¹⁷ But, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”^{[a](A) 18} For it is not the one who commends himself^(B) who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.^(C)

⁴² Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him.^(A) But because of the Pharisees^(B) they would not openly acknowledge their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue;^{(C) 43} for they loved human praise^(D) more than praise from God.^(E)

²⁹ No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart,^(A) by the Spirit,^(B) not by the written code.^(C) Such a person’s praise is not from other people, but from God.^(D)

⁵ Therefore judge nothing^(A) before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes.^(B) He will bring to light^(C) what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God.^(D)

¹⁵ It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. ¹⁶ The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.^{(A) 17} The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition,^(B) not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.^{(C) 18} But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,

⁷ These have come so that the proven genuineness^(A) of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire^(B)—may result in praise, glory and honor^(C) when Jesus Christ is revealed.^(D)