based on the hope laid up for you in heaven. Some time ago you heard about this hope through the word of truth, the gospel

You learned about this gospel from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of the Messiah on your behalf.

For this reason, since the day we heard about this, we have not stopped praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the full knowledge of God's will with respect to all spiritual wisdom and understanding,

This secret was hidden throughout the ages and generations but has now been revealed to his saints,

to whom God wanted to make known the glorious riches of this secret among the gentiles which is the Messiah in you, our glorious hope.

I work hard and struggle to do this, using the energy that he powerfully provides in me.

I say this so that no one will mislead you with nice-sounding rhetoric.

"Don't handle this! Don't taste or touch that!"

Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.

I am sending him to you for this very reason, so that you may know how we are doing and that he may encourage your hearts.

When this letter has been read among you, have it read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and be sure to read the one from Laodicea.

This greeting is written with my own signature "Paul." Remember that I remain imprisoned. May grace be with you! Amen.