1 Corinthians 16:10-24

The Message

^10-11 If Timothy shows up, take good care of him. Make him feel completely at home among you. He works so hard for the Master, just as I do. Don’t let anyone disparage him. After a while, send him on to me with your blessing. Tell him I’m expecting him, and any friends he has with him.

¹² About our friend Apollos, I’ve done my best to get him to pay you a visit, but haven’t talked him into it yet. He doesn’t think this is the right time. But there will be a “right time.”

^13-14 Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you’ve got, be resolute, and love without stopping.

^15-16 Would you do me a favor, friends, and give special recognition to the family of Stephanas? You know, they were among the first converts in Greece, and they’ve put themselves out, serving Christians ever since then. I want you to honor and look up to people like that: companions and workers who show us how to do it, giving us something to aspire to.

^17-18 I want you to know how delighted I am to have Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus here with me. They partially make up for your absence! They’ve refreshed me by keeping me in touch with you. Be proud that you have people like this among you.

¹⁹ The churches here in western Asia send greetings.

Aquila, Priscilla, and the church that meets in their house say hello.

²⁰ All the friends here say hello.

Pass the greetings around with holy hugs!

²¹ And I, Paul—in my own handwriting!—send you my regards.

²² If anyone won’t love the Master, throw him out. Make room for the Master!

²³ Our Master Jesus has his arms wide open for you.

²⁴ And I love all of you in the Messiah, in Jesus.