1I solemnly call on you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who is going to judge those who are living and those who are dead. I do this because Christ Jesus will come to rule [the world]. 2Be ready to spread the word whether or not the time is right. Point out errors, warn people, and encourage them. Be very patient when you teach. 3A time will come when people will not listen to accurate teachings. Instead, they will follow their own desires and surround themselves with teachers who tell them what they want to hear. 4People will refuse to listen to the truth and turn to myths. 5But you must keep a clear head in everything. Endure suffering. Do the work of a missionary. Devote yourself completely to your work.

6My life is coming to an end, and it is now time for me to be poured out as a sacrifice to God. 7I have fought the good fight. I have completed the race. I have kept the faith. 8The prize that shows I have God's approval is now waiting for me. The Lord, who is a fair judge, will give me that prize on that day. He will give it not only to me but also to everyone who is eagerly waiting for him to come again.

9Hurry to visit me soon. 10Demas has abandoned me. He fell in love with this present world and went to the city of Thessalonica. Crescens went to the province of Galatia, and Titus went to the province of Dalmatia. 11Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you. He is useful to me in my work. 12I'm sending Tychicus to the city of Ephesus as my representative. 13When you come, bring the warm coat I left with Carpus in the city of Troas. Also bring the scrolls and especially the parchments. 14Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will pay him back for what he did. 15Watch out for him. He violently opposed what we said.

16At my first hearing no one stood up in my defense. Everyone abandoned me. I pray that it won't be held against them. 17However, the Lord stood by me and gave me strength so that I could finish spreading the Good News for all the nations to hear. I was snatched out of a lion's mouth. 18The Lord will rescue me from all harm and will take me safely to his heavenly kingdom. Glory belongs to him forever! Amen.

19Give my greetings to Prisca and Aquila and the family of Onesiphorus. 20Erastus stayed in the city of Corinth and I left Trophimus in the city of Miletus because he was sick. 21Hurry to visit me before winter comes. Eubulus, Pudens, Linus, Claudia and all the brothers and sisters send you greetings.

22The Lord be with you. His good will be with all of you.