I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith!

since you are encountering the same conflict that you saw me face and now hear that I am facing.

For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for those who have not met me face to face.

But although we suffered earlier and were mistreated in Philippi, as you know, we had the courage in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in spite of much opposition.

Compete well for the faith and lay hold of that eternal life you were called for and made your good confession for in the presence of many witnesses.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, we must get rid of every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and run with endurance the race set out for us,