Examine Yourselves

1This the third time I am coming to you: in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established. 2I have told you beforehand, and I am speaking to you in advance, as being present the second time, even now absent, that, if I may come to you again, I will not spare those who have previously sinned, and all the rest; 3since you are seeking the approval of Christ, who is speaking in me, who is not weak towards you, bit mighty among you. 4For indeed he was crucified from weakness, but he lives by the power of God: for we indeed are weak in him, but we shall live with him through the power of God unto you.

5Prove your own selves, if you are in the faith; examine yourselves; whether do you not know yourselves, that Christ Jesus is in you? unless indeed you are reprobates. 6But I hope that you shall know that we are not reprobates. 7But we are praying unto God, that he may do you no evil, not in order that we may appear approved, but that you may do that which is good, and we may be as disapproved. 8For we are not able to do any thing against the truth, but for the truth. 9For we rejoice when we may be weak, and you may be strong: we are praying for even this, your perfection. 10Therefore being absent I write these things, in order that being present, I may not use severity, according to the power which the Lord has given me for edification, and not for destruction.

Benediction and Farewell

11Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect; be of good comfort; think the same thing, live in peace: and the God of love and peace will be with you. 12Salute one another with a holy kiss. 13All the saints salute you.

14The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all.