⁷ You ·must look at the facts before you [or are looking only at outward appearances]. If you ·feel sure [are confident] that you belong to Christ, you must ·remember [consider again] that we belong to Christ just as you do. ⁸ ·It is true that we brag freely [^LIf I boast too much…] about the authority the Lord gave us. But this authority is to build you up, not to tear you down. So I will not be ashamed. ⁹ I do not want you to think I am trying to scare you with my letters.