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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 12:8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/12-8.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/17/47_2Co_12_08.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 12:8 - Paul's Thorn and God's Grace" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me." /><script type="application/javascript" 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cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad8.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/12-7.htm" title="2 Corinthians 12:7">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 12:8 <a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm" title="2 Corinthians 12:9">►</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="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><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"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/12.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/12.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Three times I begged the Lord for this, that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/12.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/12.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Concerning this I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might leave me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Concerning this I entreated the Lord three times that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Concerning this I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might leave me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_corinthians/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Concerning this I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might leave me;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Concerning this, I pleaded with the Lord three times that it would leave me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Concerning this, I pleaded with the Lord three times to take it away from me. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_corinthians/12.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Concerning this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_corinthians/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Three times I begged the Lord to make this suffering go away. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_corinthians/12.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Concerning this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />I begged the Lord three times to take it away from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Three times I prayed to the Lord about this and asked him to take it away. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_corinthians/12.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />I pleaded with the Lord three times to take it away from me, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_corinthians/12.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />I asked the Lord three times about this, that it would depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Concerning this thing, I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />As for this, three times have I besought the Lord to rid me of him;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_corinthians/12.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Concerning this thing, I begged the Lord three times that it might depart from me. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />I called on the LORD three times concerning this thing, that it might depart from me,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Three times I begged the Lord for this, that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Concerning this thing thrice the Lord did I call upon, that it might depart from me,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />For this thrice besought I the Lord, that it remove away from me.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />For which thing thrice I besought the Lord, that it might depart from me. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Because of this, three times I petitioned the Lord that it might be taken away from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/12.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Three times I begged the Lord about this, that it might leave me,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me,<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Three times I besought my LORD concerning this thing, that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/12.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />And I begged of my Lord concerning this three times, to remove it from me.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/12.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />With regard to this, I three times entreated the Lord that it might leave me;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />Three times I called on the Lord concerning this, that it may depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/12.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />For this thrice I besought the Lord, that he might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/2_corinthians/12.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />I besought the Lord thrice, to make him leave me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />As for this, three times have I besought the Lord to rid me of him;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/12.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />Concerning this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/12.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />For this I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=2263" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Paul's Thorn and God's Grace</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7</span>or because of these surpassingly great revelations. So to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. <span class="reftext">8</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/5151.htm" title="5151: tris (Adv) -- Three times. Adverb from treis; three times.">Three times</a> <a href="/greek/3870.htm" title="3870: parekalesa (V-AIA-1S) -- From para and kaleo; to call near, i.e. Invite, invoke.">I pleaded with</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- 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/2962.htm" title="2962: Kyrion (N-AMS) -- Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.">Lord</a> <a href="/greek/5228.htm" title="5228: hyper (Prep) -- Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. "></a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: toutou (DPro-GNS) -- This; he, she, it. "></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.">to</a> <a href="/greek/868.htm" title="868: apostē (V-ASA-3S) -- From apo and histemi; to remove, i.e. instigate to revolt; usually to desist, desert, etc.">take it away</a> <a href="/greek/575.htm" title="575: ap’ (Prep) -- From, away from. A primary particle; off, i.e. Away, in various senses.">from</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: emou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">me.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">9</span>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.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/26-39.htm">Matthew 26:39</a></span><br />Going a little farther, He fell facedown and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/26-42.htm">Matthew 26:42</a></span><br />A second time He went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cup cannot pass unless I drink it, may Your will be done.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/26-44.htm">Matthew 26:44</a></span><br />So He left them and went away once more and prayed a third time, saying the same thing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/22-41.htm">Luke 22:41-44</a></span><br />And He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, where He knelt down and prayed, / “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me. Yet not My will, but Yours be done.” / Then an angel from heaven appeared to Him and strengthened Him. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/5-7.htm">Hebrews 5:7</a></span><br />During the days of Jesus’ earthly life, He offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Philippians 4:6</a></span><br />Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/8-26.htm">Romans 8:26</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_thessalonians/5-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:17</a></span><br />Pray without ceasing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/5-16.htm">James 5:16</a></span><br />Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_john/5-14.htm">1 John 5:14-15</a></span><br />And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. / And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we already possess what we have asked of Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/34-4.htm">Psalm 34:4</a></span><br />I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/50-15.htm">Psalm 50:15</a></span><br />Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor Me.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/55-22.htm">Psalm 55:22</a></span><br />Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/91-15.htm">Psalm 91:15</a></span><br />When he calls out to Me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/118-5.htm">Psalm 118:5</a></span><br />In my distress I called to the LORD, and He answered and set me free.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">For this thing I sought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.</p><p class="hdg">I besought.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/deuteronomy/3-23.htm">Deuteronomy 3:23-27</a></b></br> And I besought the LORD at that time, saying, … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/15-11.htm">1 Samuel 15:11</a></b></br> It repenteth me that I have set up Saul <i>to be</i> king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the LORD all night.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/12-16.htm">2 Samuel 12:16-18</a></b></br> David therefore besought God for the child; and David fasted, and went in, and lay all night upon the earth… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/8-6.htm">Begged</a> <a href="/acts/27-33.htm">Besought</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-15.htm">Depart</a> <a href="/luke/8-32.htm">Implored</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-13.htm">Leave</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">Pleaded</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-2.htm">Request</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/5-7.htm">Rid</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-25.htm">Three</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-25.htm">Thrice</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-27.htm">Times</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/12-18.htm">Begged</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-3.htm">Besought</a> <a href="/philippians/1-23.htm">Depart</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-11.htm">Implored</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-27.htm">Leave</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-7.htm">Pleaded</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-1.htm">Request</a> <a href="/galatians/4-30.htm">Rid</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-1.htm">Three</a> <a href="/exodus/23-14.htm">Thrice</a> <a href="/galatians/1-23.htm">Times</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 12</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-1.htm">For commending of his apostleship, though he might glory of his wonderful revelations,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">9. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">yet he rather chooses to glory of his infirmities;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">11. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">blaming the Corinthians for forcing him to this vain boasting.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-14.htm">He promises to come to them again; but yet altogether in the affection of a father;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">20. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-20.htm">although he fears he shall to his grief find many offenders, and public disorders there.</a></span><br></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><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/12.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_corinthians/12.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Three times</b><br>The phrase "three times" indicates a repeated and earnest appeal. In biblical terms, the number three often signifies completeness or emphasis. This is seen in other scriptural contexts, such as Jesus praying three times in the Garden of Gethsemane (<a href="/matthew/26-39.htm">Matthew 26:39-44</a>) and Peter's three denials of Christ (<a href="/matthew/26-34.htm">Matthew 26:34</a>). The repetition underscores the intensity and sincerity of Paul's request.<p><b>I pleaded with the Lord</b><br>Paul's use of "pleaded" suggests a deep, heartfelt supplication. The term "Lord" here refers to Jesus Christ, highlighting Paul's direct relationship and communication with Him. This reflects the New Testament understanding of Jesus as the mediator between God and humanity (<a href="/1_timothy/2-5.htm">1 Timothy 2:5</a>). Paul's approach to the Lord in prayer is consistent with the Christian practice of seeking divine intervention and guidance.<p><b>to take it away from me</b><br>The "it" refers to the "thorn in the flesh" mentioned earlier in the chapter (<a href="/2_corinthians/12-7.htm">2 Corinthians 12:7</a>). While the exact nature of this "thorn" is not specified, it is understood as a source of significant distress or weakness. This request for removal aligns with human tendencies to seek relief from suffering. However, the broader context of the passage reveals that God's response emphasizes the sufficiency of His grace and the power made perfect in weakness (<a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9</a>). This reflects a recurring biblical theme where God's strength is demonstrated through human frailty, as seen in the lives of figures like Moses (<a href="/exodus/4-10.htm">Exodus 4:10-12</a>) and Gideon (<a href="/judges/6-14.htm">Judges 6:14-16</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a></b><br>The author of 2 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the church in Corinth. He is a key figure in the New Testament, known for his missionary journeys and epistles.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The Lord</a></b><br>Refers to Jesus Christ, to whom Paul is directing his plea. This highlights the personal relationship Paul has with Christ.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_thorn_in_the_flesh.htm">The Thorn in the Flesh</a></b><br>While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, it is the context of Paul's plea. The nature of this "thorn" is debated, but it represents a significant trial or affliction.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a></b><br>A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and immorality. The church in Corinth faced many challenges, which Paul addresses in his letters.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul's_plea.htm">Paul's Plea</a></b><br>An event where Paul earnestly prays for relief from his affliction, demonstrating his reliance on God.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_persistent_prayer.htm">The Power of Persistent Prayer</a></b><br>Paul’s repeated plea to the Lord underscores the importance of persistence in prayer. Believers are encouraged to continually bring their requests before God, trusting in His timing and wisdom.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/a/acceptance_of_god's_will.htm">Acceptance of God's Will</a></b><br>Despite his earnest prayers, Paul accepts God's decision not to remove the thorn. This teaches believers to trust in God's greater plan, even when His answers are not what we desire.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/strength_in_weakness.htm">Strength in Weakness</a></b><br>The context of this verse reveals that God’s power is made perfect in weakness. Believers can find comfort in knowing that their weaknesses are opportunities for God’s strength to be displayed.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/reliance_on_god's_grace.htm">Reliance on God's Grace</a></b><br>Paul learns that God’s grace is sufficient for him. This is a reminder that God’s grace is enough to sustain us through any trial or hardship.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_suffering_in_spiritual_growth.htm">The Role of Suffering in Spiritual Growth</a></b><br>Paul’s experience shows that suffering can lead to deeper spiritual insights and growth. Believers are encouraged to view their trials as opportunities for spiritual development.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_12.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 12</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_doesn't_god_answer_my_prayers.htm">Why doesn't God answer my prayers?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_do_similar_prayers_go_unanswered.htm">In Psalm 142:5–6, David expects personal divine rescue—why do similar prayers often go unanswered in observable human experience? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_it_mean_when_god_says_no.htm">What does it mean when God says no?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_do_believers_face_unanswered_prayers.htm">John 15:7: Why do many devout believers experience unanswered prayers despite Jesus’s promise that abiding in him ensures requests are granted? </a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/12.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(8) <span class= "bld">For this thing I besought the Lord thrice.</span>--We are reminded of our Lord's three-fold prayer in Gethsemane (<a href="/matthew/26-36.htm" title="Then comes Jesus with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, Sit you here, while I go and pray yonder.">Matthew 26:36</a>; <a href="/context/luke/22-42.htm" title="Saying, Father, if you be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but yours, be done.">Luke 22:42-45</a>). Was St. Paul himself reminded of it? There also the answer to the prayer was not compliance with its petition, but the gift of strength to bear and to endure.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/12.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 8.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">For this thing.</span> In reference to this or "to <span class="accented">him</span>," the angel of Satan. <span class="cmt_word">The Lord.</span> That is, Christ (<a href="/1_corinthians/1-3.htm">1 Corinthians 1:3</a>). <span class="cmt_word">Thrice</span> (comp. <a href="/matthew/26-44.htm">Matthew 26:44</a>). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">Three times</span><br /><span class="grk">τρὶς</span> <span class="translit">(tris)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5151.htm">Strong's 5151: </a> </span><span class="str2">Three times. Adverb from treis; three times.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I pleaded with</span><br /><span class="grk">παρεκάλεσα</span> <span class="translit">(parekalesa)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3870.htm">Strong's 3870: </a> </span><span class="str2">From para and kaleo; to call near, i.e. Invite, invoke.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the</span><br /><span class="grk">τὸν</span> <span class="translit">(ton)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Accusative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Lord</span><br /><span class="grk">Κύριον</span> <span class="translit">(Kyrion)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2962.htm">Strong's 2962: </a> </span><span class="str2">Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to</span><br /><span class="grk">ἵνα</span> <span class="translit">(hina)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> </span><span class="str2">In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">take it away</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀποστῇ</span> <span class="translit">(apostē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_868.htm">Strong's 868: </a> </span><span class="str2">From apo and histemi; to remove, i.e. instigate to revolt; usually to desist, desert, etc.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">from</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀπ’</span> <span class="translit">(ap’)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_575.htm">Strong's 575: </a> </span><span class="str2">From, away from. A primary particle; 'off, ' i.e. Away, in various senses.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">me.</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐμοῦ</span> <span class="translit">(emou)</span><br /><span class="parse">Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> </span><span class="str2">I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 12:8 Concerning this thing I begged the Lord (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-7.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 12:7"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 12:7" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 12:9"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 12:9" /></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>