to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church that meets in your home.

I pray that your participation in the faith may become effective through knowing every good thing that is in us for the glory of Christ.

I wanted to keep him with me, so that in my imprisonment for the gospel he might serve me in your place.

But I didn’t want to do anything without your consent, so that your good deed might not be out of obligation, but of your own free will.

For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently,

And if he has wronged you in any way, or owes you anything, charge that to my account.

I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it—not to mention to you that you owe me even your own self.

Since I am confident of your obedience, I am writing to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say.

But meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, for I hope that through your prayers I will be restored to you.