Stephen emphasizes that a true spiritual man is characterized by divine authority, rooted in Christ, and a willingness to suffer for God's sake, even being considered foolish by the world. Such a man lives under an open heaven, continually receiving visions and revelations from God through the Holy Spirit. Paul’s experience of being caught up to the third heaven and paradise exemplifies this, revealing that visions often occur in a spiritual realm where one may not distinguish between body and spirit. The third heaven is where God's throne resides, and paradise is the resting place of the redeemed awaiting resurrection. Stephen clarifies that these visions unveil the heart and purpose of God—mainly, the manifestation of Christ in glory and the ultimate goal of bringing many into that glory. He stresses the importance of believers living under an open heaven, receiving ongoing revelations that guide, strengthen, and unify the church. Stephen warns against fragmentary visions that divide rather than unite God's people, urging us to see the overall divine purpose: the man in glory, Christ, and the church as His body. He concludes that spiritual vision is essential for perseverance, unity, and fulfilling God's eternal plan, and prays for the Lord to grant His people wisdom and revelation to see His full purpose.
Spiritual man characterized by divine authority rooted in Christ
He is considered a fool by the world due to his focus on God's interests
Living under an open heaven with continual visions and revelations
Paul’s experience of being caught up to the third heaven and paradise
The third heaven is where God's throne is; paradise is the resting place of the redeemed
Visions unveil the heart and purpose of God—mainly Christ in glory and the church's destiny
Believers should seek ongoing, continuous revelation from the Holy Spirit
Beware of fragmentary visions that cause division; seek the overall divine vision
The ultimate divine purpose: bringing man into glory through Christ
Living by divine vision provides strength, unity, and direction in the Christian life
Pray for God’s Spirit of wisdom and revelation to understand His eternal purpose
1 It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 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. 3 And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) 4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. 5 Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities. 6 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. 7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.