²⁰ In this way the Lord’s word grew abundantly and strengthened powerfully.

²¹ Once these things had come to an end, Paul, guided by the Spirit, decided to return to Jerusalem, taking a route that would carry him through the provinces of Macedonia and Achaia. He said, “After I have been there, I must visit Rome as well.” ²² He sent two of his assistants, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia, while he remained awhile in the province of Asia.