³ We too all previously lived among them in our fleshly^(A) desires, carrying out the inclinations^(B) of our flesh and thoughts, and we were by nature children under wrath^(C) as the others were also. ⁴ But God, who is rich in mercy,^(D) because of his great love^(E) that he had for us,^{[a] 5} made us alive^(F) with Christ even though we were dead^(G) in trespasses. You are saved by grace! ⁶ He also raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavens in Christ Jesus,^{(H) 7} so that in the coming ages^(I) he might display the immeasurable riches^(J) of his grace through his kindness^(K) to us in Christ Jesus. ⁸ For you are saved by grace^(L) through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— ⁹ not from works, so that no one can boast. ¹⁰ For we are his workmanship, created^(M) in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time^(N) for us to do.

¹⁹ because I know this will lead to my salvation^[a](A) through your prayers and help from the Spirit^(B) of Jesus Christ.^{(C) 20} My eager expectation and hope^(D) is that I will not be ashamed about anything, but that now as always, with all courage, Christ will be highly honored in my body, whether by life^(E) or by death.^(F)

Living Is Christ

²¹ For me, to live is Christ^(G) and to die is gain.^{(H) 22} Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful^(I) work^(J) for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. ²³ I am torn between the two. I long to depart and be with Christ^(K)—which is far better^(L)— ²⁴ but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. ²⁵ Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,^{(M) 26} so that, because of my coming to you again, your boasting^(N) in Christ Jesus^(O) may abound.