¹⁰ so that you may live a life worthy^(A) of the Lord and please him^(B) in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,^(C)

Unity and Maturity in the Body of Christ

4 As a prisoner^(A) for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy^(B) of the calling^(C) you have received.

² Grace and peace be yours in abundance^(A) through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.^(B)

Confirming One’s Calling and Election

³ His divine power^(C) has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him^(D) who called us^(E) by his own glory and goodness.

²¹ equip you with everything good for doing his will,^(A) and may he work in us^(B) what is pleasing to him,^(C) through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.^(D)

²² and receive from him anything we ask,^(A) because we keep his commands^(B) and do what pleases him.^(C)

¹⁶ You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you^(A) so that you might go and bear fruit^(B)—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.^(C)

¹⁶ And do not forget to do good and to share with others,^(A) for with such sacrifices^(B) God is pleased.

¹⁴ Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good,^(A) in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.

Living to Please God

4 As for other matters, brothers and sisters,^(A) we instructed you how to live^(B) in order to please God,^(C) as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.