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. 2 Corinthians 12:1-5

These are some of the most interesting writings from the Apostle Paul. He speaks of a man who was taken up to the third Heaven, also known as Paradise, however its clear that he is speaking of himself, and just doesn’t want to brag about it. For those people who believe in “soul sleep” , the idea we don’t have a soul and just a body, Paul experience totally destroys their doctrine

Paul is describing what appears to be an “outer body experience” , He wasn’t fully sure if he was just having a vision or was physically taken, but he knew he was outside his physical body. If you have ever read people stories of “Near Death Experiences” this is very similar, so this just gives us a little glimpse into the afterlife by inspiration of the Holy Spirit

Paul describes the place as Paradise, and heard things that were forbidden for people alive to hear them. So this place where Paul was taken has to be so awesome beyond our comprehension that it can’t even be revealed to us. But it should give you peace and hope there is a Paradise and you will go there immediately after death

For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.  2 Corinthians 12:6

Now again its obvious Paul is speaking of himself, however in order so he doesn’t get glory or be built up as some great prophet, he decides not to reveal this experience as his own. Now if Paul was just looking for self glory, he would have been bragging about his experience, but his goal is to glorify Christ and not himself

So while we struggle today living in this fallen world, have hope knowing that Paradise is just a breath away literally, and it’s all because our great God and Savior Jesus Christ reconciled us back to the Father and sent us the Holy Spirit to live inside of us, Amen!