That’s why I’m writing these things now, while I’m away. Then when I do come, I won’t have to use my authority and be hard on you. The Lord gave me that authority to build you up, not to tear you down.
So even though I wrote to you, it wasn’t for the sake of the one who did the wrong or for the sake the one who was wronged. Instead, I wrote you so that in the sight of God you could see for yourselves how faithful you are to us.
It’s right for me to feel this way about all of you. You have a special place in my heart. Whether I’m being held in chains or standing up for the truth of the good news, either way, all of you share together in God’s grace with me.