It Starts Small

This chapter fervently challenges the insidious attacks of false apostles, those who sought to lead the Corinthians astray from Christ. It’s evident that these deceivers may have mesmerized their audience with tales of wild and extraordinary supernatural experiences. In the prior chapter, Paul used a tone steeped in sarcasm. He vowed to foolishly boast of his devoted service to Christ. This vow was made to mock the self-serving promotion of these pretenders. Instead of elevating himself above the false apostles, he shares a raw account. He honestly recounts his relentless suffering for Christ.

Now, Paul boldly declares that he will “boast” about visions and revelations from the Lord. Yet, he firmly states that this act has nothing of true value. He ultimately deems himself foolish for doing so. While his notion of “boasting” retains its satirical edge, his words resonate with truth and serve a profound purpose. He makes sure this extraordinary experience is not about himself. He starts by alluding to “a man.” Eventually, it becomes unmistakably clear that he speaks of his own extraordinary journey.

12 Boasting is necessary. It is not profitable, but I will move on to visions and revelations of the Lord. ² I know a man in Christ who was caught up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. Whether he was in the body or out of the body, I don’t know; God knows. ³ I know that this man—whether in the body or out of the body I don’t know; God knows— ⁴ was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible words, which a human being is not allowed to speak. ⁵ I will boast about this person, but not about myself, except of my weaknesses.

⁶ For if I want to boast, I wouldn’t be a fool, because I would be telling the truth. But I will spare you, so that no one can credit me with something beyond what he sees in me or hears from me, 

2 Corinthians 12:1-6

I must go on boasting

Paul had no taste for boasting—he eschewed it, fully aware that it often betrays folly and stirs pride. Yet, the nagging thought tormented him. He feared losing his influence to the deceitful apostles. They dazzled the Corinthian church with their elaborate tales. He would not let these impostors seize his rightful place. With determination, he cast aside all restraint. He fiercely plunged into the fray. He passionately defended his credibility with every fiber of his being.

I know a man in Christ

Based on the context, this “man” is unmistakably Paul—the fervent apostle pouring his heart into every word! In these chapters, Paul fervently fights to persuade the Corinthians of his genuine credentials. To reignite their confidence, he boldly “boasts” of his phenomenal apostolic achievements. Telling the Corinthians about someone else’s vision would not enhance his credibility. In fact, if Paul said, “hey guys, I know someone who had a vision,” it would diminish his authority. Claiming respect as an apostle would not elevate it! This “man” is undeniably himself—the very essence of his impassioned experience. By referring to himself in the third person, he strives to maintain a glimmer of humility amidst his powerful “boasting.” Paul powerfully affirms he speaks of himself. He declares in verse 7 that the thorn in the flesh was sent to “me.” It was because of the overwhelming greatness of the revelations. The thorn in the flesh came to the one who truly lived this vision—Paul himself!

Fourteen years ago

Some scholars have fervently sought to draw connections between the momentous timing of this vision and pivotal events in the Book of Acts. Scholars try to find links between the timing of this vision. They are comparing it to pivotal events in the Book of Acts. However, this endeavor proves to be a formidable challenge, as Acts remains silent on this particular event. Maybe it happened during a profound period of solitude for Paul. It could have been in the depths of spiritual retreat. Perhaps it even occurred during a mysterious night while he was lost in slumber. The uncertainty is palpable, leaving us yearning for answers we may never fully grasp.

Caught up to the third heaven

The word for caught up is the same one used in 1 Thessalonians 4:17.

¹⁷ Then we who are still alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 4:17

After that, those of us who remain will be swept up together with them in an exhilarating embrace! We will joyfully meet the Lord amidst the clouds, where we shall be united with Him for eternity. The term used is “arpazw,” a powerful word meaning to “catch” or “pluck” or “pull by force.” It is an act that goes beyond human initiative. It is solely God’s divine choice. It is a magnificent action He takes for us!

There is a profound and stirring lesson to grasp here: our God reigns supremely over every conceivable vision and revelation! These divine insights are not something believers must chase. We should never feel compelled to seek out those mystical out-of-body experiences. Our Almighty God possesses the absolute power to grant a vision. Let us remember this. Such divine moments will unfold precisely as He intends, in His perfect will and timing.

The first heaven is the breathtaking sky, that magnificent veil of atmosphere enveloping our planet. The second heaven is the vast, mysterious expanse of space. It is home to awe-inspiring celestial bodies. These celestial bodies spark our curiosity and ignite our imaginations. The third heaven, however, is something truly extraordinary. It is the glorious abode of God. It is a realm of divine wonder. Paul refers to it as “paradise” in verse three. This vision stirs our souls with the promise of sublime beauty and eternal peace.

In Paul’s vision, he was caught up to heaven. Paul is not the only Bible character to have this experience. Ezekiel, Daniel, and John all had similar experiences.

Whether in the body or out of the body I do not know

From this profound statement, it becomes crystal clear that the vision pulsated with an undeniable reality. The vision transcended the realm of mere dreams. After all, who ever emerges from a dream convinced they might have truly experienced the events within it? This was not just an illusion—it felt vividly real. It was so tangible that Paul was breathless. He pondered being genuinely swept away to the splendor of heaven. This possibility seemed just as the revered Enoch and Elijah experienced.

The vision Paul experienced transcended the boundaries of an ordinary dream, igniting a fire within the soul. We must not blur the lines between mundane physiological dreams and divine messages from God. If someone awakens in turmoil, questioning whether their dream carried the whispers of the Almighty, it probably did not. God desires clarity when He reaches out to His people, illuminating their path with unmistakable guidance. What purpose could there be in communicating in a vague manner that only breeds confusion and doubt?

He heard things which cannot be told that man may not utter

Other prophets also witnessed revelations that they were not allowed to share.

⁴ “But you, Daniel, keep these words secret and seal the book until the time of the end. Many will roam about, and knowledge will increase.”

Daniel 12:4

God’s revelation is nothing short of extraordinary and progressive! There are profound truths that He holds in divine secrecy. He only unveils them to the world when the time is just right. Yet, there are moments when God lifts the veil. He gives His prophets a breathtaking “sneak peek” into heaven. They also glimpse His magnificent plans. This revelation serves to invigorate and fortify them for the monumental ministry set before them. In the previous chapter, we witnessed the harrowing trials and relentless persecution that Paul endured for the gospel. His calling demanded he suffer more than perhaps any other servant of Jesus who has ever lived. It is conceivable that God bestowed upon him a remarkable vision. This vision was designed to personally bolster his spirit. It urged him to press on and battle valiantly until the very end. Imagine the impact of witnessing God seated on His majestic throne in heaven. Experiencing firsthand His unparalleled power would have ignited an unquenchable boldness within Paul. Awareness of His divine plan and ultimate victory would have fueled this boldness further!

The truth is, God empowers every individual with exactly what they need to fulfill the divine mission laid before them! Just think of Moses. He felt utterly inadequate. Yet, God, in His infinite wisdom, sent Aaron to stand by his side. Consider Elijah. He was trembling in fear for his very life. God sent an angel to comfort him. The angel also nourished his spirit and fortified his resolve!

⁴ but he went on a day’s journey into the wilderness. He sat down under a broom tree and prayed that he might die. He said, “I have had enough! Lord, take my life, for I’m no better than my ancestors.” ⁵ Then he lay down and slept under the broom tree.

Suddenly, an angel touched him. The angel told him, “Get up and eat.” ⁶ Then he looked, and there at his head was a loaf of bread baked over hot stones, and a jug of water. So he ate and drank and lay down again.

1 Kings 19:4-6

We may never fully grasp the profound visions that Paul encountered in his revelation. Yet we can be certain that God unveiled these mysteries for a purpose far beyond our understanding. These glimpses into the divine were not meant for public proclamation; they were sacred secrets. Fiercely committed to his calling, Paul dutifully adhered to the divine mandate to guard these truths, choosing humility over self-aggrandizement. Many would have clamored to broadcast such extraordinary experiences. They wanted to elevate themselves. Paul stood apart. He was an unwavering testament to faithfulness and reverence for the divine message entrusted to him.

In verses 5 and 6, Paul had every opportunity to boast about the incredible vision he experienced. Yet he humbly chose not to. He understood that seeking glory for himself was ultimately detrimental. Instead, he prioritized his genuine, everyday ministry to the church—an impact that was undeniable and lived out before their eyes. This singular mention of his vision in all his epistles speaks volumes. If he had been intent on exalting himself, he would have shouted it from the rooftops! Yet, he only refers to it once, and even then, he shares no elaborate details. This realization should dispel any doubts about Paul’s intentions to boast or elevate himself. As we’ve discovered throughout this book, all of Paul’s “boasting” came from his desire to establish his credibility with the Corinthians. He wanted to ensure they believed in the profound message he was entrusted to share.

How should we respond to claims of visions today?

Many today boldly proclaim to have profound revelations, much like the ones Paul speaks of in this passage. Some even go as far as to pen books detailing their extraordinary out-of-body experiences in heaven. However, we must approach these claims with a fervent skepticism, fueled by our command in 1 John 4:1 to “test the spirits.” It is our responsibility to seek the truth and discern the authenticity of such experiences!

4 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see if they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

1 John 4:1

In Bible times (before it was completed), God often communicated with His people through dreams and visions.

²⁸ After this
I will pour out my Spirit on all humanity;
then your sons and your daughters will prophesy,
your old men will have dreams,
and your young men will see visions.

Joel 2:28

And in the end times, He promises to do so again.

1 Long ago God spoke to our ancestors by the prophets at different times and in different ways. ² In these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son. God has appointed him heir of all things and made the universe through him.

Hebrews 1:1-2

God fervently chooses to communicate in diverse times and through various means. This verse does not eliminate the possibility of God reaching out through dreams or visions. Instead, it emphasizes that the usual modes of communication can differ dramatically. Countless astonishing reports come from predominantly Muslim countries. They share stories of supernatural dreams and visions. These experiences are effectively drawing individuals to Christ. Yet, we must approach these accounts with discernment. Accepting every claim without scrutiny risks inviting false teachings. Deceptive narratives are often fueled by those with selfish and ulterior motives.

So here are some tests which the discerning believer will hold such claims to:

• Does it agree with God’s word (Acts 17:11)?
• Is it a different gospel (Galatians 1:8)?
• Is the person credible? Paul was credible. We believe his account because he is an inspired apostle.
• Has this person made other statements, prophecies, or claims which have been disproven? (Numbers 23:19)
• Is God receiving the glory or man? (Isaiah 42:8) If a person profits handsomely from book deals or speaking engagements related to their claims, it does not necessarily disprove it. But it does warrant considering if there may be an ulterior motive besides God’s glory.
• Is there any practical benefit to engage in the story/claim? Many grandiose stories of visions sound exciting, but do they actually contribute to believers living holy lives and seeking after God? There is a reason God has not revealed many secrets about heaven to us in His word. That is because we don’t need to know them now. Neither do they help us serve Him better here in this world.

Be discerning. Test the spirits. Do not blindly accept every claim of visions and special revelations. Instead compare them with God’s Word.

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Cross Reference

• Joel 2:28
• Amos 3:7
• Jeremiah 23:16
• 1 John 4:1
• Galatians 1:8

Reflective Questions

• Why “must” Paul go on boasting?
• Who is the “man in Christ” mentioned in verse 2?
• Is it Paul? Why or why not?
• Why does he talk about himself in the third person here?
• Why did Paul share this experience with the Corinthians (and notably not to any of the other churches)?
• What is the “third heaven?”
• Why does Paul not share the details of what he heard and saw there?
• Why might God have given Paul this experience?
• How should we respond to claims of visions or heavenly out-of-body experiences today?
• Why did Paul choose not share the contents of his vision (6)?

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 ⁷ especially because of the extraordinary revelations. Therefore, so that I would not exalt myself, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to torment me so that I would not exalt myself. ⁸ Concerning this, I pleaded with the Lord three times that it would leave me. ⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness.”

Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me. ¹⁰ So I take pleasure in weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and in difficulties, for the sake of Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Corinthians 11:7-10

To keep me from being conceited

Most people can only fantasize about experiencing a vision as profound as the one Paul encountered! It would be entirely understandable for him to become inflated with pride, basking in his “extraordinary” status. But God did not bestow these remarkable experiences simply to feed his ego. Instead of only granting a divine vision, God also kept Paul grounded with a thorn in the flesh. This thorn served as a constant reminder of humility and purpose.

⁶ But he gives greater grace. Therefore he says:

God resists the proud
but gives grace to the humble.

James 4:6

God cannot abide the proud! This powerful account unmistakably reveals His deep disdain for arrogance. He allowed His chosen emissary to the Gentiles to endure a thorn, a constant reminder to maintain humility. From this profound lesson, we learn that God skillfully orchestrates events in our lives. This is done specifically to keep us grounded and humble. As we navigate the stormy seas of setbacks, opposition, and trials, let us fiercely hold onto this truth!

God’s motivation vs. Satan’s motivation

Paul passionately conveys that a thorn was given to him in the flesh. Was it a divine gift from God or a wicked torment from Satan? The truth is profound. God permitted Satan to inflict this pain. He did so to fulfill a higher, transformative purpose in Paul’s life. Just as in the gripping story of Job, Satan boldly approaches God. He has the intent to tempt Job. God grants him this permission. Satan wanted to incite Job to curse God. His aim was to expose the claim that people serve God solely for selfish gains. But God had a grander vision! In His unwavering sovereignty, He allowed this fiery trial. His purpose was not just to strengthen Job’s faith. It was also to illuminate for all the world the indomitable power of genuine faith and a true relationship with the Almighty. This divine connection endures, standing resilient even when faced with the most harrowing adversities!

In a strikingly similar manner, Satan relentlessly seeks to sabotage Paul’s ministry. He yearns to strip him of encouragement. Satan aims to inflict torment and throttle his progress. His ultimate goal is to tempt Paul into cursing God. Yet, in a powerful twist, God permits Satan to pierce Paul with this thorn, driven by a profound purpose. God fervently desires Paul to embody humility, especially in the shadow of the awe-inspiring revelations he has experienced.

The thorn in the flesh

Everyone grapples with the pressing question, “what is the thorn in the flesh?” The passage may leave us searching for definitive answers. However, it does reveal that this thorn is “a messenger of Satan.” The Greek term for “messenger” is “angelos,” a word that typically signifies “angel.” It becomes evident that Satan unleashed a demon, a fallen angel, to torment Paul. This revelation should ignite a fierce understanding within us. Paul was the trailblazer of the global church-planting and disciple-making movement. Is it any wonder that Satan, in a desperate act of opposition, assigned a demon specifically to “harass” Paul? The stakes were high, and the battle was fierce!

The “thorn in the flesh” seems to be spiritual warfare, a demon assigned by Satan to harass Paul.

What form might this harassment take? We can only imagine this scenario. If the demon were truly skilled in his vile craft, it would manifest in every conceivable type of torment. Imagine the chaos he could unleash. He could ignite division and dissent against Paul. This would affect not just the Jews but also the Gentile leaders. It could even reach the very heart of the church, much like the trials Paul endured in Corinth. There are whispers about his thorn in the side. It could have been relentless ill health. It might have been deteriorating vision. The Book of Job reveals that Satan had the power to torment Job’s health. This suggests that such cruel afflictions could be part of the demon’s relentless assault on Paul.

In the end, we may never fully grasp the precise form this took. We can rest assured that God is utterly sovereign in every circumstance. He transforms even the harm Satan meant for evil into a tapestry of good (Romans 8:28). We are also certain that Satan is firmly under God’s dominion. Along with his demons, they cannot touch God’s saints without His explicit permission. Let this truth ignite our spirits! Even amid overwhelming difficulties, trials, or fierce spiritual assaults, we can trust God. He has an extraordinary purpose for allowing these challenges. Not a single hair on our heads can be harmed outside of His divine design. Therefore, let us rise boldly against any spiritual attack. We must have unwavering confidence that God is by our side. He uses every opposition to strengthen us. He advances His glorious kingdom.

Three times I pleaded that it should leave me

Paul fervently petitioned the Lord to take away this “thorn” that pained him. In his unwavering resolve, Paul embodied the spirit of the “persistent widow,” relentlessly seeking divine intervention. Yet, despite his desperate pleas, God did not grant him the response he so yearned for. It’s a profound truth that prayer does not always culminate in a triumphant “yes.” We must hold on to our faith in our heavenly Father. We must trust Him to orchestrate what is truly best for us. This trust is crucial even when His answer diverges from our heartfelt requests.

My grace is sufficient for you

Here is an incredible promise that stirs the soul! God’s grace is abundantly sufficient! Remember, God didn’t simply whisk away the affliction; He didn’t deliver Paul from it in an instant. No, God made a powerful promise. He promised to bestow upon Paul the grace necessary to endure. This grace allows him to serve Christ magnificently, bringing glory to God! This isn’t just a promise for Paul; it’s a divine assurance for each of us! Even when the thorns remain, God unfailingly showers us with the grace we need to conquer them in victory. His grace is endlessly sufficient! It isn’t a mere pool that can be drained; instead, it is an everlasting fountain of provision!

My power is made perfect in weakness

The Lord intentionally chooses the weak to serve as His ambassadors, and what a profound choice that is! In 2 Corinthians 4:7, God’s workers are described as “jars of clay”—delicate, fragile, and easily breakable. Yet, these earthen vessels carry the magnificent treasure of the gospel! It is in their very frailty that God’s incredible power shines brightly. When the disciples boldly proclaimed the gospel, the religious leaders were astonished, recognizing their lack of formal education. It struck them that these ordinary men had been transformed by their time with Jesus (Acts 4:13). Their perceived weakness became a powerful testament to God’s glory. Through them, His strength was magnified. His name was exalted!

²⁹ I labor for this, striving with his strength that works powerfully in me.

Colossians 1:29

Believers are still called to toil. But we do so with His strength, not our own.

I am content with weaknesses, insults…

Paul embraced every disaster, both within and without, with an unwavering heart. He found joy in these trials because they illuminated God’s magnificent power. His human frailty, seen through the world’s eyes, served only to showcase the incredible strength of God in his life. It is this divine power that transforms lives—never himself (Romans 1:16). What affliction do you carry that can become a powerful testimony for God? God’s grace shines even brighter when we serve Him amid our most challenging struggles. Instead of allowing bitterness to take root when faced with such “thorns,” let us cultivate a deeper reliance on God. Perhaps your affliction is a divine invitation to bear witness for Him or share a compelling testimony that inspires others.

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Cross Reference

• Job 1:6,12
• Proverbs 11:12
• Hebrews 4:16
• John 1:16
• Romans 8:26

Reflective Questions

• How might Paul have responded in the flesh to these amazing revelations?
• Was Satan responsible for this or God?
• What might this “thorn” have been?
• What was Satan’s motivation for sending it?
• What was God’s motivation for allowing it?
• What lesson can we learn from this about how God views pride?
• Why then might God allow obstacles or difficulties in our own lives?
• Can you share an example of a time when God used a difficult situation to humble you?
• How did Paul respond to this thorn?
• How did God answer Paul’s prayer?
• What do we learn from this about prayer?
• Can you share an example of a time when God’s grace was sufficient for you?
• Explain this phrase, “my power is made perfect in weakness.”

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