Have I conceived all this people? have I begotten them, that you should say to me, Carry them in your bosom, as a nursing father bears the sucking child, unto the land which you swore unto their fathers?
According to the grace of God which is given to me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let everyone be careful how he builds on it.
If others share in this right over you, do not we even more? Nevertheless we have not used this authority; but suffer all things, so that we do not hinder the gospel of Christ.
What is my reward then? Truly that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without expense, so that I do not abuse my power in the gospel.
For the time will come when they will not endure sound teaching; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;