1This is the third time I am coming to visit you (and as the Scriptures say, “The facts of every case must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses”*13:1 Deut 19:15.).
3I will give you all the proof you want that Christ speaks through me. Christ is not weak when he deals with you; he is powerful among you.
5Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you*13:5 Or in you.; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith.
7We pray to God that you will not do what is wrong by refusing our correction. I hope we won’t need to demonstrate our authority when we arrive. Do the right thing before we come—even if that makes it look like we have failed to demonstrate our authority.
10I am writing this to you before I come, hoping that I won’t need to deal severely with you when I do come. For I want to use the authority the Lord has given me to strengthen you, not to tear you down.
11Dear brothers and sisters,*13:11 Greek Brothers. I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.
12Greet each other with a sacred kiss.
14*13:14 Some English translations include verse 13 as part of verse 12, and then verse 14 becomes verse 13.May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.