Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? We don’t need letters of recommendation to you or from you as some other people do, do we? ¹ 

For by it the people of old ¹  received God’s commendation. ² 

(for rulers cause no fear for good conduct but for bad). Do you desire not to fear authority? Do good and you will receive its commendation,

The king shows favor ¹  to a wise ²  servant, but his wrath falls ³  on one who acts shamefully.

to the praise of the glory of his grace ¹  that he has freely bestowed on us in his dearly loved Son. ² 

So then, do not judge anything before the time. Wait until the Lord comes. He will ¹  bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the motives of hearts. Then each will receive recognition ²  from God.

Demetrius ¹  has been testified to by all, even by the truth itself. We also testify to him, ²  and you know that our testimony is true.

After removing him, God ¹  raised up ²  David their king. He testified about him: ³  ‘I have found David ⁴  the son of Jesse to be a man after my heart, ⁵  who will accomplish everything I want him to do.’ ⁶