as it is righteous for me to think in behalf of you all, because I have you in my heart, both in my bonds and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, that you are all my fellow-partakers of the grace.

But I wish you, brethren, to know that the affairs appertaining to me have turned out rather unto the promotion of the gospel.

So, my beloved brethren, as you have always harkened, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;

For I have no one like-minded, who will nobly remember the things concerning you;

For he was indeed nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not only him, but me also, in order that I may not have sorrow upon sorrow.

Then receive him in the Lord with all joy, and have such in honor:

even though also having confidence in the flesh. If any other one seems to have confidence in the flesh, I the more:

Not that I already received it, or have already been made perfect: but I persevere, if I may receive that for which I have indeed been received by Christ Jesus.

Brethren, I do not consider that I have yet received it;

only, whereunto we have already attained, to walk by the same rule.

Be ye my imitators, brethren, and mark those thus walking about as you have us an example.

Whatsoever things you have indeed learned and received and heard and seen in me, do the same: and the God of peace will be with you.

But I greatly rejoice in the Lord, because indeed you have at length revived to think about me; in whatsoever you indeed were thinking, nevertheless you lacked opportunity.

Not that I speak concerning deficiency: for I have learned to be content with those things amid which I am.

But I have all things, and I abound: I am full, having received from Epaphroditus those things from you, an odor of a sweet savor, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God.