8 Yes, that is your state in Christ, yet has the Kingdom still to be striven for, you cannot yet call these things your own, and boast of them as such; whilst the world still rules, whilst we apostles are like arena criminals condemned to make a spectacle for others, whilst we are defenceless and weak, will you boast of your victory, will you be strong and self-sufficient?
9 Whilst the world and angels and man unite to watch our struggles and efforts, are you reigning at peace with the saints in Christ?
10 Whilst we are fools, are you wise in Christ? Whilst we are dishonoured, have you the safety and the glory of the truth? Yes, all that is true, yet I would have you not to glory over it, but to remember the condition of us who taught you.
11 We are still hungering and thirsty, we are still naked and buffeted and amazed,
12 we still work with our hands to gain a living. We are reviled and we bless, we are persecuted and we endure,
13 we are cursed and we turn it aside. Up to the present moment, the very moment that I write to you, we are the outcasts and pariahs of society, its very dregs and offscourings. Think of this when you are tempted to become wise and self-sufficient in your own eyes, to set one man's teaching above another's, and make the Christ a matter of vain-glorious disputation and theory.
14 And yet I would not speak harshly to you and condemn you, but I appeal to you as to children whom I love.