16. Again I say that no one should think that I’m a fool. But if you do, then take me for a fool so that I can also brag a little.
17. What I say as I start bragging is foolishness. It’s not something I would say if I were speaking for the Lord.
18. Since it’s common for people to brag, I’ll do it too.
19. You’re wise, so you’ll gladly put up with fools.
20. When someone makes you slaves, consumes your wealth, seizes your property, orders you around, or slaps your faces, you put up with it.
21. I’m ashamed to admit it, but Timothy and I don’t have the strength to do those things to you.Whatever other people dare to brag about, I, like a fool, can also brag about.
22. Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they Abraham’s descendants? So am I.
23. Are they Christ’s servants? It’s insane to say it, but I’m a far better one. I’ve done much more work, been in prison many more times, been beaten more severely, and have faced death more often.