2 Corinthians 12:1

KJV

¶ It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.

KJV (with Strong's)

It is {G4851} not {G3756} expedient {G4851} for me {G3427} doubtless {G1211} to glory {G2744}.{G1063} I will come {G2064} to {G1519} visions {G3701} and {G2532} revelations {G602} of the Lord {G2962}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I have to boast. There is nothing to be gained by it, but I will go on to visions and revelations of the Lord.

Berean Standard Bible

I must go on boasting. Although there is nothing to gain, I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord.

American Standard Version

I must needs glory, though it is not expedient; but I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In the Apostle Paul reluctantly transitions from defending his apostolic authority through a list of sufferings and weaknesses to a more challenging, personal form of validation: sharing extraordinary, divinely granted visions and revelations. He prefaces this by stating that such boasting is "not expedient" for him, highlighting his profound humility and his preference to avoid self-exaltation, yet he feels compelled to disclose these intimate spiritual experiences to the Corinthian church to authenticate his ministry against the claims of false apostles.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a significant pivot in Paul's defense of his apostleship. In the preceding chapters, particularly [2 Corinthians 10](/2_corinthians/10 "2 Corinthians 10 - Paul's Apostolic Authority") and [2 Corinthians 11](/2_corinthians/11 "2 Corinthians 11 - Paul's Foolish Boasting"), Paul has been forced to engage in what he calls "foolish boasting" to counter the claims of rival teachers ("super-apostles") who were undermining his authority in Corinth. He has boasted in his weaknesses, sufferings, and labors for Christ ([2 Corinthians 11:23-29](/2_corinthians/11-23-29 "2 Corinthians 11:23-29 - Paul's Sufferings")). Now, in [2 Corinthians 12](/2_corinthians/12 "2 Corinthians 12 - Paul's Visions and Thorn in the Flesh"), he moves beyond external credentials and physical hardships to reveal profound, private spiritual experiences, which he considers an even more awkward form of boasting, yet necessary to demonstrate his unique divine commission. This leads directly into the discussion of his "thorn in the flesh" ([2 Corinthians 12:7](/2_corinthians/12-7 "2 Corinthians 12:7 - Paul's Thorn in the Flesh")), which serves as a divine counter-balance to prevent pride from these very revelations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was influenced by Hellenistic culture, which often valued eloquent rhetoric, outward displays of power, and impressive spiritual experiences. False teachers, likely boasting of their own spiritual prowess, charismatic gifts, and perhaps even visions, were challenging Paul's authority, perhaps perceiving his lack of oratorical flair or his emphasis on suffering as weakness. In this environment, Paul's reluctance to boast in his spiritual experiences stands in stark contrast to the prevailing cultural norms and the self-promotion of his rivals. He is forced to play their game, but he does so ironically, emphasizing that true spiritual authority comes from God's grace and is often accompanied by weakness, not self-aggrandizement. His sharing of these visions, therefore, is not for personal glory but for the sake of the gospel and the integrity of his apostolic office in a challenging cultural milieu.
* **Key Themes:** The verse introduces several critical themes that permeate Paul's letter. Firstly, the theme of **Reluctant Boasting** is paramount; Paul's opening phrase underscores his deep humility and his aversion to self-exaltation, even when discussing divinely given experiences. His "boasting" is always ironic and for the purpose of defending the gospel, not himself. Secondly, **Divine Revelation as Validation** is a key theme, as the "visions and revelations of the Lord" serve as irrefutable evidence of Paul's direct commission and intimate relationship with God, distinguishing his genuine apostleship from the spurious claims of his opponents. This ties into the broader theme of **Authentic Apostolic Authority**, which Paul has been defending throughout [2 Corinthians](/2_corinthians "2 Corinthians - Paul's Defense of his Ministry"). Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **God's Sovereignty in Spiritual Experiences**, emphasizing that such profound encounters are granted by the Lord for His purposes, not for human pride or competition, a point further elaborated by the "thorn in the flesh" in [2 Corinthians 12:7-10](/2_corinthians/12-7-10 "2 Corinthians 12:7-10 - God's Grace in Weakness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **expedient (Greek, _symphérō'_):** This word, from G4851, means "to bear together," "to contribute," or "to be profitable/advantageous." Paul's use of "not expedient" (οὐ συμφέρει, _ou symphérei_) indicates that it is not beneficial or appropriate for him personally to boast, as it goes against his principle of humility and could lead to self-exaltation. However, the context implies that while not expedient for *him*, it is expedient for the *Corinthians* to hear these truths for the sake of his apostolic validation.
* **glory (Greek, _kaucháomai'_):** Derived from G2744, this term signifies "to boast," "to brag," or "to take pride in." Paul frequently uses this word to caution against pride in human accomplishments or worldly wisdom. Here, he uses it ironically; he is compelled to "boast" in divine experiences, but he frames it as an undesirable necessity, highlighting the contrast between worldly self-promotion and the humble, God-given nature of true spiritual authority.
* **revelations (Greek, _apokálypsis'_):):** From G602, meaning "disclosure," "unveiling," or "manifestation." This term emphasizes that the experiences Paul is about to describe are not mere subjective insights or dreams, but direct, divinely initiated unveilings of spiritual truths or realities previously hidden. Coupled with "visions" (ὀπτασία, _optasía_, G3701, referring to direct, visible manifestations), it underscores the supernatural and objective nature of his encounters with the Lord.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory."**: Paul begins with a strong declaration of his reluctance. The phrase "not expedient" (οὐ συμφέρει, _ou symphérei_) conveys that it is not profitable or advantageous for him to engage in this kind of boasting. The particle "doubtless" (δὴ, _dḗ_, G1211) adds emphasis, underscoring his firm conviction on this point. This opening sets an ironic tone, as he is about to do precisely what he claims is not expedient, but for a higher purpose than self-promotion.
* **"I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord."**: Despite his stated reluctance, Paul declares his intention to proceed with sharing these profound spiritual experiences. The verb "I will come" (ἔρχομαι, _érchomai_, G2064) indicates a deliberate, though compelled, action. "Visions" (ὀπτασίας, _optasías_) refers to what is seen, often in a supernatural or ecstatic state, while "revelations" (ἀποκαλύψεις, _apokálypseis_) refers to the unveiling of divine truths or mysteries. The crucial phrase "of the Lord" (Κυρίου, _Kyríou_, G2962) unequivocally attributes the origin and content of these experiences to God Himself, asserting their divine authority and distinguishing them from mere human imagination or demonic deception. This phrase clarifies that his boasting, though reluctant, is ultimately in what the Lord has done for and through him.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise verse. The most prominent is **Irony**, as he states it is "not expedient" for him to boast, yet immediately proceeds to do so. This is a continuation of the "foolish boasting" he engaged in during [2 Corinthians 11](/2_corinthians/11 "2 Corinthians 11 - Paul's Foolish Boasting"), where he ironically boasts in his weaknesses to highlight the true source of his strength. There is also an element of **Antithesis** implied, contrasting the worldly, self-aggrandizing boasting of his opponents with his own reluctant, God-centered "boasting" that serves only to validate his divine commission. The phrase "of the Lord" acts as an **Attribution**, clearly assigning the source of these extraordinary experiences to God, thereby deflecting any personal glory from himself and ensuring that the focus remains on divine power and grace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[2 Corinthians 12:1](/2_corinthians/12-1 "2 Corinthians 12:1 - Paul's Reluctant Boasting") underscores the theological truth that genuine spiritual authority and validation come from God, not from human credentials or self-promotion. Paul's reluctance to boast, even in divinely given experiences, highlights the virtue of humility as central to Christian leadership and life. It teaches that spiritual gifts and revelations are given for God's purposes and the edification of the church, not for personal pride or to establish a hierarchy of "spirituality." The verse also affirms the reality of supernatural encounters with God, while simultaneously cautioning against their misuse for personal gain or competitive display. True spiritual power is often manifested in weakness, and true authority is rooted in a humble dependence on God, rather than a display of extraordinary experiences.

* [1 Corinthians 1:31](/1_corinthians/1-31 "1 Corinthians 1:31 - Boasting in the Lord")
* [Galatians 6:14](/galatians/6-14 "Galatians 6:14 - Boasting in the Cross")
* [Romans 11:18](/romans/11-18 "Romans 11:18 - Do Not Boast Against the Branches")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's reluctant confession in [2 Corinthians 12:1](/2_corinthians/12-1 "2 Corinthians 12:1 - Paul's Reluctant Boasting") offers profound lessons for believers today. It challenges our natural inclination to seek validation through impressive experiences or accomplishments. In a world that often values outward displays of success, Paul reminds us that true spiritual maturity is marked by humility and a willingness to deflect praise from ourselves to God. Our spiritual gifts, insights, or profound encounters with God are not for our personal glory or for establishing a spiritual pecking order, but are given by grace for the advancement of His kingdom and the building up of His people. We are called to steward these gifts responsibly, always pointing to the Giver, not the recipient. This verse encourages us to examine our motivations: do we seek to impress others with our spiritual experiences, or do we humbly serve, allowing God to be glorified through our weaknesses as much as through our strengths?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to "glory" or boast, and how does Paul's example challenge that inclination?**
* **How can we share our spiritual experiences and insights in a way that truly glorifies God and edifies others, rather than drawing attention to ourselves?**
* **What does Paul's reluctance to boast teach us about the nature of true spiritual authority and humility in Christian leadership?**

### FAQ

**Why was Paul so reluctant to share his visions and revelations?**

Answer: Paul's reluctance stemmed from his deep commitment to humility and his understanding that true Christian ministry is about exalting Christ, not oneself. He had consistently taught against boasting in human achievements or spiritual experiences, advocating instead for boasting only in the Lord ([1 Corinthians 1:31](/1_corinthians/1-31 "1 Corinthians 1:31 - Boasting in the Lord")). Sharing such profound personal revelations could easily lead to pride, either in himself or in the Corinthians who might then elevate him unduly. He was forced to do so only because false apostles were challenging his legitimate authority, making it necessary to provide undeniable evidence of his divine commission, even if it meant engaging in a form of "foolish boasting" for the sake of the gospel. He explains this further in [2 Corinthians 12:7](/2_corinthians/12-7 "2 Corinthians 12:7 - Paul's Thorn in the Flesh"), where he mentions a "thorn in the flesh" given to him to prevent him from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of these revelations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [2 Corinthians 12:1](/2_corinthians/12-1 "2 Corinthians 12:1 - Paul's Reluctant Boasting") describes Paul's personal, divinely granted experiences, its ultimate fulfillment and theological significance point directly to Christ. Jesus Christ is the **ultimate revelation** of God, the "image of the invisible God" ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")). All "visions and revelations of the Lord" ultimately find their source and purpose in Him. Paul's apostleship, authenticated by these supernatural encounters, was always directed towards proclaiming Christ and Him crucified ([1 Corinthians 2:2](/1_corinthians/2-2 "1 Corinthians 2:2 - Preaching Christ Crucified")). The very grace that enabled Paul to receive such visions, and the power that sustained him through his weaknesses, flowed from Christ ([2 Corinthians 12:9](/2_corinthians/12-9 "2 Corinthians 12:9 - God's Grace is Sufficient")). Therefore, Paul's reluctant boasting in divine experiences serves to underscore that all true spiritual authority, insight, and power are derived from Christ, and any glory received is to be redirected back to Him, the one "in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, the Treasure of Wisdom")). Paul's life and ministry, including these profound revelations, were a living testament to the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Galatians 1:12

For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught [it], but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1 John 5:20

And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, [even] in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.

2 Corinthians 12:7

And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

2 Corinthians 8:10

And herein I give [my] advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.

Acts 23:11

And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.

Ezekiel 11:24

Afterwards the spirit took me up, and brought me in a vision by the Spirit of God into Chaldea, to them of the captivity. So the vision that I had seen went up from me.

Acts 18:9

Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: