Christian Living among Outsiders

3 Remind them to submit^(A) to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, ² to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness^(B) to all people. ³ 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.

⁴ But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared,^{(E) 5} 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) 6} He poured out his Spirit on us abundantly^(K) through Jesus Christ our Savior ⁷ so that, having been justified by his grace,^(L) we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life.^{(M) 8} 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. ⁹ But avoid foolish debates,^(O) genealogies,^(P) quarrels,^(Q) and disputes about the law, because they are unprofitable and worthless. ¹⁰ Reject a divisive^(R) person after a first and second warning.^{(S) 11} For you know that such a person has gone astray and is sinning; he is self-condemned.

Final Instructions and Closing

¹² When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you,^(T) make every effort to come to me^(U) in Nicopolis, because I have decided to spend the winter there. ¹³ Diligently help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos^(V) on their journey, so that they will lack^(W) nothing.

¹⁴ Let our people learn to devote themselves to good works for pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful.^{(X) 15} All those who are with me send you greetings. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with all of you.^(Y)