1 In the presence of God and the Messiah Jesus, who is going to judge those who are living and those who are dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I solemnly appeal to you
2 to proclaim the message. Be ready to do this whether or not the time is convenient. Refute, warn, and encourage with the utmost patience when you teach.
3 For the time will come when people will not tolerate healthy doctrine, but with itching ears will surround themselves with teachers who cater to their people's own desires.
4 They will refuse to listen to the truth and will turn to myths.
5 But you must be clear-headed about everything. Endure suffering. Do the work of an evangelist. Devote yourself completely to your ministry.
6 I am already being poured out as an offering, and the time for my departure has come.
7 I have fought the good fight. I have completed the race. I have kept the faith.
8 The victor's crown of righteousness is now waiting for me, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on the day that he comes, and not only to me but also to all who eagerly wait for his appearing.
9 Do your best to come to me soon,
10 because Demas, having fallen in love with this present world, has abandoned me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.
11 Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful in my ministry.
12 I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus.
13 When you come, bring the coat I left with Carpus in Troas, as well as the scrolls and especially the parchments.
14 Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will pay him back for what he did.
15 You, too, must watch out for him, for he violently opposed our message.
16 At my first trial no one came to my defense. Everyone abandoned me. May it not be held against them!
17 However, the Lord stood by me and gave me strength so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the gentiles could hear it. I was rescued out of a lion's mouth.
18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will take me safely to his heavenly kingdom. Glory belongs to him forever and ever! Amen.