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1 Masters, provide your slaves with what is just and fair, knowing that you, too, yourselves have a Master in heaven.
2 In prayer be persistent, staying watchful and alert in it with thanksgiving,
3 praying at the same time for us, too, that God would open a door for us to proclaim the message, so that we may declare the mystery about the Messiah, on account of which I am in prison.
4 Pray that I would be able to make it known in a way that is clear, as is my duty.
5 Conduct yourselves toward outsiders wisely, of every opportunity making the most.
6 Let your words always be pleasant and gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you are able to give each person the appropriate response.
“Remember My Chains”
7 As for all that is happening with me, Tychicus, our dear brother and a trustworthy servant and fellow slave in union with the Lord, will tell you about it.
8 I have sent him to you for this very reason, so that you may know how we are getting along, and so that he can strengthen and encourage your hearts.
9 I have sent him with Onesimus, our trustworthy and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about what is happening here, all of it.
10 Aristarchus, who is in prison with me, sends you greetings, as does Mark, Barnabas’ cousin (concerning whom you have received instructions; if he comes to you, welcome him),
11 and Jesus, who is also called Justus. In terms of Jewish believers, these three are my only fellow workers for the Kingdom of God, and they have been a source of great encouragement to me.
12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a slave of Messiah Jesus, sends his greetings. He fights his heart out for you in his prayers continually, asking God to make you firm in your loyalty and faith, blameless and filled with conviction with regard to every aspect of his will.
13 Indeed, I can personally vouch for him that he has a deep concern for you and for those in Laodicea and Hierapolis.
14 Our dear friend Luke, the physician, greets you, as does Demas.
15 Please give my greetings to the brothers and sisters in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the assembly that meets in her home.
16 And after this letter has been read to you, make sure that it is read, too, in the assembly at Laodicea, and in regard to the letter that will come to you from Laodicea, that you yourselves likewise read it.
17 And say to Archippus, “Make sure that you carry out the ministry you received in union with the Lord.”
18 I, PAUL, AM INCLUDING THIS PERSONAL GREETING WRITTEN WITH MY OWN HAND. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.