Study Desk

Remind them to be submissive^(a) to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,

to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness^(b) to all people.

For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved by various passions^(c) and pleasures,^(d) living in malice and envy, hateful, detesting one another.

But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared,^(e)

He saved us^(f)— not by works of righteousness that we had done,^(g) but according to His mercy,^(h) through the washing of regeneration⁽ⁱ⁾ and renewal by the Holy Spirit.^(j)

He poured out this Spirit on us abundantly^(k) through Jesus Christ our Savior,

so that having been justified by His grace,^(l) we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life.^(m)

This saying is trustworthy.⁽ⁿ⁾ I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed God might be careful to devote themselves to good works. These are good and profitable for everyone.

But avoid foolish debates,^(o) genealogies,^(p) quarrels,^(q) and disputes about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.

Reject a divisive^(r) person after a first and second warning,^(s)

knowing that such a person is perverted and sins, being self-condemned.

When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you,^(t) make every effort to come to me^(u) in Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.

Diligently help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos^(v) on their journey, so that they will lack^(w) nothing.

And our people must also learn to devote themselves to good works for cases of urgent need, so that they will not be unfruitful.^(x)

All those who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with all of you.^(y)