¹² to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ^(A) may be built up^{(B) 13} until we all reach unity^(C) in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God^(D) and become mature,^(E) attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.^(F)

¹⁴ Then we will no longer be infants,^(G) tossed back and forth by the waves,^(H) and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.^{(I) 15} Instead, speaking the truth in love,^(J) we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head,^(K) that is, Christ. ¹⁶ From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows^(L) and builds itself up^(M) in love,^(N) as each part does its work.

² My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart^(A) and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery^(B) of God, namely, Christ, ³ in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.^{(C) 4} I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.^(D)

¹² Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves^(A) with compassion, kindness, humility,^(B) gentleness and patience.^{(C) 13} Bear with each other^(D) and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.^{(E) 14} And over all these virtues put on love,^(F) which binds them all together in perfect unity.^(G)

¹⁵ Let the peace of Christ^(H) rule in your hearts, since as members of one body^(I) you were called to peace.^(J) And be thankful.

¹⁶ For God so loved^(A) the world that he gave^(B) his one and only Son,^(C) that whoever believes^(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.^(E)