For we don’t want you to be unaware, brothers, of our affliction that took place in Asia: we were completely overwhelmed—beyond our strength—so that we even despaired of life.

We are not commending ourselves to you again, but giving you an opportunity to be proud of us, so that you may have a reply for those who take pride in the outward appearance rather than in the heart.

Therefore, come out from among them
and be separate, says the Lord;
do not touch any unclean thing,
and I will welcome you.

Accept us. We have wronged no one, corrupted no one, defrauded no one.

Concerning this, I pleaded with the Lord three times to take it away from me.

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

Did I take advantage of you by anyone I sent you?

I urged Titus to come, and I sent the brother with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? Didn’t we walk in the same spirit and in the same footsteps?