¹⁶ For God so loved^(A) the world that he gave^(B) his one and only Son,^(C) that whoever believes^(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.^{(E) 17} For God did not send his Son into the world^(F) to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.^(G)

² For I can testify about them that they are zealous^(A) for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge. ³ Since they did not know the righteousness of God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness.^{(B) 4} Christ is the culmination of the law^(C) so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.^(D)

² Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways;^(A) we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God.^(B) On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience^(C) in the sight of God. ³ And even if our gospel^(D) is veiled,^(E) it is veiled to those who are perishing.^{(F) 4} The god^(G) of this age^(H) has blinded^(I) the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ,^(J) who is the image of God.^(K)

⁸ For it is by grace^(A) you have been saved,^(B) through faith^(C)—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— ⁹ not by works,^(D) so that no one can boast.^(E)