Paul’s change of plans

¹² Now this is our boast: our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity^[a] and godly sincerity. We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom but on God’s grace.

¹⁷ Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.

² Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.

Paul’s joy over the church’s repentance

² Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.

¹⁷ Did I exploit you through any of the men I sent to you?