that the fellowship of thy faith may become effectual, in the knowledge of every good thing which is in you, unto Christ.

Wherefore, though I have all boldness in Christ to enjoin thee that which is befitting,

whom I have sent back to thee in his own person, that is, my very heart:

whom I would fain have kept with me, that in thy behalf he might minister unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

but without thy mind I would do nothing; that thy goodness should not be as of necessity, but of free will.

For perhaps he was therefore parted from thee for a season, that thou shouldest have him for ever;

But if he hath wronged the at all, or oweth thee aught, put that to mine account;

I Paul write it with mine own hand, I will repay it: that I say not unto thee that thou owest to me even thine own self besides.

Having confidence in thine obedience I write unto thee, knowing that thou wilt do even beyond what I say.

But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I hope that through your prayers I shall be granted unto you.