¹⁴ But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced^(A) but would be voluntary.

⁷ Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give,^(A) not reluctantly or under compulsion,^(B) for God loves a cheerful giver.^(C)

² Be shepherds of God’s flock^(A) that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be;^(B) not pursuing dishonest gain,^(C) but eager to serve; ³ not lording it over^(D) those entrusted to you, but being examples^(E) to the flock.

Paul’s Plea for Onesimus

⁸ Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, ⁹ yet I prefer to appeal to you^(A) on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner^(B) of Christ Jesus—

⁵ So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers^(A) to visit you in advance and finish the arrangements for the generous gift you had promised. Then it will be ready as a generous gift,^(B) not as one grudgingly given.^(C)

¹² For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has,^(A) not according to what one does not have.

²⁴ Not that we lord it over^(A) your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.^(B)

¹⁷ If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward;^(A) if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me.^(B)