6 So we are always of good courage. We know that ^rwhile we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord,

7 for ^swe walk by faith, not ^tby sight. 8 Yes, we are of good courage, and we ^uwould rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 9 So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to ^vplease him. 10 For ^wwe must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, ^xso that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.

The Ministry of Reconciliation

11 Therefore, knowing ^ythe fear of the Lord, we persuade others. But ^zwhat we are is known to God, and I hope it is known also to your conscience. 12 ^aWe are not commending ourselves to you again but ^bgiving you cause to boast about us, so that you may be able to answer those who boast about outward appearance and not about what is in the heart. 13 For if we ^care beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.