For to this end also I have written, that I might know, by putting you to the test, if as to everything ye are obedient.

I had no test in my spirit on my not finding there Titus my brother: so taking my leave of them I went forth unto Macedonia.

But we have rejected the hidden things of shame, not walking in deceit, nor falsifying the word of God, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every conscience of men before God.

for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in the wealth of their liberality.

I am not saying this by way of command, but to test by the standard of other men's earnestness the genuineness of your love also.

We have sent with them our brother, whom we have often tested and found to be diligent in many things, but who is now even more diligent [than ever] because of his great confidence in you.

Because of this act of ministry, they will glorify God for your obedience to the gospel of Christ which you confess, as well as for your generous participation [in this gift] for them and for all [the other believers in need],

For it is not the man who commends himself that stands the test, but the man who is commended by the Lord.

But I have a fear, that in some way, as Eve was tricked by the deceit of the snake, your minds may be turned away from their simple and holy love for Christ.

For such men are false Apostles, workers of deceit, making themselves seem like Apostles of Christ.

Now granted, I have not burdened you; yet sly as I am, I took you in by deceit!

Since, a test, ye are seeking, of the speaking in me of Christ; - who, unto you, is not weak, but is powerful in you, -

Test and evaluate yourselves to see whether you are in the faith and living your lives as [committed] believers. Examine yourselves [not me]! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves [by an ongoing experience] that Jesus Christ is in you—unless indeed you fail the test and are rejected as counterfeit?

And I hope you will recognize that we do not fail the test.

Now we pray to God that you do nothing wrong—not that we may appear to pass the test, but that you may do what is right, even though we may appear to fail.