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Reward for Fidelity. [a](A)For I am already being poured out like a libation, and the time of my departure is at hand. [b]I have competed well; I have finished the race;(B) I have kept the faith. [c]From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day,(C) and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearance.

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Footnotes

  1. 4:6 The apostle recognizes his death through martyrdom to be imminent. He regards it as an act of worship in which his blood will be poured out in sacrifice; cf. Ex 29:38–40; Phil 2:17.
  2. 4:7 At the close of his life Paul could testify to the accomplishment of what Christ himself foretold concerning him at the time of his conversion, “I will show him what he will have to suffer for my name” (Acts 9:16).
  3. 4:8 When the world is judged at the parousia, all who have eagerly looked for the Lord’s appearing and have sought to live according to his teachings will be rewarded. The crown is a reference to the laurel wreath placed on the heads of victorious athletes and conquerors in war; cf. 2 Tm 2:5; 1 Cor 9:25.

16 At my first defense no one appeared on my behalf, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them!(A) 17 But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.(B) 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil threat and will bring me safe to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.(C)

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