Complete the Task Entrusted to You

1In the presence of God and the Messiaha Jesus, who is going to judge those who are living and those who are dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I solemnly appeal to you 2to proclaim the message. Be ready to do thisb whether or not the time is convenient. Refute, warn, and encourage with the utmost patience when you teach. 3For the time will come when people will not tolerate healthy doctrine, but with itching ears will surround themselves with teachers who cater to their people’s own desires. 4They will refuse to listen to the truth and will turn to myths. 5But you must be clear-headed about everything. Endure suffering. Do the work of an evangelist. Devote yourself completely to your ministry.

6I am already being poured out as an offering, and the time for my departure has come. 7I have fought the good fight. I have completed the race. I have kept the faith. 8The victor’s crown of righteousness is now waiting for me, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on the day that he comes,c and not only to me but also to all who eagerly wait for his appearing.

Final Instructions to Timothy

9Do your best to come to me soon, 10because Demas, having fallen in love with this present world, has abandoned me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. 11Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful in my ministry. 12I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus.

13When you come, bring the coat I left with Carpus in Troas, as well as the scrolls and especially the parchments.d 14Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will pay him back for what he did. 15You, too, must watch out for him, for he violently opposed our message.

16At my first trial no one came to my defense. Everyone abandoned me. May it not be held against them! 17However, the Lord stood by me and gave me strength so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the gentiles could hear it. I was rescued out of a lion’s mouth. 18The Lord will rescue me from every evil attacke and will take me safely tof his heavenly kingdom. Glory belongs to him forever and ever! Amen.

Final Greeting

19Greet Priscag and Aquila and the family of Onesiphorus. 20Erastus stayed in Corinth, and I left Trophimus in Miletus because he was sick. 21Do your best to come to me before winter. Eubulus sends you greetings, as do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers.

22May the Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with all of you! Amen.h