I am hesitating between two desires, for I long to depart and to be with Christ, for that is far, far better,

As far as enthusiasm is concerned, I persecuted the church; as far as being righteous according to the law of Moses is concerned, I was without just blame.

When he had assumed human form, he still further humbled himself and carried his obedience so far as to die, and to die upon the cross.

although I myself might have confidence in outward rites. If any one else claims a right to trust in them, far more may I;

because that for the work of Christ he went so far, that he was nigh unto death, and regarded not his life, to fulfill that service which was lacking on your part toward me.

Having been circumcised on the eighth day, I am of the nation of Israel, from the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews. As far as the Law is concerned, I was a Pharisee.

What is more, I continue to consider all these things to be a loss for the sake of what is far more valuable, knowing the Messiah Jesus, my Lord. It is because of him that I have experienced the loss of all those things. Indeed, I consider them rubbish in order to gain the Messiah

However, we should live up to what we have achieved so far.

Then God's peace, which goes far beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your hearts and minds in union with the Messiah Jesus.