⁵ You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed^(A)—God is our witness.^(B)

¹⁷ Did I exploit you through any of the men I sent to you?

⁹ God, whom I serve^(A) in my spirit in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness^(B) how constantly I remember you

³³ I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing.^(A)

²⁰ I assure you before God^(A) that what I am writing you is no lie.^(B)

¹² cargoes of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk and scarlet cloth; every sort of citron wood, and articles of every kind made of ivory, costly wood, bronze, iron and marble;^{(A) 13} cargoes of cinnamon and spice, of incense, myrrh and frankincense, of wine and olive oil, of fine flour and wheat; cattle and sheep; horses and carriages; and human beings sold as slaves.^(B)

¹⁸ For they mouth empty, boastful words^(A) and, by appealing to the lustful desires of the flesh, they entice people who are just escaping^(B) from those who live in error.

¹⁴ With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce^(A) the unstable;^(B) they are experts in greed^(C)—an accursed brood!^{(D) 15} They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam^(E) son of Bezer,^[a] who loved the wages of wickedness.

³ In their greed^(A) these teachers will exploit you^(B) with fabricated stories. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.

² Be shepherds of God’s flock^(A) that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be;^(B) not pursuing dishonest gain,^(C) but eager to serve;