Today’s Scripture:

Now, concerning the collection I want you to take for God’s holy believers in Jerusalem who are in need,[a] I want you to follow the same instructions I gave the churches of Galatia.[b] 2 Every Sunday, each of you make a generous offering by taking a portion of whatever God has blessed you with and place it in safekeeping. Then I won’t have to make a special appeal when I come. 3 When I arrive, I will send your gift to the poor in Jerusalem along with a letter of explanation, carried by those whom you approve. 4 If it seems advisable for me to accompany them, I’ll be glad to have them travel with me.

5 I plan to be traveling through Macedonia, and afterward I will visit you 6 and perhaps stay there for a while, or even spend the winter with you. Afterward you can send me on my journey, wherever I go next, with your financial support. 7 For it’s not my desire to just see you in passing, but I would like to spend some time with you if the Lord permits. 8 Regardless, I will remain in Ephesus until the feast of Pentecost. 9 There’s an amazing door of opportunity standing wide open for me to minister here, even though there are many who oppose and stand against me.[c]

10 When Timothy arrives, make sure that he feels at home while he’s with you, for he’s advancing the Lord’s work just as I am. 11 Don’t let anyone disparage or look down on him, but kindly help him on his way with financial support so that he may come back to me, for I am waiting for him and the brothers to return.

12 Now, about our brother Apollos. I’ve tried hard to convince him to come visit you with the other brothers,[d] but it’s simply not the right time for him now. But don’t worry, he’ll come when he has the opportunity.

13 Remember to stay alert and hold firmly to all that you believe. Be mighty and full of courage. 14 Let love and kindness be the motivation behind all that you do. 15 Dear brothers and sisters, I have a request to make of you. Give special recognition to Stephanas and his family, for they were the first converts in Achaia,[e] and they have fully devoted themselves to serve God’s holy people.[f] 16 I urge you to honor and support them, and all those like them who work so diligently for the Lord.

17 I was delighted when Stephanas,[g] Fortunatus,[h] and Achaicus[i] arrived, for they’ve made up for your absence. 18 They have refreshed my spirit in the same way they’ve refreshed yours. Be sure to honor people like this.

19 All the churches of western Turkey[j] send their loving greetings to you. Aquila and Prisca[