The Message Bible MSG
New International Version NIV
16 Even while I was in Thessalonica, you helped out - and not only once, but twice.
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for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.
17 Not that I'm looking for handouts, but I do want you to experience the blessing that issues from generosity.
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Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.
18 And now I have it all - and keep getting more! The gifts you sent with Epaphroditus were more than enough, like a sweet-smelling sacrifice roasting on the altar, filling the air with fragrance, pleasing God no end.
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I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.
19 You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, his generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus.
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And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
20 Our God and Father abounds in glory that just pours out into eternity. Yes.
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To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
21 Give our regards to every Christian you meet. Our friends here say hello.
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Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings.
22 All the Christians here, especially the believers who work in the palace of Caesar, want to be remembered to you.
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All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
23 Receive and experience the amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, deep, deep within yourselves.
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The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.