3 Join me in suffering like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
4 Whoever serves in the military doesn’t get mixed up in non-military activities. This pleases his commanding officer.
5 Whoever enters an athletic competition wins the prize only when playing by the rules.
6 A hard-working farmer should have the first share of the crops.
7 Understand what I’m saying. The Lord will help you understand all these things.
8 Always think about Jesus Christ. He was brought back to life and is a descendant of David. This is the Good News that I tell others.
9 I’m suffering disgrace for spreading this Good News. I have even been put into prison like a criminal. However, God’s word is not imprisoned.