²⁵ But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom,^(A) and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.^(B)

²⁸ He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God^(A) and obey it.”^(B)

¹⁷ Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.^(A)

¹⁷ Now the Lord is the Spirit,^(A) and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.^{(B) 18} And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate^[a](C) the Lord’s glory,^(D) are being transformed into his image^(E) with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

¹⁶ Live as free people,^(A) but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil;^(B) live as God’s slaves.^(C)

⁴⁷ As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice,^(A) I will show you what they are like. ⁴⁸ They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. ⁴⁹ But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”

¹² Speak and act as those who are going to be judged^(A) by the law that gives freedom,^(B)

Freedom in Christ

5 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.^(A) Stand firm,^(B) then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.^(C)

Dispute Over Whose Children Jesus’ Opponents Are

³¹ To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching,^(A) you are really my disciples. ³² Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”^(B)