1 M asters, deal with your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that also you have a Master in heaven.

2 B e earnest and unwearied and steadfast in your prayer, being alert and intent in with thanksgiving.

3 A nd at the same time pray for us also, that God may open a door to us for the Word (the Gospel), to proclaim the mystery concerning Christ (the Messiah) on account of which I am in prison;

4 T hat I may proclaim it fully and make it clear, as is my duty.

5 B ehave yourselves wisely in your relations with those of the outside world (the non-Christians), making the very most of the time and seizing (buying up) the opportunity.

6 L et your speech at all times be gracious (pleasant and winsome), seasoned with salt, to know how you ought to answer anyone.

7 T ychicus will give you full information about my affairs; a much-loved brother and faithful ministering assistant and fellow servant in the Lord.

8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are faring and that he may comfort and cheer and encourage your hearts.

9 A nd with Onesimus, faithful and beloved brother, who is of yourselves. They will let you know everything that has taken place here.

10 A ristarchus my fellow prisoner wishes to be remembered to you, as does Mark the relative of Barnabas. You received instructions concerning him; if he comes to you give him a '> hearty] welcome.

11 A nd Jesus, who is called Justus. These alone of the circumcision are among my fellow workers for God’s kingdom, and they have proved a relief and a comfort to me.

12 E paphras, who is one of yourselves, a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. always striving for you earnestly in his prayers, that you may stand firm and mature, convinced and fully assured in everything willed by God.

13 F or I bear him testimony that he has labored hard in your behalf and for in Laodicea and those in Hierapolis.

14 L uke the beloved physician and Demas salute you.

15 G ive my greetings to the brethren at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the assembly (the church) which meets in her house.

16 A nd when this epistle has been read before you, that it is read also in the assembly (the church) of the Laodiceans, and also that you yourselves in turn read the from Laodicea.

17 A nd say to Archippus, See that you discharge carefully the ministry and fulfill the stewardship which you have received in the Lord.

18 I , Paul, greeting, writing with my own hand. Remember I am still in prison and in chains. May grace (God’s unmerited favor and blessing) be with you! Amen (so be it).