Study Desk

But it is always good to be zealous in a good cause, and not only when I am present with you.

My little children, of whom I am again in travail until Christ is formed in you--

but I could wish to be present with you now, and to change my tone, for I am perplexed about you.

But I, brothers, if I still preach circumcision, why am I still persecuted? Then the stumbling-block of the cross has been removed.

For this cause I, Paul, am the prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles,

for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

But that you also may know my affairs, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will make known to you all things;

but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.

But I am in a dilemma between the two, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.

Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, that, whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your state, that you stand firm in one spirit, with one soul striving for the faith of the gospel;

Yes, and if I am poured out on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice, and rejoice with you all.

Not that I have already obtained, or am already made perfect; but I press on, if it is so that I may take hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.

Not that I speak in respect to lack, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content in it.

But I have all things, and abound. I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things that came from you, a sweet-smelling fragrance, an acceptable and well-pleasing sacrifice to God.

For though I am absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, rejoicing and seeing your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.

praying together for us also, that God may open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds;

I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts,

The saying is faithful, and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

to which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth in Christ, not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

having been reminded of the unfeigned faith that is in you; which lived first in your grandmother Lois, and your mother Eunice, and, I am persuaded, in you also.