For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with much assurance. You know what kind of men we were among you for your benefit,

On the contrary, after we had previously suffered, and we were treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, we were emboldened by our God to speak the gospel of God to you in spite of great opposition.

Although we could have been a burden as Christ’s apostles, instead we were gentle among you, as a nursing mother nurtures her own children.

We cared so much for you that we were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.

But as for us, brothers, after we were forced to leave you for a short time (in person, not in heart), we greatly desired and made every effort to return and see you face to face.

In fact, when we were with you, we told you previously that we were going to suffer persecution, and as you know, it happened.

Therefore, brothers, in all our distress and persecution, we were encouraged about you through your faith.