Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will, for the promise of life in Christ Jesus:

Remembering your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy,

So don’t be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, or of me His prisoner. Instead, share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God.

Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.

I suffer for it to the point of being bound like a criminal, but God’s message is not bound.

This is why I endure all things for the elect: so that they also may obtain salvation, which is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.

Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, having this inscription:

The Lord knows those who are His, and
Everyone who names the name of the Lord
must turn away from unrighteousness.

So if anyone purifies himself from anything dishonorable, he will be a special instrument, set apart, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.

The Lord’s slave must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach, and patient,

Then they may come to their senses and escape the Devil’s trap, having been captured by him to do his will.

Just as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so these also resist the truth, men who are corrupt in mind, worthless in regard to the faith.

so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the proclamation might be fully made through me and all the Gentiles might hear. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.