Study Desk

My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,

how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you.

I am confident in the Lord that you will take no other view. The one who is troubling you will bear the judgment, whoever he may be.

Now, brothers, if I am still preaching circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been abolished.

See what large letters I am using to write to you with my own hand!

Though I am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,

This mystery is profound, but I am speaking about Christ and the church.

for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should.

Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know about me and what I am doing.

As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.

The latter do so in love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.

I am torn between the two. I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better indeed.

But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.

Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less anxious.

I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances.

I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation-to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need.

Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account.

I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me face to face,

For although I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, and I delight to see your orderly condition and firm faith in Christ.

as you pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.