As it was given to you by Epaphras, our well-loved helper, who is a true servant of Christ for us,

so as to walk worthily of the Lord unto all well-pleasing, bearing fruit in every good work, and growing by the true knowledge of God;

He is the head of the body, the church, as well as the beginning, the firstborn from among the dead, so that he himself may become first in all things.

because he was well pleased [for] all the fullness to dwell in him,

[and He will do this] if you continue in the faith, well-grounded and steadfast, and not shifting away from the [confident] hope [that is a result] of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which [gospel] I, Paul, was made a minister.

but now renounce them all, as well as anger, animosity, malice: let calumny and obscene discourse be banish'd from your lips.

So, as God’s own chosen people, who are holy [set apart, sanctified for His purpose] and well-beloved [by God Himself], put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience [which has the power to endure whatever injustice or unpleasantness comes, with good temper];

Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.

praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned;

Let your speech be always well favoured and be powdered with salt, that ye may know how to answer every man.

Tychicus will tell you all about my affairs. [Note: This man probably delivered this letter as well as the one to the Ephesians. See Eph. 6:21]. He is our dearly loved brother and faithful minister and fellow-slave in [the service of] the Lord.

And with him I have sent Onesimus, the true and well-loved brother, who is one of you. They will give you word of everything which is taking place here.

I can bear testimony to the deep interest he takes in you, as well as in the Brethren at Laodicea and at Hierapolis.

Luke, our well-loved medical friend, and Demas, send you their love.

And after you have read this letter, have it read to the church of Laodicea. In turn, read the letter from Laodicea as well.

And say ye to Archippus, Look well to the ministry, which thou hast received of the Lord, that thou fulfil it.