⁴ though I myself have reasons for such confidence.^(A)

If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: ⁵ circumcised^(B) on the eighth day, of the people of Israel,^(C) of the tribe of Benjamin,^(D) a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee;^{(E) 6} as for zeal,^(F) persecuting the church;^(G) as for righteousness based on the law,^(H) faultless.

⁷ But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss^(I) for the sake of Christ. ⁸ What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing^(J) Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ^{(K) 9} and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law,^(L) but that which is through faith in^[a] Christ—the righteousness^(M) that comes from God on the basis of faith.^(N)

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.

¹¹ I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content^(A) 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,^(B) whether living in plenty or in want.^{(C) 13} I can do all this through him who gives me strength.^(D)