Collection for the Jerusalem Church

1Now about the collectiona for the saints: Do the same as I instructed the Galatianb churches. 2On the first day of the week,a each of you is to set something aside and save in keeping with how he is prospering, so that no collections will need to be made when I come.b 3When I arrive, I will send with lettersa those you recommend to carry your gift to Jerusalem.b 4If it is suitable for me to go as well, they will travel with me.

Paul’s Travel Plans

5I will come to you after I pass through Macedoniaa — for I will be traveling through Macedonia —  6and perhaps I will remain with you or even spend the winter, so that you may send me on my way wherever I go. 7I don’t want to see you now just in passing, since I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord allows.a 8But I will stay in Ephesusa until Pentecost,b 9because a wide doora for effective ministry has opened for meA — yet many oppose me. 10If Timothy comes, see that he has nothing to fear while with you, because he is doing the Lord’s work,a just as I am. 11So let no one look downa on him. Send him on his way in peace so that he can come to me, because I am expecting him with the brothers.

12Now about our brother Apollos:a I strongly urged him to come to you with the brothers, but he was not at all willing to come now. However, he will come when he has an opportunity.

Final Exhortation

13Be alert, stand firm in the faith,a be courageous,A be strong. 14Do everything in love.a

15Brothers and sisters, you know the household of Stephanas: They are the firstfruitsa of Achaiab and have devoted themselves to serving the saints. I urge you 16also to submit to such people, and to everyone who works and labors with them. 17I am delighted to have Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus present, because these men have made up for your absence. 18For they have refreshed my spirita and yours. Therefore recognizeb such people.

Conclusion

19The churches of Asiaa send you greetings.b Aquila and Priscillac send you greetings warmly in the Lord, along with the church that meets in their home.d 20All the brothers and sisters send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.a

21This greeting is in my own handa — Paul. 22If anyone does not love the Lord, a curse be on him. Our Lord, come!A 23The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.a 24My love be with all of you in Christ Jesus.