¹⁵ Here is a trustworthy saying^(A) that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners^(B)—of whom I am the worst. ¹⁶ But for that very reason I was shown mercy^(C) so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience^(D) as an example for those who would believe^(E) in him and receive eternal life.^{(F) 17} Now to the King^(G) eternal, immortal,^(H) invisible,^(I) the only God,^(J) be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.^(K)

Psalm 113

A Tree and Its Fruit^(A)

⁴³ “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. ⁴⁴ Each tree is recognized by its own fruit.^(B) People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. ⁴⁵ A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.^(C)

The Wise and Foolish Builders^(D)

⁴⁶ “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’^(E) and do not do what I say?^{(F) 47} As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice,^(G) I will show you what they are like. ⁴⁸ They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. ⁴⁹ But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”