I will be a pledge of his safety. From my hand you shall require him. If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame forever.
Otherwise, if some Macedonians come with me and find that you are not ready, we would be humiliated -- to say nothing of you -- for being so confident.
I, Paul, myself entreat you, by the meekness and gentleness of Christ -- I who am humble when face to face with you, but bold toward you when I am away! --