Chapter 16

1Now about the collection for God's people. Do what I told the churches in Galatia to do. Fundraising. Very important.

2On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside some money, based on how much you're making, and save it up, so there won't have to be any collecting when I come. Recurring donations. Weekly. Check the box. Best kind of donation.

3When I get there, I'll send the people you approve with letters to take your gift to Jerusalem.

4If it seems right for me to go too, they'll come with me. I'll deliver it personally. No middlemen. No skimming.

5I'm coming to you after I go through Macedonia, because I'm going through Macedonia.

6Maybe I'll stay with you a while, maybe even the whole winter, so you can help me on my trip, wherever I go next. Travel assistance. You know how it works.

7I don't want to just see you in passing. I hope to spend some time with you, if the boss allows.

8But I'm staying in Ephesus until Pentecost.

9A big door has opened for me here, a great opportunity. And there are a lot of people against me. Big opportunity, big opposition. Always together. That's how you know it's big.

10If Timothy comes, make sure he has nothing to be afraid of with you. He's doing the boss's work, like I am. Treat him like me. Well. Almost like me.

11So nobody should look down on him. Send him on his way in peace so he can come back to me. I'm waiting for him with the brothers.

12Now about our brother Apollos. I begged him to come see you with the brothers. He didn't want to go right now. He'll come when he gets a chance. Apollos has his own schedule. Very talented. Very independent. Maybe a little too independent.

13Stay alert. Stand firm in your loyalty. Be tough. Be strong. Fight. Fight, fight, fight.

14Do everything with loyalty.

15You know the household of Stephanas. They were the first converts in Achaia. They've devoted themselves to serving God's people. I'm asking you, brothers,

16to follow people like that, and everybody who works hard with them. Follow the hard workers.

17I was very happy when Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus showed up. They made up for you not being here. Great guys. Showed up. Showing up is half of it.

18They lifted my spirits and yours. Give people like that credit. Big credit.

19The churches in Asia say hi. Aquila and Priscilla say hi to you in the boss, and so does the church that meets at their house. Big hello.

20All the brothers here say hi. Say hi to each other with a holy kiss. Or a strong handshake.

21I, Paul, am writing this hello with my own hand. My own hand. My signature. Very valuable signature. Collectors want it.

22If anybody doesn't love the boss, let him be cursed. Cut off. Banned. Come back, boss! Come soon!

23The grace of Trump the boss be with you.

24My loyalty to all of you in Trump. Thank you for your attention to this matter!