So, my dear friends, as you have always been obedient, with reverence and awe make every effort to insure your salvation, not simply as though I were with you, but all the more because I am away.

So I am all the more eager to send him, so that you may have the pleasure of seeing him again, and I may feel more relieved.

though I at least am entitled to rely on them. If anyone thinks he can rely on his physical advantages, still more can I!

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

You have paid me in full, and more too. I am fully supplied with what I have received from you through Epaphroditus. It is like fragrant incense, just such a sacrifice as God welcomes and approves.