⁴ and endurance, proven character (spiritual maturity); and proven character, hope and confident assurance [of eternal salvation]. ⁵ Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

⁶ While we were still helpless [powerless to provide for our salvation], at the right time Christ died [as a substitute] for the ungodly.