Paul’s Defense of His Ministry

10 By the humility and gentleness^(A) of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul,^(B) who am “timid” when face to face with you, but “bold” toward you when away!

³ I came to you^(A) in weakness^(B) with great fear and trembling.^(C)

¹³ As you know, it was because of an illness^(A) that I first preached the gospel to you,

¹⁴ and even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself.^(A)