²⁶ When God raised up^(A) his servant, he sent him first^(B) to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways.”

⁹ There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil:^(A) first for the Jew, then for the Gentile;^(B)

Christ Crucified Is God’s Power and Wisdom

¹⁸ For the message of the cross is foolishness^(A) to those who are perishing,^(B) but to us who are being saved^(C) it is the power of God.^(D)

⁸ So do not be ashamed^(A) of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner.^(B) Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel,^(C) by the power of God.