Ephesians 3 Cross References - AUV

¹ This is the reason that I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles, [pray for you. See 3:14-19]. ² [Note: Paul here digresses from his prayer, begun in 1:15-16, to explain the circumstances of his being a prisoner on behalf of these Gentiles]. [I assume] you have heard about my commission [to minister] to you, which was given to me by God’s unearned favor. ³ [It is] that God’s secret plan [i.e., revealed in the Gospel preached to Gentiles. See verse 6] was made known to me by way of a revelation. [See Acts 9:15; 22:21]. I have already written to you [about this] briefly [i.e., probably a reference to 1:9ff]. ⁴ So, when you read this you will be able to understand my insight into the secret plan of Christ, ⁵ which was not told to people of previous generations as it has now been revealed to His [i.e., Christ’s] holy apostles and prophets by the Holy Spirit. ⁶ This secret plan is that the Gentiles [now] share in the inheritance along with us [Jews], and are fellow-members of the body [i.e., the church], and that they share, along with us [Jews], in the promise of the Gospel, in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus. ⁷ I was made a minister [of the Gospel] according to the gift of God’s unearned favor, which was given to me according to the working of His power. ⁸ This favor of preaching the unfathomable riches of Christ to the Gentiles was given to me [even though] I am the least significant of all saints [i.e., God’s holy people]. ⁹ [I was given the responsibility] to enlighten all people regarding the working out of God’s secret plan, which has been kept hidden for ages in [the heart of] God, who created everything. ¹⁰ This was done so that now God’s many-sided wisdom could be made known through the church, to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms [Note: “Heavenly realms” here refers to the world around us, where these angelic beings (good or bad) view the unfolding of God’s wonderful plan], ¹¹ according to God’s eternal purpose which He carried out through Christ Jesus our Lord. ¹² It is in [fellowship with] Christ that we have boldness and confident access [to God] through our faith in Him. ¹³ So, I am asking you people not to become discouraged over my sufferings on your behalf, for they are for your benefit [eventually]. ¹⁴ This is the reason that I bow my knees [in prayer] to the Father, ¹⁵ from whom every family in heaven and on earth receives its name. [Note: Here Paul resumes the prayer he began in verse 1]. ¹⁶ [I pray] that, according to God’s glorious abundance, He would empower you to become [spiritually] strong through His Holy Spirit in your inner person, ¹⁷ so that Christ will live in your hearts through faith. [I pray] that you will be rooted and grounded in [your] love, ¹⁸ so that you, along with all the saints [i.e., God’s holy people], will be [spiritually] strong enough to grasp how wide and long and high and deep [Christ’s love is]; ¹⁹ and to know that His love for us surpasses [our] knowledge, so that you people will be completely filled with the fullness of God. ²⁰ May there be to God, who is able to do infinitely more [for us] than we could [even] ask or think, according to [His] power at work in us --- ²¹ [I say] may there be praise to God in the church and in [or, “for”] Christ Jesus throughout all generations of people for ages and ages. May it be so.

⁹ and quit thinking to yourselves, we claim Abraham as our forefather, because I tell you, God is able to make Abraham’s children out of these stones.

⁶ “Those persons who have an appetite for whatever is right will be blessed because they will be satisfied.

¹³ And do not allow us to fall under temptation, but deliver us from [being harmed by] the evil one.’

²⁴ “Every person therefore, who hears these words of mine and obeys them will be like the sensible person who built his house on a [foundation of] rock. ²⁵ The [heavy] rains came down and the flood waters rose and the winds blew and beat down on that house, but it did not collapse, for it was [built] on a foundation of rock.

²⁷ What I am telling you in the darkness [i.e., in obscurity], you tell it in the light [i.e., openly]. And what you hear [whispered] in your ear [you should] declare it from the housetops.

²⁵ About that time Jesus said [in prayer], “I thank you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things [i.e., the significance of Jesus’ words and works] from those who [thought they] were wise and intelligent and have [instead] revealed them to people who are child-like. ²⁶ Yes Father, you did this because it was very pleasing to you. ²⁷ “All things have been entrusted to me by my Father and no one [truly] knows the Son except the Father. And neither does anyone [truly] know the Father except the Son and that person to whom the Son wants to reveal Him.

⁶ But when the sun came up these tender sprouts were scorched and, since they had such tiny roots, they [quickly] withered away.

¹¹ He replied, “You disciples are being given an understanding of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but the crowds of people are not.

¹⁷ For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people have desired to see the things you are seeing, but did not get to. They desired to hear the things you are hearing, but did not get to.

³⁵ [This was] so that what was spoken by the prophet would be fulfilled, when he said [Psa. 78:2], “I will open my mouth [to speak] with parables. I will say things that have been hidden from the beginning of time.”

³⁴ Therefore look, I am sending to you prophets, wise men and scholarly teachers. You will murder and crucify some of them; you will whip some of them in your synagogues and pursue them from town to town.

³⁴ Then the King will say to those at His right side, ‘You who are blessed by my Father, come and receive the kingdom which has been prepared for you since the creation of the world,

¹⁹ So, as you go, make disciples out of people from all the nations, then immerse believers [See Mark 16:15-16] into the name of [i.e., to enter a relationship with] the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

¹⁵ Then He said to them, “You [men] go into the entire world and preach the good news to every person. ¹⁶ The person who believes [i.e., the Gospel] and is immersed will be saved [i.e., from condemnation], but whoever does not believe it will be condemned.

¹⁰ And the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for look, I am bringing good news that will cause great joy to all people. ¹¹ For a Savior has been born today in David’s city [i.e., Bethlehem], who is Christ the Lord [i.e., God’s specially chosen one].

¹⁴ “May there be glory to God in the highest [heavens], and may there be peace on earth among men who are pleasing to God.”

²⁶ Now it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Christ [i.e., God’s, specially chosen one]. ²⁷ And he was led by the Holy Spirit into the Temple, and when Joseph and Mary brought the baby Jesus in, so they could do to Him what was customary under the law of Moses,

⁴⁸ He is like a man building a house, who dug deep to lay the foundation on rock. And when a flood came the river pounded against that house, but could not shake it because it had been well built.

¹⁰ And He said to them, “You [disciples] are being given an understanding of the secrets of the kingdom of God, but the rest of the people [are being told] in parables, so that [even though they appear to be] seeing, they will not [actually] see; and [even though they seem to] hear, they will not understand.

²⁴ for I tell you, many prophets and kings wanted to see the things that you see, but did not [get to] see them. And [they wanted] to hear the things that you hear, but did not [get to] hear them.”

⁴⁹ Therefore, the wisdom of God said, [Note: Is this a reference to Jesus? See I Cor. 1:30 and Matt. 23:34-36], ‘I will send prophets and apostles to them [i.e., the Jewish people] and they will kill and persecute some of them,

¹² But before all these things happen, the authorities will grab hold of you, and persecute you, and turn you over to the synagogues and prisons [i.e., for punishment and confinement]. They will take you in front of kings and governors for being loyal to me.

⁴¹ Then Jesus went away from them about the distance of a stone’s throw and knelt down and prayed,

⁴⁷ And [the need for] a change of heart and life in order to receive the forgiveness of sins [from God] will be preached in Jesus’ name [i.e., by His authority] to people of all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.

¹ The Word [already] existed in the beginning [of time]. [Note: This is a reference to the preexistence of Jesus. See verse 14]. And the Word was with God and the Word was [what] God [was]. ² This Word existed with God from the beginning [of time]. ³ Everything came into being through this Word, and apart from Him not a single thing came into being.

¹⁶ For we have all received from His full richness one favor after another.

¹⁷ But Jesus said to them, “My Father is continuing to work and I am working.”

¹⁹ So, Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I tell you, the Son [of God] cannot do anything on His own [i.e., independently of the Father]; but [He does] what He sees His Father doing. For whatever the Father does, the Son also does as well.

⁵⁶ The person who eats my physical body and drinks my blood lives in me and I [live] in him.

¹⁰ The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that people could have life to its fullest.

²⁹ What my Father has given me [i.e., my sheep] are greater than everything [else], and no one is able to steal them from the Father’s hand. ³⁰ I and the Father are one.”

³⁰ I and the Father are one.”

⁶ Jesus answered him, “I am the way [to God], and the truth [to believe], and the life [to live]. No one can go to the Father, except through [believing in] me.

¹⁷ He is the Holy Spirit of truth [i.e., who reveals truth], whom the world cannot receive, for it does not see Him or know Him. [But] you know Him, for He lives with you, and will be within you.

²³ Jesus answered him, “If a person loves me, he will obey my teaching, and my Father will love him and we will come to him and make our home with him [i.e., in the person of the indwelling Holy Spirit].

²⁶ But the Helper, that is, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name [i.e., by my authority] will teach you everything. And He will remind you of everything that I [have] said to you.

¹³ No one has [any] greater love than to give up his life for his friends.

¹³ However, when the Holy Spirit of truth comes, He will lead you [apostles] into all the truth. For He will not speak on His own authority, but will speak [only] what He hears [from the Father]. And He will tell you about the things that are to come.

³ And this is never ending life; that people may know you [as] the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the One whom you have sent.

²³ I in them, and you in me, so that they may be completely one. [This is] so the world will know that you sent me and that you love them just as you love me.

⁴¹ When the apostles left the Council meeting, they were rejoicing over being considered worthy to suffer [such] shame for the name [of Jesus].

⁶⁰ Then he kneeled down and called out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold them responsible for this sin [of killing me]." And when he said this he fell asleep [in death].

¹⁵ But the Lord replied to him, "Go on your way, for Saul is someone I have especially chosen to carry my name to the [unconverted] Gentiles, kings and the Israelites.

⁴⁰ Then Peter asked them all to leave [the room]; he knelt down and prayed over her body, saying, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

¹⁹ While Peter was thinking about [the meaning of] the vision, the Holy Spirit said to him, "Look, there are three men [here] looking for you. ²⁰ Go downstairs and [then] leave with them. Do not worry about anything because I have sent them [to you]."

²⁸ And he said to them, "You people know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with, or even go near a person from another [i.e., non-Jewish] country, and yet God showed me that I should not consider any person ordinary or [ceremonially] unacceptable.

²⁶ and when he found him, he brought him [back] to Antioch. So, for an entire year Saul and Barnabas gathered the church together and taught many people. [It was] here in Antioch that the disciples were first [divinely] called Christians.

² As these men were ministering to the Lord [i.e., this probably means worshiping] and fasting, the Holy Spirit said [to one of them by way of inspiration]: "Set Barnabas and Saul apart for Me, [commissioning them] to do the work for which I have called them."

⁴⁶ But Paul and Barnabas [continued to] speak out boldly, saying, "It was necessary that the message of God be delivered to you [Jews] first. But since you have rejected it and [thereby] consider yourselves to be unworthy of [receiving] never ending life, we [i.e., Paul and Barnabas] will now begin proclaiming it to the [unconverted] Gentiles.

²² [Along the way] they strengthened the hearts of the disciples, urging them to continue [to believe and practice] the faith and [explaining] that entering God's [heavenly] kingdom [See II Tim. 4:18] requires enduring many trials.

¹⁸ This is what the Lord said when He predicted these things long ago.'

³⁶ After speaking these things Paul knelt down and prayed with all of the elders.

⁵ When we had completed preparations for the next day's voyage we left, and headed out [to sea] on our journey. All the disciples, together with their wives and children, escorted us out of the city and knelt down and prayed with us as we said goodbye to each other.

³³ Then the commanding officer approached Paul, took hold of him and ordered him to be secured with two chains. He then questioned him as to who he was and what he had done.

¹⁷ "And it happened that when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the Temple, I fell into a trance [i.e., a semi-conscious vision-like state].

²¹ Then the Lord said to me, 'Go, for I will send you far away from here to the Gentiles.' "

⁹ A loud commotion developed [in the Council meeting]. Some of the teachers of the law of Moses who belonged to the Pharisee party stood up and argued, saying, "We can find nothing wrong with this man. What if an angel or spirit did speak to him?"

¹⁸ So, the officer took Paul's nephew to the commander and said, "Paul, the prisoner, called for me and asked me to bring this young man to you. He has something to tell you."

¹⁵ I answered, 'Who are you, sir?' And the Lord said, 'I am Jesus, the One you are persecuting. ¹⁶ But, get up onto your feet, for the reason I have appeared to you is to appoint you a minister and witness of both the things you have [already] seen of me and the things I will [reveal when] appearing to you. ¹⁷ I will rescue you from the [Jewish] people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them,

¹⁷ I will rescue you from the [Jewish] people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them, ¹⁸ to open their eyes [to the truth] so they will turn from darkness to light and from the power [i.e., the influence] of Satan to God. [Then] they can receive the forgiveness of sins and the inheritance [of never ending life], along with [all] those who are set apart [for God] by trusting in Me.'

¹⁸ to open their eyes [to the truth] so they will turn from darkness to light and from the power [i.e., the influence] of Satan to God. [Then] they can receive the forgiveness of sins and the inheritance [of never ending life], along with [all] those who are set apart [for God] by trusting in Me.' ¹⁹ "As a result of this, O King, I did not disobey [the mandate of] this vision from heaven

²⁹ Paul replied, "I wish to God that, whether it would take a little or a lot, not only you, but all those who hear me today, might become [Christians] like me, except [not] with these chains."

¹⁷ And it happened after three days that Paul called together those who were the leading Jews, and when they assembled he said to them, "Brothers, although I had done nothing against the [Jewish] people or the customs of our forefathers, yet I was made a prisoner at Jerusalem, being placed in the custody of the Romans [while there]. ¹⁸ After questioning me, they wanted to release me because they could not find any grounds for sentencing me to death. ¹⁹ But when the Jews objected to this, I was compelled to appeal [my case] to Caesar, even though I had done nothing against my country. ²⁰ It was for this reason that I requested to see you and talk with you, for I am wearing this chain because of the hope held by the Israelites."

⁵ It was through Jesus, and for His name’s sake, that we [i.e., I] received God’s favor to become an apostle, in order to bring about obedience based on faith from among people of all nations.

⁴ Or, do you despise the abundance of God’s kindness and tolerance and patience [toward you], not realizing that His kindness is intended to cause you to repent? [i.e., to change your hearts and lives].

²⁹ But the [true] Jew is the person who is one on the inside, and [his] circumcision is a heart condition, [produced] by the Holy Spirit and not by the written law of Moses. [Note: Some translate “Spirit” here as “spirit” and make it simply an amplification of “heart”]. This person receives his praise from God and not [merely] from people.

²¹ and was fully convinced that what He had promised, He was able to carry out.

² Through Jesus we have also gained access by [our] faith to this unearned favor [of God]. We stand firm in it, and are glad that we have the hope of being honored by God.

⁵ And [having such] hope keeps us from being disappointed, because God’s love [for us] has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who was given to us [by God].

²² For in my heart I am delighted with God’s law,

⁹ But if the Spirit of God [truly] lives in your heart, you are not [being controlled] by the flesh, but by the Holy Spirit. But if any person does not have the Spirit of Christ [living in him], he does not belong to Christ. ¹⁰ And if Christ lives in your hearts, even though the body is [doomed to] death because of [Adam’s ?] sin; yet the spirit is [destined to] live [forever] because of being [made] right with God. [Note: Some take “spirit” here to be “Spirit” and make it “The Holy Spirit gives you life.” See next verse]. ¹¹ But if the Spirit of God, who raised up Jesus from the dead, lives in your hearts, [then] that One [i.e., God] who raised up Christ Jesus from the dead, will restore life to your mortal bodies also, through [the power of] God’s Spirit who lives in your hearts.

¹⁵ For you did not receive the Holy Spirit, to enslave you again to fear, [Note: Some translators take “Holy Spirit” here to be “spirit,” making the verse say “you did not receive the spirit of slavery”], but you received the Holy Spirit [who produces] sonship, so we can call out, “Abba”, [which means] “Father.” ¹⁶ The Holy Spirit Himself bears testimony [along] with our [human] spirit that we are the children of God. ¹⁷ And if we are [His] children, then we have an inheritance from God [i.e., blessings here and hereafter] and are fellow-sharers with Christ [of such blessings], providing we [are willing to] suffer with Him, so we can also be honored with Him [i.e., in the future life. See verses 18-25].

²⁸ And we know that God works out everything for the good of those who love Him and are called [to serve Him] in harmony with His purpose [for them]. ²⁹ For [that class of] persons whom God knew beforehand He also predetermined to become conformed to the [spiritual] likeness of His Son, so that He could be the firstborn One among [His] many brothers [i.e., so He could be the preeminent example to all His followers. See Heb. 2:11]. ³⁰ And [that class of] persons whom God [so] predetermined, He also called [through the Gospel. See II Thess. 2:14]. And those He called, He also made right with Himself. And those He made right with Himself, He also [determined to be] honored [i.e., in the future life].

³⁸ For I am convinced that neither death, nor [the trials of] life, nor [evil] angels, nor [evil] rulers, nor present or future [circumstances], nor [evil] powers,

¹¹ (OMITTED TEXT)

²³ [What if He did this] in order to demonstrate His wealth of glory toward people who deserved His mercy, whom He had previously determined should receive [such special] honor?

³ For they did not know about God’s way of making people right with Himself, so they attempted to establish their own way. In doing this they did not submit to God’s way for being made right with Him.

¹¹ For the Scripture says [Isa. 28:16], “Whoever believes in Him [i.e., Christ] will not be put to shame.” [i.e., he will never have unforgiven sin brought up against him] ¹² For there is no distinction [with God] between Jews and Greeks [i.e., Gentiles], for all have the same Lord, who is generous to all who appeal to Him [for help].

¹³ Now I am talking to you Gentiles, [and] since I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I will make the most of my ministry [to you],

²⁵ For I want you to know this secret, brothers, so you will not become conceited: Part of the Israelites have become [spiritually] insensitive [to God], [and will remain that way] until the fullness of the Gentiles occurs. [Note: As with verse 12, concerning the Jews, “fullness” here may mean either a large or the complete number of Gentiles who will be saved].

³³ O, how deep is the richness of God’s wisdom and knowledge! How difficult [it is for us] to explain His judgments and how impossible [for us] to accurately track how He operates!

³⁶ For everything was created by Him, exists through His [power] and is intended for His [glory]. May He be praised forever. May it be so.

³ And because of God’s unearned favor shown to me [i.e., in appointing me to be an apostle], I am telling every person among you not to think he is more important than he really is. Instead, he should have a sensible estimate [of his gifts] in harmony with the degree of faith God has given to each person. ⁴ For there are many parts to a single human body and all of these parts do not have the same function. ⁵ In the same way, though we [Christians] are many, we are one [spiritual] body in [fellowship with] Christ, and each one of us is part of [all] the others.

¹⁰ In your love for your brothers, show tender affection toward one another. Try to outdo one another in showing respect [for each other].

¹⁵ But I have written to you quite boldly in some places to remind you [of certain things], because of the favor shown to me by God,

¹⁵ But I have written to you quite boldly in some places to remind you [of certain things], because of the favor shown to me by God, ¹⁶ in appointing me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. I am serving like a priest in preaching God’s good news, so that the Gentiles might be like an acceptable sacrifice [to God], dedicated by the Holy Spirit.

¹⁶ in appointing me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. I am serving like a priest in preaching God’s good news, so that the Gentiles might be like an acceptable sacrifice [to God], dedicated by the Holy Spirit.

¹⁶ in appointing me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. I am serving like a priest in preaching God’s good news, so that the Gentiles might be like an acceptable sacrifice [to God], dedicated by the Holy Spirit. ¹⁷ Therefore, as I have fellowship with Christ Jesus, I am proud of my service to God. ¹⁸ For I will not dare to speak about anything, except what Christ has done through me in bringing about the obedience of the Gentiles. He accomplished this by my message and my deeds, ¹⁹ in the power demonstrated by [miraculous] signs and wonders, [produced] by the power of the Holy Spirit. So, I have completed preaching the good news about Christ from Jerusalem, all the way around [the area] to Illyricum [Note: This country was located northwest of Greece and in present-day Croatia].

²⁵ Now may there be glory for ever, through Jesus Christ, to the only wise God, who is able to make you stand firm [in the faith], according to the good news and proclamation of Jesus Christ. This message is the secret which was [eventually] revealed, after having been kept quiet about for long ages.

²⁵ Now may there be glory for ever, through Jesus Christ, to the only wise God, who is able to make you stand firm [in the faith], according to the good news and proclamation of Jesus Christ. This message is the secret which was [eventually] revealed, after having been kept quiet about for long ages. ²⁶ It is now being made known through the writings of the prophets, as commanded by the eternal God, to [people of] all the nations, in order to bring about their obedience to the faith ²⁷ [i.e., so they will believe and obey the truth]. May it be so.

²⁴ But to those who are called [by God to be saved], both Jews and Gentiles, [the message of] Christ is the power of God [See 1:16] and the wisdom of God. [See 1:30].

³⁰ But God brought you into [fellowship with] Christ Jesus, who was made to be God’s wisdom for us. Through Christ you have received a right relationship with God, [as well as] holiness and redemption [i.e., being bought back from Satan].

⁶ However, we speak [divine] wisdom among people who are [spiritually] mature, yet it is not a wisdom of this current age, nor of [its] current rulers, who are coming to nothing. ⁷ But we [apostles] speak God’s secret wisdom, which has been hidden [through the ages], which God predetermined for our honor before time began.

⁷ But we [apostles] speak God’s secret wisdom, which has been hidden [through the ages], which God predetermined for our honor before time began.

⁹ But as it is written [Isa. 64:4], “The things which no eye saw or ear heard, and which did not [even] enter the mind of men, is what God has prepared for those who love Him.”

⁹ But as it is written [Isa. 64:4], “The things which no eye saw or ear heard, and which did not [even] enter the mind of men, is what God has prepared for those who love Him.” ¹⁰ But God has revealed [to us] these things [i.e., His divine wisdom. See verses 7-8] through the Holy Spirit. For the Holy Spirit searches everything, even the deep things of God.

⁵ After all, who is Apollos? And who is Paul? They are [only] servants through whom you believed [in Christ], with each one doing what the Lord gave him to do.

¹ So, a person should look at us as servants of Christ and property managers entrusted with the secret truths of God.

¹ I now want to reply to the matter of idolatrous sacrifices [which you wrote to me about]. We know that we all possess knowledge. [Note: This may be a statement posed to Paul by the Corinthians, who seemed quite preoccupied with “knowledge”]. Knowledge [only] makes people arrogant, while love builds them up [spiritually].

¹⁷ For if I preached because [I personally decided] I wanted to, I could claim a reward. But if I did not preach from a personal decision to do so, then it would be because I was entrusted with the task [by God]. ¹⁸ Then what is my reward? It is being able to preach the good news without receiving financial support [for it], so as not to claim my full rights in [the work of preaching] the good news. ¹⁹ For although I am free from [being accountable to] all people, I placed myself under obligation to them [as a slave], so as to win as many as possible [to Christ]. ²⁰ I behaved like a Jew in front of the Jews in order to win Jews [to Christ]. I behaved like a person who was under [obligation to observe] the law [i.e., Jews] in front of those who observe that law, although I was not [really] under [obligation to] it. I did this to win those who are under [obligation to observe] the law. ²¹ I [also] behaved like a person without [obligation to observe] the law [i.e., a Gentile] in front of those who are not obligated to it, although I was not [really] without obligation to God’s law; but was under [obligation to] Christ’s law. I did this to win those who are without [obligation to observe] the law [i.e., Gentiles]. ²² I behaved like a weak person in front of weak people [See 8:9-12], in order to win them over [i.e., to help them become stronger]. I have become all things to all people so that, in every way, I could save some of them.

⁸ For one person is given the [supernatural] message of wisdom through the Holy Spirit; another person is given the [supernatural] message of knowledge by means of the same Holy Spirit. ⁹ Still another person is given [supernatural] faith [See 13:2] by the same Holy Spirit; yet another person is given gifts [providing the ability] to perform [supernatural] healings by that one Holy Spirit. ¹⁰ Another [is given] the ability to perform miracles; and another [is given] the ability to prophesy [supernaturally]; and another [is given] the ability to speak in different languages [supernaturally]; and still another [is given] the ability to interpret those languages [supernaturally].

¹² For [just] as the human body is one [unit], made up of many parts, and all the many parts make up a single body, so it is with Christ. [Note: Just as a human body is a single unit, and Christ is a single being, so the members of His body, the church, constitute one body. See verses 27-28].

²⁷ Now you people are the [spiritual] body of Christ and each one of you is an individual part of it. ²⁸ Now God has placed some [ministries] in the church [as follows]: First apostles, secondly prophets, thirdly teachers, then [those able to perform] miracles, then gifts [enabling people] to perform [supernatural] healings, [those able] to help the needy, [wise] administrators, [and] those able to speak in different languages. ²⁹ Are all [ministers in the church] apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all perform miracles?

² And if I have the [spiritual] gift of prophecy, and can understand all [of God’s] secret purposes, and have all knowledge; and if I have all [the supernatural] faith necessary to relocate mountains [See Matt. 17:20], but do not have love [for people], I am nothing.

⁹ For I am the least [significant] of the apostles, and am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. ¹⁰ But I am whatever I am because of God’s unearned favor, and the favor He showed me was not for nothing [i.e., Paul made the most of his conversion by being extra diligent in his service to God]. But I worked harder than all the other apostles, yet it was not I, but God’s favor on me [that accomplished it].

¹³ You people should be alert; stand firm in the faith; act like [godly] men; be [spiritually] strong.

⁶ But if we experience trouble, it is in order [to provide] for your comfort and salvation. Or, if we are comforted, it is in order [to provide] for your comfort [also], which enables you to endure patiently the same sufferings we experience.

⁴ [We say this] because we have such confidence in God through [our relationship with] Christ.

⁶ He has also made us competent as ministers of a New Agreement [i.e., between Himself and mankind]. It is not [an agreement] based [merely] on a written document [i.e., such as the law of Moses], but on the Holy Spirit, for the written document brings [spiritual] death [See Rom. 8:2], but the Holy Spirit brings [never ending] life.

¹ So, having obtained this ministry through [God’s] mercy, we do not become discouraged.

¹⁶ Therefore, we do not get discouraged, for though our physical body is decaying, yet our inner person is being renewed daily.

¹⁴ For Christ’s love for us motivates us, because we have concluded that, [since] one person [i.e., Christ] died for all people, so then all people have died. [Note: This may mean simply that Christ died for all people, who were dead in their sins].

¹⁴ For Christ’s love for us motivates us, because we have concluded that, [since] one person [i.e., Christ] died for all people, so then all people have died. [Note: This may mean simply that Christ died for all people, who were dead in their sins]. ¹⁵ And Christ died for all people, so that those who are alive should not live for themselves anymore, but for Him who died and rose again for their sakes.

¹⁶ And what agreement is there between a temple of God and idols? For we are a temple of the living God, just as God said [Lev. 26:12], “I will live in them and walk among them [i.e., among His people]; and I will be their God and they will be my people.”

⁸ And God is able to provide you with abundant gifts, so that you will always have plenty of everything, and that you will also have plenty for doing every good deed.

¹ Now I Paul, who am humble [when speaking] face to face with you, but bold when I am away from you, urge you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ [Note: This means either Paul was imitating Christ’s behavior or that the Corinthians were to do so]:

⁴ For the weapons of our warfare are not like the world’s [i.e., which rely on human ingenuity and unspiritual principles], but they are empowered by God to overthrow [Satanic] fortifications. ⁵ We overthrow [vain] reasonings and every lofty idea raised against the knowledge of God [i.e., as revealed through the Gospel], and take captive [our] every thought to [make it] obey Christ.

⁶ But even though I am an unpolished speaker, I am not lacking in knowledge. We have made this clear to you in every way.

²³ Are they servants of Christ? (I am really talking like a crazy person now). I am more [of a servant, than they are]. I have worked much harder. I have been in prison more often. I have been flogged more severely. I have been in danger of death more frequently.

⁹ But God said to me, “My unearned favor is enough for you, for my power is made complete in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will most gladly boast, so that the power of Christ can rest on me.

¹³ All the saints [i.e., God’s holy people] send you their greetings.

⁵ to whom [may there] be honor forever and ever. May it be so.

¹² [Furthermore], I did not receive this [Gospel message] from any person, nor was I taught it [by anyone]. Instead, it came to me through [a divine] revelation from Jesus Christ. ¹³ For you have heard about the way I lived in the past, when I was in the Jewish religion, [that is], how I mercilessly persecuted the church of God, making havoc of it.

¹⁵ But then it was the good pleasure of God, who set me apart [for this purpose] before I was born, to call me [to this ministry] through His unearned favor. ¹⁶ [And when I was called], God revealed His Son to me so that I could preach [about] Him to the Gentiles. [When this happened] I immediately avoided discussing the matter with anyone.

¹⁶ [And when I was called], God revealed His Son to me so that I could preach [about] Him to the Gentiles. [When this happened] I immediately avoided discussing the matter with anyone.

¹⁶ [And when I was called], God revealed His Son to me so that I could preach [about] Him to the Gentiles. [When this happened] I immediately avoided discussing the matter with anyone. ¹⁷ I did not go up to Jerusalem to [discuss it with] those who had become apostles before me either; instead I went away into Arabia. [Note: This is probably when Paul received supernatural power from the Holy Spirit]. Then afterward, I returned to Damascus. [Note: This was in Syria where Paul was converted]. ¹⁸ Then, three years later I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas [i.e., Peter], and stayed with him for fifteen days. ¹⁹ But [on this trip] I did not see any of the other apostles except James, the Lord’s brother. [Note: This “James” was not one of the original twelve apostles. See Matt. 10:2-4].

⁸ For God assigned Peter to be an apostle to the circumcised ones [i.e., Jews], and me to be an apostle to the Gentiles.

⁸ For God assigned Peter to be an apostle to the circumcised ones [i.e., Jews], and me to be an apostle to the Gentiles. ⁹ Also, when they perceived that this [special] favor [of preaching to Gentiles] was granted to me, James, Cephas [i.e., Peter] and John, the highly regarded pillars [i.e., leaders of the church] extended to me and Barnabas their right hands [signifying an agreement] to share [in the preaching of the Gospel], with us going to the Gentiles and they going to the circumcised ones [i.e., Jews].

²⁰ I have been crucified [i.e., died] with Christ, and so I am not the one who lives [anymore] but rather, it is Christ who lives in my heart. And [now] my entire life is being lived by trusting in the Son of God [to save and keep me], because He loved me and gave Himself up for me.

¹³ Christ bought us back from the curse [caused by our not obeying all the requirements] of the law of Moses; He became a curse for us [by dying on the cross], for it is written [Deut. 21:23], “Every one who hangs on a tree [i.e., a cross] is cursed [i.e., cut off from God].” ¹⁴ [This happened] so that the blessing [promised] to Abraham might be received by the Gentiles through [the person and work of] Christ, so that we might receive the promised [gift of the] Holy Spirit through [our] faith [in Jesus].

²⁶ For all of you are children of God through your faith in Christ Jesus [as God’s only Son]. ²⁷ For all of you who were immersed into [a relationship with] Christ have been clothed with Him [i.e., His life]. ²⁸ [In this relationship] there is to be no [distinction between] Jews or Greeks [i.e., Gentiles], slaves or free persons, men or women; for all of you are united into one [body] because of your relationship with Christ Jesus. ²⁹ And if you belong to Christ, then you are [truly] Abraham’s seed [i.e., his spiritual descendants] and thereby [you will] inherit what was promised to him [i.e., God’s blessings].

⁵ so that He could buy back [from Satan] those who were [still] under [obligation to] the law of Moses, and that we could become adopted children. ⁶ And because you are [His] children, God sent the Holy Spirit of His Son into our hearts, to call out, “Abba,” [which means] “Father.” ⁷ So [now], you are no longer a slave but a child, and since you are a child, you also will receive an inheritance through [the blessings of] God.

² Look, I Paul am telling you that, if you revert to [the practice of] circumcision [i.e., the Jewish rite of identity, signifying the responsibility to observe the law of Moses], then Christ’s [sacrifice] will be of no value to you.

⁶ For in [our relationship with] Christ neither the practice of circumcision nor refraining from its practice matters in any way; but [all that really matters is having a genuine] faith [in Christ] that causes us to work [for Him] out of a genuine love [for Him and others].

¹¹ But, brothers, if I were still preaching [that a person had] to be circumcised, why am I being persecuted? [Note: Paul’s argument seems to be “I must not be preaching circumcision since I am being persecuted by those who believe in it”]. [If I preached that a person had to be circumcised] then my preaching that Christ died on the cross would not be such an offense [to those who believe in it].

⁹ And we should not become tired of doing good things, for eventually we will receive [never ending life] if we do not give up.

³ May the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ be praised, for He has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms in [fellowship with] Christ. [Note: The term “heavenly realms” is used somewhat differently throughout this book. Here it refers to Christians as part of the church on earth]. ⁴ Even before the creation of the world God chose us, who are in [fellowship with] Christ, to be dedicated [to Him] and to be without just blame in His sight. Out of love

⁶ so that we would praise His glorious, unearned favor, which was freely given to us through the One whom God loved [i.e., Christ]. ⁷ In [fellowship with] Christ we have redemption [i.e., we have been bought back from Satan] through His blood, and have forgiveness of sins according to the abundance of God’s unearned favor,

⁷ In [fellowship with] Christ we have redemption [i.e., we have been bought back from Satan] through His blood, and have forgiveness of sins according to the abundance of God’s unearned favor, ⁸ which He lavished on us. [He used] wisdom and understanding,

⁸ which He lavished on us. [He used] wisdom and understanding, ⁹ in doing what He intended through Christ, to make known to us His secret plan, according to what pleased Him.

⁹ in doing what He intended through Christ, to make known to us His secret plan, according to what pleased Him.

⁹ in doing what He intended through Christ, to make known to us His secret plan, according to what pleased Him. ¹⁰ [He did this] to fulfill His plan at the proper time, by bringing together everything [in the universe] under Christ’s headship --- things both in heaven and on earth.

¹⁰ [He did this] to fulfill His plan at the proper time, by bringing together everything [in the universe] under Christ’s headship --- things both in heaven and on earth.

¹⁰ [He did this] to fulfill His plan at the proper time, by bringing together everything [in the universe] under Christ’s headship --- things both in heaven and on earth. ¹¹ It is in [fellowship with] Christ that we [Jewish Christians] also were selected as [God’s] inheritance [i.e., to receive His never ending blessings], having been predetermined according to the plan of God, who works out everything in harmony with what He wants.

¹¹ It is in [fellowship with] Christ that we [Jewish Christians] also were selected as [God’s] inheritance [i.e., to receive His never ending blessings], having been predetermined according to the plan of God, who works out everything in harmony with what He wants.

¹⁵ For this reason also, since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all of the saints [i.e., God’s holy people], ¹⁶ I do not stop thanking [God] for you. I keep asking, in my prayers, ¹⁷ that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, will give you a spirit [i.e., a disposition] of wisdom and revelation [or, “give you the spiritual gifts of wisdom and revelation”], so you can have full knowledge of God.

¹⁷ that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, will give you a spirit [i.e., a disposition] of wisdom and revelation [or, “give you the spiritual gifts of wisdom and revelation”], so you can have full knowledge of God. ¹⁸ I pray that your minds will be enlightened so that you will know what the hope is, to which God has called you, and what the glorious abundance is, of God’s inheritance in the saints [Note: Paul wanted them to appreciate the value God placed on them],

¹⁸ I pray that your minds will be enlightened so that you will know what the hope is, to which God has called you, and what the glorious abundance is, of God’s inheritance in the saints [Note: Paul wanted them to appreciate the value God placed on them],

¹⁸ I pray that your minds will be enlightened so that you will know what the hope is, to which God has called you, and what the glorious abundance is, of God’s inheritance in the saints [Note: Paul wanted them to appreciate the value God placed on them], ¹⁹ and what God’s tremendous power [working] in us believers is. [This power is] the same as that utilized by God’s mighty strength,

¹⁹ and what God’s tremendous power [working] in us believers is. [This power is] the same as that utilized by God’s mighty strength,

¹⁹ and what God’s tremendous power [working] in us believers is. [This power is] the same as that utilized by God’s mighty strength, ²⁰ which He exerted when raising Christ from the dead and seating Him at His right side in the heavenly realms [i.e., heaven itself]. ²¹ [There He is exalted] high above all rulers and authorities and powers and dominion and every name [i.e., title of honor] that can be given, not only in this present age but [also] in the one to come.

²¹ [There He is exalted] high above all rulers and authorities and powers and dominion and every name [i.e., title of honor] that can be given, not only in this present age but [also] in the one to come. ²² And God placed everything in subjection under His [i.e., Christ’s] feet, and appointed Him to be head over all things to the church, ²³ which is His [spiritual] body. The church is completely filled by Christ [or, “Christ is completely filled by God”], who completely fills everything in every way.

²³ which is His [spiritual] body. The church is completely filled by Christ [or, “Christ is completely filled by God”], who completely fills everything in every way.

⁷ This was so that, to future ages [of people on earth and in heaven], God could demonstrate the tremendous abundance of His unearned favor, expressed by His kindness to us in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus.

¹¹ So, you Gentiles by birth should remember what you once were. You are called “Uncircumcision” by those who are called “Circumcision” [i.e., the Jews], (which refers to a physical procedure performed by people). ¹² [Remember] that you were at that time without Christ; [you were] excluded from citizenship in the nation of Israel; [you were] foreigners regarding the Agreements of [God’s] promises. You had no hope and were without God in the world. ¹³ But now [that you are] in [fellowship with] Christ, you [Gentiles], who were once far away [from God], have been brought near [to Him] through the blood of Christ. ¹⁴ For Christ is [the source of] our peace. He made both [Jews and Gentiles] one people, and broke down the barrier wall of hostility that divided them, ¹⁵ by abolishing in His fleshly body the [entire Jewish] law of commandments contained in decrees. [This was] so that He could create in [unity with] Himself one new person [i.e., the church] out of the two peoples [i.e., Jews and Gentiles], thereby bringing about peace [between them]. ¹⁶ [This was also intended] to reestablish harmony between both of these peoples and God in [this] one body, through [Christ’s death on] the cross. By doing this He put to death the hostility [between them]. ¹⁷ And Christ came and preached peace to you [Gentiles], who were far away [from God], and peace to those [Jews] who were near [to Him]. ¹⁸ For through Him we [Jews and Gentiles] both have access to the Father by means of one Holy Spirit.

¹⁸ For through Him we [Jews and Gentiles] both have access to the Father by means of one Holy Spirit. ¹⁹ So then, you [Gentiles] are no longer foreigners and aliens [i.e., to God’s promises. See verse 12], but you are fellow-citizens with the saints [i.e., God’s holy people], and are part of God’s family. ²⁰ [You are] built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets [See I Cor. 12:28], with Christ Jesus Himself being the principal stone by which the entire building is aligned.

²⁰ [You are] built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets [See I Cor. 12:28], with Christ Jesus Himself being the principal stone by which the entire building is aligned. ²¹ In [harmony with] Him the entire building [i.e., the church] is properly assembled, rising into a dedicated temple for the Lord. [See I Cor. 3:16-17]. ²² In [harmony with] Him you people are also being constructed together into a place where God lives by His Spirit.

¹ This is the reason that I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles, [pray for you. See 3:14-19]. ² [Note: Paul here digresses from his prayer, begun in 1:15-16, to explain the circumstances of his being a prisoner on behalf of these Gentiles]. [I assume] you have heard about my commission [to minister] to you, which was given to me by God’s unearned favor. ³ [It is] that God’s secret plan [i.e., revealed in the Gospel preached to Gentiles. See verse 6] was made known to me by way of a revelation. [See Acts 9:15; 22:21]. I have already written to you [about this] briefly [i.e., probably a reference to 1:9ff]. ⁴ So, when you read this you will be able to understand my insight into the secret plan of Christ,

⁴ So, when you read this you will be able to understand my insight into the secret plan of Christ, ⁵ which was not told to people of previous generations as it has now been revealed to His [i.e., Christ’s] holy apostles and prophets by the Holy Spirit.

⁷ I was made a minister [of the Gospel] according to the gift of God’s unearned favor, which was given to me according to the working of His power. ⁸ This favor of preaching the unfathomable riches of Christ to the Gentiles was given to me [even though] I am the least significant of all saints [i.e., God’s holy people]. ⁹ [I was given the responsibility] to enlighten all people regarding the working out of God’s secret plan, which has been kept hidden for ages in [the heart of] God, who created everything.

¹³ So, I am asking you people not to become discouraged over my sufferings on your behalf, for they are for your benefit [eventually].

¹⁶ [I pray] that, according to God’s glorious abundance, He would empower you to become [spiritually] strong through His Holy Spirit in your inner person,

¹⁸ so that you, along with all the saints [i.e., God’s holy people], will be [spiritually] strong enough to grasp how wide and long and high and deep [Christ’s love is]; ¹⁹ and to know that His love for us surpasses [our] knowledge, so that you people will be completely filled with the fullness of God. ²⁰ May there be to God, who is able to do infinitely more [for us] than we could [even] ask or think, according to [His] power at work in us ---

¹ I urge you, therefore, as a prisoner of the Lord, to live in a way that measures up to [the standard required by] God when He called you.

⁷ But [God’s] unearned favor was given to each one of us, according to the gift allotted [to us] by Christ.

¹¹ And He gave some people [the gift of being] apostles; and some people prophets; and some people evangelists; and some people pastors [i.e., elders] and teachers, ¹² for the purpose of equipping the saints [i.e., God’s holy people] for the work of serving [others], in order to build up the [spiritual] body of Christ [i.e., the church].

¹⁵ But [instead], we should speak [and practice] truth in a loving way, so that we can, in all respects, grow up [spiritually] into [union with] Christ, who is the head [i.e., of His body, the church]. ¹⁶ From Him all [members of] the body are properly joined together by every supporting ligament, as each part contributes to the growth of the body and builds itself up through [mutual] love.

¹⁶ From Him all [members of] the body are properly joined together by every supporting ligament, as each part contributes to the growth of the body and builds itself up through [mutual] love.

²¹ [I am] assuming that you have heard Him [i.e., through the Gospel message] and were taught the truth that is in [harmony with] Jesus.

² Live in a loving way, just like Christ loved us and gave Himself up [to die] for us as an offering and fragrant smelling sacrifice to God.

⁷ So, do not participate with such individuals,

²⁵ Husbands, you should love your wives just as Christ also loved the church, and gave up His life for her,

³⁰ because we are parts of His [spiritual] body.

³² The secret [truth] of this is great, but I am talking about Christ and the church.

¹⁰ Finally, be [spiritually] strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.

¹² For our struggle is not [actually] against human beings, but against rulers and authorities and leaders of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [Note: “Heavenly realms” here refers to the struggle against Satanic powers which permeates life around us].

¹⁹ And [also pray] for me to be given boldness of speech in opening my mouth to make known the secret plan of the Gospel, ²⁰ for which I am an ambassador in prison. [And pray] that I may be able to proclaim the Gospel boldly, as I ought to.

⁷ It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because I have you in my heart [i.e., you are dear to me], for you people are sharing in God’s unearned favor with me [Note: Paul here refers to his ministry], both in my imprisonment and in my defense and confirmation of the Gospel [i.e., in my efforts to give proof of the Gospel’s truth].

¹¹ having been full of qualities of righteousness, which come from Jesus Christ and produce honor and praise to God. ¹² Now I want you to know, brothers, that the things that happened to me have resulted in the advancement [of the influence] of the Gospel rather [than hindering it], ¹³ so that my imprisonment for Christ became known throughout the entire headquarters of the governor [i.e., among all his personnel], and to everyone else.

¹³ so that my imprisonment for Christ became known throughout the entire headquarters of the governor [i.e., among all his personnel], and to everyone else. ¹⁴ And most of the brothers in the Lord’s [service], through my imprisonment, gained confidence to speak out God’s message with greater courage and without fear.

¹⁴ And most of the brothers in the Lord’s [service], through my imprisonment, gained confidence to speak out God’s message with greater courage and without fear. ¹⁵ Some people, indeed, are proclaiming Christ out of envy and strife [i.e., out of rivalry], while others do it from goodwill. ¹⁶ Those who do it out of love [for me] know that I am prepared to defend the Gospel [i.e., before government authorities].

³ Do not do anything from rivalry or from empty conceit, but in humility, consider others better than yourselves.

⁵ You should think about things the way Christ Jesus did.

⁵ You should think about things the way Christ Jesus did. ⁶ He existed in the form of God [i.e., He shared God’s very nature], but did not consider [remaining] equal with God something [to continue] to hold onto.

⁶ He existed in the form of God [i.e., He shared God’s very nature], but did not consider [remaining] equal with God something [to continue] to hold onto. ⁷ Instead, He gave up what He had and took on the form [i.e., the nature] of a slave, becoming like a man, [and even] His appearance was found to be like a man’s.

⁷ Instead, He gave up what He had and took on the form [i.e., the nature] of a slave, becoming like a man, [and even] His appearance was found to be like a man’s. ⁸ He humbled Himself [by] becoming obedient [to God] to the point of death, even death on a cross.

⁸ He humbled Himself [by] becoming obedient [to God] to the point of death, even death on a cross. ⁹ Therefore, God also exalted Him to the highest position and gave Him the name [i.e., “Lord.” See verse 11], which is superior to every [other] name.

⁹ Therefore, God also exalted Him to the highest position and gave Him the name [i.e., “Lord.” See verse 11], which is superior to every [other] name. ¹⁰ [This was] so that, in [honor of] the name of Jesus, everyone’s knee in heaven, on earth and under the earth [i.e., all rational creatures] should bow [i.e., before God],

¹⁰ [This was] so that, in [honor of] the name of Jesus, everyone’s knee in heaven, on earth and under the earth [i.e., all rational creatures] should bow [i.e., before God],

¹⁰ [This was] so that, in [honor of] the name of Jesus, everyone’s knee in heaven, on earth and under the earth [i.e., all rational creatures] should bow [i.e., before God], ¹¹ and that everyone’s mouth should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

¹¹ and that everyone’s mouth should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

¹¹ and that everyone’s mouth should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. ¹² So then, my dear ones, just as you people were always obedient [to my teaching] when I was there with you, so now, in my absence [also], be [obedient] all the more. [Continue to] complete your own salvation [i.e., by living faithfully to the end. See Rom. 13:11] with fear and trembling [i.e., with a reverent and submissive spirit],

⁸ What is more, I consider everything to be a loss compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus [as] my Lord, for whose sake I have suffered the loss of all things. [I now] consider [all of] them to be trash, in order to gain Christ ⁹ and to be found in [fellowship with] Him, not having a righteousness of my own, acquired by observing the law of Moses, but one acquired through believing in Christ. This righteousness, which comes from God, is based on faith. ¹⁰ I want to know Christ [as Savior] and to experience the power [produced] by His resurrection, and to share in His sufferings and become like Him in His death,

⁷ And [when you do], the peace from God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and thoughts [from anxiety] in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus.

¹³ I can do everything through Christ, who gives me the strength.

¹⁹ And my God will supply all your needs [also], according to His glorious wealth [enjoyed by fellowship] in Christ Jesus. ²⁰ Now may there be honor to our God and Father forever and ever. May it be so.

⁴ for we have heard about [the evidence of] your faith in [the service of] Christ Jesus, and about the love you have [shown] for all the saints.

⁶ came to you. This Gospel is [now] also producing fruit all over the world [i.e., throughout the Roman Empire] and growing [in its influence], just as it is doing among you people also, since the day you [first] heard and understood God’s unearned favor in [all its] truth.

¹⁰ [We pray for you] to live a life deserving of the Lord, pleasing to Him in every way, producing fruit in every good deed and growing in the knowledge of God. ¹¹ [We also pray that you will be] strengthened with great power, according to God’s glorious might, so that you will have great endurance and patience [coupled] with joy.

¹⁶ For all things were created by Him; things in heaven and on earth; things visible and invisible, whether they are thrones [i.e., reigning beings], or lords, or rulers or authorities. [Note: “Authorities” here may refer to angelic beings]. All things were created by Him and for Him.

¹⁶ For all things were created by Him; things in heaven and on earth; things visible and invisible, whether they are thrones [i.e., reigning beings], or lords, or rulers or authorities. [Note: “Authorities” here may refer to angelic beings]. All things were created by Him and for Him. ¹⁷ And He existed before all things and all things are held together by Him.

²⁰ and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven. He made peace [with mankind] through the [sacrificial] blood of Christ’s [death on the] cross.

²³ [This will happen] if you continue in the faith [Note: This means either “continue to observe God’s teaching” or, “continue to believe”], firmly grounded and established, and not moved away from the hope offered by the Gospel message, which you have heard and which was preached to people throughout the entire created world under heaven. I, Paul, was made a minister of this Gospel.

²³ [This will happen] if you continue in the faith [Note: This means either “continue to observe God’s teaching” or, “continue to believe”], firmly grounded and established, and not moved away from the hope offered by the Gospel message, which you have heard and which was preached to people throughout the entire created world under heaven. I, Paul, was made a minister of this Gospel. ²⁴ Now I rejoice in [spite of] my sufferings for your sake, and I am filling up [i.e., completing] in my physical body what was lacking in the afflictions Christ endured for His body’s sake, the church.

²⁴ Now I rejoice in [spite of] my sufferings for your sake, and I am filling up [i.e., completing] in my physical body what was lacking in the afflictions Christ endured for His body’s sake, the church. ²⁵ I was made a minister of the church according to the task given to me by God to fully present His message to you.

²⁵ I was made a minister of the church according to the task given to me by God to fully present His message to you. ²⁶ [This message is] the secret which has been kept hidden throughout the ages and generations, but has now been revealed to God’s saints [i.e., His holy people].

²⁶ [This message is] the secret which has been kept hidden throughout the ages and generations, but has now been revealed to God’s saints [i.e., His holy people]. ²⁷ He was pleased to make known to these people the wealth of His splendor among the Gentiles; this hidden secret, which is Christ among you, [is] the hope of being honored [i.e., in heaven].

²⁷ He was pleased to make known to these people the wealth of His splendor among the Gentiles; this hidden secret, which is Christ among you, [is] the hope of being honored [i.e., in heaven].

²⁹ This is the reason that I work hard and struggle also, using God’s mighty power which is at work in me.

¹ I want you to know how much I am struggling for you [Note: This probably refers to the great effort Paul was exerting in prayer, preaching, etc.], and for those at Laodicia [Note: This was a town ten miles west of Colosse], and for all those who have never met me in person. ² [I do this] so that their hearts will be encouraged [while] being united in [mutual] love, [and] so that they will have the wealth of a fully assured understanding, in order to fully know about God’s hidden secret, [which is] Christ.

² [I do this] so that their hearts will be encouraged [while] being united in [mutual] love, [and] so that they will have the wealth of a fully assured understanding, in order to fully know about God’s hidden secret, [which is] Christ. ³ In Him all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden.

⁷ rooted and built up in [your relationship to] Him, established by your faith [or, “in the faith”], just as you were taught, overflowing with thanksgiving.

⁹ For all of the fullness of Deity lives in His body, ¹⁰ and you people have been made full [i.e., spiritually complete] in [fellowship with] Him, who is the [spiritual] head over all who rule and have authority.

¹⁹ He is not holding on [firmly] to the head [i.e., Christ, the head of the church], from whom the entire body, being nourished and supported by its ligaments and joints, is caused to grow in size by God.

³ For you died [with Christ, See 2:20], and your life is [now] hidden with Christ in [fellowship with] God.

³ At the same time, pray for us also, that God will open up a door [of opportunity] for [proclaiming] the message, so we can tell about the [previously] hidden secret of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned.

¹⁸ This greeting [is being written] by me, Paul, in my own handwriting. Remember my imprisonment. [Note: This was probably a request for them to pray for him]. May God’s favor be with you.

¹³ And because of this we also thank God continually that, when you people received the message of God, which you heard from us, you did not accept it as a message from [mere] human beings, but as it truly is, the message from God, which is at work in you believers.

¹⁵ who killed the Lord Jesus and the [Old Testament] prophets and also drove us [apostles] out [of Thessalonica and Berea. See Acts 17]. They are not pleasing to God and are hostile to all people, ¹⁶ for they [even] try to prevent us from speaking to the Gentiles, so that they can be saved. [In doing this] they are always piling up one sin on another. But the wrath [of God] has come upon them at last [or, “completely”].

² and so we [i.e., I] sent Timothy, our brother and God’s fellow-worker in [the ministry of] the Gospel, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, ³ so that no one would be shaken by [having to experience] these difficult times. [See 2:14]. For you yourselves know that we are destined to have such experiences. ⁴ For even when we were with you, we warned you that we were going to be persecuted, and as you know, it has turned out that way.

¹³ But we ought to thank God for you always, brothers [who are] dearly loved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning [Note: Some manuscripts use the Greek word for “firstfruits” instead of “beginning” here, but it is difficult to know in what sense the Thessalonian Christians were “first”], in order to be saved through being set apart by the Holy Spirit and through belief of the truth [of the Gospel].

¹³ But you, brothers, should not get tired of doing what is right.

⁴ and not to listen to legends or exhaustive lists of ancestors. These [only] serve to arouse speculations, rather than [promote] God’s plan which is based on faith.

¹¹ found in the glorious Gospel of the blessed God, which was entrusted to me.

¹³ [even] though I had previously spoken against Christ, and persecuted [Christians] and acted outrageously. However, I obtained mercy because I acted out of ignorance, not believing [in Christ]. ¹⁴ [But] the unearned favor of our Lord was given to me in great abundance, producing faith and love which are [found] in [the fellowship of] Christ Jesus.

¹⁴ [But] the unearned favor of our Lord was given to me in great abundance, producing faith and love which are [found] in [the fellowship of] Christ Jesus.

¹⁴ [But] the unearned favor of our Lord was given to me in great abundance, producing faith and love which are [found] in [the fellowship of] Christ Jesus. ¹⁵ This saying is trustworthy and deserves to be fully accepted: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, and I am the worst of them all.

¹⁵ This saying is trustworthy and deserves to be fully accepted: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, and I am the worst of them all.

¹⁵ This saying is trustworthy and deserves to be fully accepted: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, and I am the worst of them all. ¹⁶ However, even though I was the worst, I obtained mercy so that the patience of Jesus Christ could be shown toward the worst [of sinners] as an example for those people who would later believe in Him in order to [receive] never ending life.

⁷ I was appointed to be a preacher [of this testimony] and an apostle and teacher of the true faith to the Gentiles. (I am telling the truth and not lying).

⁹ They should keep holding on to the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.

¹⁶ And without question the revealed secret of godly living is great. [It is this]: He [i.e., Christ, or God], who appeared in a fleshly body [was] vindicated [of false charges] by the Holy Spirit; [He was] seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed in throughout the world [and finally] was taken up into glory [i.e., heaven].

⁸ So, do not be ashamed to testify for our Lord, or ashamed of [being associated with] me, His prisoner, but [be willing to] suffer hardship with me for the sake of the Gospel, relying on God’s power [to sustain you]. ⁹ [It is] God who saved us and called us to live holy lives [or, “to be dedicated people”], not as a result of our [good] deeds, but in harmony with His own purpose and unearned favor. [This was] given to us through [the atoning work of] Christ Jesus, before the beginning of time. [Note: Salvation through Christ was planned before time began. See Titus 1:2; Rom. 16:25; Eph. 1:4]. ¹⁰ But, it has [only] now been made known to us by the appearance of our Savior Christ Jesus, who has put an end to death and brought [never ending] life and incorruption [i.e., immortality] to light through the Gospel [message], ¹¹ of which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher.

¹¹ of which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher.

¹⁶ [But], may the Lord grant mercy to Onesiphorus’ family, for he cheered me up many times and was not ashamed of my [being in] chains.

⁹ for which I am suffering difficulty [here] in prison, as [though I were] a criminal. But God’s message is not “in prison.” ¹⁰ So, I endure everything for the elect’s sake [i.e., God’s people], so that they can obtain the salvation which comes through Christ Jesus, with [its] never ending splendor.

¹⁷ But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message could be fully proclaimed and that all the Gentiles could hear it. And I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. [Note: This is probably a figure of speech indicating that Paul had escaped some immediate danger. See Psa. 22:20-21]. ¹⁸ The Lord will [continue to] rescue me from all harm and will bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom. May He be praised forever and ever. May it be so.

¹ [This letter is from] Paul, a slave of God, and an apostle for [the benefit of] the faith of God’s elect [i.e., His chosen people] and [to spread] the knowledge of the truth which leads to godliness, ² [and provides] hope for never ending life. God, who cannot lie, promised this [life] before the beginning of time,

² [and provides] hope for never ending life. God, who cannot lie, promised this [life] before the beginning of time, ³ but at the proper time revealed [it] through the message entrusted to me to proclaim, by the commandment of God our Savior.

¹³ while looking forward to the blessed hope [i.e., the hope that produces blessings] and the coming splendor of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. ¹⁴ He gave Himself up for us, to buy us back from [enslavement to] all [kinds of] wickedness and to purify for Himself a group of people who belong to Him and who are eager to do good deeds.

¹ [This letter is from] Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, [and is being sent] to Philemon our dearly loved [brother] and fellow-worker,

⁹ yet out of [mutual] love, I appeal to you [to do what I ask]. For I Paul, am an old man, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus. [Note: Most calculations suggest that Paul was approximately 60 years old, which was considered a relatively advanced age in that day].

²³ Epaphras, my fellow-prisoner in [the service of] Christ sends you his greetings,

² [but] during these final days He has spoken to us through His Son [Note: This period refers to the Christian age (See Acts 2:14-36)], whom He appointed to be heir of all things [and] through whom He created the universe. [See John 1:3; Col. 1:16]. ³ This Son expresses the radiance of God’s splendor and represents His very Being, and He sustains everything by His powerful word. After He had provided cleansing for [man’s] sins, He sat down at the right side of the Majesty [i.e., God] on high [i.e., in heaven].

³ For Jesus has been considered deserving of greater honor than Moses, just as the builder of a house deserves greater honor than the house itself. ⁴ For every house is built by someone, but God is the Builder of everything.

¹⁴ Since then we [Christians] have [such] a great Head Priest, who has passed through the skies [i.e., ascended to heaven. See Acts 1:9], Jesus, the Son of God, we should remain true to our profession [of faith in Him]. ¹⁵ For we do not have a head priest who is incapable of sympathizing with our weaknesses, but One [i.e., Jesus] who has been tempted in every way that we have, and yet without sinning. ¹⁶ So, we should approach, with confidence, God’s throne of unearned favor, so we can receive mercy and obtain that favor to help us when we need it.

²⁵ So, He is also able to save completely those people who approach God through Him, since He lives forever to intercede [i.e., to plead to God] on their behalf.

¹⁹ Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Holy of Holies [i.e., heaven] by means of the blood of Jesus, ²⁰ by means of a new and living way which He opened for us through the curtain of His physical body, ²¹ and since we have a great Priest [who is] over God’s household [i.e., Christ], ²² we should draw close [to God] with a sincere heart and a fully assured faith, having had our hearts sprinkled from a guilty conscience [See 9:13-14] and having had our bodies washed with clean water [i.e., in our immersion].

¹⁹ [So], he reasoned that God was able to raise up [Isaac] from the dead, which, in a sense, he did receive him back [from the dead].

³⁴ they put out raging fires, and they escaped being killed by swords. They were strengthened when weak, became mighty in battle, and defeated foreign armies.

³⁹ And all of these people were commended [by God] for their faith, yet did not receive [all of] what was promised to them, ⁴⁰ because God had planned to give us something better [than they got], so that they would not be complete without us. [Note: The idea here is that these faithful people of Old Testament times did not receive the fullest of blessings until Christ came to make them available to both them and us together].

³ Now think about how Jesus endured such opposition against Himself from sinners, so that you do not grow weary and become discouraged [yourself]. ⁴ You have not yet resisted to the point of [shedding] blood in your struggle against sin. ⁵ And have you forgotten the exhortation that was addressed to you as sons? [Prov. 3:11f says], “My son, do not take the discipline of the Lord lightly, and do not get discouraged when He rebukes you.

¹⁵ [So], through Jesus then, we should continually offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the expression of our lips as we confess His name [to be our Lord]. ¹⁶ But do not forget to do good deeds and share [with others], for God is very pleased with such “sacrifices.”

²⁰ Now may the God of peace, who brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep [i.e., the church], through the blood of the never ending Agreement [i.e., Christ’s blood], ²¹ equip you with every good deed for doing God’s will. [May He] work in us [to accomplish] what is very pleasing in His sight through [the power of] Jesus Christ. May there be praise to Him forever and ever. May it be so.

²¹ equip you with every good deed for doing God’s will. [May He] work in us [to accomplish] what is very pleasing in His sight through [the power of] Jesus Christ. May there be praise to Him forever and ever. May it be so.

¹² There is only One Lawgiver and Judge [i.e., God or Christ]. It is He who is able to save and destroy [people]. So, who [do you think] you are, judging your neighbor?

¹⁰ The prophets [of old], who spoke of this salvation, asked about and searched diligently concerning the unearned favor [God provided] for you people. ¹¹ They studied [their own prophecies] to learn what, or which, [person or] time the Holy Spirit in them pointed to, in predicting the sufferings of Christ and the glories yet to come. ¹² It was revealed to these prophets that you people, not they, were the ones being ministered to in the matters now being announced to you by those who preached the Gospel to you by the Holy Spirit, who was sent from heaven. [This message contained] things which angels would like to look into.

¹² It was revealed to these prophets that you people, not they, were the ones being ministered to in the matters now being announced to you by those who preached the Gospel to you by the Holy Spirit, who was sent from heaven. [This message contained] things which angels would like to look into.

²⁰ For Christ was previously known [by God, even] before the world was created, yet was not fully revealed for your benefit until [these] final times.

⁵ And you yourselves are also like living stones, being constructed into a spiritual house. For you are like holy priests who offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

⁴ But [the kind of adornment you should display is] that of the inner person, with its enduring qualities of a meek and calm spirit, which are extremely valuable in God’s eyes.

²² He has [now] gone to heaven, and is [seated] at the right side of God, where the angels and [other] authorities and powers have been subjected to Him.

⁵ And in the same way, you younger [Christians] should be [respectfully] submissive to the older ones. And all of you should [be willing to] humbly serve one another, for God stands opposed to [the efforts of] proud people, but extends His unearned favor to those [who serve] with humility. ⁶ Therefore, be humble [in your actions] before God’s powerful authority, so that you may be exalted [by Him] at the proper time.

¹¹ May God have total authority over everything [including your circumstances] forever. May it be so.

¹¹ For in this way, you will be provided with a rich welcome into the never ending kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ [i.e., in heaven].

² to remember the words spoken to you in the past by the holy prophets, and what the Lord and Savior commanded you through your apostles.

¹⁸ But grow in the unearned favor and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May He be honored both now and forever. May it be so.

³ We declare to you what we have seen and heard [concerning Christ], so that you also may share a relationship with us. And indeed, our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.

²⁵ And this is the promise which Christ [or, “God”] has given to us: [It is] never ending life. [Note: This passage may mean that God promised us “the Eternal Life,” that is, Christ, See John 3:16].

⁴ [But], you people are [followers] of God, little children [i.e., dear ones], and you have overcome them [i.e., these false teachers] because He who is in your lives [i.e., the Holy Spirit, See 3:24] is greater [i.e., more powerful] than he who is in [i.e., dominates] the world [i.e., Satan. See II Cor. 4:4].

⁹ Here is the way God’s love for us was demonstrated; He sent His one and only Son into the world so that we could have [spiritual] life through Him. ¹⁰ Here is [the essence of] love: [It is] not that we loved God [first], but that He loved us [See Rom. 5:6-8] and sent His Son to be a “covering over” [i.e., atonement, 2:2] for our sins. ¹¹ Loved ones, if God loved us that much, we should also love one another. ¹² No person has gazed upon God [at any time]; [but] if we love one another, God [continually] lives in our hearts, and His love is made complete within us. ¹³ This is [one way] to know we live in [fellowship with] God and that He lives in our hearts: [It is] because He has given us His Holy Spirit [to live within us, See 3:24]. ¹⁴ And we [apostles] have seen and are [reliable] witnesses that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world [See 1:2; 2:2].

¹⁶ And we have known [with certainty] and have believed [with assurance] that God has truly loved us. God’s [very nature] is love and the person who [continually] loves [Him and others] lives in [fellowship with] God [continually], and God [continually] lives in that person’s heart.

¹⁷ But you dearly loved ones, you should remember the message that was previously told to you by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ,

²⁴ Now, may there be honor and majesty and power to God, who is able to guard you people from stumbling [and falling away from Him, See Gal. 5:4], and [who is able] to place you before His glorious presence without any [moral] blemish, but with great joy. ²⁵ [May these qualities be attributed] to the only God and our Savior, through [the person and work of] Jesus Christ our Lord, before [the beginning of] time [as well as] now and forever. May it be so.

¹⁰ Do not be afraid of the things you are about to suffer. [For] look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, so that you may be tested, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. [But], you should be faithful [to God] even to the point of dying [for Him], and I will give you the crown of [never ending] life.

¹⁷ “The person who has an ear should listen to what the Holy Spirit is saying to the churches. To the person who has victory [in the Christian life] I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will [also] give him a white stone with a new name written on it, which no one understands, except the one who receives it.”

¹² I will make the person who has victory [in the Christian life] a pillar in the Temple of my God [i.e., probably a reference to heaven], and he will never leave it. And I will write on him the name of my God, the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem which is coming down from heaven from my God [See 21:2, 10] and my own new name.

¹⁸ [Because of that], I advise you to buy from me gold, refined by fire, so that you will become rich; and white clothing to wear, so that you can cover yourself and not be seen as shamefully naked; and eye drops for your eyes, so that you can see. [Note: The foregoing all refer to taking measures for becoming more spiritual].

²⁰ Look, I am standing at [your] door and knocking; if anyone hears my voice [i.e., the sound of my knocking], and opens the door, I will [surely] come in to him and eat with him and he [will eat] with me. ²¹ The person who has victory [in the Christian life], I will grant him [the privilege of] sitting down with me on my throne, as I also had victory and sat down with my Father on His throne.

⁹ And whenever the living beings give glory and honor and thanks to God, who sits on His throne and who lives forever and ever, ¹⁰ [then] the twenty-four elders fall down in front of Him who sits on His throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever. And they will throw their crowns in front of the throne and say, ¹¹ “Our Lord and our God, you deserve to receive the glory and the honor and the power for you created everything, and they exist because you wanted them to, so they were created.”

¹¹ “Our Lord and our God, you deserve to receive the glory and the honor and the power for you created everything, and they exist because you wanted them to, so they were created.”

⁸ And when He had taken the book, the four living beings and the twenty-four elders fell down in front of the Lamb [i.e., to worship Him]. Each one of them held [in his hands] a harp and a golden bowl full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints [See Psa. 141:2; Rev. 8:3-4]. ⁹ And they sang a new song [which went like this]: “You deserve to take the book and break the seals on it, for you were killed and, with your blood, you purchased people for God from every tribe and language and race and nation, ¹⁰ and you made them into a kingdom and a priesthood for [serving] our God, and they will rule on the earth.” ¹¹ Then I looked, and heard the voice of many angels surrounding the throne and the living beings and elders. They numbered in the tens of thousands, and thousands and thousands [more]. [Note: The Greek says “myriads of myriads”]. ¹² They were saying in a loud voice [See Note at 4:8], “The Lamb, who was killed, deserves to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and splendor and praise.” ¹³ And I heard every creature in heaven, on the earth, under the earth, on the ocean and everything in them, saying [See Note at 4:8], “May there be praise and honor and splendor and power forever and ever, to God who sits on His throne and to the Lamb.” ¹⁴ And the four living beings said, “May it be so.” And the elders fell down and worshiped.

⁴ Then I heard the number of those who were sealed. [It was] one hundred forty-four thousand [in all] from every tribe of the Israelites [Note: This could refer to Christians of Jewish descent]. ⁵ There were twelve thousand sealed from the tribe of Judah, twelve thousand from Reuben, twelve thousand from Gad, ⁶ twelve thousand from Asher, twelve thousand from Naphtali, twelve thousand from Manasseh, ⁷ twelve thousand from Simeon, twelve thousand from Levi, twelve thousand from Issachar, ⁸ twelve thousand from Zebulun, twelve thousand from Joseph and twelve thousand from Benjamin. ⁹ After seeing [all] these things, I looked and there [I saw] a huge crowd, which no one could count, from every nation, and tribe, and race, and language group standing in front of the throne [of God] and in front of the Lamb. They were dressed in white robes and had palm tree branches in their hands. ¹⁰ And they called out in a loud voice, saying, “Salvation comes from [or, “belongs to”] our God, who sits on His throne, and from [or, “to”] the Lamb.” ¹¹ And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the [twenty-four] elders and the four living beings. And they fell down on their faces in front of the throne and worshiped God, ¹² saying [See Note at 4:8], “May it be so; May there be praise and splendor and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and strength to our God forever and ever. May it be so.”

¹² saying [See Note at 4:8], “May it be so; May there be praise and splendor and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and strength to our God forever and ever. May it be so.” ¹³ Then one of the [twenty-four] elders asked me, “Who are these ones dressed in white robes, and where did they come from?” ¹⁴ And I answered him, “Sir, [surely] you know.” And he said to me, “These are the people who have come through the terrible persecution, and they have washed their robes and made them white with the blood of the Lamb. ¹⁵ So, [now] they are in front of God’s throne and they are serving Him day and night in His Temple. And He who sits on His throne will spread His tent over them [i.e., He will protect them]. ¹⁶ They will not be hungry anymore, nor will they get thirsty anymore. The sun will not beat down on them, nor will they become scorched by the heat. ¹⁷ For the Lamb, who is at the center of the throne, will be their Shepherd and will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”

⁸ And everyone who lives on earth will worship the beast, [even those] people whose names had not been recorded in the book of life belonging to the Lamb, who was killed [in prospect] from the creation of the world. [Note: This sentence could also read “...not been recorded from the creation of the world in the book of life belonging to the Lamb who was killed”].

⁶ Then I saw another angel flying in mid heaven. He had eternal good news to proclaim to those who lived on the earth, and to every nation, tribe, language group and race.

⁸ The beast you saw once existed, but now does not, and [yet] is about to come up out of the pit and go to [his] destruction. And those people living on the earth, whose names have not been recorded in the book of life from the creation of the world, will be amazed when they see the beast, because he had once existed, but now does not, and yet will come [again].

²² But I did not see a Temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the city’s Temple. ²³ And the city does not need the sun or the moon to illuminate it, for the splendor of God provides the light for it, and its lamp is the Lamb. ²⁴ And [the saved people of] the nations will walk in the city’s light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it.

³ And there will no longer be any curse [in the city], and the throne of God and of the Lamb will be there. And God’s servants will serve Him, ⁴ and they will see His face, and His name will be [written] on their foreheads. ⁵ And it will never be nighttime there anymore; they will not need the light of a lamp or of the sun, for the Lord will give them light. And they [i.e., God’s servants] will rule [with Christ, See 20:4] forever and ever.