The collection for the saints
1Now about the collection for the saints: do as I directed the churches of Galatia. 2On the first day of every week, each of you should set something aside at home, saving up whatever he can, so that no collections have to be made when I come. 3When I arrive, I will send those you approve, with letters, to carry your gift to Jerusalem. 4And if it seems right for me to go as well, they will travel with me. 5I will come to you after I pass through Macedonia — for I am going through Macedonia — 6and I may stay with you, perhaps even spend the winter, so that you can send me on my way wherever I go. 7I do not want to see you now just in passing; I hope to stay with you for a while, if the Lord permits. 8I will remain in Ephesus until Pentecost, 9for a wide door has opened for me, with much work to do — and there are many who oppose me. 10If Timothy comes, see that he has nothing to fear among you, for he is doing the Lord’s work, just as I am. 11So let no one look down on him. Send him on his way in peace, so that he can come back to me; I am expecting him along with the brothers. 12Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers, and he was quite unwilling to come now. He will come when he has the chance.
Final instructions and greetings
13Keep watch, stand firm in the faith, be brave, be strong. 14Let everything you do be done in love. 15One more thing, brothers and sisters. You know the household of Stephanas: they were the first fruits of Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to serving the saints. 16Follow the lead of people like these, and of everyone who works and labors alongside them. 17I am glad that Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus have come, because they have made up for your absence: 18they have refreshed my spirit, and yours. Give such people the recognition they deserve. 19The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Prisca greet you warmly in the Lord, together with the church that meets in their house. 20All the brothers and sisters greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. 21This greeting is in my own hand — Paul’s. 22If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be accursed. Maranatha (Come, Lord!) 23The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. 24My love is with all of you in Christ Jesus.
