For even if I made you sad by my letter, I do not regret having written it (even though I did regret it, for I see that my letter made you sad, though only for a short time).

Now I, Paul, appeal to you personally by the meekness and gentleness of Christ (I who am meek when present among you, but am full of courage toward you when away!) –

Look, for the third time I am ready to come to you, and I will not be a burden to you, because I do not want your possessions, but you. For children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.

in that our gospel did not come to you merely in words, but in power and in the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction (surely you recall the character we displayed when we came among you to help you).

Finally then, brothers and sisters, we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received instruction from us about how you must live and please God (as you are in fact living) that you do so more and more.

But I say to you, love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you,

“Watch out for false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are voracious wolves.

Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you. Go away from me, you lawbreakers!’

“Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.

But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has already overtaken you.

If this matter is heard before the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.”

Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will turn you into fishers of people.”

“But I say to you who are listening: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,

Whenever you enter a town and the people welcome you, eat what is set before you.

Heal the sick in that town and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come upon you!’

But whenever you enter a town and the people do not welcome you, go into its streets and say,

But if I cast out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has already overtaken you.

for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that moment what you must say.”

But Jesus said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator between you two?”

If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ just say, ‘The Lord needs it.’”