Having then such an opinion of my ministry, I use great plainness of speech.

Having by the same spirit the same faith as David had when he said, "I believed, and therefore have I spoken:" I also believe, and therefore I speak;

I speak not this to your reproach: for I have already assured you, that I am so heartily well affected to you, I could live and die with you.

I use indeed great freedom of speech toward you, yet I greatly glory upon your account: I am filled with comfort, and my joy is still superiour to all my affliction.

the ever-blessed God, and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, knows that I speak truth.