²⁴ However, I consider my life worth nothing to me;^(A) my only aim is to finish the race^(B) and complete the task^(C) the Lord Jesus has given me^(D)—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.^(E)

Present Weakness and Resurrection Life

4 Therefore, since through God’s mercy^(A) we have this ministry, we do not lose heart.^(B)

¹³ Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die^(A) in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”^(B)

⁶ For I am already being poured out like a drink offering,^(A) and the time for my departure is near.^{(B) 7} I have fought the good fight,^(C) I have finished the race,^(D) I have kept the faith. ⁸ Now there is in store for me^(E) the crown of righteousness,^(F) which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day^(G)—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.^(H)

Final Greetings

¹² With the help of Silas,^[a](A) whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly,^(B) encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it.^(C)

¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight^(A) in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships,^(B) in persecutions,^(C) in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.^(D)

⁸ We are hard pressed on every side,^(A) but not crushed; perplexed,^(B) but not in despair; ⁹ persecuted,^(C) but not abandoned;^(D) struck down, but not destroyed.^(E)

⁶ And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works;^(A) if it were, grace would no longer be grace.

³ and which now at his appointed season^(A) he has brought to light^(B) through the preaching entrusted to me^(C) by the command of God^(D) our Savior,^(E)