Philippians 1:18-26

Contemporary English Version

¹⁸ But that doesn't matter. All that matters is that people are telling about Christ, whether they are sincere or not. This is what makes me glad.

I will keep on being glad, ¹⁹ because I know that your prayers and the help that comes from the Spirit of Christ Jesus will keep me safe. ²⁰ I honestly expect and hope I will never do anything to be ashamed of. Whether I live or die, I always want to be as brave as I am now and bring honor to Christ.

²¹ If I live, it will be for Christ, and if I die, I will gain even more. ²² I don't know what to choose. I could keep on living and doing something useful. ²³ It is a hard choice to make. I want to die and be with Christ, because this would be much better. ^24-25 But I know that all of you still need me. This is why I am sure I will stay on to help you grow and be happy in your faith. ²⁶ Then, when I visit you again, you will have good reason to take great pride in Christ Jesus because of me.^[a]