From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for those who have not met me face to face.

Epaphras, who is one of you and a slave of Christ, greets you. He is always struggling in prayer on your behalf, so that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. For I can testify that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and Hierapolis.

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

saying: "Write in a book what you see and send it to the seven churches -- to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea."

"To the angel of the church in Laodicea write the following: "This is the solemn pronouncement of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the originator of God's creation: