22. If I continue living in the body, I will be able to work for the Lord. But what should I choose—living or dying? I do not know.
23. It is hard to choose between the two. I want to leave this life and be with Christ. That is much better.
24. But you need me here in my body.
25. I know that you need me, and so I know that I will stay with you. I will help you grow and have joy in your faith.
26. You will be very happy in Christ Jesus when I am with you again.
27. Be sure that you live in a way that brings honor to the Good News of Christ. Then whether I come and visit you or am away from you, I will hear good things about you. I will hear that you continue strong with one purpose and that you work together as a team for the faith of the Good News.
28. And you will not be afraid of those who are against you. All of these things are proof from God that you will be saved and that your enemies will be lost.
29. God gave you the honor both of believing in Christ and suffering for Christ. Both these things bring glory to Christ.
30. When I was with you, you saw the struggles I had. And you hear about the struggles I am having now. You yourselves are having the same kind of struggles.