²⁴ but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.

²⁵ Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, ²⁶ so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.

²² If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!

⁷ But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate^(A) will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.^(B)

²⁹ I know that after I leave, savage wolves^(A) will come in among you and will not spare the flock.^{(B) 30} Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples^(C) after them. ³¹ So be on your guard! Remember that for three years^(D) I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.^(E)