¹⁸ He chose to give us birth^(A) through the word of truth,^(B) that we might be a kind of firstfruits^(C) of all he created.

⁴ These are those who did not defile themselves with women, for they remained virgins.^(A) They follow the Lamb wherever he goes.^(B) They were purchased from among mankind^(C) and offered as firstfruits^(D) to God and the Lamb.

⁶ For you are a people holy^(A) to the Lord your God.^(B) The Lord your God has chosen^(C) you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.^(D)

⁵ Now if you obey me fully^(A) and keep my covenant,^(B) then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession.^(C) Although the whole earth^(D) is mine, ⁶ you^[a] will be for me a kingdom of priests^(E) and a holy nation.’^(F) These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”

¹⁴ This is what the Lord says: “As for all my wicked neighbors who seize the inheritance^(A) I gave my people Israel, I will uproot^(B) them from their lands and I will uproot^(C) the people of Judah from among them.

² for you are a people holy^(A) to the Lord your God.^(B) Out of all the peoples on the face of the earth, the Lord has chosen you to be his treasured possession.^(C)