[This letter is from] Paul and Timothy, slaves of Christ Jesus, [and is being sent] to all the saints [i.e., God's holy people] who are at Philippi [Note: This is a town in present-day northeastern Greece, and the first place in Europe where Paul established Christianity], along with the overseers [Note: These men were also called elders, shepherds or pastors] and deacons.

But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I may also be encouraged by learning news about you.

For I have no one but him to send--no one of kindred spirit who would take the same genuine interest in your welfare.

Therefore, I hope [that it is His will] to send him immediately, just as soon as I see how my case turns out;

However, I thought it necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, [who has been] my brother and companion and fellow soldier, who was also sent as your messenger to take care of my needs.

I send him because he is longing to see you all and is distressed at your having heard of his illness.

So I have sent him all the more eagerly so that when you see him again you may rejoice and I may be less concerned about you.

for it was through the work of the Lord that he came near to death; for he hazarded his very life to supply what was lacking in the help you sent me.

for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.

But I have received everything in full and more; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent me. They are the fragrant aroma of an offering, an acceptable sacrifice which God welcomes and in which He delights.

Give words of love to every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send you their love.

All the saints send their love to you, specially those who are of Caesar's house.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. {Sent from Rome by Epaphroditus.}