corinthians 12:8, acted as any of us would: he requested the removal of the thorn. Just as the “third” heaven (2 Corinthians 12:2) likely signifies the highest heaven, the phrase “three times” suggests that Paul implored the Lord to the point of exhaustion. His request was neither more than twice nor fewer than four times; rather, it was a thorough and complete appeal. He did not approach this request with timidity or indifference.
The specific verb he employs, “I pleaded” (using parakaleō), rather than simply “I asked,” underscores this point. Paul’s earnest entreaty for the removal of the thorn further indicates that it was indeed the Lord who providentially allowed the thorn to be given. 
Paul recognized two potential paths: the Lord could (1) eliminate the thorn, allowing Paul to continue his life and ministry, or (2) retain the thorn, which would hinder Paul in both life and ministry. However, the Lord presented a third alternative: to keep the thorn but to bestow grace upon Paul.
To be continued…
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