Preach the Word

1I conjure you in the name of God, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is to judge the living and the dead, at his appearance in his kingdom, 2to preach the word with assiduity upon all occasions: reprove, censure, exhort, with the most tender persuasions. 3for the time will come, when they will not endure sound doctrine, but get teachers of their own corrupt taste, to sooth their ears that itch for flattery: 4which, while they are deaf to the truth, attentively listen to fables. 5be you then entirely upon the watch: be insensible to toil: perform the work of an evangelist, and discharge your ministerial function.

6as for me, my blood will soon be pour'd out, and the time of my departure draws nigh: 7I have struggled in a glorious cause: I have finish'd my career: I have stood to the faith: 8I have nothing more to do, but to receive the crown of virtue reserv'd for me, which the Lord, the just judge, will give me in that day: and not only to me, but to those also, who have long'd for his appearance.

Personal Concerns

9Endeavour to come to me very soon: 10for Damas, out of love to this world has abandon'd me, and is gone to Thessalonica: Crescens, to Galatia: and Titus, to Dalmatia. 11only Luke is with me, take Mark and bring him with you; because he will be useful to me in the ministry. 12Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. 13when you come, bring the cloke and books, but especially the roll, which I left with Carpus at Troas. 14Alexander the copper-smith did me many injuries: the Lord may reward him according to his actions. 15beware of him, for he violently opposed our doctrine.

The Lord Remains Faithful

16At my first defence, I had no assistance, for every body deserted me. I wish it may never be laid to their charge. 17however the Lord assisted and strengthen'd me, that the gospel might be confirm'd by my remonstrance, and all the nations might hear it; so that I was deliver'd out of the mouth of the lion: 18and the Lord will deliver me from every malicious design, and preserve me for his heavenly kingdom, to him be glory to endless ages, amen.

Final Greetings
(Ephesians 6:21–24; Philippians 4:21–23)

19Salute Prisca, and Aquila, and the family of Onesiphorus. 20Erastus staid at Corinth: but Trophimus I left sick at Miletum. 21endeavour to come before winter. Eubulus, Prudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brethren salute you.

22the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, grace be with you. AMEN.