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.