11. and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
12. Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,
13. for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
14. Do everything without grumbling or arguing,
15. so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky
16. as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.
17. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
18. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
19. I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you.
20. I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare.
21. For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
22. But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.
23. I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me.
24. And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.
25. But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.