AUV(i)
1 Although I must boast about myself [See 11:21-27], it [really] is not profitable. So, I will go on to [tell about] visions and [inspired] revelations given [to me] from the Lord.
2 I know a man in [fellowship with] Christ who, fourteen years ago, was taken [literally, “snatched”] up to the third heaven. [Note: The first heaven would be where birds fly; the second where the stars are; and the third where God is]. (I do not know whether he was in his physical body or whether it was an “out-of-the-body” experience, but God knows). [Note: Paul is obviously telling about a personal experience. See verse 7].
3 I know that this man --- whether in his body or out of it, I do not know, but God does ---
4 was [actually] taken up into Paradise. [Note: This is the same as the “third heaven” of the previous verse, and was a place in the presence of God. See Luke 23:43; Rev. 2:7]. There he heard inexpressible words which are not permitted for people to repeat.
5 I will boast on behalf of this person, but I will not boast about myself [anymore], except about my weaknesses.
6 However, if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be telling the truth. But I will hold back, so that no one will think more of me than what he sees or hears from me.
7 But, so that I would not become too conceited over the tremendous revelations [I received], a “thorn in the flesh” was given to me as a messenger from Satan to torment me. [Note: This “thorn” was probably some physical handicap, possibly defective eyesight. See Gal. 4:14-15; 6:11].
8 I pled with the Lord about this matter three times, that He would remove this problem from me.
9 But God said to me, “My unearned favor is enough for you, for my power is made complete in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will most gladly boast, so that the power of Christ can rest on me.