so you are afflicted at present: but I will see you again, and then shall your hearts be affected with joy, and your joy shall no one wrest from you.

having Jesus in our view, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down on the right hand of the throne of God.

for your liberality, my brother, affected us with great joy and comfort, by your having refresh'd the bowels of the saints.

and these things write we unto you, that our joy may be perfect.

Consider the various tryals that surround you, my brethren, as matter of great joy; knowing this,

be afflicted, be mournful, and weep: let your mirth be converted to sadness, and your joy to vexation.

This it is that fills you with joy, notwithstanding the various tryals, which still necessarily afflict you,

I had many things to write to you, but I don't think it proper to commit them to paper and ink, because I hope to make you a visit, and deliver them by word of mouth; that so our joy may be compleat.

greater joy I cannot have, than to hear that my children are attach'd to the truth.

Now to him that is able to keep you from falling, and make you appear in his glorious presence, without defect, and full of joy: