¹⁵ For my part I have used none of these rights, nor have I written these things that they may be applied in my case. For it would be better for me to die than for anyone to deprive me of my boast! ¹⁶ For if I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am compelled to preach^[a]—and woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! ¹⁷ For if I do this willingly, I have a reward, but if unwillingly, I am entrusted^(A) with a commission. ¹⁸ What then is my reward? To preach the gospel and offer it free of charge and not make full use of my rights in the gospel.^(B)

⁷ Or did I commit a sin by humbling^(A) myself so that you might be exalted,^(B) because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?^{(C) 8} I robbed other churches by taking pay from them to minister to you. ⁹ When I was present with you and in need, I did not burden anyone, since the brothers who came from Macedonia^(D) supplied my needs.^(E) I have kept myself, and will keep myself, from burdening you in any way.

Appreciation of Support

¹⁰ I rejoiced in the Lord greatly because once again^(A) you renewed your care for me.^(B) You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it.

¹⁶ For even in Thessalonica^(A) you sent gifts for my need^(B) several times.

¹⁸ But I have received everything in full,^(A) and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied,^[a] having received from Epaphroditus^(B) what you provided—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing^(C) to God.