2 Corinthians 12:4

An Understandable Version (2005 edition)

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.

Cross References

Luke 23:43

Then Jesus said to him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise [Note: This is a place in God’s presence, referred to as “the third heaven” (II Cor. 12:2-4), and where overcomers will be able to eat from “the tree of life” (Rev. 2:7)]. ”

Revelation 2:7

“The person who has an ear should listen to what the Holy Spirit is saying to the churches. To the person who has victory [in the Christian life] I will give [the opportunity] to eat from the tree of life, which is in the Paradise of God.” [Note: “Paradise” is equivalent to heaven. See II Cor. 12:4].

Acts 8:39

And when they came up out of the water, the Holy Spirit of the Lord [supernaturally (?)] directed Philip to go elsewhere and the eunuch did not see him anymore, as he continued on his journey rejoicing.

1 Corinthians 13:1

If I have the ability to speak in the languages of human beings and angels [Note: Perhaps the idea is supernaturally and eloquently], but do not have love [for people], I have become [no more than] a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.

2 Corinthians 12:2

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 “out­of-the-body” experience, but God knows). [Note: Paul is obviously telling about a personal experience. See verse 7].

1 Thessalonians 4:17

Then, we who [will still] be alive, that are left, will be caught up together with them into the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so [from then on] we will always be with the Lord.

Revelation 12:5

Then she gave birth to a baby boy, a son who will rule all the nations with an iron staff. And her child was snatched away to God and His throne.