⁸ For though I should glory somewhat abundantly concerning our authority (which the Lord gave for building you up, and not for casting you down), I shall not be put to shame:

¹⁰ For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not when present deal sharply, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for casting down.

² I have said beforehand, and I do say beforehand, as when I was present the second time, so now, being absent, to them that have sinned heretofore, and to all the rest, that, if I come again, I will not spare;

³ seeing that ye seek a proof of Christ that speaketh in me; who to you-ward is not weak, but is powerful in you:

²⁴ Not that we have lordship over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for in faith ye stand fast.

¹⁴ For if in anything I have gloried to him on your behalf, I was not put to shame; but as we spake all things to you in truth, so our glorying also which I made before Titus was found to be truth.

⁶ 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.

⁸ For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.

¹ Paul, an apostle (not from men, neither through man, but through Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead),

¹² For which cause I suffer also these things: yet I am not ashamed; for I know him whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that he is able to guard that which I have committed unto him against that day.