How should we understand Paul speaking of himself in the third person in 2 Corinthians 12:2–4?

Paul is speaking about his own vision, but intentionally describes himself in the third person. There is no contradiction in 2 Corinthians 12:2–4: such a restrained style helps the apostle demonstrate that the source of spiritual experience is God's grace, not a person's exceptional greatness.

Context: “foolish” boasting to defend his ministry

In chapters 10–12 of Second Corinthians, Paul addresses the influence of individuals whom he ironically calls “super-apostles.” They impressed the Corinthians with self-promotion, pedigree, eloquence, and claims of extraordinary spiritual experiences. Paul is forced to defend the authenticity of his apostolic ministry, even though he considers self-exaltation to be spiritually perilous.

First, he lists not his achievements, but his sufferings, persecutions, and weaknesses. Only then, seemingly against his own will, does he mention an extraordinary revelation received fourteen years earlier.

“I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven. And I know such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows—how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.” 2 Cor 12:2–4

Why it is clear that this was Paul himself

The apostle does not name himself directly in verses 2–4, but the subsequent words effectively reveal his identity. He explains that because of the greatness of the revelations, a “thorn in the flesh” was given to him to keep him from exalting himself. Therefore, he himself was that “man in Christ” who experienced the heavenly vision.

“And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure.” 2 Cor 12:7

The third person does not mean that Paul is recounting a story about someone else or that he is unsure of his own experience. He knows precisely to whom the revelation was given, yet he does not claim to comprehend all its mechanics: “whether in the body or out of the body.” God knows that. The apostle honestly acknowledges the limits of human understanding in the face of the supernatural.

“Of such a one I will boast,” but not of himself

The phrase concerning boasting also becomes clear when we recognize the distinction between God’s gift and human merit. Paul could have cited the vision as genuine proof that God was working through him. Yet he refuses to turn a gracious revelation into a basis for personal prestige or admiration.

“Of such a one I will boast; yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities. For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me.” 2 Cor 12:5–6

The expression “such a one” allows Paul, as it were, to step aside from the experience. He does not deny the reality of the vision, but he refuses to make it the centerpiece of his person. People ought to be evaluated not by sensational claims, but by their life, faithfulness to Christ, character, and the fruits of their ministry.

Paradise, the third heaven, and the boundaries of revelation

“The third heaven” in Jewish idiom denotes the highest heaven, the dwelling place of God’s presence; Paul parallels it with Paradise. This offers no grounds for constructing elaborate charts of heavenly realms or pursuing hidden knowledge. The most crucial detail of the account is that what was heard was “inexpressible” and not intended for dissemination.

Paul does not build a novel doctrine upon this vision. His teaching remains consistently rooted in God’s revelation revealed in Christ and aligned with the Holy Scriptures. Personal spiritual experience can encourage a believer, but it must never replace the Bible or serve as an instrument of control over others.

Ellen G. White repeatedly cautioned that experience, feelings, and claims of special light must be tested by the Word of God. The genuine working of the Holy Spirit does not elevate self; it leads to humility, obedience, and the exaltation of Christ.

The climax of the account: Christ's power in weakness

Most unexpectedly, Paul concludes this theme not with a description of Paradise, but with his prayer for deliverance from the “thorn” and God’s answer. The Lord does not instantly remove the hardship; instead, He promises sufficient grace. Therefore, the apostle's greatest boast is not an extraordinary vision, but the power of Christ displayed in human weakness.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Cor 12:9

Conclusion and practical application

Thus, Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:2–4 speaks of himself, but in the third person to avoid self-aggrandizement. His vision was real, yet it did not become an occasion for spiritual pride, esoteric speculation, or claims of elite status in the church. Rather, it taught the apostle all the more deeply to rely upon the grace of Christ.

Practically, this means: whenever we encounter claims of extraordinary spiritual experiences—whether our own or those of others—we should neither flippantly mock them nor uncritically embrace them. Let us test all things by Scripture, look at the fruit of character, and remember: the most compelling testimony of God's power is not a boastful personal story, but a humble life in which Christ is seen.