being engag'd in the same conflict, in which you saw I was formerly, and hear that I am at present engag'd.

for the same temper of mind ought to be in you as was in Christ Jesus:

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:

for he long'd to see you all, and was greatly concern'd, that you should hear he was sick. and indeed he was sick almost unto death:

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.