I, Paul, am writing this letter. I am an apostle of Christ Jesus just as God planned. Timothy our brother joins me in writing. We are sending this letter to you, the members of God’s church in Corinth. It is also for all God’s holy people everywhere in Achaia.

Paul Has Joy When the Church Turns Away From Sin

Make room for us in your hearts. We haven’t done anything wrong to anyone. We haven’t caused anyone to sin. We haven’t taken advantage of anyone.

Giving Freely to the Lord’s People

Brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given to the churches in Macedonia.

Along with Titus, we are sending another brother. All the churches praise him for his service in telling the good news.

He was also chosen by the churches to go with us as we bring the offering. We are in charge of it. We want to honor the Lord himself. We want to show how ready we are to help.

Titus is my helper. He and I work together among you. Our brothers are messengers from the churches. They honor Christ.

So show them that you really love them. Show them why we are proud of you. Then the churches can see it.

Paul Speaks Up for His Service to the Church

Christ is humble and free of pride. Because of this, I make my appeal to you. I, Paul, am the one you call “shy” when I am face to face with you. But when I am away from you, you think I am “bold” toward you.

I received help from other churches so I could serve you. This was almost like robbing them.

Besides everything else, every day I am concerned about all the churches. It is a very heavy load.

How were you less important than the other churches? The only difference was that I didn’t cause you any expense. Forgive me for that wrong!