Maintain Good Deeds

3 Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,^{(A) 2} to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone.^{(B) 3} For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, despicable, hating one another.^{(C) 4} But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,^{(D) 5} he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water^[a] of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.^{(E) 6} This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, ⁷ so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.^{(F) 8} The saying is sure.

I desire that you insist on these things, so that those who have come to believe in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works; these things are excellent and profitable to everyone.^{(G) 9} But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.^{(H) 10} After a first and second admonition, have nothing more to do with anyone who causes divisions,^{(I) 11} since you know that such a person is perverted and sinful, being self-condemned.

Final Messages and Benediction

¹² When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.^{(J) 13} Make every effort to send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way, and see that they lack nothing. ¹⁴ And let people learn to devote themselves to good works in order to meet urgent needs, so that they may not be unproductive.

¹⁵ All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith.

Grace be with all of you.^[b]