1 Corinthians 16:1-24 CEV

[1] When you collect money for God's people, I want you to do exactly what I told the churches in Galatia to do. [2] That is, each Sunday each of you must put aside part of what you have earned. If you do this, you won't have to take up a collection when I come. [3] Choose some followers to take the money to Jerusalem. I will send them on with the money and with letters which show that you approve of them. [4] If you think I should go along, they can go with me. [5] After I have gone through Macedonia, I hope to see you [6] and visit with you for a while. I may even stay all winter, so that you can help me on my way to wherever I will be going next. [7] If the Lord lets me, I would rather come later for a longer visit than to stop off now for only a short visit. [8] I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost, [9] because there is a wonderful opportunity for me to do some work here. But there are also many people who are against me. [10] When Timothy arrives, give him a friendly welcome. He is doing the Lord's work, just as I am. [11] Don't let anyone mistreat him. I am looking for him to return to me together with the other followers. So when he leaves, send him off with your blessings. [12] I have tried hard to get our friend Apollos to visit you with the other followers. He doesn't want to come just now, but he will come when he can. [13] Keep alert. Be firm in your faith. Stay brave and strong. [14] Show love in everything you do. [15] You know that Stephanas and his family were the first in Achaia to have faith in the Lord. They have done all they can for God's people. My friends, I ask you [16] to obey leaders like them and to do the same for all others who work hard with you. [17] I was glad to see Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus. Having them here was like having you. [18] They made me feel much better, just as they made you feel better. You should appreciate people like them. [19] Greetings from the churches in Asia. Aquila and Priscilla, together with the church that meets in their house, send greetings in the name of the Lord. [20] All of the Lord's followers send their greetings. Give each other a warm greeting. [21] I am signing this letter myself: PAUL. [22] I pray that God will put a curse on everyone who doesn't love the Lord. And may the Lord come soon. [23] I pray that the Lord Jesus will be kind to you. [24] I love everyone who belongs to Christ Jesus.