2 Cor. 11 "Perspective"

2 Corinthians 11 – Brandon Hatmaker “Perspective”
Monday, July 21st, 2008

“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. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. 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. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn? If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 11:23-30

In most of Paul's writings, we see a posture of humility. With that in mind, this must have been a painfully tough thing for him to write in order to make a point. I'm glad he did it.

I am extremely humbled by this scripture. We think we’ve gone through so much adversity and sacrifice, yet in perspective to what others are facing around the globe, we have suffered so little for the cause of Christ. It seems as much. We claim much credit. But our sufferings are so very small.

I find myself a little at a loss for words today. Maybe that’s okay. I’m just thankful for the Grace of God.