Instructions for Christian Living

¹⁷ So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer^(A) live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking.^(B)

²² You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off^(A) your old self,^(B) which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires;^{(C) 23} to be made new in the attitude of your minds;^{(D) 24} and to put on^(E) the new self,^(F) created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.^(G)

²⁵ Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully^(H) to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.^{(I) 26} “In your anger do not sin”^[a]:^(J) Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, ²⁷ and do not give the devil a foothold.^{(K) 28} Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work,^(L) doing something useful with their own hands,^(M) that they may have something to share with those in need.^(N)

²⁹ Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths,^(O) but only what is helpful for building others up^(P) according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. ³⁰ And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God,^(Q) with whom you were sealed^(R) for the day of redemption.^{(S) 31} Get rid of^(T) all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.^{(U) 32} Be kind and compassionate to one another,^(V) forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.^(W)