12 So then, my dear friends, work towards your salvation with fear and trembling—you always did this in my presence, so now do it much more in my absence—13 because God is the one who works in you all to both desire and to be living out his good pleasure.

14 Do everything without grumbling and arguing 15 [ref]so that you’ll all be blameless and innocent—blameless children of God among a generation that’s crooked and perverted. Then you’ll shine like lights in the world, 16 as you live out the message of life, and then I’ll be able to boast when Messiah returns because I didn’t waste my time or work for nothing, 17 but even if I’m to lose my life by being poured out like wine on your sacrifice and on the ministry of your faith, I’ll be happy and celebrate along with all of you. 18 You all should also be happy and celebrating along with me.