Question:
I WAS A LITTLE LOST TO READ “2 COR. 12:1”, WHERE PAUL SAYS “THIRD HEAVEN” CAN YOU EXPLAIN?
Answer:
II Corinthians 12:1-5 says, “It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one CAUGHT UP TO THE THIRD HEAVEN. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was CAUGHT UP INTO PARADISE, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.”
Paul was caught up to the “third heaven,” which is said here to be “paradise.” This would be where God’s dwelling place is, and where Christians go when they die, because that is what Jesus told the dying, repentant thief on the cross. Luke 23:42,43 says, “And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, TO DAY SHALT THOU BE WITH ME IN PARADISE.” Revelation 2:7 says, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of THE TREE OF LIFE, WHICH IS IN THE MIDST OF THE PARADISE OF GOD.”
For more information on what the “first heaven,” and the “second heaven” consist of, please print off the “Heaven” Bible Course on this Web Site.