That which I speak, I do not speak it according to the Lord, but as if foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.
But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is pleased to dwell with him, he should not put her away.
Now concerning virgins I have no commandment from the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one who has obtained mercy from the Lord to be faithful.
But I speak this by permission, and not as a commandment.
If only you could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed do bear with me.
Lest perhaps if those of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (not to mention you) would be ashamed in this same confident boasting.