« | 1 Corinthians 16 |
1 Now concerning the collection which is for the saints, as I directed to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also:
2 On the first day of the week let each one of you put [something] aside, storing up whatever he may prosper, in order that there be no collections when I come.
3 But when I arrive, [those] whom ever you approve by letters, these I will send to carry your gracious gift to Jerusalem.
4 But if it is fitting that I go also, they will go with me.
5 Now I will come to you when I go through Macedonia (for I am coming through Macedonia).
6 And perhaps I will remain, or even spend the winter with you, that you may send me on my journey, wherever I may go.
7 For I do not wish to see you now in passing; but I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits.
8 But I will remain in Ephesus until Pentecost.
9 For a great and effective door has been opened to me, and there [are] many adversaries.
10 Now if Timothy comes, see to it that he may be with you without fear; for he does the work of the Lord, as I also [do].
11 Therefore let no one despise him. But send him away in peace, that he may come to me; for I am waiting for him with the brothers.
12 Now concerning our brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to come to you with the brothers, but it was not his will to come at this time; however, he will come whenever he has an opportunity.
13 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be courageous, be strong.
14 Let all that you do be done in love.
15 I urge you, brothers (you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints)
16 that you also subject yourselves to such [people] and to everyone who works and labors with us.
17 I rejoice over the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for what was lacking on your part they have supplied.
18 For they refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore give recognition to such [men].
19 The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you heartily in the Lord, together with the church that is in their house.
20 All the brothers greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.
21 The salutation with my own hand--Paul's.
22 If anyone does not love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema. Marana tha!
23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
24 My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.
The Apostles’ Bible Complete (ABC)
The Apostles’ Bible Complete (ABC) is a modern translation of the Bible that strives to offer a clear and faithful rendering of the scriptures in contemporary language. This translation is designed to be accessible to a wide audience, providing an easy-to-read yet accurate version of the biblical text. The ABC translation aims to bridge the gap between the ancient languages in which the Bible was originally written and the modern vernacular, making it an ideal choice for both personal study and public reading.
One of the notable features of the Apostles’ Bible Complete is its dedication to maintaining the integrity of the original manuscripts. The translators of the ABC worked meticulously with the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts to ensure that their translation accurately reflects the original meaning and intent of the scriptures. By employing a balance of formal equivalence (word-for-word) and dynamic equivalence (thought-for-thought) translation techniques, the ABC aims to preserve the nuances and richness of the original languages while ensuring readability and clarity for modern readers.
The ABC also incorporates extensive cross-references and study aids to enhance the reader’s understanding of the biblical text. These tools include footnotes that provide historical and cultural context, as well as explanations of difficult or ambiguous passages. This approach helps readers to grasp the deeper meanings of the scriptures and to see how different parts of the Bible interconnect. The inclusion of these study aids makes the ABC particularly useful for those who are new to the Bible, as well as for more experienced readers who are looking to deepen their understanding of the text.
Despite its strengths, the Apostles’ Bible Complete has faced some criticisms. Some readers feel that the translation could benefit from further refinement in certain passages, as the balance between formal and dynamic equivalence can sometimes lead to inconsistencies in style and tone. Others have noted that while the study aids are helpful, they can occasionally overwhelm the main text, making it difficult to focus on the scripture itself. Nonetheless, the ABC remains a valuable and respected translation, appreciated for its commitment to accuracy, clarity, and accessibility, and for its ability to bring the ancient words of the Bible to life for contemporary readers.