Chapter 16

   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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   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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   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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   And if it is worth while for me also to make the journey, they shall go as my companions.  

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   I shall come to you after passing through Macedonia; for my plan will be to pass through Macedonia;  

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   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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   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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   I shall remain in Ephesus, however, until the time of the Harvest Festival,  

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   for a wide door stands open before me which demands great efforts, and we have many opponents.  

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   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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   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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   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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   Be on the alert; stand firm in the faith; acquit yourselves like men; be strong.  

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   Let all that you do be done from motives of love.  

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   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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   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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   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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   They have refreshed my spirit, and yours. Acknowledge such men as these.  

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   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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   The brethren all send greetings to you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.  

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   The final greeting of me--Paul--with my own hand.  

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   If any one is destitute of love to the Lord, let him be accursed. OUR LORD IS COMING.  

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   The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.  

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   My love in Christ Jesus be with you all.  

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