1For I want you to know how great a struggle I am having for you and for those in Laodicea^* and all who have not seen me face to face, 2that their hearts may be encouraged as they are brought together in love, to have all the richness of fully assured understanding, for the knowledge of the mystery of God, Christ,^a 3in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.^b

A General Admonition. 4I say this so that no one may deceive you by specious arguments.^c 5For even if I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing as I observe your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.^d