Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Corinthians 12:4

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Corinthians 12:4 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Corinthians 12:4. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Paul, the person was taken to a special place called paradise and heard amazing things that are too wonderful and special for people to talk about. It's like hearing a secret that is too big and amazing to share with others.

2 Corinthians 12:4: How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. [lawful: or, possible]

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 29:29

While 2 Corinthians 12:4 mentions hearing unspeakable words, Deuteronomy 29:29 speaks of secret things belonging to God and not to be revealed to man.

Deuteronomy 29:29: The secret [things belong] unto the LORD our God: but those [things which are] revealed [belong] unto us and to our children for ever, that [we] may do all the words of this law.

Contradiction with John 16:13

This verse implies that the Spirit of truth will guide believers into all truths, seemingly contradicting the idea of unspeakable mysteries in 2 Corinthians 12:4.

John 16:13: Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, [that] shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

Contradiction with Proverbs 25:2

States that it is the glory of God to conceal a thing, contrasting with the idea that hearing divine mysteries is beyond lawful expression.

Proverbs 25:2: [It is] the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings [is] to search out a matter.

Contradiction with Revelation 10:4

John is instructed not to write the things he hears, paralleling the restriction in 2 Corinthians 12:4 but contrasting with prevalent revelations in other passages.

Revelation 10:4: And when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to write: and I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered, and write them not.

Contradiction with Matthew 13:11

Jesus explains that knowledge of the kingdom’s mysteries is permitted for his followers, contrasting the restricted communication of mysteries in 2 Corinthians 12:4.

Matthew 13:11: He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.

Paradox #1

Theological discussion around "2 Corinthians 12:4" might focus on why Paul mentions hearing things in paradise that cannot be told. Some might see a contradiction in promoting mysterious, unspoken revelations, given that elsewhere, the Bible emphasizes the clarity and teaching of God's message. This could create tension between personal spiritual experiences and the shared, communal teachings of Scripture.

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