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Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:
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It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.
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And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight,
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The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.
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for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.
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I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
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I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;
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without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.
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And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!
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Do Everything Without Grumbling
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,
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circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee;
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I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,
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and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.
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Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.
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Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
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Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.
