¹⁶ But for that very reason I was shown mercy^(A) so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience^(B) as an example for those who would believe^(C) in him and receive eternal life.^(D)

¹³ Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor^(A) and a violent man, I was shown mercy^(B) because I acted in ignorance and unbelief.^(C)

¹⁵ Bear in mind that our Lord’s patience^(A) means salvation,^(B) just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him.^(C)

⁷ in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace,^(A) expressed in his kindness^(B) to us in Christ Jesus.

⁴⁷ Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.”

¹¹ And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life,^(A) and this life is in his Son.^{(B) 12} Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.^(C)

⁹ The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise,^(A) as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient^(B) with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.^(C)

²⁰ to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently^(A) in the days of Noah while the ark was being built.^(B) In it only a few people, eight in all,^(C) were saved^(D) through water,

²⁵ Therefore he is able to save^(A) completely^[a] those who come to God^(B) through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.^(C)