How we cite our quotes:
Quote #4
Pray also for me, so that when I speak, a message may be given to me to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak. (Ephesians 6:19-20, NRSV)
And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:19-20, KJV)
Being a convict doesn't embarrass Paul. He's actually "an ambassador in chains." They might lock him up, but they can't stop him from spreading the message of Jesus. Preach on, prison Paul.
Quote #5
I, Paul, became a servant of this gospel. I am now rejoicing in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am completing what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church. I became its servant according to God's commission that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known[…] For this I toil and struggle with all the energy that he powerfully inspires within me. (Colossians 1:23-25, 29, NRSV)
I Paul am made a minister; Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church: Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God[…] Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (Colossians 1:23-25, 29, KJV)
Paul isn't bothered about being in prison. In fact, he's glad that he's suffering right now. For one, it shows how sincere he is and how far he's willing to go for Jesus. It also makes for a way better story 2,000 years later.
Quote #6
For I want you to know how much I am struggling for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for all who have not seen me face to face[…] I am saying this so that no one may deceive you with plausible arguments. For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, and I rejoice to see your morale and the firmness of your faith in Christ. (Colossians 2:1, 4-5, NRSV)
For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. (Colossians 2:1, 4-5, KJV)
Paul's body is confined, but his Spirit is free. This is actually one of the awesome things about a letter: even though Paul can't be with them in person, he can send a little piece of himself in the form of his words.