Paul’s Plea for Onesimus

⁸ For this reason, though I am more than bold enough in Christ to command you to do the right thing,

⁶ nor did we seek praise from mortals, whether from you or from others,^(A)

⁸ Now, even if I boast a little too much of our authority, which the Lord gave for building you up and not for tearing you down, I will not be ashamed of it.^(A)

¹² Since, then, we have such a hope, we act with complete frankness,^(A)

² but though we had already suffered and been shamefully mistreated at Philippi, as you know, we had courage in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in spite of great opposition.^(A)

⁴ Entirely out of place is obscene, silly, and vulgar talk; but instead, let there be thanksgiving.

²¹ To my shame, I must say, we were too weak for that!

But whatever anyone dares to boast of—I am speaking as a fool—I also dare to boast of that.^(A)

Paul Defends His Ministry

10 I myself, Paul, appeal to you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ—I who am humble when face to face with you but bold toward you when I am away!^(A)— ² I ask that when I am present I need not show boldness by daring to oppose those who think we are acting according to human standards.^[a](B)