those preach the gospel of Christ, not in sincerity, but from a principle of contention, with a view to inflame the persecution against me:

is it not however some advantage? since in either way, whether it be occasionally, or professedly, Christ is preach'd; which is now, and always will be matter of joy to me.

agreeably to that expectation and persuasion I have, that I shall not labour in vain; but as I always have, so I shall still glorify Christ in my body, whether it be by life or by death: for if I live, I live to Christ;

whether it be an advantage to me or not still to lead this mortal life, what to chuse I cannot tell.

for it is a favour bestowed upon you, that you not only believe on Christ, but suffer also for his sake,

who tho' he was the image of God, did not affect to appear with divine majesty, but divested himself thereof,

Wherefore, my beloved, as you have always obey'd the gospel, not only when I was with you, but much more now while I am absent, continue the work of your own salvation, whatever persecutions you apprehend:

you, who display the doctrine of eternal life) that in the day of Christ I may have the satisfaction of not having pursued my laborious course in vain.

but God had pity on him, and not on him only, but on me likewise, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.

for he was upon the brink of death for the service of Christ, having expos'd his life to the greatest dangers, to perform those kind offices, which you could not do yourselves.

Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. it is not uneasy to me to write what I have already said, and it is an advantage to you.

and be his true disciple, not professing that justification, which is derived from the law, but that which is from the gospel,

for I am not yet secure of the prize, I have not yet finish'd my course: but I press to obtain the reward, which Jesus Christ invited me to.

the Lord is coming: be not in any manner of sollicitude, but in all your occasions lay your requests before God by prayer and supplication accompany'd by thanksgiving.

Now I joyfully thank the Lord, that your concern for me has at length reviv'd. not that you wanted the disposition, but only the opportunity.

it is not my indigence that makes me say this: for I have learn'd, in whatevever state I am, therewith to be content: I know how to be in want,

not that I desire a present; but what I desire is, that the fruits of your liberality may greatly redound to your own account.