1So then, as God’s co-workers, we urge you to not receive God’s grace and then neglect or ignore it. 2For He says, “I have heard you in the acceptable time, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.” (Is.49:8). I tell you, now is the acceptable (right) time; the (right) day of salvation, 3We put no obstacle in anyone’s path, so that no one will find fault in - or be offended by - our ministry, 4But rather, in all things, we endeavor, as the ministers of God, to demonstrate our humble patience, in afflictions, in need, in hardships, 5In stripes (beatings), in imprisonments, in riots, in hard work, in sleepless nights, and in hunger; 6We seek to prove ourselves by our purity, understanding, patience, kindness - by the Holy Spirit, by genuine love, 7By the word of truth, in the power of God, with the weapons of righteousness in both the right hand and the left, 8Faithfully serving God, whether honored or despised, slandered or praised; as honest, even when called imposters; 9While ignored, and yet well known; as dying, and yet we live; as beaten, and yet not killed; 10As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

11O you Corinthians, we have spoken to you freely and candidly. Our heart is wide open to you. 12There is no lack of love on our part; but you have withheld your affections from us. 13As a fair exchange (I am asking you to respond as if you were my children): Open your hearts to us.

14Be you not unequally yoked with (married to) unbelievers; for how can righteousness be a partner with unrighteousness? And what does light have in common with darkness? 15What harmony is there between Christ with Belial (the devil)? Or between a believer and an infidel? 16And what union can there be between the Temple of the living God and idols? For you are the Temple of the living God; as God has said, “I will dwell in them, and walk among them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” (Lev.26:12). 17Therefore, “Come out from among them, and be separate.”, says the Lord, “And touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” (Is.52:11), 18And “I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters.” (1 Chron.17:13), says the Lord Almighty.