Paul vs the ‘super-apostles’ part 2: super-weakness
by Pastor Stephen Abraham
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If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness (2 Corinthians 11:30).
In a world of perfectly manicured and manufactured celebrities and influencers who ‘have it all’, Paul’s words indicate that not much has changed in human nature in the ensuing 2,000 years since his ministry. We still look for the perfect veneer, the ‘super’, the successful. The truth of a life dedicated to Christ Jesus is the opposite for Paul.
Instead of listing accomplishments and achievements to prove his authority, Paul recounts his suffering: beatings, imprisonments, shipwrecks, hunger, danger and constant pressure. His point is clear – true apostolic authority isn’t proven by fame or eloquence, but by sacrifice and weakness for the sake of Christ.
Paul’s resume is a list of hardships for the gospel. He had every reason to self-promote by human standards; a ‘Hebrew of Hebrews’, trained under the best teachers. But, instead, he chose to boast in his weakness. Why? Because his suffering was the evidence of his deep identification with Jesus. The path of following Christ is often marked by loss, pain and vulnerability – not ease, success or applause.
In Aussie culture, we are often taught to hide our imperfections and maintain a stiff upper lip and self-pride, or that letting people know of our hardships is a sign of weakness. Paul’s example challenges us. Do we try to hide our weaknesses, or are we honest about them? Do we allow them to display the grace of God? The gospel doesn’t require us to be impressive – it invites us to be faithful. For in our weakness, God’s strength is revealed.
Lord Jesus, our suffering servant, teach us to boast not in our strength, but be honest in our weakness. Help us see our struggles as places where your power can shine through and as places to give you glory. Give us the courage to suffer well, love deeply, serve humbly and proclaim boldly like our brother Paul. Amen.
Stephen Abraham is a retired Lutheran pastor and musician who served as a school pastor and church planter in Mawson Lakes, South Australia. Having to retire due to a spinal injury that leaves him largely housebound with chronic pain, Stephen still preaches, takes chapel and serves his local church and school. He also writes and records personal songs, worship songs and Christian meditations, which he shares on his YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/StephenAbrahamMusic
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