2 Corinthians 12:7-11

The thorn in the flesh….

7 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. 8 Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. 9 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. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

7 …..Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.  NIV 

My thoughts concerning the “Thorn In The Apostle Pauls’ Side” as following: Roger Ivester

Could the “thorn in the Apostle Paul’s side” have been mental and his inability, therefore, as a human lacking the ability to forgive himself?   Could Paul’s thorn have been guilt, due to his murder and torment of Christians. Mental pain and guilt can be more punishing than physical pain. Despite the supernatural event and his conversion on the road to Damascus…the thorn in his side remained.

Was Paul continually “tormented” by Satan, saying…?  You have tortured and even murdered many followers of Jesus Christ. Who are you to profess faith in Jesus Christ, when his followers hate and fear you?

Disclaimer:  This theory and conjecture is based on my own simple understanding of the Bible, and mine alone.  Never will this humble servant pretend to understand or know “definitively” the many hidden meanings of the Bible. 

…..years ago, a sentence from a Gideon’s KJV Bible had a profound effect on my ability to share that which I do not know or understand, concerning the Bible:  “It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.”  Source:  Gideon’s International.   

Information compiled and personal thoughts by Roger Ivester 

Saul’s conversion on the road to Damascus…blinded by Jesus.