God planned that those he already knew ahead of time would become like his Son. In that way, Christ would become the first and most honored among many brothers and sisters.
Epaphras, who’s from your community and who’s a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He’s always praying hard for you, that you’ll stand firm in the will of God and that you’ll be confident and mature.
God has chosen to make known to them the glorious riches of that mystery among the Gentiles. And here’s what it is: Christ is in you, the hope of glory.
But even if my life is going to be poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I’ll be glad and joyful with all of you.
My dear children, I’m writing this to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, then we have a friend who speaks to the Father for us. He’s Jesus Christ, the Blameless One
During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, with loud cries and tears he prayed to and pleaded with the God who could save him from death, and God listened to him because of his reverence.
Now I’m ready to visit you for the third time. I’m not going to be a burden to you, because I don’t want what you have. What I really want is you. After all, children shouldn’t have to save up for their parents. Parents should save up for their children.