When he met us in Assos, we took him aboard and went to Mitylene.

(We were in all two hundred seventy-six persons on the ship.)

One should think about us this way – as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.

when people lie about us, we answer in a friendly manner. We are the world’s dirt and scum, even now.

I am not writing these things to shame you, but to correct you as my dear children.

Some have become arrogant, as if I were not coming to you.

I am speaking to thoughtful people. Consider what I say.

And our hope for you is steadfast because we know that as you share in our sufferings, so also you will share in our comfort.

through glory and dishonor, through slander and praise; regarded as impostors, and yet true;

Now as a fair exchange – I speak as to my children – open wide your hearts to us also.

I do not want to seem as though I am trying to terrify you with my letters,

for you were at one time darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of the light –

Obey with enthusiasm, as though serving the Lord and not people,

For God is my witness that I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.

So I hope to send him as soon as I know more about my situation,

Therefore, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him,

Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.

Whatever you are doing, work at it with enthusiasm, as to the Lord and not for people,

although we could have imposed our weight as apostles of Christ; instead we became little children among you. Like a nursing mother caring for her own children,

For you know quite well that the day of the Lord will come in the same way as a thief in the night.