¹² for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God.

¹⁴ your present abundance and their need, so that their abundance may also supply your need, in order that there may be equality. ¹⁵ As it is written,

²⁵ Still, I think it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus—my brother and coworker and fellow soldier, your messenger^[a] and minister to my need,^(A)

¹⁷ How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help?^(A)

Faith without Works Is Dead

¹⁴ What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but does not have works? Surely that faith cannot save, can it?^{(A) 15} If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food^{(B) 16} and one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill,” and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that?

Philemon’s Love and Faith

⁴ I thank my God always when I mention you^[a] in my prayers, ⁵ because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith toward the Lord Jesus.^{(A) 6} I pray that the partnership of your faith may become effective as you comprehend all the good that we^[b] share in Christ.^{[c] 7} I have^[d] indeed received much joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, my brother.^(B)

¹⁸ I have been paid in full and have more than enough; I am fully satisfied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.^{(A) 19} And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.^(B)

The Collection for Christians at Jerusalem

9 Now it is not necessary for me to write you about the ministry to the saints,

⁴ begging us earnestly for the favor^[a] of partnering in this ministry to the saints,^(A)

¹¹ as you also join in helping us by your prayers, so that many may give thanks on our^[a] behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.^(A)