10. Yes, I am glad to have weaknesses if they are for Christ. I am glad to be insulted and have hard times. I am glad when I am persecuted and have problems, because it is when I am weak that I am really strong.
11. I have been talking like a fool, but you made me do it. You people are the ones who should say good things about me. I am worth nothing, but those “super apostles” are not worth any more than I am!
12. When I was with you, I patiently did the things that prove I am an apostle—signs, wonders, and miracles.
13. So you received everything that the other churches have received. Only one thing was different: I was not a burden to you. Forgive me for this!
14. I am now ready to visit you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you. I don’t want any of the things you own. I only want you. Children should not have to save things to give to their parents. Parents should save to give to their children.
15. So I am happy to give everything I have for you. I will even give myself for you. If I love you more, will you love me less?
16. It is clear that I was not a burden to you, but you think that I was tricky and used lies to catch you.