For by it the people of old ¹  received God’s commendation. ² 

(for rulers cause no fear for good conduct but for bad). Do you desire not to fear authority? Do good and you will receive its commendation,

Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? We don’t need letters of recommendation to you or from you as some other people do, do we? ¹ 

So then, do not judge anything before the time. Wait until the Lord comes. He will ¹  bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the motives of hearts. Then each will receive recognition ²  from God.

to the praise of the glory of his grace ¹  that he has freely bestowed on us in his dearly loved Son. ² 

Demetrius ¹  has been testified to by all, even by the truth itself. We also testify to him, ²  and you know that our testimony is true.