12. I have sent him back. Therefore receive him as my own heart.
13. I wanted to keep him with me, so that in your place he might serve me during my imprisonment for the gospel.
14. But without your consent I would do nothing, so that your goodness would not be forced, but given willingly.
15. Perhaps this was why he departed for a while, that you might receive him forever,
16. no longer as a slave but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
17. If then you consider me a partner, receive him as you would me.
18. If he wronged you or owes you anything, charge this to my account.
19. I, Paul, have written this with my own hand. I will repay it—not to mention that you owe me even your own self.
20. Yes, brother, help me rejoice in the Lord, refresh my heart in the Lord.
21. Being convinced of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will also do more than I say.
22. But, in addition, prepare also lodging for me, for I hope that through your prayers I shall be graciously restored to you.
23. Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, greets you,
24. as do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow laborers.
25. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.