Indeed, we personally had a death sentence within ourselves, so that we would not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead.

I wrote this very thing so that when I came I wouldn’t have pain from those who ought to give me joy, because I am confident about all of you that my joy will also be yours.

But I sent the brothers so our boasting about you in the matter would not prove empty, and so you would be prepared just as I said.

For if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we, not to mention you, would be embarrassed in that situation.

I wish you would put up with a little foolishness from me. Yes, do put up with me.

What I say in this matter of boasting, I don’t speak as the Lord would, but foolishly.

especially because of the extraordinary revelations. Therefore, so that I would not exalt myself, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to torment me so I would not exalt myself.