2 Corinthians 11

Paul’s Sacrifice for the Gospel

Paul, like other missionaries, paid a price for preaching the gospel. Have you ever heard a returned missionary talk about the trials he or she faced while serving a mission? In 2 Corinthians 11 you will read about some of what Paul suffered as a missionary. Consider what he may have learned from his trials and how he was able to endure them.

Understanding the Scriptures

2 Corinthians 11

Forty stripes save one (v. 24)Thirty-nine lashes or beatings (usually with a scourge or whip)

Perils (v. 26)Danger

With a garrison (v. 32)Guarded

Studying the Scriptures

Do the following activity as you study 2 Corinthians 11.

1. Interview a Missionary

   Read 2 Corinthians 11:24–33 with a returned missionary you know. Ask him or her to tell you about the following:

   1. A trial he or she faced while serving a mission

   2. How that trial compares with what Paul experienced

   3. What he or she did to overcome that trial

   Write a short paragraph about how trials can strengthen our testimonies.