New Testament

2 Corinthians 11:25

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the author shares some of the extreme hardships he faced during his journey.

Author
Paul the apostle
Written
Around AD 56
Genre
Letter (epistle)
Original Audience
The church in Corinth
CBTClear Bible Translation

Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I survived shipwrecks. I once spent a full night and day adrift in the open sea.

KJVKing James Version

Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the author shares some of the extreme hardships he faced during his journey. He recounts being beaten with rods three times, which shows the physical pain and suffering he endured for his beliefs. He also mentions being stoned once, a brutal form of punishment that could have been fatal. Additionally, he describes surviving three shipwrecks, highlighting the dangers he encountered while traveling. One particularly harrowing experience involved spending an entire night and day adrift in the open sea, which must have been terrifying and isolating. These experiences illustrate not only his resilience but also his commitment to his mission despite overwhelming challenges. The author’s willingness to endure such trials serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of conviction and the lengths one might go to for their beliefs. His story encourages us to reflect on our own challenges and how we respond to them, urging us to find strength in adversity and to remain steadfast in our pursuits. Explore related perseverance.

How to apply 2 Corinthians 11:25 to your life

When faced with difficulties, remember that challenges can strengthen your character. Reflect on how you respond to adversity and seek to grow from your experiences. Embrace your struggles as opportunities to build resilience and deepen your commitment to your goals and values. Stay focused on what truly matters to you, even when times are tough.

Curated for this public verse page. 2 Corinthians Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does 2 Corinthians 11:25 teach about suffering?

2 Corinthians 11:25 highlights the author's extreme suffering and hardships endured for his faith. It teaches that suffering can be a part of a believer's journey and emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. The verse encourages readers to view their own struggles as opportunities for growth and to remain committed to their beliefs despite challenges.

Why did Paul mention his hardships in this verse?

Paul mentions his hardships in 2 Corinthians 11:25 to illustrate the extent of his commitment to spreading the Gospel. By recounting his experiences of being beaten, stoned, and shipwrecked, he emphasizes the sacrifices he made for his faith and the authenticity of his ministry. This serves to strengthen his credibility and encourage others to remain steadfast in their own faith journeys.

How can we apply the lessons from 2 Corinthians 11:25 to our lives?

The lessons from 2 Corinthians 11:25 can be applied by recognizing that challenges and hardships are part of life. When faced with difficulties, we can choose to respond with resilience and faith, using our experiences to grow stronger. This verse encourages us to stay committed to our values and goals, even when we encounter obstacles, reminding us that perseverance can lead to personal growth and deeper convictions.

What does being 'adrift in the open sea' symbolize in this verse?

Being 'adrift in the open sea' symbolizes a state of vulnerability and uncertainty. It reflects the author's isolation and the dangers he faced while pursuing his mission. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the trials that can accompany a life of faith, illustrating that even in moments of despair, one can find strength and purpose. It encourages believers to trust in their convictions during turbulent times.

The Book of 2 Corinthians
Book Summary

The Book of 2 Corinthians

2 Corinthians 1: God of All Comfort and Paul's Sincerity

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, greet the church of God at Corinth and all the saints in Achaia. Paul blesses God as the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort, saying He comforts them in their troubles so they can comfort others. He describes suffering in Asia where he feels pressed beyond strength and expects death, but he says this teaches him to rely on God who raises the dead. He explains that God delivers them and continues to deliver them, and he asks the believers to pray for them.

Premium

Unlock the full 2 Corinthians summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of 2 Corinthians — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 13 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of 2 Corinthians summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.