1 Therefore (since we have been given such clear evidence and sure testimony) I urge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, whose word will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and (the establishing of) His kingdom (in the earth, of which there will be no end);

 

2 Proclaim (Christ crucified) the word (which God has spoken to us, which we know is full of power); be ready (to declare that word in every situation, both) in times that seem opportune and in times that do not; reprove (with convincing evidence), rebuke (correcting erroneous beliefs), encourage (and comfort) with all patience and (sound) doctrine. 

 

3 Because the time will come when they will not (esteem or) have any patience for sound doctrine; but (will follow) after (and be dictated by) their own lusts (for the life they can gather and) will heap to themselves teachers, (who will tickle the ears of their carnal minds with a message of how they can work to serve themselves with blessing and life) having itching ears;

 

4 And they will turn their ears away from the truth (where even hearing they will hear and will not understand; And seeing they will see, and not recognize) and will (instead) turn aside to fables.

 

5 But (soberly) examine yourself (that you be in the faith) in all things, (where you are able to) endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, and be (fully persuaded and) completely satisfied with (all assurance that you have entirely carried out) your ministry (and finished your race with confidence).

 

6 Because I am already being offered (my blood is already pouring out) and the time of my departure is close at hand.

 

7 I have fought the good fight (never turning away from the faith), I have finished my course, I have kept the faith (laying hold on eternal life):

 

8 There is (but one thing that remains) a crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord (Himself), the righteous Judge, will give me on that day (when He adorns me with His life and immortality): and not only me but unto all those also that love (His life and wait for the sure hope of righteousness at) His appearing.

 

9 Make your best effort to come visit me shortly:

 

10 Because De’mas has abandon me for the love of this present (evil) world, and has departed to Thes-sa-lo-ni’ca; Cres’cens to Ga-la-tia, Ti’tus unto Dal-ma’ti-a.

 

11 Only Luke is here with me. Take Mark and bring him with you: because he is useful to me for (the work of) the ministry.

 

12 And Tych’i-cus have I sent to Eph’e-sus.

 

13 Bring the travel bag that I left at Tro’as with Car’pus, with you when you come, along with the books, and especially the parchments.

 

14 Alexander the coppersmith showed great hostility (toward me, intending) to (harm) me: the Lord will render to him according to (the belief in his heart and) the deeds (it produces):

 

15 Of whom you should also be aware, because he has greatly stood against our words.

 

16 At my first defense no one stood with me, but all men forsook (and deserted) me: I pray to God that it may not be laid to their charge.

 

17 In spite of all that, the Lord stood with me and strengthened me; so that through me the preaching (of the cross of Christ) might be fully known, and that all the Gentile nations might hear (the faith of Jesus Christ): and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

 

18 And (surely) the Lord will deliver me from every evil (malicious) work and will preserve my life (unharmed) unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

19 Salute Pris’ca and A’qui-la, and the household of On-e-siph’o-rus.

 

20 E-ras’tus remained in Corinth: but Troph’i-mus have I left at Mi-le’tum sick.

 

21 Do your best to come visit before winter. Eu-bu’lus greets you, and Pu’dens, and Li’nus, and Clau’d-ia, and all the brethren (here with me).

 

22 (May) the Lord (Jesus Christ) be with your spirit. (And His) Grace (and strength) remain with you (always). Amen.