1 | Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for any honest work, |
2 | to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all men. |
3 | For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by men and hating one another; |
4 | but when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, |
5 | he saved us, not because of deeds done by us in righteousness, but in virtue of his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit, |
6 | which he poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, |
7 | so that we might be justified by his grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life. |
8 | The saying is sure. I desire you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to apply themselves to good deeds; these are excellent and profitable to men. |
9 | But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels over the law, for they are unprofitable and futile. |
10 | As for a man who is factious, after admonishing him once or twice, have nothing more to do with him, |
11 | knowing that such a person is perverted and sinful; he is self-condemned. |
12 | When I send Artemas or Tych'icus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicop'olis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. |
13 | Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apol'los on their way; see that they lack nothing. |
14 | And let our people learn to apply themselves to good deeds, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not to be unfruitful. |
15 | All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. |