16:1 Now about the collection for God's people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do.

16:2 On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.

16:3 Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem.

16:4 If it seems advisable for me to go also, they will accompany me.

16:5 After I go through Macedonia, I will come to you--for I will be going through Macedonia.

16:6 Perhaps I will stay with you awhile, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey, wherever I go.

16:7 I do not want to see you now and make only a passing visit; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits.

16:8 But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost,

16:9 because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.

16:10 If Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is carrying on the work of the Lord, just as I am.

16:11 No one, then, should refuse to accept him. Send him on his way in peace so that he may return to me. I am expecting him along with the brothers.

16:12 Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers. He was quite unwilling to go now, but he will go when he has the opportunity.

16:13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.

16:14 Do everything in love.

16:15 You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints. I urge you, brothers,

16:16 to submit to such as these and to everyone who joins in the work, and labors at it.

16:17 I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you.

16:18 For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.

16:19 The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house.

16:20 All the brothers here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.

16:21 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand.

16:22 If anyone does not love the Lord--a curse be on him. Come, O Lord!

16:23 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.

16:24 My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.