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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Corinthians 12:9 But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/12-9.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/18/47_2Co_12_09.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 12:9 - Paul's Thorn and God's Grace" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="But He said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script> <script src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/biblehub.js' type='text/javascript'></script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_corinthians/12-9.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_corinthians/12-9.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/">2 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/12.htm">Chapter 12</a> > Verse 9</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-8.htm" title="2 Corinthians 12:8">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 12:9 <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm" title="2 Corinthians 12:10">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Study Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Crossref </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comment </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/12.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/12.htm">New International Version</a> But he said to me, &#8220My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.&#8221 Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ&#8217s power may rest on me. <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Living Translation</a> Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/12.htm">English Standard Version</a> But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me. <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And He said to me, "My grace suffices you, for the power is perfected in weakness." Therefore will I boast rather most gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/12.htm">King James Bible</a> And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/12.htm">New King James Version</a> And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1995</a> And He has said to me, &#8220My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.&#8221 Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. <a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a> And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. <a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. <a href="/amp/2_corinthians/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a> but He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me. <a href="/csb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me. <a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> But He said to me, &#8220My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.&#8221 Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ&#8217s power may reside in me. <a href="/asv/2_corinthians/12.htm">American Standard Version</a> And he hath said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/cev/2_corinthians/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> But he replied, "My gift of undeserved grace is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak." So if Christ keeps giving me his power, I will gladly brag about how weak I am. <a href="/erv/2_corinthians/12.htm">English Revised Version</a> And he hath said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> But he told me: "My kindness is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak." So I will brag even more about my weaknesses in order that Christ's power will live in me. <a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Good News Translation</a> But his answer was: "My grace is all you need, for my power is greatest when you are weak." I am most happy, then, to be proud of my weaknesses, in order to feel the protection of Christ's power over me. <a href="/isv/2_corinthians/12.htm">International Standard Version</a> but he has told me, "My grace is all you need, because my power is perfected in weakness." Therefore, I will most happily boast about my weaknesses, so that the Messiah's power may rest on me. <a href="/msb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me. <a href="/net/2_corinthians/12.htm">NET Bible</a> But he said to me, "My grace is enough for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." So then, I will boast most gladly about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may reside in me. <a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest on me. <a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And he said to me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> but His reply has been, "My grace suffices for you, for power matures in weakness." Most gladly therefore will I boast of my infirmities rather than complain of them--in order that Christ's power may overshadow me. <a href="/web/2_corinthians/12.htm">World English Bible</a> He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest on me. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness”; most gladly, therefore, will I rather boast in my weaknesses, that the power of the Christ may rest on me: <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And He said to me, "My grace suffices you, for the power is perfected in weakness." Therefore will I boast rather most gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and He said to me, 'Sufficient for thee is My grace, for My power in infirmity is perfected;' most gladly, therefore, will I rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of the Christ may rest on me: <a href="/slt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And he said to me, My grace suffices thee: for my power is perfected in weakness. Therefore very willingly will I boast rather in my weaknesses, that Christ's power may lodge upon me.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And he said to me: My grace is sufficient for thee; for power is made perfect in infirmity. Gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. <a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And he said to me: “My grace is sufficient for you. For virtue is perfected in weakness.” And so, willingly shall I glory in my weaknesses, so that the virtue of Christ may live within me. <a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/12.htm">New American Bible</a> but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me. <a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore I would rather boast in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/12.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness.” I shall therefore joyfully boast in my sufferings, that the power of The Messiah may rest upon me.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/12.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> and he said to me: My grace is sufficient for you; for my power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly, therefore, will I boast in my infirmities, that the power of the Christ may abide upon me. <a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> And he said to me, <FR>My grace is sufficient for thee: for power is made perfect in weakness.<Fr> Therefore most delightfully I will glory the more in my infirmities, in order that the power of Christ may abide on me. <a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/12.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may fix its residence in me. <a href="/mace/2_corinthians/12.htm">Mace New Testament</a> but he said to me, "my favour is sufficient for thee: for my strength is shown to be perfect by thy weakness." with pleasure therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may be seen to dwell in me. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> but His reply has been, "My grace suffices for you, for power matures in weakness." Most gladly therefore will I boast of my infirmities rather than complain of them--in order that Christ's power may overshadow me. <a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/12.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> And He hath said to me, <FR>"My grace is sufficient for you; for My power is made perfect in weakness."<Fr> Most gladly, therefore, will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/12.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> And He said unto me, <FR>"My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is manifested in <Fr>thy<FR> weakness."<Fr> With the greatest pleasure therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. <a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=2268" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Paul's Thorn and God's Grace</a> …8Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9<a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">But</a> <a href="/greek/2046.htm" title="2046: eirēken (V-RIA-3S) -- Probably a fuller form of rheo; an alternate for epo in certain tenses; to utter, i.e. Speak or say.">He said</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: moi (PPro-D1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">to me,</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">“My</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5485.htm" title="5485: charis (N-NFS) -- From chairo; graciousness, of manner or act.">grace</a> <a href="/greek/714.htm" title="714: Arkei (V-PIA-3S) -- To keep off, assist; I suffice; pass: To be satisfied. Apparently a primary verb; properly, to ward off, i.e. to avail.">is sufficient</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: soi (PPro-D2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">for you,</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">for</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">My</a> <a href="/greek/1411.htm" title="1411: dynamis (N-NFS) -- From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power.">power</a> <a href="/greek/5055.htm" title="5055: teleitai (V-PIM/P-3S) -- (a) I end, finish, (b) I fulfill, accomplish, (c) I pay. From telos; to end, i.e. Complete, execute, conclude, discharge.">is perfected</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/769.htm" title="769: astheneia (N-DFS) -- From asthenes; feebleness; by implication, malady; morally, frailty.">weakness.” </a> <a href="/greek/3767.htm" title="3767: oun (Conj) -- Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly.">Therefore</a> <a href="/greek/2744.htm" title="2744: kauchēsomai (V-FIM-1S) -- To boast; I glory (exult) proudly. From some base akin to that of aucheo and euchomai; to vaunt.">I will boast</a> <a href="/greek/3123.htm" title="3123: mallon (Adv) -- More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather.">all the more</a> <a href="/greek/2236.htm" title="2236: Hēdista (Adv-S) -- Most gladly, most pleasantly. Neuter plural of the superlative of the same as hedeos; with great pleasure.">gladly</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">my</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tais (Art-DFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/769.htm" title="769: astheneiais (N-DFP) -- From asthenes; feebleness; by implication, malady; morally, frailty.">weaknesses,</a> <a href="/greek/2443.htm" title="2443: hina (Conj) -- In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.">so that</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/1411.htm" title="1411: dynamis (N-NFS) -- From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power.">power</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5547.htm" title="5547: Christou (N-GMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">of Christ</a> <a href="/greek/1981.htm" title="1981: episkēnōsē (V-ASA-3S) -- To raise a tent (over), dwell, spread a tabernacle over. From epi and skenoo; to tent upon, i.e. abide with.">may rest</a> <a href="/greek/1909.htm" title="1909: ep’ (Prep) -- On, to, against, on the basis of, at. ">on</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: eme (PPro-A1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">me.</a> 10That is why, for the sake of Christ, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/philippians/4-13.htm">Philippians 4:13</a> I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. <a href="/isaiah/40-29.htm">Isaiah 40:29-31</a> He gives power to the faint and increases the strength of the weak. / Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall. / But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. <a href="/matthew/11-28.htm">Matthew 11:28-30</a> Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. / Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. / For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” <a href="/hebrews/4-16.htm">Hebrews 4:16</a> Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. <a href="/romans/8-26.htm">Romans 8:26</a> In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know how we ought to pray, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words. <a href="/1_peter/5-10.htm">1 Peter 5:10</a> And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore you, secure you, strengthen you, and establish you. <a href="/ephesians/3-16.htm">Ephesians 3:16</a> I ask that out of the riches of His glory He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, <a href="/psalms/73-26.htm">Psalm 73:26</a> My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. <a href="/james/1-2.htm">James 1:2-4</a> Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, / because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. / Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. <a href="/romans/5-3.htm">Romans 5:3-5</a> Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; / perseverance, character; and character, hope. / And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us. <a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10</a> Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-25.htm">1 Corinthians 1:25</a> For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength. <a href="/psalms/46-1.htm">Psalm 46:1</a> For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A song. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. <a href="/1_peter/4-13.htm">1 Peter 4:13-14</a> But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory. / If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. <a href="/colossians/1-11.htm">Colossians 1:11</a> being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have full endurance and patience, and joyfully</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest on me.My grace.<a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">2 Corinthians 12:10</a> Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-5.htm">2 Corinthians 3:5,6</a> Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; … <a href="/exodus/3-11.htm">Exodus 3:11,12</a> And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt? … for.<a href="/psalms/8-2.htm">Psalm 8:2</a> Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger.<a href="/isaiah/35-3.htm">Isaiah 35:3,4</a> Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees… <a href="/isaiah/40-29.htm">Isaiah 40:29-31</a> He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength… Most.<a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">2 Corinthians 12:10,15</a> Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong… <a href="/matthew/5-11.htm">Matthew 5:11,12</a> Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake… glory.<a href="/2_corinthians/12-5.htm">2 Corinthians 12:5</a> Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.<a href="/2_corinthians/11-30.htm">2 Corinthians 11:30</a> If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.the power.<a href="/2_kings/2-15.htm">2 Kings 2:15</a> And when the sons of the prophets which were to view at Jericho saw him, they said, The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha. And they came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground before him.<a href="/isaiah/4-5.htm">Isaiah 4:5,6</a> And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defence… <a href="/isaiah/11-2.htm">Isaiah 11:2</a> And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">Boast</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-3.htm">Body</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-2.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-13.htm">Christ's</a> <a href="/luke/19-7.htm">Complain</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-6.htm">Complete</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-16.htm">Dwell</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-4.htm">Enough</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-5.htm">Feeble</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-19.htm">Gladly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">Glory</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-14.htm">Grace</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-5.htm">Infirmities</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-30.htm">Infirmity</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-7.htm">Order</a> <a href="/acts/5-15.htm">Overshadow</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-16.htm">Perfect</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-10.htm">Perfected</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-4.htm">Power</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-12.htm">Pride</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-8.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-13.htm">Rest</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Strength</a> <a href="/john/14-8.htm">Suffices</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">Sufficient</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-30.htm">Weakness</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-5.htm">Weaknesses</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/galatians/6-4.htm">Boast</a> <a href="/galatians/1-15.htm">Body</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Christ's</a> <a href="/philippians/4-11.htm">Complain</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-9.htm">Complete</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-17.htm">Dwell</a> <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Enough</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Feeble</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-15.htm">Gladly</a> <a href="/galatians/1-5.htm">Glory</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-14.htm">Grace</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Infirmities</a> <a href="/galatians/4-13.htm">Infirmity</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-7.htm">Order</a> <a href="/luke/1-35.htm">Overshadow</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-11.htm">Perfect</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-11.htm">Perfected</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-12.htm">Power</a> <a href="/galatians/6-4.htm">Pride</a> <a href="/galatians/1-12.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-13.htm">Rest</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-12.htm">Strength</a> <a href="/john/14-8.htm">Suffices</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-3.htm">Sufficient</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-4.htm">Weakness</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Weaknesses</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 12</div>1. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-1.htm">For commending of his apostleship, though he might glory of his wonderful revelations,</a> 9. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">yet he rather chooses to glory of his infirmities;</a> 11. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">blaming the Corinthians for forcing him to this vain boasting.</a> 14. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-14.htm">He promises to come to them again; but yet altogether in the affection of a father;</a> 20. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-20.htm">although he fears he shall to his grief find many offenders, and public disorders there.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Study Bible</a></div>But He said to me This phrase introduces a direct communication from the Lord to Paul. The Greek verb "eipon" (εἶπον) is used here, indicating a definitive and authoritative statement. This is not merely a suggestion or a casual remark; it is a divine pronouncement. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul is recounting a personal revelation, emphasizing the intimacy and directness of God's communication with him. Historically, this reflects the personal relationship believers are invited to have with God, where He speaks into their specific circumstances.My grace The Greek word for grace is "charis" (χάρις), which encompasses God's unmerited favor, kindness, and blessing. In the New Testament, grace is a central theme, representing the free and unearned favor of God towards humanity. This grace is not just for salvation but is an ongoing source of strength and empowerment for believers. Theologically, it underscores the sufficiency of God's provision in every aspect of life, especially in times of weakness or trial.is sufficient for you The term "sufficient" comes from the Greek "arkei" (ἀρκεῖ), meaning to be enough or to be content. This implies that God's grace is not just adequate but abundantly meets every need. In the historical context of Paul's ministry, he faced numerous hardships, yet he found that God's grace was always enough to sustain him. This assurance is a profound encouragement to believers, affirming that no matter the challenge, God's provision is always adequate.for My power The word "power" is translated from the Greek "dynamis" (δύναμις), which refers to strength, ability, and miraculous power. This is the same word used to describe the power of the Holy Spirit and the resurrection power of Christ. It indicates that the power available to believers is not of human origin but is divine and supernatural. This power is active and effective, working in and through believers to accomplish God's purposes.is perfected in weakness The Greek word for "perfected" is "teleitai" (τελεῖται), which means to complete, accomplish, or bring to maturity. This suggests that God's power reaches its full potential and is most clearly demonstrated in human weakness. Historically, this is a radical concept, as strength was often equated with power and influence. However, in the Christian life, it is in our weaknesses that God's power is most evident, as it removes any reliance on human ability and highlights divine intervention.Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses Paul's response to God's revelation is one of acceptance and even celebration of his weaknesses. The Greek word for "boast" is "kauchesomai" (καυχήσομαι), which means to glory or take pride in. This is counter-cultural, as boasting typically involves one's strengths or achievements. However, Paul understands that his weaknesses are the very platform for God's power to be displayed. This perspective encourages believers to view their limitations not as liabilities but as opportunities for God's glory.so that the power of Christ Here, "power" again is "dynamis" (δύναμις), emphasizing the consistent theme of divine strength. The focus is on the "power of Christ," indicating that it is through Christ that believers experience this empowering presence. This aligns with the broader New Testament teaching that Christ is the source of all spiritual strength and victory.may rest on me The phrase "rest on" is translated from the Greek "episkēnōsē" (ἐπισκηνώσῃ), which means to dwell or take up residence. This imagery suggests a continual and abiding presence of Christ's power in Paul's life. It evokes the Old Testament concept of God's Shekinah glory dwelling among His people. For believers, this means that Christ's power is not a transient experience but a permanent reality, providing ongoing strength and support.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/12.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(9) And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee.--The words fit in, more or less, with each of the two views that have been discussed above. From one point of view, however, it seems infinitely more in harmony with our thoughts of God, that the prayer to be relieved from pain should be refused, because it was working out a higher perfection than was attainable without it, than that a deaf ear should have been turned to a prayer to be relieved from the temptation to impurity. Such a prayer seems to us to carry with it something like an assurance of its own prevailing power. Some of the better MSS. omit the possessive "My," and with that reading the words take the form of a general axiom affirming that, in the highest sense, "might is perfected in weakness." The last word is the same as that translated "infirmity" in the next clause. The variation, as concealing this, is so far unfortunate.Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities.--The word, as has just been said, is the same as the "weakness" in the answer to his prayer. He finds not comfort only, but actual delight, in his consciousness of weakness, because it is balanced by the sense that the might of Christ dwells in him and around him. The word for "rest" is literally, as a like word in <a href="/john/1-14.htm" title="And the Word was made flesh, and dwelled among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.">John 1:14</a>, to dwell as in a tent, and suggests the thought that the might of Christ was to him as the Shechinah cloud of glory encompassing him and protecting him.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/12.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 9. - And he said unto me. The original is much more forcible: "And he has said to me." Is sufficient for thee. A similar phrase, though in a very different context, occurs in <a href="/deuteronomy/3-26.htm">Deuteronomy 3:26</a>. My strength is made perfect in weakness (comp. <a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm">2 Corinthians 4:7</a>; <a href="/philippians/4-13.htm">Philippians 4:13</a>; <a href="/1_corinthians/2-3.htm">1 Corinthians 2:3-5</a>). The verse contains a paradox, which yet describes the best history of the world. The paradox becomes more suggestive if, with א, A, B, D, F, G, we omit "my." May rest upon me; literally, may tabernacle over me. The compound verb occurs here alone, but the simple verb and the substantive occur in similar meanings in <a href="/john/1-14.htm">John 1:14</a>; <a href="/revelation/7-15.htm">Revelation 7:15</a>; <a href="/revelation/21-3.htm">Revelation 21:3</a> (comp. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-1.htm">2 Corinthians 5:1</a>). <a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. He said εἴρηκέν (eirēken) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2046.htm">Strong's 2046: </a> Probably a fuller form of rheo; an alternate for epo in certain tenses; to utter, i.e. Speak or say. to me, μοι (moi) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. “My μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. grace χάρις (charis) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5485.htm">Strong's 5485: </a> From chairo; graciousness, of manner or act. is sufficient Ἀρκεῖ (Arkei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_714.htm">Strong's 714: </a> To keep off, assist; I suffice; pass: To be satisfied. Apparently a primary verb; properly, to ward off, i.e. to avail. for you, σοι (soi) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. for γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. [My] ἡ (hē) Article - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. power δύναμις (dynamis) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1411.htm">Strong's 1411: </a> From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power. is perfected τελεῖται (teleitai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5055.htm">Strong's 5055: </a> (a) I end, finish, (b) I fulfill, accomplish, (c) I pay. From telos; to end, i.e. Complete, execute, conclude, discharge. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. weakness.” ἀσθενείᾳ (astheneia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_769.htm">Strong's 769: </a> From asthenes; feebleness; by implication, malady; morally, frailty. Therefore οὖν (oun) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3767.htm">Strong's 3767: </a> Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly. I will boast καυχήσομαι (kauchēsomai) Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2744.htm">Strong's 2744: </a> To boast; I glory (exult) proudly. From some base akin to that of aucheo and euchomai; to vaunt. all the more μᾶλλον (mallon) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3123.htm">Strong's 3123: </a> More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather. gladly Ἥδιστα (Hēdista) Adverb - Superlative <a href="/greek/strongs_2236.htm">Strong's 2236: </a> Most gladly, most pleasantly. Neuter plural of the superlative of the same as hedeos; with great pleasure. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. my μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. weaknesses, ἀσθενείαις (astheneiais) Noun - Dative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_769.htm">Strong's 769: </a> From asthenes; feebleness; by implication, malady; morally, frailty. so that ἵνα (hina) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that. the ἡ (hē) Article - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. power δύναμις (dynamis) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1411.htm">Strong's 1411: </a> From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power. of Christ Χριστοῦ (Christou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. may rest ἐπισκηνώσῃ (episkēnōsē) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1981.htm">Strong's 1981: </a> To raise a tent (over), dwell, spread a tabernacle over. From epi and skenoo; to tent upon, i.e. abide with. on ἐπ’ (ep’) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1909.htm">Strong's 1909: </a> On, to, against, on the basis of, at. me. ἐμὲ (eme) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 12:9 He has said to me My grace (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-8.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 12:8"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 12:8" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 12:10"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 12:10" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>