¹⁶ For I am not ashamed of the gospel,^(A) because it is the power of God^(B) that brings salvation to everyone who believes:^(C) first to the Jew,^(D) then to the Gentile.^{(E) 17} For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed^(F)—a righteousness that is by faith^(G) from first to last,^[a] just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”^[b](H)

¹⁷ Take the helmet of salvation^(A) and the sword of the Spirit,^(B) which is the word of God.^(C)

¹⁸ And pray in the Spirit^(D) on all occasions^(E) with all kinds of prayers and requests.^(F) With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying^(G) for all the Lord’s people. ¹⁹ Pray also for me,^(H) that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly^(I) make known the mystery^(J) of the gospel, ²⁰ for which I am an ambassador^(K) in chains.^(L) Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.

⁷ Since an overseer^(A) manages God’s household,^(B) he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain.^{(C) 8} Rather, he must be hospitable,^(D) one who loves what is good,^(E) who is self-controlled,^(F) upright, holy and disciplined. ⁹ He must hold firmly^(G) to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine^(H) and refute those who oppose it.