¹⁷ “After an absence of several years, I came to Jerusalem to bring my people gifts for the poor^(A) and to present offerings.

²⁶ For Macedonia^(A) and Achaia^(B) were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the Lord’s people in Jerusalem.^(C)

³¹ Pray that I may be kept safe^(A) from the unbelievers in Judea and that the contribution^(B) I take to Jerusalem may be favorably received by the Lord’s people^(C) there,

¹⁹ What is more, he was chosen by the churches to accompany us^(A) as we carry the offering, which we administer in order to honor the Lord himself and to show our eagerness to help.^{(B) 20} We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift.

9 There is no need^(A) for me to write to you about this service^(B) to the Lord’s people.^(C)

¹² This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs^(A) of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.^{(B) 13} Because of the service^(C) by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God^(D) for the obedience that accompanies your confession^(E) of the gospel of Christ,^(F) and for your generosity^(G) in sharing with them and with everyone else.