Collection for the Jerusalem Church

1Now about the collectiona for the •saints: You should do the same as I instructed the Galatianb churches. 2On the first day of the week,c, d each of you is to set something aside and save in keeping with how he prospers, so that no collections will need to be made when I come.e 3When I arrive, I will send with lettersf those you recommend to carry your gracious gift to Jerusalem.g 4If it is suitable for me to go as well, they can travel with me.

Paul’s Travel Plans

5I will come to you after I pass through Macedoniah — 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, for I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord allows.i 8But I will stay in Ephesusj until Pentecost,k 9because a wide doorl for effective ministry has opened for mem — yet many oppose me. 10If Timothy comes, see that he has nothing to fear from you, because he is doing the Lord’s work,n just as I am. 11Therefore, no one should look downo on him. Send him on his way in peace so he can come to me, for I am expecting him with the brothers.p

12About our brother Apollos:q 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,r act like a man, be strong. 14Your every action must be done with love.s

15•Brothers, you know the household of Stephanas: They are the •firstfruitst of Achaiau 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 pleased to have Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus present, because these men have made up for your absence. 18For they have refreshed my spiritv and yours. Therefore recognizew such people.

Conclusion

19The churches of •Asiax greet you.y Aquila and Priscillaz greet you warmly in the Lord, along with the church that meets in their home.aa 20All the brothers greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.ab

21This greeting is in my own handac, ad — Paul. 22If anyone does not love the Lord, a curse be on him. Marana tha that is, Lord, come!ae 23The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.af 24My love be with all of you in Christ Jesus.