16:1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so do you also. |
16:2 On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come. |
16:3 When I arrive, whomever you may approve, I will send them with letters to carry your gift to Jerusalem; |
16:4 and if it is fitting for me to go also, they will go with me. |
16:5 But I will come to you after I go through Macedonia, for I am going through Macedonia; |
16:6 and perhaps I will stay with you, or even spend the winter, so that you may send me on my way wherever I may go. |
16:7 For I do not wish to see you now {just} in passing; for I hope to remain with you for some time, if the Lord permits. |
16:8 But I will remain in Ephesus until Pentecost; |
16:9 for a wide door for effective {service} has opened to me, and there are many adversaries. |
16:10 Now if Timothy comes, see that he is with you without cause to be afraid, for he is doing the Lord's work, as I also am. |
16:11 So let no one despise him. But send him on his way in peace, so that he may come to me; for I expect him with the brethren. |
16:12 But concerning Apollos our brother, I encouraged him greatly to come to you with the brethren; and it was not at all {his} desire to come now, but he will come when he has opportunity. |
16:13 Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. |
16:14 Let all that you do be done in love. |
16:15 Now I urge you, brethren (you know the household of Stephanas, that they were the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves for ministry to the saints), |
16:16 that you also be in subjection to such men and to everyone who helps in the work and labors. |
16:17 I rejoice over the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have supplied what was lacking on your part. |
16:18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men. |
16:19 The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Prisca greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. |
16:20 All the brethren greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. |
16:21 The greeting is in my own hand--Paul. |
16:22 If anyone does not love the Lord, he is to be accursed. Maranatha. |
16:23 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. |
16:24 My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen. |