13 This is the third time that I’ll be coming there to you all. ‘Every account must be confirmed by at least two, preferably three, witnesses.’[ref] 2 I said previously on my second visit and while I’m absent I’ll say it again to those who sinned previously and to all the rest as well: if I come back to find the same again, I won’t be sparing anyone, 3 because you’re all wanting proof that I speak from Messiah who isn’t incapable of handling you all but is quite able to do what he wants. 4 Although he was executed in weakness, now he’s living by God’s power. We also falter in him, but will be living with him by God’s power towards you all.

5 Test yourselves to check if you’re living in the faith—you yourselves can decide that. Or can’t you all recognise whether or not Messiah Yeshua (Jesus; Grk. Yesus) is living in you? Surely you’re not that unqualified? 6 But I’m hoping that you all will know that we’re not unqualified. 7 And we’re asking God that you won’t do evil—not so that we’ll be seen to be approved, but so that you all will be doing good, even if we may seem unqualified, 8 because we’re not able to do anything against the truth—only for the truth. 9 So we’re glad whenever we falter, but you all might be quite capable as we also desire that you all grow to perfection. 10 I’m writing these things while I’m absent, so that when I’m present I won’t have to treat you all severely according to the authority that the master gave me for building and not for tearing down.