| Chapter 16 |
1 | As to the collection for God's people, what I have directed the Churches of Galatia to do, you must do also.
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2 | On the first day of every week let each of you put on one side and store up at his home whatever gain has been granted to him; so that whenever I come, there may then be no collections going on.
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3 | And when I am with you, whatever brethren you accredit by letter I will send to carry your kind gift to Jerusalem.
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4 | And if it is worth while for me also to make the journey, they shall go as my companions.
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5 | I shall come to you after passing through Macedonia; for my plan will be to pass through Macedonia;
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6 | and I shall make some stay with you perhaps, or even spend the winter with you, in order that you may help me forward, whichever way I travel.
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7 | For I do not wish to see you on this occasion merely in passing; but if the Lord permits, I hope to remain some time with you.
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8 | I shall remain in Ephesus, however, until the time of the Harvest Festival,
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9 | for a wide door stands open before me which demands great efforts, and we have many opponents.
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10 | If Timothy pays you a visit, see that he is free from fear in his relations with you; for he is engaged in the Master's work just as I am.
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11 | Therefore let no one slight him, but all of you should help him forward in peace to join me; for I am waiting for him and others of the brethren.
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12 | As for our brother Apollos, I have repeatedly urged him to accompany the brethren who are coming to you: but he is quite resolved not to do so at present. He will come, however, when he has a good opportunity.
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13 | Be on the alert; stand firm in the faith; acquit yourselves like men; be strong.
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14 | Let all that you do be done from motives of love.
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15 | And I beseech you, brethren--you know the household of Stephanas, how they were the earliest Greek converts to Christ, and have devoted themselves to the service of God's people--
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16 | I beseech you, on your part, to show deference to such men, and to every one who participates in their work and toils hard.
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17 | It is a joy to me that Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus have now arrived, because what was wanting so far as you are concerned they have supplied.
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18 | They have refreshed my spirit, and yours. Acknowledge such men as these.
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19 | The Churches in the province of Asia send you greetings; and Aquila and Prisca, in hearty Christian love, do the same, together with the Church which meets at their house.
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20 | The brethren all send greetings to you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.
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21 | The final greeting of me--Paul--with my own hand.
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22 | If any one is destitute of love to the Lord, let him be accursed. OUR LORD IS COMING.
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23 | The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.
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24 | My love in Christ Jesus be with you all.
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