1 Paul, a servant of God^(A) and an apostle^(B) of Jesus Christ to further the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth^(C) that leads to godliness^(D)— ² in the hope of eternal life,^(E) which God, who does not lie,^(F) promised before the beginning of time,^(G)

⁸ So do not be ashamed^(A) of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner.^(B) Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel,^(C) by the power of God. ⁹ He has saved^(D) us and called^(E) us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done^(F) but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,