Obedience to Authorities 1Put them in mind to be in subjection to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready unto every good work, 2to speak evil of no man, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all meekness toward all men. God's Mercy to Us 3For we also once were foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another. 4But when the kindness of God our Saviour, and his love toward man, appeared, 5not by works done in righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy he saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, 6which he poured out upon us richly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour; 7that, being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8Faithful is the saying, and concerning these things I desire that thou affirm confidently, to the end that they who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men: Avoiding Divisions 9but shun foolish questionings, and genealogies, and strifes, and fightings about law; for they are unprofitable and vain. 10A factious man after a first and second admonition refuse; 11knowing that such a one is perverted, and sinneth, being self-condemned. Final Remarks and Greetings 12When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, give diligence to come unto me to Nicopolis: for there I have determined to winter. 13Set forward Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them. 14And let our people also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful. 15All that are with me salute thee. Salute them that love us in faith. Grace be with you all. |