Revised Common Lectionary (Semicontinuous)

⁴ “So, my friends, I have this to say to you: don’t be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more they can do. ⁵ I will show you who to fear: fear the one who starts by killing and then has the right to throw people into Gehenna. Yes, let me tell you, that’s the one to fear!

⁶ “How much do five sparrows cost? Two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten in God’s presence. ⁷ But the hairs of your head have all been counted. Don’t be afraid! You are worth more than lots of sparrows.

⁸ “Let me tell you: if anyone acknowledges me before others, the son of man will acknowledge that person before God’s angels. ⁹ But if anyone denies me before others, that person will be denied before God’s angels.

¹⁰ “Everyone who speaks a word against the son of man will have it forgiven; but the one who blasphemes against the holy spirit will not be forgiven.

¹¹ “When they bring you before synagogues, rulers and authorities, don’t worry about how to give an answer or what to say. ¹² The holy spirit will teach you what to say at that very moment.”