8. Other churches I have robbed by accepting [more than their share of] support for my ministry [from them in order] to serve you.
9. And when I was with you and ran short financially, I did not burden any [of you], for what I lacked was abundantly made up by the brethren who came from Macedonia. So I kept myself from being burdensome to you in any way, and will continue to keep [myself from being so].
10. As the truth of Christ is in me, this my boast [of independence] shall not be debarred (silenced or checked) in the regions of Achaia (most of Greece).
11. And why? Because I do not love you [do not have a preference for you, wish you well, and regard your welfare]? God perceives and knows that I do!
12. But what I do, I will continue to do, [for I am determined to maintain this independence] in order to cut off the claim of those who would like [to find an occasion and incentive] to claim that in their boasted [mission] they work on the same terms that we do.
13. For such men are false apostles [spurious, counterfeits], deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles (special messengers) of Christ (the Messiah).
14. And it is no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light;
15. So it is not surprising if his servants also masquerade as ministers of righteousness. [But] their end will correspond with their deeds.
16. I repeat then, let no one think I have lost my wits; but even if you do, then bear with a witless man, so that I too may boast a little.
17. What I say by way of this confident boasting, I say not with the Lord's authority [by inspiration] but, as it were, in pure witlessness.