2 Corinthians 12

Chapter 12

12:2  I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.

third heaven

First heaven, of clouds; second, of stars; third, God's abode.

12:4  How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.

paradise

See note on hades, (See Scofield "Luke 16:23") .

12:7  And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

thorn

It has been conjectured that Paul's "thorn in the flesh" was chronic ophthalmia, inducing bodily weakness, and a repulsive appearance Galatians 4:15 ; 1 Corinthians 2:3 1 Corinthians 2:4 ; 2 Corinthians 10:10 . This cannot be positively known, and the reserve of Scripture is as sure a mark of inspiration as its revelations. Paul's particular "thorn" is not described that his consolations may avail for all to who any thorn is given.

12:9  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

perfect in

(See Scofield "Matthew 5:48") .

12:21  And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.

sinned

Sin. (See Scofield "Romans 3:23") .