if you also unite in prayer for our aid, that the favor bestowed on us, through the intercession of many persons, may cause thanks to be given by many for us.

who has also set his seal upon us, and given us the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

Wherefore, I exhort you to give him an assurance of your love.

Because God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, has shined in our hearts, to give the light of the glorious knowledge of God in the person of Jesus Christ.

Now, he that has formed us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the earnest of the Spirit.

We do not again commend ourselves to you, but give you an occasion to boast of us, that you may be able to answer those who glory in appearance, and not in heart.

And all these things are from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ, and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

We make known to you, brethren, God's gracious gift, which has been given in the churches of Macedonia;

beseeching us, with much entreaty, that they might give, and take part in the ministering to the saints;

And I give my judgment in this matter; for this is profitable for you, who began not only to do, but to show a willing mind, a year ago.

Therefore, give to them, in the presence of the churches, a proof of your love, and of our boasting of you.

Let each one give, as he purposes in his heart; not with grief, nor from necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver.

as it is written: He has scattered abroad; he has given to the poor; his righteousness remains forever.

(since through the proof which this service gives, they glorify God for your acknowledged subjection to the gospel of Christ, and for the liberality of your contribution for them, and for all;)

For though I should boast even, somewhat more abundantly of our authority, which the Lord has given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I would not be ashamed:

And, lest I should be too much exalted by the excellence of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, that I might not be too much exalted.

For this reason, I write these things, while absent, that I may not, when present, use severity, according to the authority which the Lord has given me for edification, and not for destruction.