¹⁸ It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always, not just when I am with you.^(A)

Do Everything Without Grumbling

¹² Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,^(A)

¹⁴ who gave himself for us^(A) to redeem us from all wickedness^(B) and to purify^(C) for himself a people that are his very own,^(D) eager to do what is good.^(E)

Life Worthy of the Gospel

²⁷ Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy^(A) of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm^(B) in the one Spirit,^[a] striving together^(C) as one for the faith of the gospel

¹³ As you know, it was because of an illness^(A) that I first preached the gospel to you,

⁵⁸ Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord,^(A) because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.^(B)

¹⁷ His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”^[a](A)