19 because I know this will lead to my salvation[a](A) through your prayers and help from the Spirit(B) of Jesus Christ.(C) 20 My eager expectation and hope(D) is that I will not be ashamed about anything, but that now as always, with all courage, Christ will be highly honored in my body, whether by life(E) or by death.(F)

Living Is Christ

21 For me, to live is Christ(G) and to die is gain.(H) 22 Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful(I) work(J) for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. 23 I am torn between the two. I long to depart and be with Christ(K)—which is far better(L) 24 but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. 25 Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,(M) 26 so that, because of my coming to you again, your boasting(N) in Christ Jesus(O) may abound.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. 1:19 Or vindication

19 For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance.

Paul’s Life for Christ

20 For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. 21 For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. 22 But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. 23 I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. 24 But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live.

25 Knowing this, I am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith. 26 And when I come to you again, you will have even more reason to take pride in Christ Jesus because of what he is doing through me.

Read full chapter