⁹ “This, then, is how you should pray:

²⁹ The secret things belong to the Lord our God,^(A) but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law.^(B)

Paul’s Chains Advance the Gospel

¹² Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters,^[a] that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. ¹³ As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard^[b] and to everyone else that I am in chains^(A) for Christ. ¹⁴ And because of my chains,^(B) most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.^(C)

¹⁵ It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. ¹⁶ The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.^{(D) 17} The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition,^(E) not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.^{(F) 18} But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,

Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity

4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for,^(A) my joy and crown, stand firm^(B) in the Lord in this way, dear friends!

² I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind^(C) in the Lord. ³ Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers,^(D) whose names are in the book of life.^(E)

Final Exhortations

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!^{(F) 5} Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.^{(G) 6} Do not be anxious about anything,^(H) but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.^{(I) 7} And the peace of God,^(J) which transcends all understanding,^(K) will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

⁸ Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ⁹ Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice.^(L) And the God of peace^(M) will be with you.

Thanks for Their Gifts

¹⁰ I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me.^(N) Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. ¹¹ I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content^(O) whatever the circumstances. ¹² I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry,^(P) whether living in plenty or in want.^{(Q) 13} I can do all this through him who gives me strength.^(R)

¹⁴ Yet it was good of you to share^(S) in my troubles. ¹⁵ Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days^(T) of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia,^(U) not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only;^{(V) 16} for even when I was in Thessalonica,^(W) you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.^{(X) 17} Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.^{(Y) 18} I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus^(Z) the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant^(AA) offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God will meet all your needs^(AB) according to the riches of his glory^(AC) in Christ Jesus.

²⁰ To our God and Father^(AD) be glory for ever and ever. Amen.^(AE)