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MY STRENGTH IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS

Text: 2 Corinthians 12
7 August 2011

(I) PROBLEM: A THORN IN THE FLESH

1. To prevent being exalted above measure (2 Corinthians 12:7)

2. A messenger of Satan allowed to buffet Paul (2 Corinthians 12:7)

a) Spiritual powers involved

b) Physical infirmities experienced

(II) PRAYING: LIMITED HUMAN PERSPECTIVE

1. Praying earnestly

2. Praying specifically for the thorn to be removed (2 Corinthians 12:8)

(III) PROFOUND PERSPECTIVE OF GOD REVEALED

1. God’s grace is all-sufficient

2. God’s strength is available

3. God’s strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9a)

(IV) PERSPECTIVE CHANGED

1. Glad acceptance of God’s word and will (2 Corinthians 12:9b)

2. Boasting in infirmities (2 Corinthians 12:9c)

3. Reliance on the power of Christ (2 Corinthians 12:9d)

a) In infirmities

b) In reproaches

c) In needs

d) In persecutions

e) In distresses

4. Special measure of strength (2 Corinthians 12:10)

a) A paradox

b) On the one hand weakness… on the other hand strength from the Lord