What I am saying in this matter of boasting, I don’t speak as the Lord would, but, as it were, foolishly.
But I (not the Lord) say to the rest: If any brother has an unbelieving wife and she is willing to live with him, he must not divorce her.
Otherwise, if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we, not to mention you, would be put to shame in that situation.
Now about virgins: I have no command from the Lord, but I do give an opinion as one who by the Lord’s mercy is faithful.
I say this as a concession, not as a command.
I wish you would put up with a little foolishness from me. Yes, do put up with me!