24 So now I’m happy to be suffering for you all, and I’m catching up in my body to the tribulations of the messiah in his body, which is the assembly. 25 I became a servant of the assembly under God’s supervision when he gave me the work of fulfilling God’s message—26 the mystery which had been hidden away from the generations over the ages, but which was recently revealed to his chosen people. 27 God wanted them to explain the riches of the this incredible mystery among the pagans: the messiah in you all bringing the hope of reaching God. 28 Yes, Messiah who we are telling everyone about as we teach and recommend to everyone, so they we might present every person made perfect in Messiah. 29 That’s what I’m working hard towards according to his work as well—working in me with power.

2 I want you all to know how much I struggle for you and for those in Laodicea and for those who’ve never actually set eyes on me. 2 By knowing that, their hearts may be comforted, having been held together in love and to all the riches of the full assurance of the insight, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, Messiah. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN? 3 He holds all the treasures of wisdom and secret knowledge.

4 I’m telling you all this so that none of you will be deceived by persuasive talk, 5 because even though I’m physically far way, I’m with you all in the spirit. I’m pleased to see the sensibleness and firmness of your faith in Messiah.