[1] Now concerning the contribution for the saints: as I directed the
churches of Galatia, so you also are to do. [2] On the first day of every
week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may
prosper, so that contributions need not be made when I come. [3] And when I
arrive, I will send those whom you accredit by letter to carry your gift to
Jerusalem. [4] If it seems advisable that I should go also, they will
accompany me. [5] I will visit you after passing through Macedo'nia, for I
intend to pass through Macedo'nia, [6] and perhaps I will stay with you or
even spend the winter, so that you may speed me on my journey, wherever I
go. [7] For I do not want to see you now just in passing; I hope to spend
some time with you, if the Lord permits. [8] But I will stay in Ephesus
until Pentecost, [9] for a wide door for effective work has opened to me,
and there are many adversaries. [10] When Timothy comes, see that you put
him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am. [11]
So let no one despise him. Speed him on his way in peace, that he may
return to me; for I am expecting him with the brethren. [12] As for our
brother Apol'los, I strongly urged him to visit you with the other
brethren, but it was not at all his will to come now. He will come when he
has opportunity. [13] Be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous,
be strong. [14] Let all that you do be done in love. [15] Now, brethren,
you know that the household of Steph'anas were the first converts in
Acha'ia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints;
[16] I urge you to be subject to such men and to every fellow worker and
laborer. [17] I rejoice at the coming of Steph'anas and Fortuna'tus and
Acha'icus, because they have made up for your absence; [18] for they
refreshed my spirit as well as yours. Give recognition to such men. [19]
The churches of Asia send greetings. Aq'uila and Prisca, together with the
church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord. [20] All the
brethren send greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss. [21] I, Paul,
write this greeting with my own hand. [22] If any one has no love for the
Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord, come! [23] The grace of the Lord Jesus
be with you. [24] My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.
