23 It is a hard choice to make. I want to die and be with Christ, because that would be much better.
24-25 But I know that all of you still need me. That's why I am sure I will stay on to help you grow and be happy in your faith.
26 Then, when I visit you again, you will have good reason to take great pride in Christ Jesus because of me.
27 Above all else, you must live in a way that brings honour to the good news about Christ. Then, whether I visit you or not, I will hear that all of you think alike. I will know that you are working together and that you are struggling side by side to get others to believe the good news.
28 Be brave when you face your enemies. Your courage will show them that they are going to be destroyed, and it will show you that you will be saved. God will make all this happen,
29 and he has blessed you. Not only do you have faith in Christ, but you suffer for him.
30 You saw me suffer, and you still hear about my troubles. Now you must suffer in the same way.