And it is my prayer that your love may overflow still more and more, directed by fuller knowledge and keener insight,

What difference then does it make? In one way or another, whether in pretense or in sincerity, Christ is being preached, and that is the thing that makes me glad; yes, more too, I will continue to be glad of it,

which will result in your joy; so that, through union with Christ Jesus, you may have more than sufficient ground for boasting about me, through my being with you again.

So, my dearly loved friends, as you have always been obedient, so now with reverence and awe keep on working clear down to the finishing point of your salvation not only as though I were with you but much more because I am away;

though I too might rely on these. If anyone thinks that he can rely on outward privileges, far more might I do so:

Even while I was at Thessalonica you sent money more than once for my needs.

I have received your payment in full, and more too. I am amply supplied after getting the things you sent by Epaphroditus; they are like sweet incense, the kind of sacrifice that God accepts and approves.

All God's people wish to be remembered to you, but more especially the members of the Emperor's household.