1This is the third time I am coming to you. “Every statement must be confirmed by two or three witnesses.”
2I have warned you before, and I warn you now, just as I did when I was present the second time. To those who sinned before and to everyone else, I write this while I am away: if I come again, I will not be lenient.
3Since you are seeking proof that Christ speaks through me—he is not weak toward you, but powerful among you.
4For he was crucified because of weakness, yet he lives through God’s power. And we also are weak in him, but we will live with him through God’s power for your sake.
5Examine yourselves to see whether you are living in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize that Jesus Christ is in you? — unless you fail the test.
6But I hope you will know that we have not failed the test.
7Now I pray to God that you do nothing wrong; not so that we may appear approved, but so that you may do what is right, even if we appear to be failures.
8For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth.
9For we rejoice when we are weak and you are strong. And we pray for this also: your complete restoration.
10I am writing these things while away so that when I am present, I won’t have to be harsh, using the authority the Lord gave me to build people up, not to tear them down.
11Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice. Strive for perfection, be encouraged, agree with one another, live in peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you.
12Greet one another with a holy kiss.
13All of God’s people here send you their greetings.
14May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s love, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. Amen.