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2 CORINTHIANS 12:4 — KING JAMES VERSION 0
2 Cor 12:32 Cor 12:5
How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
On behalf of such a person I will boast, but on behalf of myself I will not boast, except about my weaknesses — Paul *distinguishes* between his *mystical experience* (which he may *report*) and his *personal boasting* (which must focus on *weakness*). The third-person narration maintains *ironic distance*. *Kenotic* theology: the *highest* experience becomes reason for *deepest* humility.

Church Fathers on 2 Corinthians 12:4

“I knew a man, fourteen years ago (whether in the body, I know not; or out of the body, I know not: God knows;) such an one caught up even to the third heaven. And I know how that he was caught up into Paradise, (whether in the body, I know not; or out of the body, I know not;) and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. On behalf of such an one will I glory: but on my own behalf I will not glory.” Great indeed was this revelation. But this was…

Chrysostom · 4th century · Homily 26 on Second Corinthians
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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2 Corinthians 12:4 — Community Reflections | HolyStudy