[1] We then, working together with God, make our request to you not to take
the grace of God to no purpose. [2] (For he says, I have given ear to you
at a good time, and I have been your helper in a day of salvation: see, now
is the good time; now is the day of salvation): [3] Giving no cause for
trouble in anything, so that no one may be able to say anything against our
work; [4] But in everything making it clear that we are the servants of
God, in quiet strength, in troubles, in need, in sorrow, [5] In blows, in
prisons, in attacks, in hard work, in watchings, in going without food; [6]
In a clean heart, in knowledge, in long waiting, in being kind, in the Holy
Spirit, in true love, [7] In the true word, in the power of God; with the
arms of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, [8] By glory and
by shame, by an evil name and a good name; as untrue, and still true; [9]
Unnoted, but still kept fully in mind; as near to death, but still living;
as undergoing punishment, but not put to death; [10] As full of sorrow, but
ever glad; as poor, but giving wealth to others; as having nothing, but
still having all things. [11] Our mouth is open to you, O Corinthians, our
heart is wide. [12] It is not our feelings to you which are narrow, but
yours to us. [13] Now to give me back payment of the same sort (I am
talking as to my children), let your hearts be wide open to me. [14] Do not
keep company with those who have not faith: for what is there in common
between righteousness and evil, or between light and dark? [15] And what
agreement is there between Christ and the Evil One? or what part has one
who has faith with one who has not? [16] And what agreement has the house
of God with images? for we are a house of the living God; even as God has
said, I will be living among them, and walking with them; and I will be
their God, and they will be my people. [17] For which cause, Come out from
among them, and be separate, says the Lord, and let no unclean thing come
near you; and I will take you for myself, [18] And will be a Father to you;
and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord, the Ruler of all.
