Paul’s Change of Plans

¹² Now this is our boast: Our conscience^(A) testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity^[a](B) and godly sincerity.^(C) We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom^(D) but on God’s grace.

²⁴ Not that we lord it over^(A) your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.^(B)

Paul’s Hardships

³ We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path,^(A) so that our ministry will not be discredited. ⁴ Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; ⁵ in beatings, imprisonments^(B) and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger;^{(C) 6} in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit^(D) and in sincere love;^{(E) 7} in truthful speech^(F) and in the power of God;^(G) with weapons of righteousness^(H) in the right hand and in the left; ⁸ through glory and dishonor,^(I) bad report^(J) and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors;^{(K) 9} known, yet regarded as unknown; dying,^(L) and yet we live on;^(M) beaten, and yet not killed; ¹⁰ sorrowful, yet always rejoicing;^(N) poor, yet making many rich;^(O) having nothing,^(P) and yet possessing everything.^(Q)

¹¹ We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you.^{(R) 12} We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. ¹³ As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children^(S)—open wide your hearts^(T) also.

Paul’s Joy Over the Church’s Repentance

² Make room for us in your hearts.^(A) We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.