7. Or did I commit a sin by humbling myself so that you could be exalted, because I proclaimed the gospel of God to you free of charge?
8. I robbed other churches by receiving support from them so that I could serve you!
9. When I was with you and was in need, I was not a burden to anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia fully supplied my needs. I kept myself from being a burden to you in any way, and will continue to do so.
10. As the truth of Christ is in me, this boasting of mine will not be stopped in the regions of Achaia.
11. Why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do!
12. And what I am doing I will continue to do, so that I may eliminate any opportunity for those who want a chance to be regarded as our equals in the things they boast about.
13. For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ.
14. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.
15. Therefore it is not surprising his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will correspond to their actions.
16. I say again, let no one think that I am a fool. But if you do, then at least accept me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little.
17. What I am saying with this boastful confidence I do not say the way the Lord would. Instead it is, as it were, foolishness.