We never sought praise from men, either from you or anyone else, though as Christ's apostles we might have stood on our dignity.

For what hope or happiness shall we have or what prize to be proud of in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes, except you?

for when we were with you, we told you beforehand that we were going to have trouble, and it came true, as you know.

That was why, when I could not bear it any longer, I sent to find out about your faith, for I was afraid that the tempter might have tempted you and all our labor might be lost.

You do not need to have anyone write to you about brotherly love, for you have yourselves been taught by God to love one another,

so that you may have the respect of the outsiders, and not be dependent upon anybody.

We do not want you to be under any misapprehension, brothers, about those who are falling asleep. You must not grieve for them, as others do who have no hope.

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, then by means of Jesus God will bring back with him those who have fallen asleep.

For we can assure you, on the Lord's own authority, that those of us who will still be living when the Lord comes will have no advantage over those who have fallen asleep.

But as to times and dates, brothers, you do not need to have anyone write to you,

You all belong to the light and the day. We have nothing to do with night or with darkness.

I charge you in the Lord's name to have this letter read to all the brothers.