What shall we say then? – that the Gentiles who did not pursue righteousness obtained it, that is, a righteousness that is by faith,

For ignoring the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking instead to establish their own righteousness, they did not submit to God’s righteousness.

Now receive the one who is weak in the faith, and do not have disputes over differing opinions. ¹ 

But I myself am fully convinced about you, my brothers and sisters, ¹  that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to instruct one another.

I fed you milk, ¹  not solid food, for you were not yet ready. In fact, you are still not ready,

I am saying this for your benefit, not to place a limitation on you, but so that without distraction you may give notable and constant service to the Lord.

But in my opinion, she will be happier if she remains as she is – and I think that I too have the Spirit of God!

With regard to food sacrificed to idols, we know that “we all have knowledge.” ¹  Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.

If someone thinks he knows something, he does not yet know to the degree that he needs to know.

Do we not have the right to the company of a believing wife, like the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers and Cephas?

If we sowed spiritual blessings among you, is it too much to reap material things from you?

If anyone considers himself a prophet or spiritual person, he should acknowledge that what I write to you is the Lord’s command.

Now I want to make clear for you, ¹  brothers and sisters, ²  the gospel that I preached to you, that you received and on which you stand,

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 in this earthly house ¹  we groan, because we desire to put on ²  our heavenly dwelling,

For if I boast somewhat more about our authority that the Lord gave us ¹  for building you up and not for tearing you down, I will not be ashamed of doing so. ² 

Therefore it is not surprising his servants also disguise themselves ¹  as servants of righteousness, whose end will correspond to their actions. ² 

I say again, let no one think that I am a fool. ¹  But if you do, then at least accept me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little.

Now I will most gladly spend and be spent for your lives! ¹  If I love you more, am I to be loved less?

Those who want to make a good showing in external matters ¹  are trying to force you to be circumcised. They do so ²  only to avoid being persecuted ³  for the cross of Christ.