[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 trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.

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

Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.

Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.

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

I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.

For it was owing to his devotion to the Master's work that he was at the point of death, having risked his own life in the effort to supply what was wanting in the help that you sent me.

For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you.

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.}