⁴ Such confidence^(A) we have through Christ before God. ⁵ Not that we are competent in ourselves^(B) to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.^{(C) 6} He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant^(D)—not of the letter^(E) but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.^(F)