Abstract
Abstract This chapter argues that in light of a divine revelation Paul reconfigures his thorn in the flesh as a divine gift rather than a divine evil. Theodicy is therefore an inappropriate question to impose on this particular disability. The chapter establishes first that God is the ultimate agent who gives Paul the thorn in the flesh, even if he uses an angel of Satan as an intermediary force (a common strategy in ancient Jewish literature that attempts to distance the God of Israel from perceived acts of injustice). Paul pleads with God to remove the thorn but God refuses, instead revealing that it is necessary for the perfection of power within Paul. The thorn is part of Paul’s paradox of strength in weakness, that what might be thought to be an injustice is actually a divine benefit.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
