Closing words1-2I command you before God and Christ Jesus, the One who will judge the living and the dead when He appears in the full majesty of His Kingly rule: Be prepared to preach His Word at all times, regardless of the circumstances. Correct, rebuke and encourage others, exercising much patience as you teach.3For a time is coming when people will not put up with teaching of the truth, choosing instead to listen to those who will teach what they want to hear.4They will turn away from listening to the truth and will turn instead to myths.5As for you personally, be consistent in everything, even when there is adversity. Do the work of the evangelist who brings people to Christ, and so fulfil your calling from God.6I am already at the point of being poured out like a sacrifice, and it is now time for my departure.7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course God had for me and I have been faithful.8Now the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that Day; and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.9Do all you can to visit me soon.10-11Demas has deserted me, for he loves this present life and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia and Titus to Dalmatia; only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry.12And I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus.13Bring with you the cloak I left with Carpas in Troas, together with my scrolls, especially the parchments.14Alexander the coppersmith did much to harm me; the Lord will deal with him as he deserves.15Be careful of him yourself, for he has strongly opposed our words of truth.16-17When I had to make my first defence there was no one to stand with me; they had all left me alone. But may it not be counted against them, for the Lord stood with me and enabled me to proclaim fully the message that all the nations need to hear. And I was saved from the lion's mouth!18The Lord will keep me from all evil and will save me for His heavenly Kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen! It shall be so!19Give Priscilla and Aquila my greetings, together with the household of Onesiphorus.20Erastus remained at Corinth, but I had to leave Trophimus in Miletus as he was sick.21Make every effort to come before winter sets in. Give my love to Eubulus and Pudens, to Linus and Claudia, and to all the brethren.22May the Lord be with your spirit, and may He impart His grace to you.
Scripture quoted by permission. The passage above is taken from THE TRUTH VERSION. Copyright © 2009 by Colin Urquhart. All rights reserved worldwide. (The Truth New Testament)