| 1 | Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, |
| 2 | to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone. |
| 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. |
| 4 | But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, |
| 5 | he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 9 | But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. |
| 10 | After a first and second admonition, have nothing more to do with anyone who causes divisions, |
| 11 | since you know that such a person is perverted and sinful, being self-condemned. |
| 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. |
| 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. |