2 Corinthians 11:5-23

5Now I consider myself in no way inferior to those “super-apostles.”

6Even if I am untrained in public speaking, I am certainly not untrained in knowledge. Indeed, we have in every way made that clear to you in everything.

7Or did I commit a sin by humbling myself so that you might be exalted, because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?

8I robbed other churches by taking pay from them to minister to you.

9When I was present with you and in need, I did not burden anyone, since the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my needs. I have kept myself, and will keep myself, from burdening you in any way.

10As the truth of Christ is in me, this boasting of mine will not be stopped in the regions of Achaia.

11Why? Because I don’t love you? God knows I do!

12But I will continue to do what I am doing, in order to deny an opportunity to those who want to be regarded as our equals in what they boast about.

13For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ.

14And no wonder! For Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.

15So it is no great surprise if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will be according to their works.

16I repeat: Let no one consider me a fool. But if you do, at least accept me as a fool so that I can also boast a little.

17What I am saying in this matter of boasting, I don’t speak as the Lord would, but as it were, foolishly.

18Since many boast according to the flesh, I will also boast.

19For you, being so wise, gladly put up with fools!

20In fact, you put up with it if someone enslaves you, if someone exploits you, if someone takes advantage of you, if someone is arrogant toward you, if someone slaps you in the face.

21I say this to our shame: We have been too weak for that! But in whatever anyone dares to boast — I am talking foolishly — I also dare:

22Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they the descendants of Abraham? So am I.

23Are they servants of Christ? I’m talking like a madman — I’m a better one: with far more labors, many more imprisonments, far worse beatings, many times near death.