1For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down (that is, when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands.

2We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing.

3For we will put on heavenly bodies; we will not be spirits without bodies.5:3 Greek we will not be naked.

4While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but it’s not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life.

5God himself has prepared us for this, and as a guarantee he has given us his Holy Spirit.

11Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too.

12Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us,5:12 Some manuscripts read proud of yourselves. so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart.

13If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit.

14Either way, Christ’s love controls us.5:14a Or urges us on. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.5:14b Greek Since one died for all, then all died.

15He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.