3 Remind people to conform to their rulers and authorities, being obedient and ready to do anything that’s good. 2 Don’t slander others, be peaceable. Don’t be strong-willed, but rather show gentleness to all people. 3 We were also foolish and stubborn at one time, straying from the good and giving in to various lusts and pleasures, being mean and envious, even full of hate and hating one another. 4 But when God our saviour revealed his kindness and love for humankind, 5 he saved us, not because of the ‘good deeds’ that we did, but out of his mercy. He regenerated us through washing and renewed us by his holy spirit 6 which he lavishly poured on us through Yeshua (Jesus; Grk. Yesus) the messiah 7 ⇔so that we might become heirs with the expectation of living forever, having been declared that we have no outstanding legal charges thanks to his grace. 8 That statement can be trusted. I want you to confirm those things so that those who have believed in God will be leading in wanting to do good things. These things are good and benefit everyone.

9 But avoid foolish debates, arguments about ancestry, other strife, and quarrels about God’s commands because they all achieve nothing and waste time. 10 Refuse to listen to a divisive person after you’ve given them two warnings 11 knowing that such people condemn themselves by their corruption and sinful attitude.