How are collection and travel plans qualified?

For collections for saints, Paul gives the order already given Galatia: on the first day of the week each puts aside with himself what pleases him, so collections need not be made when he comes. When present he will send those the readers approve by letters to carry their gift to Jerusalem; if suitable that he goes, they accompany him. This span supplies no earnings percentage, prosperity formula, identified poverty level or statement that Paul writes their approval letters.

He plans to come after passing through Macedonia and perhaps abide or winter with them, so they can bring him on whatever journey follows. He will not see them now merely in passing, trusting a longer stay if the Lord permits. He will remain at Ephesus until Pentecost because a great evident door is opened and there are many adversaries. These are plans with qualifications, not completed travel or a fixed destination afterwards.

If Timothy comes, he should be without fear because he works the Lord’s work as Paul does. No one should despise him; conduct him in peace to Paul, who expects him with brethren. Paul much entreated brother Apollo to come with brethren, but it was not his will at all now; he will come when he has leisure. No reason for Apollo’s refusal or completed later visit is supplied. The printed names Apollo and Stephanus are retained rather than silently replaced by another edition’s spelling.

Watch, stand fast in faith, do manfully, be strengthened; all things should be in charity. Paul names the house of Stephanus, Fortunatus and Achaicus as firstfruits of Achaia, devoted to saints’ ministry, and asks subjection to such and every fellow labourer. He rejoices at their presence because they supplied what was wanting from the readers and refreshed his and their spirits. The missing item is not specifically identified as the congregation’s absence. Recognize such people.

Asian churches greet them, as do Aquila and Priscilla with the church in their house where Paul lodges, and all brethren. Exchange a holy kiss. Paul’s salutation is with his own hand, without describing a pen-taking scene. Whoever does not love Jesus Christ is to be anathema, maranatha. The printed note defines accursed and preserves two Maran-atha readings: Jerome and Chrysostom’s Lord already come, admonishing resurrection doubters about the judge already come; others’ may the Lord come to judge and punish loveless people with exemplary judgments. It does not say accursed only until a future arrival. Grace of Jesus Christ and Paul’s charity with all close the chapter.