¹⁶ If the part of the dough offered as firstfruits^(A) is holy, then the whole batch is holy; if the root is holy, so are the branches.

¹⁷ If some of the branches have been broken off,^(B) and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others^(C) and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, ¹⁸ do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you.^{(D) 19} You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in.” ²⁰ Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith.^(E) Do not be arrogant,^(F) but tremble.^{(G) 21} For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either.

²² Consider therefore the kindness^(H) and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue^(I) in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off.^{(J) 23} And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again.^(K)