17Finally, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.
As I read this verse, I think about the combat veterans who bear on their bodies the marks for freedom, the scars, both visible and invisible, that demonstrate the sacrifice they made in service to their country. We know Paul suffered many physical punishments including whipping, beating, and stoning because he followed Jesus. I am sure he had physical scars from those encounters. I don’t think it is necessary to postulate that Paul had the “stigmata” on his person. Paul is telling his readers that he has been through enough trouble. We might tell someone to “give me a break!” Paul had physical, outward marks that showed he followed Jesus. How can people around us know that we are a Jesus-follower? What makes us different? How is our conduct different? How do we reflect the character of the Holy God? Would we be happy if our kids copied our every action and attitude? Would those around us see a consistent witness of Christ’s love, or an on-again, off-again neon sign? Paul’s life was not perfect. Even as a Jesus-follower he had struggles. But his life bore witness to his dedication to the cause of Christ. Our lives should also bear that witness.
The Arnold Journey 