Matthew Henry Commentary 2 Corinthians 12:1-6

"I must needs glory, though it is not expedient; but I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I know a man in Christ, fourteen years ago (whether in the body, I know not; or whether out of the body, I know not; God knoweth), such a one caught up even to the third heaven. And I know such a man (whether in the body, or apart from the body, I know not; God knoweth), how that he was caught up into Paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. On behalf of such a one will I glory: but on mine own behalf I will not glory, save in [my] weaknesses. For if I should desire to glory, I shall not be foolish; for I shall speak the truth: but I forbear, lest any man should account of me above that which he seeth me [to be], or heareth from me." — 2 Corinthians 12:1-6 (ASV)

There can be no doubt the apostle speaks of himself. Whether heavenly things were brought down to him while his body was in a trance, as in the case of ancient prophets; or whether his soul was dislodged from the body for a time and taken up into heaven, or whether he was taken up, body and soul together, he did not know.

We are not capable, nor is it fitting that we should know yet, the particulars of that glorious place and state. He did not attempt to publish to the world what he had heard there, but he set forth the doctrine of Christ.

On that foundation the church is built, and on that we must build our faith and hope. And while this teaches us to enlarge our expectations of the glory that shall be revealed, it should render us content with the usual methods of learning the truth and will of God.