I know a man in Christ who was caught up into the third heaven 14 years ago. Whether he was in the body or out of the body, I don’t know, God knows.

For we don’t want you to be unaware, brothers, of our affliction that took place in Asia: we were completely overwhelmed—beyond our strength—so that we even despaired of life.

Working together with Him, we also appeal to you, “Don’t receive God’s grace in vain.”

I don’t say this to condemn you, for I have already said that you are in our hearts, to live together and to die together.

I don’t want to seem as though I am trying to terrify you with my letters.

For we don’t dare classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. But in measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves to themselves, they lack understanding.

Why? Because I don’t love you? God knows I do!

What I say in this matter of boasting, I don’t speak as the Lord would, but foolishly.