So I made up my own mind not to pay you another painful visit.

We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart has been opened wide to you.

Make room for us in your hearts; we have wronged no one, we have ruined no one, we have exploited no one.

because he not only accepted our request, but since he was very eager, he is coming to you of his own accord.

I do not want to seem as though I am trying to terrify you with my letters,

Why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do!

I asked the Lord three times about this, that it would depart from me.

However, it is good to be sought eagerly for a good purpose at all times, and not only when I am present with you.

You were running well; who prevented you from obeying the truth?

to the praise of the glory of his grace that he has freely bestowed on us in his dearly loved Son.

that he lavished on us in all wisdom and insight.

so that we, who were the first to set our hope on Christ, would be to the praise of his glory.

And although you were dead in your transgressions and sins,

For God is my witness that I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.

Give greetings to all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers with me here send greetings.

All the saints greet you, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.

I say this so that no one will deceive you through arguments that sound reasonable.

Our dear friend Luke the physician and Demas greet you.

For God did not call us to impurity but in holiness.

in everything give thanks. For this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.