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Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do.
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On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.
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Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem.
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If it seems advisable for me to go also, they will accompany me.
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After I go through Macedonia, I will come to you – for I will be going through Macedonia.
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Perhaps I will stay with you for a while, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey, wherever I go.
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For I do not want to see you now and make only a passing visit; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits.
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But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost,
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because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.
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When Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is carrying on the work of the Lord, just as I am.
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No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in pace so that he may return to me. I am expecting him along with the brothers.
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Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers. He was quite unwilling to go now, but he will go when he has the opportunity.
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Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.
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Do everything in love.
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You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people. I urge you, brothers and sisters,
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to submit to such people and to everyone who joins in the work and labors at it.
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I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you.
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For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.
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The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house.
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All the brothers and sisters here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.
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I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand.
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If anyone does not love the Lord, let that person be cursed! Come, Lord!
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The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.
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My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.
