²¹ For since, in the wisdom of God, ^(A)the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, ^(B)God was well-pleased, through the ^(C)foolishness of the ^[a]message preached, to ^(D)save those who believe.

^13 (A)But we should always give thanks to God for you, ^(B)brothers beloved by the Lord, because ^(C)God has chosen you ^[a]as the first fruits ^(D)for salvation ^(E)through sanctification ^[b]by the Spirit and faith in the truth.