12. Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, by signs and wonders and mighty works.
13. For what is there wherein ye were made inferior to the rest of the churches, except it be that I myself was not a burden to you? forgive me this wrong.
14. Behold, this is the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be a burden to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.
15. And I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more abundantly, am I loved the less?
16. But be it so, I did not myself burden you; but, being crafty, I caught you with guile.
17. Did I take advantage of you by any one of them whom I have sent unto you?
18. I exhorted Titus, and I sent the brother with him. Did Titus take any advantage of you? walked we not by the same Spirit? walked we not in the same steps?
19. Ye think all this time that we are excusing ourselves unto you. In the sight of God speak we in Christ. But all things, beloved, are for your edifying.