For we do not have [the right to] rule over your faith [i.e., to dictate concerning your personal relationship with God], but we want to work with you for your happiness. For you are [already] standing firm in your faith. [Note: This whole narrative alludes to some unresolved problems still existing there in Corinth].

But if anyone has caused sorrow, he has not caused me sorrow, but {to some degree}--{in order not to say too much}--[to] all [of] you.

To some we are an aroma of death leading to death, but to others, an aroma of life leading to life. And who is competent for this?

Are we beginning again to commend ourselves? or need we, as do some, epistles of commendation to you or from you?

I make this request so that I do not have to be bold when I am present [with you], and feel compelled to speak in an authoritative tone to some people [there] who think we are living by worldly standards.

I don’t want to seem as though I am trying to terrify you with my letters.

For we dare not classify or compare ourselves to some of those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves to themselves, do not understand.

I could wish ye would bear with me as to some little foolishness, - Nay! do even bear with me!