2 Corinthians 12:1-10 - A Vision Of Paradise

¹ Have not I reason to glory? for now I shall mention my visions and revelations from the Lord. ² I knew a christian who above fourteen years ago, was snatch'd up even to the third heaven, whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knows. ³ but tho' I don't know whether it was in the body, or out of the body, which God only knows, ⁴ this I know, that he was snatch'd up into paradise, and heard such secrets as it is not lawful for a man to reveal. ⁵ I might glory in being the man; but I will not glory in any thing relating to myself, unless it be my sufferings. ⁶ tho' if I had a mind to glory, I might do it without vanity, for I should say nothing but what is true: but now I forbear, lest any man should ascribe more to me than my actions, or my preaching can justify. ⁷ and lest I should be exalted above measure by the extraordinary revelations I have had, I was afflicted in my person, so that the messenger of satan insulted me; concerning which, ⁸ I besought the Lord thrice, to make him leave me. ⁹ but he said to me, "my favour is sufficient for thee: for my strength is shown to be perfect by thy weakness." with pleasure therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may be seen to dwell in me. ¹⁰ I take pleasure then in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am afflicted, then it is I have fortitude.