Because of the sudden and repeated misfortunes and hardships that have come upon us, beloved, we consider that we have been slow to turn our attention to the matters in dispute among you, and especially to that foul and unholy rebellion, alien and foreign to God's elect, which a few rash and self-willed persons have inflamed to such a pitch of madness that your venerable and renowned name, worthy of love among all people, has been greatly reviled.
For who has visited you without recognizing your excellent and steadfast faith? Who has not admired your sober and gentle piety in Christ? Who has not proclaimed the magnificent character of your hospitality? And who has not called blessed your perfect and secure knowledge?
For you did everything without partiality and walked according to the ordinances of God, submitting to your leaders and giving the honor that was due to the elders among you. You instructed the young to think with moderation and dignity, and you charged the women to do everything with a blameless, dignified, and pure conscience, loving their own husbands as is proper. You taught them to remain within the rule of submission and to manage the affairs of their households with dignity and complete self-control.