Wednesday, November 4

1For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain.

2But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict.

3For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit.

4But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.

5For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness.

6Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ.

7But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children.

8So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.

42'But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.

43Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces.

44Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like graves which are not seen, and the men who walk over them are not aware of them.'

45Then one of the lawyers answered and said to Him, 'Teacher, by saying these things You reproach us also.'

46And He said, 'Woe to you also, lawyers! For you load men with burdens hard to bear, and you yourselves do not touch the burdens with one of your fingers.