1. Doubtless it is not profitable for me to boast. So I will move on to visions and revelations of the Lord.
2. I knew a man in Christ over fourteen years ago—whether in the body or out of the body I cannot tell, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven.
3. And I knew that such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I cannot tell, God knows—
4. was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible words not permitted for a man to say.
5. Of such a person, I will boast. Yet of myself I will not boast, except in my weaknesses.
6. For if I desire to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But now I resist, lest anyone should think of me above that which he sees me to be or hears from me.
7. And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me, lest I be exalted above measure.