Paul’s Divine Humiliation in 2Cor 12,21

Abstract In 2Cor 12,21, Paul expresses his fear that God may humiliate him during his third visit to Corinth. The exact meaning of this concern is not entirely clear. To understand it better, it is essential to explore the connection between the divine humiliation of his ministry and his subsequent mourning for the unrepentant Corinthians. Septuagint traditions regarding divine humiliation of believers and community leaders for unforeseen purposes, along with the practice of petitionary mourning for penitential reasons, can help clarify the complexity and depth of 2Cor 12,21. In this context, Paul suggests that if he encounters a negative situation in Corinth, it will still serve a purpose in fulfilling God’s plan for the Corinthians. In such a scenario, he would have to assume the responsibility and paternal role, standing in for the rebellious Corinthians in the penitential rites they have been unwilling to perform. This article ultimately draws conclusions from 2Cor 12,21 regarding Paul’s understanding of his ministry and his image of God.