Study Desk

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.

Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.

I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.

Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.

Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you,

since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints,

because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel,

And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,

being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;

For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.

For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell,

Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church,

of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known,

the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints.

For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.

For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face,

For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.

For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily,