² Dear friends,^(A) now we are children of God,^(B) and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears,^[a](C) we shall be like him,^(D) for we shall see him as he is.^(E)

¹² For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror;^(A) then we shall see face to face.^(B) Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.^(C)

¹⁷ After that, we who are still alive and are left^(A) will be caught up together with them in the clouds^(B) to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord^(C) forever. ¹⁸ Therefore encourage one another^(D) with these words.