⁷ In everything set them an example^(A) by doing what is good.^(B) In your teaching show integrity, seriousness

³ not lording it over^(A) those entrusted to you, but being examples^(B) to the flock.

¹² Don’t let anyone look down on you^(A) because you are young, but set an example^(B) for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith^(C) and in purity.

² Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways;^(A) we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God.^(B) On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience^(C) in the sight of God.

¹⁰ so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,^(A)

⁹ We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help,^(A) but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate.^(B)

²⁴ Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.^[a]

Paul’s Change of Plans

¹² Now this is our boast: Our conscience^(A) testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity^[a](B) and godly sincerity.^(C) We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom^(D) but on God’s grace.

¹⁷ Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit.^(A) On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity,^(B) as those sent from God.^(C)