The Message Bible MSG
New International Version NIV
19 I plan (according to Jesus' plan) to send Timothy to you very soon so he can bring back all the news of you he can gather. Oh, how that will do my heart good!
19
I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you.
20 I have no one quite like Timothy. He is loyal, and genuinely concerned for you.
20
I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare.
21 Most people around here are looking out for themselves, with little concern for the things of Jesus.
21
For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
22 But you know yourselves that Timothy's the real thing. He's been a devoted son to me as together we've delivered the Message.
22
But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.
23 As soon as I see how things are going to fall out for me here, I plan to send him off.
23
I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me.
24 And then I'm hoping and praying to be right on his heels.
24
And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.
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.