# verses

text:
Now that he was conscious of what had happened, Peter went to the house of Mary, the mother of John Mark. Many believers had gathered there, and were praying.


text:
But recognizing Peter’s voice, in her excitement she didn’t open the door. Instead she ran back inside shouting, “Peter’s at the door!”<pb/>


text:
“You’re mad!” they told her. But she kept on insisting it was true. So they said, “It must be his angel.”<n>“His angel.” Some at the time believed people had a spiritual equivalent that existed whether the individual was alive or dead. Perhaps today the expression would be, “It’s his ghost!”</n>


text:
Peter continued knocking. When they did eventually open the door, they saw it was him, and were totally shocked.<pb/>


text:
Peter held up his hand for them to be quiet, and then explained to them how the Lord had led him out of the prison. “Let James and the brothers know about this,” he told them, and then left to go somewhere else.<pb/>


text:
When daylight came there was total confusion<n>Literally, “not a little confusion.”</n> among the soldiers as to what had happened to Peter.


text:
Herod had a thorough search made for him, but he couldn’t be found. After interrogating the guards, Herod ordered that they should be executed<n>The Greek actually says, “that they be led away.” However most commentators understand this to mean “led away to their deaths,” since the punishment for allowing prisoners to escape was execution.</n>. Then Herod left Judea and went to stay in Caesarea.<pb/>


text:
Now Herod had become furious with the people of Tyre and Sidon. They sent a joint delegation to see him and managed to win Blastus, the king’s personal assistant, over to their side. They pleaded for peace with Herod because they were dependent on the king’s territory for food.


text:
When the day came for their appointment with the king, Herod put on his royal robes, sat on his throne, and gave a speech to them.


text:
Immediately the angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory. He was consumed by worms and died.<pb/>


text:
Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem once they had finished their mission, taking John Mark with them.<pb/>


text:
The church at Antioch had prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (the childhood friend of Herod the tetrarch), and Saul.


text:
While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart<n>Or, “dedicate.”</n> Barnabas and Saul to do the work I’ve called them to.”


text:
After they had fasted, prayed, and placed their hands on them in blessing, they sent them on their way.<pb/>


text:
So Barnabas and Saul, directed by the Holy Spirit, went to Seleucia. From there they sailed to Cyprus.


text:
Arriving at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John<n>This John is John Mark (12:25).</n> was with them as their assistant.


text:
They traveled throughout the island and eventually came to Paphos. There they found a Jewish magician, a false prophet by the name of Bar-jesus.


text:
He was close to the governor, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. Sergius Paulus invited Barnabas and Saul to come and visit him since he wanted to hear the word of God.


text:
But the magician Elymas (his Greek name) opposed them, trying to prevent the governor from trusting in God.<pb/>


text:
“You are full of deception and all kinds of evil, you son of the devil, you enemy of all that is right! Will you never give up perverting the Lord’s true ways?


text:
Look, the Lord’s hand is on you and you will become blind. You will not see the sun for some time.” Immediately mist and darkness fell on him, and he had to find someone who could lead him by the hand.


text:
Then Paul and those with him sailed from Paphos and went to Perga in Pamphylia, while John left them and went back to Jerusalem.


text:
They went through Perga and on to Antioch of Pisidia. On the Sabbath day they went into the synagogue and were seated.


text:
After the readings from the Law and the Prophets, the synagogue leaders sent them a message saying, “Brothers, please share with the congregation any words of encouragement you may have.”<pb/>


text:
Paul stood up, motioned with his hand to get their attention, and began speaking. “Men of Israel, and all of you who have reverence for God, listen to me.


text:
The God of the people of Israel chose our forefathers, and gave our people prosperity during their stay in the land of Egypt. Then with his mighty power he led them out of Egypt,


text:
“After he had overthrown seven nations living in the land of Canaan, God divided their land among the Israelites and gave it to them to inherit. This took about four hundred and fifty years.


text:
Then the people asked for a king, and God gave them Saul, son of Kish from the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled for forty years.


text:
Then God removed Saul, and made David their king. God approved of David, saying ‘I found David the son of Jesse to be a man according to my own heart; he will do everything I intend.’<pb/>


text:
As John was completing his mission, he said, ‘Who do you think I am? I am not the one you’re looking for. But after me one is coming whose sandals I’m not worthy to untie.’<pb/>


text:
“My brothers, children of Abraham and those of you who have reverence for God: the message of this salvation has been sent to us!


text:
The people living in Jerusalem and their leaders didn’t recognize Jesus or understand the words spoken by the prophets that are read every Sabbath. In fact they fulfilled the prophetic words by condemning him!


text:
Even though they couldn’t find any evidence to sentence him to death, they still asked Pilate to have him killed.


text:
After they had fulfilled everything predicted that they would do to him, they took him down from the cross and buried him in a tomb.


text:
and he appeared over the course of many days to those who had followed him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to the people.<pb/>


text:
that he has now fulfilled to us their children by raising Jesus from the dead. As it is written in Psalm 2: ‘You are my Son; today I have become your Father.’


text:
God raised him from the dead, never to die again, as he indicated by saying, ‘I will give you what is holy and trustworthy, as I promised to David.’<n>Referring to Isaiah 55:3.</n>


text:
But David died, after he had done what God wanted in his own time, and he was buried with his ancestors, and his body decayed.


text:
My brothers, I want you to understand that we’re telling you that through this man sins are forgiven.


text:
Through him everyone who trusts in him is made right from all that is wrong—in a way that you could never be set right by the law of Moses.


text:
“You who are scornful, look in amazement, and die! For what I’m doing in your lifetime is something that you could never believe, even if someone told you!”<n>Quoting Habakkuk 1:5.</n><pb/>


text:
After the meeting in the synagogue, many of the Jews and the converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas who spoke with them, encouraging them to continue to hold on to the grace of God.


text:
However when the Jews saw the crowds, they became extremely jealous, contradicting what Paul was saying and cursing him.<pb/>


text:
So Paul and Barnabas spoke out strongly, saying “We had to speak the word of God to you first. But now that you’re rejecting it—you’re deciding that you’re not worthy of eternal life—well now we’re turning to the foreigners.


text:
That’s what the Lord has told us to do: ‘I’ve made you a light to the foreigners, and through you salvation will go to the ends of the earth.’<n>Quoting Isaiah 49:6.</n>


text:
When the foreigners heard this they were overjoyed, praising the Lord’s word, and all those chosen for eternal life trusted in God.


text:
But the Jews incited the prominent religious women and leaders of the city to persecute Paul and Barnabas, and had them expelled them from their territory.


text:
In Iconium the same thing happened. Paul and Barnabas went to the Jewish synagogue and spoke so convincingly that many of both the Jewish and Greek-speaking worshipers trusted in Jesus.


text:
But the Jews that refused to believe in Jesus stirred up the feelings of the foreigners<n>In other words, the non-Jewish population.</n>, and poisoned them against the believers.


text:
Paul and Barnabas stayed there a long time, speaking to them boldly in the Lord, who confirmed their message of grace through the miraculous signs that they were enabled to perform.


text:
But then the foreigners and the Jews, together with their leaders, decided to attack and stone Paul and Barnabas.


text:
However they found out about it and fled to the region of Lycaonia, to the towns of Lystra and Derbe,


text:
In the town of Lystra there was a disabled man who was lame in both feet. He had been crippled from birth and had never been able to walk.


text:
He sat there listening to Paul speaking. When Paul looked directly at him, and realized that the man was trusting in God to heal him,


text:
When the crowds saw what Paul had done, they shouted out in the language of Lycaonia, “The gods have come down to us looking like men!”


text:
They identified Barnabas as the Greek god Zeus, and Paul as the god Hermes because he was one who did most of the talking.<pb/>


text:
The priest of the temple of Zeus that lay just outside the town, brought oxen and wreaths<n>Wreaths—these were put on animals just before they were sacrificed.</n> to the town gates. He planned to carry out a sacrifice in front of the crowds.


text:
But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul learned what was happening, they tore their clothes<n>In ancient cultures a sign of great distress.</n>, and rushed into the crowds, shouting out,


text:
“People, what are you doing? We are human beings with the same kind of nature as you. We came to bring you good news, so you could turn from these pointless things to a God who is truly alive. He is the one who made heaven, earth, and sea, and everything in them.


text:
Even so he still provided evidence of himself by doing good, sending you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons, providing all the food you need, and filling your hearts with happiness.”


text:
But then some Jews from Antioch and Iconium arrived and won over the crowds. They stoned Paul, and dragged him outside the town, thinking he was dead.


text:
But when the believers gathered around him, he got up, and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.


text:
After sharing the good news with the people in that town, and after many had become believers, they went back to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch.


text:
They encouraged the believers to remain firm and to continue to trust in Jesus. “We have to go through many trials to enter God’s kingdom,” they said.<pb/>


text:
After they had appointed elders for every church, and had prayed and fasted with them, Paul and Barnabas left them in the Lord’s care, the One that they trusted in.


text:
From there they sailed back to Antioch<n>Antioch in Syria, where they had begun their journey (see 13:1).</n> where they had started out, having been dedicated there in God’s grace to the work they had now accomplished.


text:
When they arrived, they called the church together. They reported everything God had done through them, and how he had opened a door for the foreigners to trust in him.


text:
Then some men arrived from Judea who started teaching the believers, “Unless you’re circumcised according to the rules set down by Moses, you can’t be saved.”


text:
Paul and Barnabas had many arguments and debates with them. So Paul and Barnabas and some others were appointed to go to Jerusalem and talk to the apostles and leaders there about this issue.


text:
The church sent them on their way, and as they traveled through Phoenicia and Samaria, they explained how foreigners were being converted, which made all the believers very happy.


text:
When they arrived in Jerusalem they were welcomed by the church members, the apostles, and the elders. They explained everything God had done through them.


text:
But they were opposed by some of the believers who belonged to the Pharisee faction. They said, “These converts have to be circumcised, and instructed to observe the law of Moses.”<pb/>


text:
After much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, “Brothers, you know that some time ago God chose me from among you so that the foreigners could hear the message of good news and trust in Jesus.


text:
God, who knows our hearts<n>In other words, knows the way we think.</n>, has shown that he accepts them, giving them the Holy Spirit just as he did to us.


text:
He doesn’t make any distinction between us and them—he cleansed their hearts as they trusted in him.<pb/>


text:
“So why do you want to oppose God and put a burden on the believers that our fathers weren’t able to bear, and we can’t either?


text:
Everyone listened attentively to Barnabas and Paul as they explained the miraculous signs that God had performed through them among the foreigners.<pb/>


text:
Simon<n>Simon Peter.</n> has described how God first revealed his concern for the foreigners by taking from them a people committed to him.


text:
‘In the future I will return, and I will rebuild the fallen house of David; I will rebuild its ruins and set it straight.


text:
I will do this so that those who are left may come to the Lord, including the foreigners who call on my name.


text:
We should write to them and tell them to avoid food sacrificed to idols<n>Literally, “pollutions of idols.”</n>, sexual immorality, meat of animals that have been strangled, and from consuming blood.


text:
For the law of Moses has been taught in every town for a long, long time—it’s read in the synagogues every Sabbath.”<pb/>


text:
Then the apostles and elders, together with the whole church, decided it would be good to choose some representatives and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They chose Judas Barsabbas and Silas, leaders among the brothers,


text:
and sent them with this letter:<pb/>“Greetings from us, the apostles and elders and brothers, to the non-Jewish<n>Literally, “Gentile.”</n> brothers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia:


text:
We have heard that some from our group have confused you with their teachings, causing you trouble. We certainly didn’t tell them to do this!


text:
So we have agreed to choose some representatives and send them to you together with our much-loved brothers Barnabas and Paul,


text:
It seemed best to the Holy Spirit and to us not to place on you any heavier burden than these important requirements.


text:
You should avoid: anything sacrificed to idols; blood; meat from strangled animals; and sexual immorality. You will do well to observe these requirements. God bless you.”<pb/>


text:
The men were sent on their way to Antioch. When they arrived they called everybody together and delivered the letter.


text:
Judas and Silas, who were also prophets, encouraged the brothers, explaining many things, and strengthening them.


text:
But Paul and Barnabas stayed in Antioch, teaching and proclaiming the word of God along with many others.<pb/>


text:
Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s go back and visit the believers in every town where we shared the word of the Lord, and see how they’re doing.”


text:
But Paul didn’t think it was a good idea to take him with them, since he’d left them in Pamphylia and hadn’t continued working with them.


text:
They had such a strong disagreement that they separated. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed to Cyprus.


text:
Paul went first to Derbe, and then on to Lystra, where he met a believer by the name of Timothy. He was the son of a Jewish Christian mother, and his father was Greek.


text:
Paul wanted Timothy to travel with him, so he circumcised him because the Jews in the area all knew that Timothy’s father was Greek.


text:
As they went through the different towns they gave them the requirements the apostles and elders in Jerusalem had said should be observed.


text:
The churches were strengthened in their trust in the Lord and every day their numbers increased.<pb/>


text:
They traveled through the districts of Phrygia and Galatia, since the Holy Spirit prevented them from going to the province of Asia to speak the word.


text:
When they arrived at the border of Mysia they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to enter.


text:
There Paul saw in vision during the night a man from Macedonia standing up, pleading with him, “Please come over to Macedonia and help us!”


text:
After Paul saw this vision, we<n>The change to “we” indicates that the writer, Luke, had joined them.</n> immediately made arrangements to go to Macedonia, since we concluded that God had called us to share the good news with them.<pb/>


text:
and from there to Philippi, the most important town in Macedonia, and also a Roman colony. We stayed in this city for several days.


text:
On the Sabbath day we went out of the town gates down to the riverside where we thought people would come to pray. We sat down and talked with the women that had gathered there.<pb/>


text:
One of them was called Lydia, who sold purple cloth from the town of Thyatira. She worshiped God, and she listened to us. The Lord opened her mind to what Paul was saying, and she accepted what he told her.


text:
After she and all her household were baptized, she pleaded with us, “If you really think that I’m truly committed to the Lord, then come and stay at my house.” She kept on insisting until we agreed!<pb/>


text:
One day when we were going down to the place of prayer we met a slave girl possessed by an evil spirit<n>Literally, “python spirit,” a spirit of divination.</n>. She earned her masters a great deal of money by fortune-telling.


text:
This girl followed Paul and the rest of us around, shouting, “These men are the servants of Almighty God. They are telling you how to be saved!”


text:
She went on doing this for several days. This bothered Paul so he turned around and told the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to leave her!” The spirit immediately left her.<pb/>


text:
But when her masters saw they had lost their means of making money, they grabbed hold of Paul and Silas <sup>(19)</sup>and dragged them before the authorities at the marketplace.


text:
They brought them in front of the magistrates, and accused them: “These Jewish men are causing a great disturbance in our town,” they said.


text:
The crowd joined together in an attack on them. The magistrates tore off Paul and Silas’ clothes, and ordered them beaten with rods.


text:
After giving them a severe beating, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them locked up.


text:
The jailer followed his orders. He threw Paul and Silas into the inner cell and shackled their feet in the stocks.<pb/>


text:
Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing praises to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.


text:
Suddenly a tremendous earthquake shook the foundations of the prison. Immediately all the doors flew open and everyone’s chains fell off.<pb/>


text:
The jailer woke up and saw the doors of the prison wide open. He drew his sword and was about to kill himself, thinking that the prisoners had escaped.


text:
The jailer asked for lights to be brought and rushed in. Shaking with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas.


text:
Even though it was late at night he bathed their wounds, and he was baptized right away, along with all his family.


text:
He took them home and had a meal prepared for them. The jailer and his whole family were full of joy because they trusted in God.<pb/>


text:
The jailer told Paul, “The magistrates have sent word to release you. So you can leave, and go in peace.”<pb/>


text:
But Paul told them, “They publicly beat us without a trial—and yet we’re Romans citizens! Then they threw us in prison. Now they want to quietly let us go? No, they should come themselves and release us!”<pb/>


text:
The officials went back and reported this to the magistrates. When they heard that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens they were really worried,


text:
and went to apologize to them<n>It was illegal to punish a Roman citizen without a trial.</n>. They escorted them out and begged them to leave town.


text:
So Paul and Silas left the prison and went to Lydia’s house. There they met with the believers, encouraged them, and then went on their way.<pb/>


text:
After Paul and Silas had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia they arrived at Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue.


text:
As usual, Paul went into the synagogue and over the course of three Sabbaths he debated with them using the Scriptures.


text:
He explained what the Scriptures meant, proving that the Messiah had to die and rise from the dead. “This Jesus I’m telling you about—he is the Messiah,” he told them.


text:
Some of them were convinced and joined Paul and Silas, along with many Greek-speaking worshipers<n>Greek-speaking worshipers: the term is usually applied to “heathen” who had come to accept the belief in the one God of Judaism but had not become Jews by circumcision.</n> and some leading women of the town.<pb/>


text:
But the Jews became jealous and with some rabble-rousers they gathered from the marketplace<n>Literally, “evil men from the market.”</n> they formed a mob. They rioted in the town, and attacked Jason’s house. They tried to find Paul and Silas so they could bring them before the people.


text:
When they couldn’t find them they dragged Jason and some of the other believers before the town leaders, shouting, “These people are famous for causing trouble, turning the world upside down. Now they’ve come here,


text:
and Jason has made them welcome in his house. They all defy Caesar’s decrees, committing treason by saying there is another king called Jesus.”


text:
The believers had Paul and Silas leave for Berea that very night. When they arrived in Berea they went to the Jewish synagogue.


text:
The people there had a better attitude than those in Thessalonica in that they were very quick to accept the word, and every day they examined the Scriptures to make sure what they were told was right.


text:
But when the Jews in Thessalonica heard that Paul was also spreading the word of God in Berea, they went there and caused the same kind of trouble, stirring up the crowds.


text:
Those escorting Paul took him as far as Athens, and then returned with instructions from Paul to Silas and Timothy that they should join him there as soon as possible.<pb/>


text:
He debated in the synagogue with the Jews and those who worshiped God<n>Presumably the same “class” of believers mentioned in 17:4: foreigners who had accepted the God of Israel but had not become Jews.</n>, as well as in the marketplace with those he happened to meet from day to day.


text:
Some Epicurean and Stoic philosophers also argued with him. “What is he going on about?”<n>Literally, “What is this seed-collector trying to say?” “Seed-collector” referred to chattering birds picking up seeds in the marketplace; otherwise translated “babbler.”</n> they wondered. Others concluded, “He seems to be teaching about some foreign gods,” because he was speaking about Jesus and the resurrection.


text:
So they took him to the Areopagus<n>A kind of discussion forum of philosophers.</n>, and asked him, “Please tell us about this new teaching that you’re promoting.


text:
(All the Athenians, including foreigners who lived there, spent their whole time doing nothing except explaining or listening to something new).<pb/>


text:
Paul stood up right in the middle of the Areopagus and said, “People of Athens, I notice you are very religious about everything.


text:
As I was walking along, looking at your shrines, I found an altar that had the inscription, “To an Unknown God.” This unknown God whom you worship is the one I’m describing to you.


text:
The God who created the world and everything in it, the Lord of heaven and earth, doesn’t live in temples we make.


text:
He doesn’t need to be served by us as if he needed anything, since he is the source of all life for every living being.


text:
From one man he made all the peoples who live on the earth, and decided beforehand when and where they should live.


text:
God’s purpose was that they should seek him, hoping they would reach out for him and find him—though he isn’t far from any one of us.


text:
Since we are his family we shouldn’t think that God is like gold, or silver, or stone, shaped by human artistry and thinking.


text:
For he has set a time when he will rightly judge the world by the man he has appointed, and he proved to everyone that he is the one by raising him from the dead.”<pb/>


text:
Some of them laughed when they heard about the resurrection of the dead, while others said, “Please come back so we can hear more about this later.”


text:
A few men joined him and trusted in God, including Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, as well as a woman called Damaris, and some others.<pb/>


text:
where he met a Jew named Aquila. Aquila was originally from Pontus, and had just arrived from Italy with his wife Priscilla because Claudius<n>The Roman Emperor.</n> had ordered all Jews expelled from Rome. Paul went to see them,


text:
When Silas and Timothy arrived from Macedonia, Paul felt he had to become more direct in what he said, and told the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah.


text:
When they opposed him and cursed him, he shook out his clothes<n>A symbolic act declaring innocence.</n> and told them, “Your blood is on your own heads! I am innocent of any guilt, and from now on I will go to the foreigners.”<pb/>


text:
He left and went to stay with Titius Justus, who worshiped God and whose house was next door to the synagogue.


text:
Crispus, leader of the synagogue, believed in the Lord together with his whole household. Many of the people of Corinth who heard the message became believers and were baptized.<pb/>


text:
However during the time when Gallio<n>Gallio was the brother of Seneca, the Roman Stoic philosopher.</n> was the governor of Achaia, the Jews united in an attack against Paul and brought him before the court<n>Literally, “judgment seat,” or “judge’s bench.” Also in 18:16, 17.</n>.


text:
But just as Paul was about to defend himself, Gallio told the Jews, “If you Jews were bringing criminal charges or some serious legal offense, there would be a reason for me to listen to your case.


text:
But since you’re only arguing over words and names and your own law, then you deal with it yourselves. I won’t rule on such matters.”


text:
Then the crowd turned on Sosthenes, the leader of the synagogue, and beat him right outside the court, but Gallio wasn’t concerned about this at all.<pb/>


text:
Paul stayed on for a while. Then left the believers and sailed for Syria, taking Priscilla and Aquila along with him. He had his head shaved while in Cenchrae, because he had taken a vow<n>Vow: probably a Nazirite vow (see Numbers 6).</n>.<pb/>


text:
They arrived in Ephesus, where Paul left the others behind. He went to the synagogue to reason with the Jews.


text:
He said his goodbyes, and set sail from Ephesus, telling them, “I’ll come back and see you if it’s God’s will.”<pb/>


text:
After landing at Caesarea he went to greet the church members<n>Possibly the church members in Jerusalem.</n>, and then carried on to Antioch.


text:
He spent some time there and then went from town to town through the region of Galatia and Phrygia, encouraging all the believers.<pb/>


text:
In the meantime a Jew named Apollos, originally from Alexandria, arrived in Ephesus. He was a gifted speaker who knew the Scriptures well.


text:
He had been taught the way of the Lord. He was spiritually passionate, and in his speaking and teaching he presented Jesus accurately, but he only knew about John’s baptism.


text:
He started speaking openly in the synagogue. So when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to join them and explained the way of God to him more fully.


text:
When he decided to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him, and wrote to the disciples there telling them to welcome him. When he arrived he was very helpful to those who through grace trusted God,


text:
because he was able to strongly refute the Jews in public debate, demonstrating from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.<pb/>


text:
While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul took the inland route and arrived in Ephesus where he found some believers.


text:
“Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” he asked them.<pb/>“No, we haven’t heard anything about a Holy Spirit,” they told him.<pb/>


text:
“John baptized with the baptism of repentance,” said Paul. He told the people that they should trust in the one who would come after him—that is, they should trust in Jesus.


text:
After Paul had placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.


text:
Paul went to the synagogue and over the course of the next three months spoke boldly to those who were there, discussing with them and trying to convince them about the kingdom of God.


text:
But some of them were stubborn, and refused to accept. They denounced the Way<n>“The Way”: another early term for Christianity.</n> to the crowd. So Paul gave up on them and left the synagogue, taking the believers with him. Then he had discussions every day at the hall of Tyrannus.<pb/>


text:
This went on for the next two years, with the result that everyone who lived in the province of Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard the word of the Lord.


text:
so much so that they took handkerchiefs or aprons Paul had touched to heal the sick and to drive out evil spirits.<pb/>


text:
Some Jews who were going around exorcising decided to use the name of the Lord Jesus when they drove out evil spirits. They’d say, “I command you to leave in the name of the Jesus that Paul talks about.”


text:
The man with the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered all of them. He beat them so severely that they ran out of the house, naked and badly injured.<pb/>


text:
People living in Ephesus, both Jews and Greeks, heard about this. They were all in awe at what had happened, and the name of the Lord Jesus gained great respect.


text:
A number of those who used to practice sorcery collected their books on magic and brought them to be burned publicly. They worked out how much the books were worth, and the total was fifty thousand silver coins.


text:
Some time after this Paul decided to go to Jerusalem, passing first through Macedonia and Achaia. “After I’ve been there, I’ll have to go to Rome,” he said.


text:
He sent two of his helpers, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia, while he stayed on for a while in the province of Asia.<pb/>


text:
A man called Demetrius, a silversmith, was producing small silver replicas of the temple of the goddess Artemis. This business brought in a great deal of work for such craftsmen.


text:
Demetrius called them together, along with others who worked in similar trades, and said, “Fellow-workers, you know that it’s through this business we make our money.


text:
As you’re no doubt aware from what you’ve seen and heard—not just here in Ephesus, but throughout almost the whole of Asia—this man Paul has convinced and misled many people, telling them that there are no such things as gods made by human hands.


text:
It’s not just a question that our business will be in danger of losing respect, but that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be considered worthless. Artemis herself would be dethroned from her high position as the one whom everyone in Asia and the whole world worships.”<pb/>


text:
The city was in complete chaos. People rushed towards the amphitheatre, dragging along with them Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul’s traveling companions who were from Macedonia.


text:
Some of the provincial officials<n>Literally, “Asiarchs.”</n>, who were Paul’s friends, also sent a message begging him not to go into the amphitheatre.<pb/>


text:
Some were shouting one thing, and some something else, for the crowd that had gathered was in total confusion—most of them had no idea why they were there.


text:
The Jews in the crowd pushed Alexander to the front. Alexander motioned with his hand for them to be quiet, wanting to explain things to the people.


text:
But when they realized he was a Jew, they all took up a chant that lasted for about two hours, shouting “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!”<pb/>


text:
After the town clerk had managed to quiet the mob down, he told them, “People of Ephesus, who doesn’t know that the city of the Ephesians is the guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of her image that fell from heaven?


text:
You have brought these men here, but they haven’t robbed any temples or blasphemed against our goddess.


text:
So if Demetrius and the other craftsmen have a complaint against anyone, then go to the authorities<n>Literally, “proconsuls.”</n> and the courts. They can press charges there.


text:
In fact we ourselves are in danger of being accused of being responsible for this riot today, since there was no reason for it, and we can’t justify why it happened.”


text:
Once the uproar had died down, Paul called the believers together and encouraged them. Then he said goodbye, and left for Macedonia.


text:
He passed through the area, sharing many words of encouragement with the believers there, and then traveled on to Greece.


text:
After he had spent three months there and just as he was about to sail to Syria, it was discovered that the Jews were plotting against him. So he decided to return through Macedonia.


text:
These were the people who traveled with him: Sopater of Berea, the son of Pyrrhus; Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica; Gaius from Derbe; Timothy; Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia.


text:
After the Feast of Unleavened Bread we sailed from Philippi, and met them five days later in Troas, where we spent a week.<pb/>


text:
Paul was speaking on the first day of the week as we gathered together to break bread. He was planning to leave in the morning, and went on speaking until midnight.


text:
A young man called Eutychus was sitting in the window, and he began feeling very sleepy. As Paul went on speaking he fell sound asleep and tumbled down from the third story. When they picked him up they found he was dead.<pb/>


text:
Paul went down, stretched himself out upon him, and hugged him. “Don’t worry, he’s alive,” he said.<pb/>


text:
Paul went back upstairs, broke bread, and ate together with them. He went on talking with them until dawn came, and then he left.


text:
We went on ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos. There we were due to pick up Paul, since that was what he had planned as he decided to travel on foot.


text:
Sailing on from there we arrived off Kios, and the next day we stopped briefly at Samos, and the following day we arrived at Miletus.


text:
Paul had planned to sail on past Ephesus so he wouldn’t have to spend time in the province of Asia. He was keen to get to Jerusalem in time for the Day of Pentecost.<pb/>


text:
When they arrived, he told them, “You know how I always behaved while I was with you from the first day I arrived in the province of Asia.


text:
I served the Lord in humility and in tears. I put up with the troubles and stress caused by the plots of the Jews.


text:
However I never held back from sharing with you anything that would be to your benefit, and I taught you in public, going from house to house.


text:
I witnessed both to Jews and Greeks that it was essential to repent and turn to God, and to trust in our Lord Jesus Christ.


text:
Now the Spirit is insisting that I go to Jerusalem, and I have no idea what will happen to me there.


text:
All I know is that in every city I visit the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and suffering are waiting for me.


text:
But I don’t consider my life as worth anything to me. I only want to finish my mission and the ministry that the Lord Jesus gave to me, to witness to the good news of the grace of God.<pb/>


text:
“Now I am certain that you will not see my face again, you among whom I shared the news of the kingdom.


text:
So I declare to you today that I am not responsible if anyone is lost<n>Literally, “I am not guilty of the blood of anyone.”</n>.


text:
Take care of yourselves and of all the flock, which the Holy Spirit has given to you to supervise. Feed the Lord’s church which he bought with his own blood.


text:
From among your own group men will rise up perverting what is right so they can lead believers to follow them.


text:
So watch out! Don’t forget that for three years I went on instructing all of you night and day, often crying over you.


text:
Now I commit you in God’s care and to the message of his grace, which is able to build you up and provide you with the inheritance that belongs to all who are kept right with him.


text:
You know that I worked with my own hands to provide for my own needs, as well as for those who were with me.


text:
I have given you an example in everything: work to help those who are weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”<pb/>


text:
What upset them the most was what he said about never seeing him again... Then they walked down to the ship with him.<pb/>


text:
After we had said goodbye to them, we sailed directly to Cos, and the next day on to Rhodes. From there we went to Patara


text:
We passed within sight of Cyprus on the left, and continued on to Syria where we landed at Tyre, where the ship’s cargo was to be unloaded.


text:
We found the believers and stayed there for a week. Through the Holy Spirit the believers told Paul not to go to Jerusalem.


text:
When the time was up, we left and went back to the ship to continue our journey. All the believers, and wives and children, accompanied us as we left the city. We kneeled down on the beach and prayed, and said our goodbyes.


text:
Our voyage from Tyre ended at Ptolemais where we greeted the believers and stayed with them for a day.<pb/>


text:
The next day we left and went to Caesarea. We stayed at the house of Philip the evangelist (one of the Seven)<n>One of the seven chosen to help with food distribution (Acts 6:5).</n>.


text:
Approaching us, he took Paul’s belt, and bound his own hands and feet. Then he said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘This is how the Jews in Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt, and will hand him over to the foreigners.’”<pb/>


text:
However Paul answered, “What are you doing, crying and breaking my heart? I’m ready not only to be bound in Jerusalem, but to die in Jerusalem for the sake of the Lord Jesus.”


text:
Some of the believers from Caesarea came with us, and they took us to the home of Mnason, where we were going to stay. He came from Cyprus and was one of the early believers.<pb/>


text:
After greeting them, Paul went through in detail everything God had done for the foreigners through his ministry.<pb/>


text:
When they heard what had happened they praised God and told Paul, “Brother, you can see how many thousands of Jews have come to trust in the Lord, and they all keep the Law very carefully.


text:
They have been told that you teach Jews living among the foreigners to ignore the Law of Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children and not to follow our customs.<pb/>


text:
Go with them and perform the purification rituals with them, paying for them to have their heads shaved. That way everyone will know there’s no truth to the rumors they’ve heard about you, but that you yourself observe the Law in the way that you live.


text:
As to the foreigners who have trusted the Lord, we already wrote a letter regarding our decision that they should refrain from eating food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from any animal that is strangled, and from sexual immorality.”<pb/>


text:
So Paul took the men with him, and the next day went and purified himself with them. Then he went to the Temple to give notice regarding the end of the time of purification and the offering which would be made for each of them.<pb/>


text:
The seven days were almost over when some Jews from Asia saw Paul in the Temple and incited the crowd against him and seized him.


text:
“Men of Israel, help!” they shouted. “This is the man who is teaching everyone everywhere to oppose our people, the Law, and the Temple. He’s also brought Greeks into the Temple, defiling this holy place.”


text:
(They said this because they had seen him previously in the city with Trophimus the Ephesian and presumed that Paul had brought him into the Temple).


text:
The whole city was shocked by this and people came running. They grabbed hold of Paul and dragged him out of the Temple. Immediately the doors were shut.


text:
As they tried to kill him, news came to the Roman troop commander that the whole of Jerusalem was in an uproar.<pb/>


text:
Immediately the commander took some centurions and soldiers and ran down to the mob. When the mob saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul.


text:
Then the commander came over and arrested Paul, and ordered him to be bound with two chains. He asked who he was, and what he had done.


text:
Some in the mob were shouting one thing and some another. Since the commander couldn’t find out the truth due to all the noise and confusion, he ordered Paul brought into the fortress.<pb/>


text:
Just as he was about to be taken inside the fortress, Paul asked the commander, “Can I tell you something?”<pb/>“Do you know Greek?” asked the commander.


text:
“Aren’t you the Egyptian who recently incited a rebellion and led four thousand Assassins into the desert?”<pb/>


text:
“I am a Jew, a citizen of Tarsus in Cilicia, an important city,” Paul replied. “Please let me talk to the people.”<pb/>


text:
The commander gave Paul permission to speak. So Paul stood on the stairs and motioned for silence. When it was quiet he spoke to them in Aramaic.<pb/>


text:
“I am a Jew born in Tarsus in Cilicia,” he began. “However I was brought up here in this city, and sat at the feet of Gamaliel. I was taught to strictly observe the law of our fathers. I was zealous for God, just like all of you here today,


text:
and I persecuted the people of this Way—having them put to death, and imprisoning both men and women.<pb/>


text:
“As the high priest and the council of the elders can also verify, I received from them letters of authorization addressed to the Jewish brothers in Damascus, and went there to arrest these people and bring them as prisoners to Jerusalem to be punished.<pb/>


text:
“At around noon, while I was on my way and approaching Damascus, suddenly a bright light from heaven shone all around me.


text:
I fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’<pb/>


text:
“‘Who are you, Lord?’ I answered.<pb/>“‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, the one you are persecuting,’ he told me.<pb/>


text:
“Those who were traveling with me did see the light, but they didn’t hear the voice that spoke to me.<pb/>


text:
“‘What shall I do, Lord?’ I asked.<pb/>“The Lord told me, ‘Get up and go into Damascus, and there you’ll be told everything that’s arranged for you to do.’<pb/>


text:
“Since I couldn’t see because of the brightness of the light, those who were with me led me by the hand into Damascus.


text:
There a man called Ananias came to see me. He was a religious man who observed the law, and was highly respected by the Jews who lived in the town.


text:
He stood in front of me and said, ‘Brother Saul, receive back your sight.’ At that very moment I could see again, and I looked at him.<pb/>


text:
“He told me, ‘The God of our fathers has appointed you to know his will, to see the One who is truly right<n>Referring to Jesus.</n>, and to listen to what he has to say to you.


text:
You will testify for him to everyone about what you have seen and heard. So what are you waiting for?


text:
I saw a vision of the Lord telling me, ‘Hurry! You need to leave Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept what you are telling them about me.’<pb/>


text:
“I replied, ‘Lord, they certainly know that I went from synagogue to synagogue, beating and imprisoning those who trusted in you.


text:
When Stephen was killed for testifying about you I was standing there in full agreement with those who killed him, holding their coats for them.’<pb/>


text:
Up until this point they had listened to what he was saying, but then they started shouting, ‘Get rid of this man from the earth—he doesn’t deserve to live!”


text:
The commander ordered Paul brought into the fortress, and gave orders for him to be interrogated by flogging so he could find out the reason people were shouting so much against Paul.


text:
As they stretched him out and tied him down to flog him, Paul asked the centurion standing there, “Is it legal to flog a Roman citizen who hasn’t had a trial?”<pb/>


text:
When the centurion heard what Paul said, he went to the commander and asked him, “What are you doing? This man is a Roman citizen.”


text:
The commander came, and asked Paul, “Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?”<pb/>Paul replied, “Yes I am.”<pb/>


text:
“I paid a lot of money to buy Roman citizenship,” said the commander.<pb/>“But I was born a citizen,” Paul replied.<pb/>


text:
Those who were about to interrogate Paul left immediately. The commander was worried when he found out that Paul was a Roman citizen because he had placed him in chains<n>It was illegal to place a Roman citizen in chains who had not first been found guilty.</n>.<pb/>


text:
The next day, wanting to find out the reason why the Jews were accusing Paul, he had him released and taken before the chief priests and the whole council which he ordered to assemble. He had Paul brought down and placed him before them.<pb/>


text:
Paul, looking right at the council, said, “Brothers, right up to now I have always conducted myself before God with a clear conscience.”<pb/>


text:
Paul said to him, “God will hit you, you whitewashed wall! You’re sitting there to judge me according to the law, and you order me to be hit in contravention of the law!”<pb/>


text:
“Brothers, I didn’t know that he was the high priest,” Paul replied. “As Scriptures say, ‘You must not speak evil of any ruler of your people.’”<pb/>


text:
When Paul realized that some of the council were Sadducees and the others Pharisees, he shouted out, “Brothers, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee! I’m on trial because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead!”<pb/>


text:
When he said this, a tremendous argument broke out between the Pharisees and Sadducees that split the council.


text:
(The Sadducees say there is no resurrection from the dead, no angels, and no spirits, but Pharisees believe in all of these.)<pb/>


text:
A great commotion erupted and some of the Pharisee teachers of the law stood up and argued fiercely, saying, “We find this man not guilty! Maybe a spirit spoke to him, or an angel!”<pb/>


text:
The argument was getting out of hand, so the commander, concerned that they would tear Paul to pieces, ordered the soldiers to go and rescue him from them by force, and take him back into the fortress.


text:
Afterwards, during the night, the Lord stood by Paul, and told him, “Keep up your courage! Just as you have given your testimony about me in Jerusalem, so you must be my witness in Rome as well.”<pb/>


text:
Next day some Jews plotted together, and they took an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul.


text:
They went to the chief priests and leaders and said, “We have taken a solemn oath not to eat anything until we have killed Paul.


text:
So you and the council should send word to the commander that he should bring Paul down to meet with you, as if you wanted to examine his case in more detail. We’re ready to kill him along the way.”<pb/>


text:
But Paul’s nephew (his sister’s son) heard about their planned ambush, and he went into the fortress and told Paul about it.


text:
Paul called over one of the centurions, and told him, “Take this young man to the commander, because he has some information to share with him.”<pb/>


text:
So the centurion took Paul’s nephew and brought him to the commander and told him, “The prisoner Paul called me over and asked me to bring this young man to you. He has something to tell you.”


text:
The commander took the young man by the hand and drew him aside. “What do you have to tell me?” he asked quietly.<pb/>


text:
“The Jews have arranged to ask you to bring Paul to the council tomorrow, as if they wanted to ask more detailed questions about his case,” he explained.


text:
“Please don’t listen to them, because they have planned to ambush him with more than forty men who have taken an oath not to eat or drink until they have killed him. They’re ready right now, waiting for you to agree to the request.”<pb/>


text:
The commander sent the young man on his way, warning him, “Don’t tell anyone that you’ve told me about this.”


text:
He summoned two centurions and told them, “Get two hundred soldiers ready to go to Caesarea, together with seventy cavalry-men and two hundred spearmen. Be ready to leave at nine p.m. tonight.


text:
This man was seized by the Jews and they were about to kill him, when I arrived on the scene with soldiers and rescued him, because I had found out he was a Roman citizen.


text:
I found out the charges against him had to do with issues regarding their law, but he was not guilty of anything that merited death or imprisonment.


text:
When I discovered a plot against this man I sent him to you right away, ordering his accusers to make their complaints before you.”<pb/>


text:
When the cavalry arrived at Caesarea they delivered the letter to the governor and brought Paul before him.


text:
After reading the letter, the governor asked Paul what province he came from. When he learned he was from Cilicia he told Paul,


text:
“I will investigate your case when your accusers arrive.” He ordered Paul detained in Herod’s palace.<pb/>


text:
Five days later Ananias the high priest arrived with some of the Jewish leaders, and with a lawyer called Tertullus. They presented formal charges against Paul to the governor.


text:
When Paul was summoned, Tertullus began making his case against him. He said, “Your Excellency Governor Felix, we have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and as a result of your wise judgment reforms have been enacted for the benefit of the nation.


text:
We discovered that this man is a real pest<n>Literally, “plague.”</n>, stirring up rebellions among Jews all over the world, a ringleader of the Nazarene sect.


text:
The Governor motioned for Paul to respond. “Recognizing you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I gladly make my defense,” Paul began.


text:
Nobody found me arguing in the Temple with anyone, or inciting people to riot in any synagogue or anywhere in the city.


text:
“But I will admit this to you: I serve the God of our fathers following the beliefs of the Way, which they call a heretical sect. I believe everything the law teaches and what is written in the books of the prophets.


text:
I have the same hope in God that they do, believing that there will be a resurrection of the good and the wicked.


text:
“Having been away for a few years I returned to bring some money to help the poor and to give offerings to God.


text:
That’s what they found me doing in the Temple—completing the ceremony of purification. There was no crowd and no disturbance.


text:
But some Jews from the province of Asia were there, who should be present here before you today to bring their charges, if they have anything against me.


text:
Otherwise let these men here explain themselves what crime they found me guilty of when I stood before the council,


text:
except for the time when I shouted out to them, ‘I am on trial before you today because of my belief in the resurrection of the dead.’<pb/>


text:
Felix who was well-informed about the Way then adjourned the trial. “When Lysias the commander comes I will make my decision regarding your case,” he said.


text:
He ordered the centurion to keep Paul in custody but to allow him some measure of freedom and to let Paul’s friends care for him without interference.<pb/>


text:
Some days later Felix returned with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him speak about trusting in Christ Jesus.


text:
He discussed with them about living right, self-control, and the coming judgment. Felix became alarmed and told Paul, “You can go now, and I’ll send for you when I get the chance.”


text:
Two years passed and Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. To stay in favor with the Jews, Felix left Paul in prison.<pb/>


text:
Three days after Festus had arrived in the province<n>The Roman province of Judea.</n> he left Caesarea to go to Jerusalem.


text:
They begged Festus as a favor to send Paul to Jerusalem, plotting to ambush and kill him on the way.


text:
“Your leaders can come with me, and make their accusation against this man, if he has done anything wrong,” he told them.<pb/>


text:
After staying there with them for no more than eight or ten days, Festus returned to Caesarea. The following day he took his seat as judge, and ordered that Paul be brought before him.


text:
When he came in the Jews that had come from Jerusalem surrounded him and brought many serious charges against him that they couldn’t prove.<pb/>


text:
Paul defended himself, telling them, “I have not sinned at all against the Jewish law, the Temple, or Caesar.”


text:
But Festus, who was looking to gain favor with the Jews, asked Paul, “Are you willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried before me there about these matters?”<pb/>


text:
“I’m standing before Caesar’s court to be tried, right where I should be,” Paul replied. “I have not done any wrong to the Jews, as you very well know.


text:
If I’ve committed a crime and have done something that deserves death, I do not ask to be pardoned from a death sentence. But if there’s no substance to these accusations they’re making against me, then nobody has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!”


text:
Festus then conferred with the council, and replied, “You have appealed to Caesar. To Caesar you shall go!”<pb/>


text:
Several days later, King Agrippa and his sister Bernice arrived in Caesarea and came to pay their respects to Festus.


text:
They were staying some time so Festus presented Paul’s case to the king, explaining, “There’s a man that Felix left as a prisoner here.


text:
When I was in Jerusalem, the Jewish chief priests and leaders came and made accusations against him and asked me to sentence him.


text:
I replied that it is not according to Roman law to convict anyone without having them face their accusers and giving them the opportunity to defend themselves against the charges.


text:
So when his accusers arrived here, I wasted no time and convened the court the very next day. I ordered the man to be brought in.


text:
Instead they brought up controversies over religious questions, and over a man called Jesus who was dead but whom Paul insisted was alive.


text:
Since I was undecided as to how to proceed in investigating such matters, I asked him if he was willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there.


text:
However Paul appealed for his case to be heard by the emperor, so I ordered him detained until I could send him to Caesar.”<pb/>


text:
“I would like to hear the man myself,” Agrippa told Festus.<pb/>“I’ll arrange for you to hear him tomorrow,” Festus replied.<pb/>


text:
The next day Agrippa arrived with Bernice in great ceremonial splendor and entered the auditorium with the commanders and leading citizens. Then Festus ordered Paul to be brought in.<pb/>


text:
“King Agrippa, and everyone who is present here with us,” Festus began, “you see before you this man whom all the Jewish people, both here and in Jerusalem, have complained to me about, shouting that he shouldn’t be allowed to live.


text:
However I discovered he has not committed any crime that deserves death, and since he has appealed to the emperor I decided to send him there.


text:
But I don’t have anything specific to write about him to His Imperial Majesty. That’s why I have brought him before you so I can have something definite to write.


text:
It doesn’t seem fair to me to send on a prisoner without explaining the charges made against him.”<pb/>


text:
Agrippa then said to Paul, “You are free to speak on your own behalf.”<pb/>With a sweep of his arm, Paul began his defense.


text:
“I am delighted, King Agrippa, to make my defense before you today regarding everything I am accused of by the Jews,


text:
particularly because you are an expert in all Jewish issues and customs. I beg your patient indulgence as you listen to what I have to say.”<pb/>


text:
“All the Jews know my life story—from my earliest days beginning in my own country and then in Jerusalem.


text:
They have known me for a long time and can verify, if they choose to, that I have followed the religious school that observes our faith in the strictest way—I lived as a Pharisee.<pb/>


text:
that our twelve tribes hoped to receive as they continually dedicated themselves in God’s service. Yes, it’s because of this hope that I’m accused by the Jews, Your Majesty!


text:
“Previously I was sincerely convinced I should do as much as I could to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth.


text:
This is what I did in Jerusalem. I threw many of the believers in prison, having been given authority to do this by the chief priests. When they were sentenced to death I cast my vote against them.


text:
I had them punished in all the synagogues, trying to make them recant. I was so furiously opposed to them that I went to cities outside our country to persecute them.<pb/>


text:
“That’s why one day I was on my way to Damascus with the authority and orders from the chief priests.


text:
At about noon as I was on my way, Your Majesty, I saw a light from heaven that blazed brighter than the sun. It shone around me and those who were traveling with me.


text:
All of us fell to the ground. Then I heard a voice speaking to me in Aramaic, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It’s hard for you to fight against me<n>Literally, “kick against the goads”—the image of the prods used to direct livestock.</n>!’<pb/>


text:
‘But pick yourself up and get to your feet. The reason why I’ve appeared to you is to appoint you as my servant, to be a witness for me, telling others how you have seen me and everything I will reveal to you.


text:
to open their eyes so they can turn from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to God, and so that they can receive forgiveness for their sins and a place with those who are set right as they trust in me.’<pb/>


text:
First in Damascus, then in Jerusalem, and then all over Judea and also to the foreigners I shared the message of repentance: how they should turn to God, demonstrating their repentance through their actions.


text:
“God has looked after me so I can stand here today as a witness to everyone, both to ordinary people and to those who are important. I am only repeating what Moses and the prophets said would happen—


text:
how the Messiah had to suffer, and that by being the first to rise from the dead he would announce the light of God’s salvation<n>Implied. The original simply says “light.”</n> to both Jews and foreigners.”<pb/>


text:
Festus interrupted Paul as he made his defense, shouting out, “Paul, you’ve gone mad! All your knowledge is driving you insane!”<pb/>


text:
The king recognizes this, and I’m explaining it very clearly. I am sure that he is aware of what’s been happening, because none of this took place as if it were hidden in a corner.<pb/>


text:
“Whether it takes a short time or a long time doesn’t matter,” Paul answered. “But my prayer to God is that not just you, but everybody listening to me today would become like me—except for these chains!”<pb/>


text:
The King stood up, along with the governor and Bernice, and everyone who had been sitting with them.


text:
They conferred together after they had left. “This man hasn’t done anything that deserves death or imprisonment,” they concluded.


text:
When the time came for us to sail to Italy, Paul and some other prisoners were handed over to a centurion called Julius of the Imperial Regiment.


text:
We boarded a ship based in Adramyttium that was headed to the coastal ports of the province of Asia, and we set sail. Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, went with us.


text:
The next day we had a brief stop at Sidon, and Julius was kind enough to let Paul go ashore and visit his friends so they could provide what he needed.<pb/>


text:
Then we sailed directly across the open sea off the coast of Cilicia and Pamphylia, arriving at the port of Myra in Lycia.


text:
There the centurion found a ship from Alexandria that would be sailing to Italy, and arranged for us to join it.<pb/>


text:
We sailed slowly for several days and eventually arrived off Cnidus. But since the winds wouldn’t allow us to continue we sailed across to the lee of Crete, near to Salmone.


text:
With some difficulty we made our way along the coast until we arrived at a place called Fair Havens, near to the town of Lasea.


text:
We’d lost a lot of time, and the voyage was becoming dangerous because it was now after the Fast<n>The Fast”: The Day of Atonement, probably in October, so sailing at this season would be problematic.</n>. Paul warned them,


text:
“Men, I predict that this voyage will result in much hardship and loss—not just of the cargo and the ship, but also our very lives.”


text:
But the centurion paid more attention to the advice of the ship’s captain and its owner than to what Paul said.<pb/>


text:
Since the harbor was not large enough to over-winter in, the majority were in favor of leaving and trying if possible to reach Phoenix and spend the winter there—a harbor in Crete that faces northwest and southwest.<pb/>


text:
When a moderate south wind began to blow, they thought they could do what they planned. They pulled up the anchor and sailed close inshore along the coast of Crete.


text:
The ship was forced out to sea and could not face into the wind. So we had to give in and allow ourselves to be driven before the wind.


text:
We were eventually able to run into the lee of a small island called Cauda, and managed with some difficulty to secure the ship’s boat<n>” Ship’s boat”—a small boat like a dinghy or lifeboat, sometimes towed behind a ship, sometimes tied down on deck. Also in verse 30.</n> on board.


text:
After hoisting it aboard, the sailors bound ropes around the hull to strengthen it. Then, worried that they would be wrecked on the Syrtis banks, they lowered the sea anchor and allowed the ship to be driven along.<pb/>


text:
The following day as we were violently thrown about by the storm, the crew started throwing the cargo overboard.


text:
We hadn’t seen the sun or the stars for many days as the storm beat down on us; so any hope of our being saved was lost.<pb/>


text:
Nobody had eaten anything for a long time. Then Paul stood before them and told them, “Men, you should have listened to me and not sailed from Crete. Then you could have avoided all this hardship and loss.


text:
Last night an angel of my God<n>Literally, “the God to whom I belong.”</n> and whom I serve, stood beside me.<pb/>


text:
“‘Don’t be afraid, Paul,’ he told me. ‘You have to stand trial before Caesar. See, God has graciously given to you everyone who is sailing with you.’


text:
At around midnight on the fourteenth night of the storm, still being blown over the Sea of Adria, the crew suspected they were getting close to land.


text:
They checked the depth and found it was forty meters, and a little while later they checked again and it was thirty meters.<pb/>


text:
They were concerned that we might be wrecked on rocks, so they dropped four anchors from the stern, and prayed for daylight to come.<pb/>


text:
The crew tried to leave the ship, and had lowered the ship’s boat into the water with the pretext that they were going to drop anchors from the ship’s bow.


text:
But Paul told the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless the crew stays with the ship, you will be lost.”


text:
At daybreak Paul urged all of them to eat something. “It’s been fourteen days now that you haven’t eaten anything because you’ve been so worried and preoccupied,” he told them.


text:
“Please do what I say and eat some food. This will help give you strength. For not even a hair from anyone’s head is going to be lost!”


text:
When he’d finished speaking he picked up a loaf of bread, and gave thanks to God for it in front of everyone. Then he broke the bread, and began to eat.


text:
Once they’d had enough to eat, the crew made the ship lighter by throwing the supplies of wheat overboard.


text:
When dawn came they didn’t recognize the coastline, but they saw a bay that had a beach. They planned to try running the ship aground there.


text:
So they cut the anchor ropes, leaving the anchors in the sea. At the same time they untied the ropes holding the rudders, raised the foresail to the wind, and made for the beach.<pb/>


text:
But they struck a sandbar and the ship grounded. The bow hit, and stuck so firm it couldn’t be moved, while the stern began to be broken apart by the pounding surf.<pb/>


text:
But the centurion, because he wanted to save Paul’s life, prevented them from doing this, and ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and make for land.


text:
The rest grabbed hold of planks and other wreckage, so that everyone was able to reach land safely.<pb/>


text:
The people there were very kind—they started a fire and called all of us over so we could warm up from the rain and the cold.


text:
Paul collected a bundle of firewood and threw it on the fire. But a poisonous snake was driven out of the bundle because of the heat and bit him, fastening itself on his hand.


text:
When the people there saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, “This man must be a murderer. Even though he escaped death from the sea, Justice won’t let him live.”<pb/>


text:
They were expecting him to swell up, or suddenly fall down dead. But after waiting a long time, they saw that nothing bad had happened to him so they changed their minds and decided he must be a god.<pb/>


text:
Nearby were lands that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us and looked after us for three days very hospitably.


text:
Now Publius’ father was sick, lying in bed suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him, and prayed for him, placed his hands on him, and healed him.


text:
They presented us with many gifts, and when we had to sail they provided everything we needed for the voyage.<pb/>


text:
After a three month stay we set sail aboard a ship from Alexandria having a figurehead of the Heavenly Twins<n>Named after the twin gods Castor and Pollux.</n> that had spent the winter at the island.


text:
From there we sailed on to Rhegium. The following day a south wind blew, and on the second day we arrived at the port of Puteoli,


text:
where we discovered some believers. They asked us to stay with them for a week.<pb/>So we came to Rome.


text:
When some of the believers from Rome heard we had arrived they came to meet us at the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns. When Paul saw them, he was thankful to God and much encouraged.


text:
When we entered Rome, Paul was permitted to stay under house arrest with a soldier to guard him.<pb/>


text:
Three days later Paul invited the Jewish leaders there to come to see him. When they were all together he told them, “Brothers, even though I had not done anything wrong against the people or the customs of our forefathers, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Roman authorities.


text:
After they had interrogated me they wanted to release me because I had done nothing that warranted execution.


text:
But the Jewish leaders opposed this, so I was forced to appeal to Caesar—not that I had any accusations against my own people.


text:
That’s why I asked to see you, and talk to you, because it is on account of the hope of Israel that I am chained up like this.”<pb/>


text:
“We have not received any letters from Judea about you, and none of our people have come here with reports against you or to speak badly of you,” they told him.


text:
“But we do want to hear from you what you believe—especially regarding this sect, which we know is condemned everywhere.”<pb/>


text:
They made an appointment to meet with him. On that day many people came to where he was staying. From morning till night Paul was explaining to them, telling them about the kingdom of God. He tried to convince them about Jesus using the writings of the law of Moses and the prophets.


text:
They couldn’t agree among themselves, and they left after Paul told them this: “The Holy Spirit said it well through Isaiah the prophet to your forefathers,


text:
‘Go to these people and tell them, “Even though you hear, you won’t ever understand, and even though you see, you won’t ever comprehend.


text:
For the minds of these people have become calloused and hard, their ears cannot hear, their eyes are shut, in case they might see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and understand with their minds, and might come back to me and I would heal them.”’<pb/>


text:
For two full years Paul stayed there in the house he rented, welcoming everyone who came to see him.


text:
He spoke of the kingdom of God, and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ very boldly. No one prevented him.


text:
This letter comes from Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ. I was called to be an apostle by God. God appointed me to announce the good news


text:
but who was revealed as God’s Son by his resurrection from the dead through the power of the Holy Spirit. He is Jesus Christ our Lord.


text:
It was through him that I received the privilege of becoming an apostle to call all nations to obedient trust in him.


text:
I’m writing to all of you in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his special people. Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!<pb/>


text:
Let me begin by saying that I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because the way in which you trust in God is spoken about all over the world.


text:
I’m always praying for you, as God can confirm—the God I serve with all my heart as I share the good news about his Son.


text:
I want you to know, my brothers and sisters, I often planned to visit you, but I was kept from coming up till now. I want to see some good spiritual results among you just as I’ve seen among other people<n>Literally, “Gentiles.”</n>.


text:
For I have an obligation to work for both the civilized and the uncivilized, both the educated and the uneducated.


text:
I’m certainly not ashamed about the good news, for it’s God’s power to save everyone who trusts in him—to the Jewish people first, and then to everyone else as well.


text:
For in the good news God is revealed as good and right<n>Literally, “God’s righteousness.”</n>, trustworthy from start to finish. As Scripture says, “Those who are right with God live by trusting him<n>The actual words in the original are, “the right (one) from trust will live.” The quotation is from Hab. 2:4.</n>.”<pb/>


text:
God’s hostility<n>Literally, “anger.” There are issues in ascribing negative human emotions to God.</n> is revealed from heaven against those who are godless and are not right, those who suppress the truth through the evil that they do.


text:
Ever since the creation of the world, the invisible aspects of God—his eternal power and divinity—are clearly visible in what he has made. Such people have no excuse,


text:
because even though they knew God, they did not praise him or thank him, but instead their thinking about God turned into complete foolishness, and darkness filled their empty minds.


text:
They exchanged the glory of the immortal God for idols, images of mortal human beings, birds, animals, and reptiles.


text:
So God abandoned them to the evil desires of their depraved minds, and they did shameful, degrading things to each other.


text:
They exchanged God’s truth for a lie, worshiping and serving creatures instead of the Creator, who deserves praise forever. Amen.<pb/>


text:
That’s why God abandoned them to their evil desires. Their women exchanged natural sex for that which is unnatural,


text:
and in the same way the men gave up sex with women and burned with lust for each other. Men did indecent things to each other, and as a result they suffered the inevitable consequences of their perversions.


text:
Since they didn’t consider it worthwhile to get to know God, he abandoned them to their worthless, distrustful way of thinking, doing things that should never be done.


text:
They filled themselves with all that’s wrong: evil, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malice, and gossip.


text:
They’re back-stabbers and God-haters. They’re arrogant, proud, and boastful. They devise new ways of sinning. They rebel against their parents.


text:
They don’t want to understand, they don’t keep their promises, they don’t show any kindness or compassion.


text:
Even though they realize exactly what God requires, they do things that deserve death. Not only do they do such things themselves, they also support others in doing them.<pb/>


text:
So if you judge others you don’t have any excuse, whoever you are! For in whatever way you condemn others, you’re judging yourself, because you’re doing the same things.


text:
Or is it that you’re treating his wonderful kindness, tolerance, and patience with contempt, not realizing that God in his kindness is trying to lead you to repent?


text:
Due to your hard-hearted attitude and your refusal to repent, you’re making things far worse for yourself on the day of retribution when the rightness of God’s judgment is demonstrated.


text:
Those who have kept on trying to do what is right will receive glory and honor, immortality and eternal life.


text:
But those who think only of themselves, rejecting the truth and deliberately choosing to do evil, will receive punishment and furious hostility.


text:
Everyone who does evil will have trouble and suffering—the Jewish people first, and the foreigners too.


text:
But everyone who does good will have glory, honor, and peace—the Jewish people first, and the foreigners too.


text:
Those who sin even though they don’t have the written law<n>Referring to the law written down by Moses. Those who don’t have the written law are the “foreigners,” while those who have the written law are the Jews.</n> are still lost, while those who sin that do have the written law will be condemned by that law.


text:
Just listening to what the law says doesn’t make you right in God’s sight. It’s those who ‘do’ what the law says who are made right.


text:
The foreigners don’t have the written law, but when they instinctively do what it says, they are following the law even without having the written law.


text:
In this way they show how the law works that’s written in their hearts. As they think about what they’re doing, their conscience either accuses them for doing wrong or defends them for doing right.


text:
The good news I share is that a day is coming when God will judge, through Jesus Christ, everyone’s secret thoughts.<pb/>


text:
What about you who call yourself a Jew? You rely on the written law and boast about having a special relationship to God.


text:
You think you can set ignorant people straight, a teacher of “children,” because you know from the law all the truth there is to know.


text:
So if you’re busy teaching others, why don’t you teach yourself? You tell people not to steal, but are you stealing?


text:
You tell people not to commit adultery, but are you committing adultery? You tell people not to worship idols, but do you profane temples<n>Or “rob temples.”</n>?<pb/>


text:
As Scripture says, “God’s character is defamed among the foreigners because of you.”<n>Isaiah 52:5. Literally, “the name of God,” which has primarily to do with his character.</n>


text:
Being circumcised<n>Circumcision, given by God to Israel in the Old Testament, was a sign that they were his special people.</n> has value only if you do what the law says. But if you break the law, your circumcision is as worthless as those who are not circumcised at all.


text:
If a man who is not circumcised<n>Not circumcised, meaning a non-Jew or “foreigner.”</n> keeps the law, he should be considered as being circumcised even though he’s not.


text:
The uncircumcised foreigners who keep the law will condemn you if you break the law, even though you have the written law and circumcision.


text:
What makes you a Jew is on the inside, a “circumcision of the heart” that doesn’t follow the letter of the law but the Spirit. Someone like that is looking for praise from God, not from people.<pb/>


text:
What if some of them didn’t trust in God? Does their lack of trust in God obliterate the trustworthiness of God?


text:
Of course not! Even if everyone else is proved to be lying, God always tells the truth. As Scripture says, “What you say will be proved right, and you will win your case<n>Or, “you will be vindicated.”</n> when you are judged.”<n>Psalm 51:4.</n><pb/>


text:
But if the fact that we’re wrong helps to show that God is right, what should we conclude? That God is wrong to pronounce judgment on us? (I’m talking from a human perspective here).


text:
Someone could say, “Why am I still condemned as a sinner if my lies make the truth of God and his glory more obvious in contrast?”


text:
Is it a case of, “Let’s sin to bring about good”? That’s what some people have slanderously accused us of saying. They should be rightly condemned!<pb/>


text:
So then, are we Jews better than others? Definitely not! Remember that we’ve already argued that both Jews and foreigners are under the control of sin.


text:
Everyone has turned their backs on him; everyone does what is totally wrong. No one does what is good, not a single one.


text:
Their throats are like an open grave; their tongues spread deceit; their lips ooze with the venom of snakes.


text:
They don’t care about respecting God at all.”<n>This passage includes references to Psalm 14:1-3, 5:9, 140:3, 10:7, Isaiah 59:7, 8, Proverbs 1:16, Psalm 36:1.</n><pb/>


text:
It’s clear that everything in the law applies to those who live under the law so that no one could have any excuses, and to make sure everyone in the whole world is answerable to God.


text:
For no one is made right before God by doing what the law requires. The law only helps us recognize what sin really is.<pb/>


text:
But now God’s character of goodness and right<n>See under 1:17. Also 3:22.</n> has been demonstrated. It has nothing to do with law-keeping, even though it was spoken of by the law and the prophets.


text:
This right character of God comes to everyone who trusts in Jesus Christ, those who place their confidence in him. It doesn’t matter who we are:


text:
God openly presented Jesus as the gift that brings peace<n>Or “place of atonement.”</n> to those trusting in him, the one who shed his blood. God did this to demonstrate he is truly right, for previously he would hold back and pass over sins,


text:
but now at this present time God proves he is fair and does what is right, and that he makes right those who trust in Jesus.<pb/>


text:
So do we have anything to boast about then? Absolutely not, there’s no place for that! And why’s that? Is it because we follow the law of observing requirements? No, we follow the law of trusting in God.


text:
We conclude that people are made right with God through their trust in him, and not from legal observance.


text:
There is only one God, and he makes us right through our trust in him, whoever we are, Jew or foreigner.


text:
Does that mean that by trusting in God we do away with the law? Of course not! In fact we affirm the importance of the law.<pb/>


text:
Let’s take Abraham as an example. From a human viewpoint he is the father of our nation. Let’s ask, “What was his experience?”


text:
For if Abraham was set right by what he did, he would have had something to boast about—but not in God’s eyes.


text:
But God, who makes sinners right, considers them as right not because they’ve worked for it but because they trust in him. This is why


text:
David speaks of the happiness of those whom God considers as right, and not because they worked for it:


text:
Now is this blessing just for the Jews, or is it for others too? We’ve just stated that Abraham was accepted as right because he trusted God.


text:
It was actually before he became a Jew by being circumcised, which was a confirmation of his trust in God to make him right. This happened before he was circumcised, so he is the father of everyone who trusts in God and are considered as right by God, even though they may not be circumcised Jews.


text:
He is also the father of circumcised Jews not merely because they’re circumcised, but because they follow the example of the trust in God our father Abraham had before he was circumcised.<pb/>


text:
God’s promise to Abraham and his descendants that the world would belong to him was not based on his keeping of the law, but because he was made right through his trust in God.


text:
For if the promised inheritance is based on keeping the law, then the issue of trusting God is not necessary, and the promise is pointless.


text:
For the law results in punishment<n>Punishment for law-breaking, which of course includes everyone.</n>—but if there’s no law then it cannot be broken.<pb/>


text:
So the promise is based on trusting God. It is provided as a free gift, guaranteed to all the children of Abraham—not merely to those who follow the law<n>Paul is not saying here that those who obey the Mosaic law are consequently made right with God—he has already dealt with that issue. He is simply pointing out that those who are not following the Mosaic law are not excluded by God.</n>, but also to those who trust like Abraham, the father of us all.


text:
As Scripture says, “I’ve made you the father of many nations.”<n>Genesis 17:5.</n> For in the presence of God, Abraham trusted in the God who makes the dead alive and speaks into existence what didn’t previously exist.


text:
Against all hope Abraham in hope trusted God, so he could become the father of many peoples, just as God had promised him: “This is how many descendants you’ll have!”


text:
His trust in God didn’t weaken even though he thought his body was practically dead (he was around a hundred years old), and knew that Sarah was too old to have children.


text:
He held on to God’s promise—he didn’t doubt it. Instead his trust in God grew stronger, and he gave glory to God.


text:
The words “Abraham was considered right”<n>Genesis 15:6.</n> weren’t just written down for his benefit.


text:
They were for us too, those of us who will be considered as right, since we trust in God who raised our Lord Jesus from the dead.


text:
Jesus was handed over to die because of our sins<n>See Isaiah 53:4, 5</n>, and was raised to life to make us right.<pb/>


text:
Now that we have been made right by God by trusting in him, we have peace with him through our Lord Jesus Christ.


text:
It’s through Jesus, trusting in him, that we’ve gained access to this position of grace where we now stand, looking forward with happiness and confidence to sharing in God’s glory.


text:
Not only this—we also remain confident when problems come, because we know that experiencing problems develops spiritual stamina<n>Or “endurance.”</n>.


text:
Spiritual stamina in turn develops a mature character, and this mature character results in confident hope.


text:
Since we have this hope we’re never disappointed, for God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit he’s given us.


text:
Who would die for anybody else, even someone who does what’s right? (Though perhaps somebody would be brave enough to die for someone really good.)


text:
Now that we are made right by his death<n>Literally, “blood.”</n>, we can be absolutely sure we’ll be saved by him from the coming judgment.


text:
While we were his enemies, God made us his friends through the death of his Son, and so we can be absolutely sure that he will save us through the life of his Son.


text:
In addition to this we now celebrate what God has done through our Lord Jesus Christ to reconcile us and make us his friends.


text:
For through one man sin entered the world, and sin led to death. In this way death came to everyone, for everyone sinned.


text:
Even before the law was given, sin was in the world, however it wasn’t counted as sin because there was no law.


text:
But death still ruled from Adam until Moses, even over those who didn’t sin in the same way as Adam did.<pb/>Now Adam prefigured the one to come<n>In other words, Adam was a symbol or type of Jesus who was to come.</n>.


text:
But the gift of Jesus is not like the sin of Adam<n>Making explicit what is meant by gift and sin.</n>. Though many people died because of one man’s sin, God’s grace is so much greater and has been shared with so many through his gracious gift in the person of Jesus Christ.


text:
The result of the gift is not like that of the sin. The result of Adam’s sin was judgment and condemnation, but the gift sets us right with God, despite our many sins.


text:
As a result of one man’s sin, death ruled because of him. But God’s grace is so much greater and his gift sets us right, for everyone who receives it will rule in life through the person of Jesus Christ!


text:
Just as one sin brought condemnation on everyone, in the same way one right act gave everyone the opportunity to live right.


text:
Just as through one man’s disobedience many became sinners, in the same way through one man’s obedience many are made right with God.


text:
When the law was introduced, sin became even more obvious. But while sin became much more obvious, grace became even more obvious!


text:
Just as sin ruled us and brought us death, now grace rules by making us right with God, bringing us eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.<pb/>


text:
Of course not!<n>Literally, “may it not be so!” This vigorous reaction is variously translated: Certainly not! By no means! God forbid! Also in 6:15 etc.</n> Since we’re already dead to sin, how can we continue to live in sin?


text:
Through baptism we were buried with him in death so that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father we too can live a new life.


text:
We know that our old self was crucified with him to dispose of the dead body of sin so that we wouldn’t be enslaved by sin any longer.


text:
for we know that because Christ has been raised from the dead he won’t ever die, because death has no longer any power over him.


text:
In just the same way you should consider yourselves dead to sin, but alive to God through Christ Jesus.


text:
and don’t use any parts of your body as evil tools of sin. Instead dedicate yourselves to God as those who have been brought back from death to life, and use all parts of your body as tools to do something good for God.


text:
Don’t you realize that if you make yourselves someone’s slaves, obeying their orders, then you are slaves to the one you obey? If you are slaves of sin, the result is death; if you obey God, the result is you are made right with him.


text:
Thank God that though you once were slaves to sin, you whole-heartedly chose to follow the truth about God that you learned.


text:
I’m using this everyday example because your human thinking is limited. Just as you once enslaved yourselves to immorality, piling up sin upon sin, now you must enslave yourselves to what is pure and right.


text:
But what were the results back then? Aren’t you ashamed of the things you did? Such things that lead to death!


text:
But now that you’re set free from sin, and have become God’s slaves, the results will be a pure life—and in the end, eternal life.


text:
Brothers and sisters, (I’m speaking here to people who know the law<n>Paul’s use of the word for law can have various meanings, but usually refers to the whole system of Jewish belief. Much of this has to do with rule-keeping.</n>), don’t you see that the law has authority over someone only while they’re alive?


text:
For example, a married woman is bound by the law to her husband while he’s alive, but if he dies, she’s released from this legal obligation to him.


text:
So if she lives with another man while her husband is alive, she would be committing adultery. However, if her husband dies and then she marries another man, she wouldn’t be guilty of adultery.<pb/>


text:
In the same way, my friends, you’ve become dead to the law through the body of Christ, and so now you belong to someone else—Christ, who was raised from the dead so that we could live a productive life<n>Literally, “bear fruit for God.”</n> for God.


text:
While we were controlled by old nature, our sinful desires (as revealed by the law) were at work within us and resulted in death.


text:
But now we’ve been set free from the law, and have died to what kept us in chains, so that we can serve in the newness of the spirit and not the old letter of the law.<pb/>


text:
So what do we conclude? That the law is sin? Of course not! I wouldn’t have known what sin was unless the law defined it. I wouldn’t have realized that wanting to have other people’s things for myself was wrong without the law that says, “Don’t desire for yourself what belongs to someone else.”


text:
But through this commandment sin found a way to stir up in me all kinds of selfish desires—for without law, sin is dead.


text:
I used to live without realizing what the law really meant, but when I understood the implications of that commandment, then sin came back to life, and I died.


text:
because sin found a way through the commandment to deceive me, and used the commandment to kill me!<pb/>


text:
Now would something that is good kill me? Of course not! But sin shows itself to be sin by using good to cause my death. So by means of the commandment, it’s revealed how evil sin really is.


text:
We realize that the law is spiritual; but I’m all-too-human<n>Literally, “flesh.”</n>, a slave to sin.


text:
I really don’t understand what I’m doing. I do the things I don’t want to do, and what I hate doing, that’s what I do!


text:
for I know that there’s nothing good in me as far as my sinful human nature is concerned. Even though I want to do good, I’m just not able to do it.


text:
However if I’m doing what I don’t want to, then it’s no longer me doing it, but sin living in me.<pb/>


text:
but I see a different law at work within me that is at war with the law my mind has decided to follow, making me a prisoner of the law of sin that is within me.


text:
I’m totally miserable! Who will rescue me from this body that’s causing my death<n>Literally, “body of death.”</n>? Thank God—for he does this through Jesus Christ our Lord!


text:
Here’s the situation: while I myself choose with my mind to obey God’s law, my human nature obeys the law of sin.<pb/>


text:
What the law couldn’t do because it was powerless due to our sinful nature<n>“Sinful nature,” Literally, “flesh,” meaning the sinful, fallen, physical nature of humanity. This word is used frequently in the following verses in contrast to the spiritual nature.</n>, God was able to do! By sending his own Son in human form, God dealt with the whole problem of sin<n>Or “by making a sacrifice of himself for sin.”</n> and destroyed sin’s power in our sinful human nature.


text:
In this way we could fulfill the good requirements of the law by following the Spirit and not our sinful nature.


text:
Those who follow their sinful nature are preoccupied with sinful things, but those who follow the Spirit concentrate on spiritual things.


text:
The sinful human mind results in death, but having the mind led by the Spirit results in life and peace.


text:
The sinful human mind is hostile to God because it refuses to obey the law of God—in fact it never can,


text:
But you’re not following your sinful nature, but the Spirit—if it’s true that the Spirit of God is living in you. For those that don’t have the Spirit of Christ in them don’t belong to him.<pb/>


text:
However if Christ is in you, even though your body is going to die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you’re now right with God.


text:
The Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you. He who raised Jesus from the dead will also give life to your dead bodies through his Spirit that lives in you.


text:
So brothers and sisters, we don’t have to follow<n>Or “have no obligation to.”</n> our sinful nature that operates according to our human desires.


text:
For if you live under the control of your sinful nature, you’re going to die. But if you follow the way of the Spirit, putting to death the evil things you do, then you will live.


text:
You were not given a spirit to enslave and terrify you once more. No, what you received was the spirit that makes you children in God’s family. Now we can shout out, “God is our Father!”


text:
If we’re his children, then we’re his heirs. We are heirs of God, and heirs together with Christ. But if we want to share in his glory we must share in his sufferings.<pb/>


text:
Yet I’m convinced that what we suffer in the present is nothing compared to the future glory that will be revealed to us.


text:
But creation itself waits in hope for the time when it will be set free from the slavery of decay and share the glorious freedom of God’s children.


text:
Not only creation, but we too, who have a foretaste of the Spirit, we groan inwardly as we wait for God to “adopt” us—the redemption of our bodies.


text:
For we were saved by hope. Yet hope that’s already seen isn’t hope at all. Who hopes for what they can already see?


text:
Similarly the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We don’t know how to speak with God, but the Spirit himself intercedes with and through us by groans that can’t be put into words.


text:
The One who examines the minds of everyone knows the Spirit’s motives<n>Or, “the mind of the Spirit.”</n>, because the Spirit pleads God’s cause on behalf of the believers.


text:
We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, those who he has called to be part of his plan.


text:
For God, choosing them in advance, set them apart to be like his Son, so that the Son would be the first of many brothers and sisters.


text:
Those that he chose, he also called; and those that he called, he also made right; and those that he made right, he also glorified.<pb/>


text:
God, who did not hold back his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, won’t he also freely give us everything?


text:
so who can condemn us? It’s Christ Jesus who died—more importantly, who was raised from the dead—who stands at God’s right-hand, presenting our case.<pb/>


text:
Who can separate us from Christ’s love? Can oppression, distress, or persecution? Or hunger, poverty, danger, or violence?


text:
Just as Scripture says, “For your sake we’re in danger of being killed all the time. We’re treated like sheep to be slaughtered.”<n>Psalm 44:22.</n>


text:
I’m absolutely convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor devils, neither the present nor the future, nor powers,


text:
neither height nor depth, in fact nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.<pb/>


text:
for my own people, my brothers and sisters. I would rather be cursed myself, separated from Christ, if that would help them.


text:
They are my fellow-Israelites, God’s chosen people. God revealed to them his glory and made agreements<n>Literally, “covenants.”</n> with them, giving them the law, true worship, and his promises.


text:
They are our forefathers—ancestors of Christ, humanly-speaking, the One who rules over everything, the eternally-blessed God. Amen.<pb/>


text:
and all those who are descended from Abraham are not his true children. For Scripture says, “Your descendants will be counted through Isaac,”<n>Genesis 21:12.</n>


text:
so it’s not Abraham’s actual children who are counted as God’s children, but only those children of God’s promise who are considered his true descendants.<pb/>


text:
This is what the promise was: “I will return next year and Sarah will have a son.”<n>Genesis 18:10, 14.</n>


text:
But even before the children were born, and before they’d done anything right or wrong, (so that God’s purpose could continue, proving God’s calling of people is not based on human performance),


text:
As he said to Moses, “I will be merciful to whoever I should show mercy, and I will have compassion on whoever I should show compassion.”<n>Exodus 33:19.</n>


text:
Scripture records God saying to Pharaoh: “I put you here for a reason—so that through you I could demonstrate my power, and so that my name could be made known throughout the earth.”<n>Exodus 9:16.</n>


text:
So God is merciful to those he wishes to be, and hardens the hearts of those he wants to<n>In the Old Testament, this expression is used to describe obstinate rejection of God, such as the experience of the Pharaoh of the Exodus. In Exodus 9 Pharaoh is variously described as hardening his heart, God hardening his heart, or in the passive that his heart was hardened. So this verse in Romans should not be taken to mean that God deliberately hardens people’s hearts and then punishes them for it. The hardening of the heart is a rejection of divine grace.</n>.


text:
Now you’ll argue with me and ask, “So why does he still blame us then? Who can resist the will of God?”


text:
That’s no way to speak, for who are you—a mere mortal—to contradict God? Can something that is created say to its creator, “Why did you make me like this?”


text:
Doesn’t a potter have the right to use the same batch of clay to make both a decorative bowl and an everyday pot?<n>Literally, “pots of value and dishonor.”</n><pb/>


text:
It’s as if God, wanting to demonstrate his opposition to sin<n>Literally, “show anger.”</n> and to reveal his power, bears patiently with these “pots destined for destruction,”


text:
so that he might reveal the greatness of his glory through these “pots of mercy” which he has prepared in advance for glory.


text:
This is who we are—people he has called, not just from among the Jews, but from among the foreigners too...<pb/>


text:
As God said in the book of Hosea, “Those who are not my people I will call my people, and those who are not loved I will call the ones I love,”<n>Hosea 2:23.</n>


text:
and, “It will happen that at the place where they were told, ‘You’re not my people,’ there they will be called the children of the living God.”<n>Hosea 1:10.</n><pb/>


text:
Isaiah cries out regarding Israel: “Even if the children of Israel have become as numerous as the sands of the sea, only a small number<n>Literally, “remnant.”</n> will be saved.


text:
For the Lord is going to quickly and completely finish his work of judgment on the earth.”<n>Isaiah 10:22, 23.</n>


text:
As Isaiah previously said, “If the Lord Almighty had not left us some descendants, we would have become just like Sodom and Gomorrah.”<n>Isaiah 1:9.</n><pb/>


text:
What shall we conclude, then? That even though the foreigners were not even looking to do right, they did grasp what is right, and through their trust in God did what was right.


text:
Why not? Because they relied on what they did rather than trusting in God. They tripped on the stumbling-block,


text:
just as Scripture predicted: “Look, I’m placing in Zion a stumbling-block, a rock that will offend people. But those who trust in him won’t be disappointed.”<n>Isaiah 28:16, 8:14.</n><pb/>


text:
My brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire—my prayer to God—is for the salvation of the people of Israel!


text:
I can testify to their passionate dedication to God, but it’s not based on knowing him as he truly is.


text:
They don’t understand how God makes us right with him, and they try to make themselves right. They refuse to accept God’s way of making people right.


text:
But the attitude of doing right that comes from trust says this: “Don’t ask ‘who’ll go to heaven?’ (asking to bring Christ down),”


text:
or “‘who’ll go to the place of the dead<n>Literally, “the abyss,” bottomless pit.</n>?’ (asking to bring Christ back from the dead).”


text:
What Scripture actually says is: “The message is very close to you—it’s in your mouth and in your heart.”<n>These allusions are to Deut. 30:11-14. They were originally applied to the law, and were to indicate that the law was not distant and unapproachable, clearly denying it was difficult to observe. Paul now applies this to the person of Christ, making it clear that this “message of the law” was fulfilled in him.</n> In fact it’s this message based on trust that we’re presenting.


text:
For if you declare that you accept Jesus as Lord, and you are convinced in your mind that God raised him from the dead, then you will be saved.


text:
As Scripture says, “Those who trust in him will not be disappointed.”<n>Isaiah 28:16. Disappointed: or “ashamed.”</n><pb/>


text:
There’s no difference between Jew and Greek—for the same Lord is Lord of everyone, and he gives generously to everyone who asks him.


text:
But how can people call on someone they don’t trust? How can they trust someone they haven’t heard about? How can they hear unless they’re told?


text:
How can they go out and tell others unless they’re sent? Just as Scripture says, “Those who come bringing the good news are truly welcome!”<n>Isaiah 52:7.</n>


text:
But not everyone has accepted the good news. As Isaiah asks: “Lord, who trusted in the news they heard from us?”<n>Isaiah 53:1.</n>


text:
It’s not that they haven’t heard. Quite the opposite: “The voices of those speaking for God<n>Implied.</n> have been heard all over the earth—their message went out to the whole world.”<n>Psalm 19:4.</n>


text:
So my question is, “Didn’t Israel know?” First of all Moses says, “I’ll make you jealous by using people who aren’t even a nation; I will make you angry by using ignorant foreigners!”<n>Deut. 32:21.</n>


text:
Then Isaiah said it even more strongly: “I was found by people who weren’t even looking for me; I revealed myself to people who weren’t even asking for me.”<n>Isaiah 65:1.</n>


text:
As God says to Israel, “All day long I reached out my hands to a disobedient and stubborn people.”<n>Isaiah 65:2.</n><pb/>


text:
But then I ask, “Has God rejected his people?” Of course not! I’m an Israelite myself, from the tribe of Benjamin.


text:
God has not rejected his chosen people. Don’t you recall what Scripture says about Elijah? How he complained about Israel to God, saying,


text:
”Lord they’ve killed your prophets and destroyed your altars. I’m the only one left, and they’re trying to kill me too!”<pb/>


text:
How did God answer him? “I still have seven thousand left who have not worshiped Baal.”<n>1 Kings 19:10, 14.</n>


text:
And since it’s through grace, then clearly it’s not based on what people do, otherwise grace wouldn’t be grace!<pb/>


text:
So what do we conclude? That the people of Israel didn’t achieve what they were striving for—only the chosen, while the rest became hard-hearted.


text:
As Scripture says, “God dulled their minds so their eyes could not see and their ears could not hear, to this very day.”<n>Deut. 29:4; Isaiah 6:9, 10; 29:10.</n>


text:
David adds, “May their feasts become a trap for them, a net that catches them, a temptation that brings punishment.


text:
May their eyes become blind so they cannot see, and may their backs always be bent low in dejection.”<n>Psalm 69:22, 23.</n><pb/>


text:
So am I saying that they stumbled and consequently failed completely? Not at all! But as a result of their mistakes, salvation came to other nations, to “make them jealous.”


text:
Now if even their failure benefits the world, and their loss profits the foreigners, how much more beneficial it would be if they were to completely fulfill what they were meant to be<n>Implied.</n>.<pb/>


text:
Now let me speak to you foreigners. Insofar as I’m a missionary to foreigners, I promote what I’m doing


text:
If the result of God’s rejection of them is that the world becomes God’s friends, the result of God’s acceptance of them would be like the dead coming back to life!


text:
If the first part of the bread dough given as an offering is holy, then so is all the rest; if the roots of a tree are holy, then so are the branches.


text:
Now if some of the branches have been broken off, and you—a wild olive shoot—have been grafted in, and have shared with them the benefit of nourishment from the olive tree’s roots,


text:
then you shouldn’t look down on the other branches. If you’re tempted to boast, remember it’s not you who are supporting the roots, but the roots that are supporting you.


text:
All well and good—but they were broken off because of their failure to trust in God, and you stay there because you trust in God. So don’t think highly of yourselves, but be respectful,


text:
You should recognize both God’s kindness and toughness—he was tough on the fallen, but God is kind to you so long as you trust in his kindness—otherwise you’ll be removed too.


text:
If they no longer refuse to trust in God, they can be grafted in as well, for God is able to graft them back in again.


text:
If you could be cut from a wild olive tree, and then be grafted artificially onto a cultivated olive tree, how much more easily they could be grafted back naturally to their own tree.<pb/>


text:
I don’t want you, my brothers and sisters to miss this previously-hidden truth, for otherwise you could become conceited. The people of Israel have become hard-hearted in part, until the process of the foreigners coming in is complete.


text:
This is how all Israel will be saved<n>This is not teaching universal salvation, but that at this point the whole of Israel (that is made up of both foreigners and Jews who accept salvation through God’s grace) will then be saved.</n>. As Scripture says, “The Savior will come from Zion, and he will turn Jacob away from his opposition to God.


text:
Though they are enemies of the good news—and this is to your benefit—they are still the chosen people, and loved because of their forefathers.


text:
In just the same way that they’re now disobedient as you were, they will also be shown mercy like you received.


text:
For God treated everyone as prisoners because of their disobedience so that he could be merciful to everyone.<pb/>


text:
Oh how deep are God’s riches, wisdom, and knowledge! How incredible his decisions, how unimaginable his methods!


text:
Everything comes from him, everything exists through him, and everything is for him. Glory to him forever, Amen!<pb/>


text:
So I encourage you, my brothers and sisters, because of God’s compassion<n>Or “mercy.”</n> for you, to dedicate your bodies as a living offering that is holy and pleasing to God. This is the logical way to worship.


text:
Don’t follow the ways of this world; instead be transformed by the spiritual renewal of your mind so you can demonstrate what God’s will really is—good, pleasing, and perfect.


text:
Let me explain to all of you, through the grace given to me, that no one should think of themselves better than they ought to. You should think about yourselves realistically, according to the degree of trust God has shared with you.<pb/>


text:
We each have different gifts that vary according to the grace given to us. So if it’s speaking for God, then you should do so depending on how much you trust in God.


text:
if encouragement then you should encourage; if giving then you should give generously; if leadership then you should lead with commitment; if being merciful then you should do so gladly.<pb/>


text:
Think about one another<n>Or, “Live in harmony with one another.”</n>. Don’t consider yourself more important than others; live humbly. Don’t be conceited.


text:
My dear friends, don’t seek revenge, but leave it to God to execute judgment<n>Literally, “give room to wrath.”</n>—as Scripture points out, “‘It’s for me to dispense justice, I will repay,’ says the Lord.”<n>Deut. 32:35.</n>


text:
If those who hate you are hungry, give them food; if they’re thirsty, give them a drink; for by doing so you pile fiery coals on their heads<n>Meaning they will be caused great embarrassment and shame.</n>.


text:
Everyone should obey government authorities, because no one has the power to rule unless God gives permission. These authorities have been put there by God.


text:
Whoever resists the authorities opposes what God has put in place, and those who do so shall find themselves judged accordingly.


text:
For rulers don’t frighten those who do right, but those who do wrong. If you don’t want to live in fear of the authorities, then do what is right, and you’ll have their approval.


text:
Those in power are God’s servants, put there for your own good. If you do wrong, you should be frightened—it’s not without reason that authorities have the power to punish! They are God’s servants, punishing offenders.


text:
So it’s important to do as you’re told, not just because of the threat of punishment, but because of what your conscience tells you.


text:
That’s why you have to pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants taking care of such things.


text:
Pay whatever you owe: taxes to the tax authorities, fees to the fee-collectors; give respect to those who should be respected, honor those who should be honored.


text:
Don’t owe anybody anything, except love for one another—for those who love their neighbor have kept the law.<pb/>


text:
“You must not commit adultery, you must not kill, you must not steal, you must not jealously want things for yourself<n>Literally, “covet.”</n>”—these and the other commandments are summed up in the statement, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”


text:
You should do this because you realize how urgent the time is—that it’s high time for you to wake up from your sleep. For salvation is closer to us now than when we first put our trust in God.


text:
The night is nearly over, the day is almost here! So let’s get rid of our dark deeds and put on the armor of light.


text:
Let’s behave properly, showing that we’re people who are living in the light. We shouldn’t spend our time going to wild parties and getting drunk, or having affairs and acting immorally, or getting into fights and being jealous.


text:
Accept those who are still struggling to trust in God, and don’t get into arguments over personal opinions.


text:
One person may believe they can eat anything, while another whose trust is weak only eats vegetables<n>, 2. This is nothing to do with the issue of vegetarianism or diet, but with food offered to idols. (Similarly in 1 Cor. 8).</n>.


text:
Those who eat anything must not look down on those who won’t, and those who won’t eat must not criticize those who do—for God has accepted them both.


text:
What right do you have to judge someone else’s servant? It’s their own master who decides whether they are right or wrong. With the Lord’s help they will be able to take their stand for right.<pb/>


text:
Some people consider some days more important than others, while others consider each day the same. Everyone should be completely convinced in their own minds.


text:
Those who respect a special day do so for the Lord; and those who eat without worrying<n>Eating/not eating refers to whether it was right to eat food that had previously been offered to pagan idols.</n> do so for the Lord since they give thanks to God; while those who avoid eating certain things do so for the Lord, and they also give thanks to God.<pb/>


text:
If we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord—so whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.


text:
This was the reason Christ died and came back to life—so that he could be the Lord of both the dead and the living.


text:
So why do you criticize your fellow-believer? Why do you despise your fellow-believer? For all of us will stand before God’s throne of judgment.<pb/>


text:
For the Scriptures say, “‘As surely as I am alive,’ the Lord says, ‘Every knee shall bow before me, and every tongue will declare that I am God.’”<n>Isaiah 45:23.</n>


text:
Therefore let’s not judge each other anymore, but decide to do this instead—we won’t put obstacles in the way of fellow-believers, or cause them to fall.<pb/>


text:
I’m certain—persuaded by the Lord Jesus—that nothing in itself is ceremonially unclean. But if someone considers it to be unclean, to them it is unclean.


text:
If your fellow-believer is hurt by you over matters of food, then you’re no longer behaving in a loving way. Don’t destroy someone for whom Christ died by the food you choose to eat.


text:
for God’s kingdom is not about eating and drinking, but about living right, having peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.


text:
Don’t destroy the work of God with arguments over food. Everything is clean—but it would be wrong to eat and offend others.


text:
It’s better not to eat meat or drink wine or anything else that would cause your fellow-believer to stumble.


text:
What you personally believe is between you and God. Happy are those who don’t condemn themselves for doing what they think is right!


text:
But if you have doubts whether it’s right or wrong to eat something, then you shouldn’t, because you’re not convinced it’s right. Whatever isn’t based on conviction<n>Or, “faith.”</n> is sin.<n>Or, “Sin is doing something you don’t believe is right.”</n><pb/>


text:
Those of us who are spiritually strong ought to support those who are spiritually weak. We shouldn’t just please ourselves.


text:
Christ didn’t live to please himself, but as Scripture says of him, “The insults of those who abused you have fallen on me.”<n>Psalm 69:9.</n>


text:
These Scriptures were written down in the past to help us understand, and to encourage us so that we could wait patiently in hope.<pb/>


text:
May the God who gives patience and encouragement help you to be in full agreement among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus,


text:
so that you can with one mind and with one voice together glorify God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!<pb/>


text:
I maintain that Christ came as a servant to the Jews<n>Literally, “of circumcision.”</n> to show God tells the truth, keeping the promises he made to their forefathers.


text:
He also came that foreigners could praise God for his mercy, as Scripture says, “Therefore I will praise you among the foreigners; I will sing praises to your name.”<n>Psalm 18:49.</n>


text:
And again, Isaiah says, “Jesse’s descendant will come to rule the nations, and foreigners will put their hope in him.”<n>Isaiah 11:10. “Jesse’s descendant.” This refers to Jesse, the father of King David, who was the beginning of the royal line.</n><pb/>


text:
May the God of hope completely fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you will overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit!


text:
I’m convinced that you, my brothers and sisters, are full of goodness, and that you are filled with every kind of knowledge, so you are well able to teach one another.


text:
I’ve been blunt in the way I have written to you about some of these things, but this is just to remind you. For God gave me grace


text:
to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the foreigners, like a priest sharing God’s good news, so that they could become an acceptable offering, made holy by the Holy Spirit.<pb/>


text:
(I wouldn’t dare talk about any of this except as Christ has done it through me), I have led foreigners to obedience through my teaching and demonstration,


text:
through the power of signs and miracles done with the Holy Spirit’s power. From Jerusalem all the way over to Illyricum, everywhere I’ve shared fully the good news of Christ.


text:
In fact I was keen to spread the good news in places that hadn’t heard the name of Christ, so that I wouldn’t be building on what others have done.


text:
As Scripture says, “Those who haven’t been told the good news will discover him, and those who haven’t heard will understand.”<n>Isaiah 52:15.</n><pb/>


text:
But now, as there’s nowhere left here to work, and since I’ve looked forward to visiting you for many years,


text:
when I go to Spain I hope to see you when I pass through. Maybe you can give me some help for my journey once we’ve enjoyed some time together.


text:
because the believers in Macedonia and Achaia thought it was a good idea to send a contribution to the poor among the believers in Jerusalem.


text:
They were happy to do this because they’re in their debt<n>Meaning that the foreigners are indebted to the Jews for sharing the good news of God. This particular instance applies specifically to the believers in Jerusalem, so the foreigners are happy to send a gift to help them.</n>. Now that foreigners are sharing their spiritual benefits, they owe it to the Jewish believers<n>Implied.</n> to help them in material things.


text:
So once I’ve done this, and have safely delivered this contribution to them, I’ll visit you on my way to Spain.


text:
I want to encourage you, my brothers and sisters through our Lord Jesus Christ and through the love of the Spirit, to join together in praying hard for me.


text:
Pray that I may be kept safe from the unbelievers in Judea. Pray that my work in Jerusalem will be welcomed by the believers there.


text:
Please welcome her in the Lord, as believers should, and help her in whatever way she needs, because she has been a great help to many people, myself included.


text:
who risked their lives for me. It’s not just me who is very thankful for them, but all the churches of the foreigners too<n>Referring to the non-Jewish churches.</n>.


text:
Please also give my greetings to the church that meets in their home. Pass on my best wishes to my good friend Epaenetus, the first person to follow Christ in the province of Asia.


text:
and also Andronicus and Junia, from my own country and fellow-prisoners. They are well-known among the apostles, and became followers of Christ before me.


text:
My best wishes to Tryphaena and Tryphosa, hard workers for the Lord, and to my friend Persis, who has done so much in the Lord.


text:
Give my greetings to Rufus, an exceptional worker<n>Or, “one of God’s special people.”</n>, and his mother—who I count as my mother too.


text:
Greetings to Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the fellow-believers who are with them.


text:
Best wishes to Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, Olympas, and to all the believers with them.


text:
Now I’m pleading with you my fellow-believers: watch out for those who cause arguments and confuse people about the teachings you learned. Stay away from them!


text:
These people are not serving Christ our Lord but their own appetites, and by their smooth-talking and pleasant words they deceive the minds of unsuspecting people.<pb/>


text:
Everyone knows how faithful you are. This makes me really happy. However I want you to be wise about what’s good, and innocent of anything bad.


text:
The God of peace will soon break the power of Satan and make him subject to you. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.<pb/>


text:
Now to him who can make you strongThrough the good news I share and the message of Jesus Christ,According to the mystery of truth<n>Literally, “mystery,” a term referring to secret truth or a secret plan known only to religious believers. Also verse 26.</n> that has been revealed,The mystery of truth, hidden for eternity,


text:
now made visible.Through the prophets’ writings, andFollowing the command of the eternal God,The mystery of truth is made known to everyone everywhere so they can trust and obey him;


text:
To the one and only wise God,Through Jesus Christ—To him be glory for ever. Amen<n>These last verses seem to be a poem or a song, so are set out in this form.</n>.


text:
This letter comes from Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ according to the will of God, and from Sosthenes, our brother.


text:
It is sent to the church of God in Corinth, those who are being made right in Christ Jesus, called to live holy lives—and to everyone who worships the Lord Jesus Christ everywhere, the Lord both of them and of us.<pb/>


text:
Through him you have been made rich in everything, in all that you say and every aspect of what you know.


text:
He will also keep you strong to the very end, so you will be kept right until the day of the Lord Jesus Christ.


text:
God is trustworthy who called you to share together in fellowship with his son Jesus Christ our Lord.<pb/>


text:
Brothers and sisters, I plead with you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ that you all agree and that you’re not divided. Instead develop a united attitude and purpose.


text:
For I have been told things about you, my brothers and sisters, by some of Chloe’s people—that you are quarreling among yourselves.


text:
Let me explain what I mean. You’re all making different claims: “I follow Paul,” or “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Peter,” or “I follow Christ.”


text:
Is Christ divided? Did Paul die on a cross for you? Was it in the name of Paul that you were baptized?<pb/>


text:
For Christ didn’t send me out to baptize, but to spread the good news, and not with eloquent human wisdom, otherwise the cross of Christ would be made powerless.<n>Or “ineffectual.” Literally, “emptied.”</n><pb/>


text:
For the message of the cross is nonsense to those who are lost, but it’s the power of God to those of us who are saved.


text:
As Scripture says, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will wipe out the cleverness of the clever.”<n>Probably referencing Isaiah 29:14.</n><pb/>


text:
So how about the wise, the writers, and the philosophers of this age? Hasn’t God turned the wisdom of this world into foolishness?


text:
Since God in his wisdom allowed the world in its wisdom not to know God, it was God’s gracious plan that by the foolishness of the good news those who trusted in him would be saved.


text:
but our message is of Christ killed on a cross—offensive to the Jews, and foolishness to the foreigners.


text:
However for those who are called by God, both Jews and foreigners, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.


text:
For the foolishness of God is wiser than we are; and the weakness of God is stronger than we are.<pb/>


text:
Brothers and sisters, remember your calling—and that this did not include many who are wise, humanly speaking; not many who are powerful; not many who are important.


text:
Instead God chose the things the world considers foolish to humiliate those who think they are wise. He chose the things the world considers weak to humiliate those who think they are strong.


text:
He chose the things that are unimportant and despised by the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing the things that are,<n>This complicated verse is really saying that God uses things and people not viewed as important by this world to demonstrate what really is important.</n>


text:
It’s because of him that you live in Christ Jesus, who God made to be wisdom for us. He sets us right, keeps us right, and frees us.


text:
So as Scripture says, “Whoever wants to boast, let them boast in the Lord.”<n>Referencing Jer. 9:23.</n><pb/>


text:
Brothers and sisters, when I came to you I didn’t try to impress you with wonderful words or great wisdom when I told you what God had to say to you.


text:
I decided that while I was with you I didn’t want to concentrate on anything except Jesus Christ, and that he was crucified.


text:
I didn’t speak to you with persuasive words of wisdom to convince you. I just explained it all to you through the evidence and power of the Spirit.


text:
However we do use words of wisdom when we speak to those who are spiritually mature, but this isn’t wisdom that comes from this world, or from the rulers of this world who soon fade from the scene.


text:
On the contrary we explain God’s wisdom in terms of a revealed mystery<n>When the word mystery is used in the New Testament it is normally referring to a ‘revealed’ mystery—particularly in reference to God becoming human in the person of Jesus Christ.</n> that was previously hidden which God planned for our glory before the creation of the worlds.<pb/>


text:
None of the rulers of this world understood anything about this—for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.


text:
But as Scripture says, “No one has ever seen, and no one has ever heard, and no one has ever imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.”<n>From Is. 64 and 65.</n>


text:
But God has revealed this to us through the Spirit, because the Spirit delves into the depths of God.


text:
Who knows anyone’s thoughts except the actual person?<n>Literally, “who among men knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man that is in him?”</n> In the same way no one knows God’s thoughts except the Spirit of God.


text:
For we have received the Spirit from God, not the spirit of this world, so that we could understand what God so generously gave us.


text:
That’s what we speak about—not using words taught by human wisdom, but what the Spirit teaches. We explain what is spiritual using spiritual terms.


text:
Of course people who are not spiritual don’t accept what comes from God’s Spirit. It’s just foolish nonsense to them, and they can’t understand it, because what is spiritual has to be properly examined.


text:
People who are spiritual investigate everything, but are not placed under investigation themselves.<n>“Investigate/investigation”—the same word is used in the original, and can also mean to examine or to judge. It is also related to the word translated “examined” in verse 14. English does not capture the subtlety of the original.</n>


text:
For “Who understands the Lord’s mind, and would think to instruct him?”<n>Isaiah 40:13.</n> But we ‘do’ have Christ’s mind!<pb/>


text:
My brothers and sisters, I couldn’t talk<n>Presumably while he was visiting them previously.</n> with you as spiritual believers, but as worldly people—like baby Christians.


text:
Even now you’re not ready for it, because you’re still worldly. Since you’re still jealous and argumentative, doesn’t that show you’re worldly, behaving just like ordinary people do?


text:
When one of you says, “I follow Paul,” while another says, “I follow Apollos,” doesn’t that show you’re being so very human?<pb/>


text:
Who is Apollos, anyway? And who is Paul? We’re just servants through whom you believed. Each of us does the work God gave us to do.


text:
So the one who does the planting doesn’t count for anything, any more than the one who does the watering. The only one who matters is God who is growing you!


text:
The one planting and the one watering have the same goal, and both will be rewarded according to what they’ve done.<pb/>


text:
Through the grace of God that he gave to me, I laid down the foundation like a skilled building supervisor. Now someone else is building on it. Whoever does the building needs to watch what they’re doing.


text:
but whatever is used to build with will be exposed. For on the Day of Judgment fire will reveal it and test it. Everyone’s work will be shown for what it is.


text:
Those whose building is burned up will lose out. They will still be saved, but it will be like passing through fire!


text:
Anyone who destroys God’s temple will be destroyed by God, for God’s temple is holy, and you are the temple.<pb/>


text:
Don’t deceive yourselves. If there’s anyone of you who thinks they’re worldly wise, they should become fools so they can become truly wise!


text:
This world’s wisdom is plain foolishness to God. As Scripture says, “He uses the cleverness of the wise to catch them out,”<n>Job 5:13.</n>


text:
whether it’s Paul or Apollos or Peter—or the world, or life, or death, or the present, or the future. You have everything—


text:
So think of us as Christ’s servants given the responsibility for “the mysteries of God.”<n>Again, in the NT mysteries are the revealed truths of God.</n>


text:
Personally it hardly matters to me if you or anyone else judges me—in fact I don’t even judge myself.


text:
I don’t know of anything I’ve done wrong, but that doesn’t make me right. It’s the Lord who judges me.


text:
So don’t judge anything before the right time—when the Lord comes. He will bring to light all the darkest secrets that are hidden, and he will reveal people’s motives. God will give everyone whatever praise they deserve.<pb/>


text:
Now, brothers and sisters, I have applied this to Apollos and myself as an example for you. That way you will learn not to go beyond what has been written, and not in arrogance prefer one over the other.<n>The meaning of original is debated. This is shown in the many differences in translations.</n>


text:
Who made you so special? What do you have that you weren’t given? Since you were given it, why do you proudly claim you weren’t?


text:
You think you have all you need. You think you’re so wealthy. You think you’re kings already, and don’t need us.<n>Literally, “without us.”</n> I wish you were really ruling as kings, so we could rule with you!


text:
The way I see it, God has put us apostles on display as the last in the line, condemned to die. We have been made a public show before the entire universe, to angels and to human beings.


text:
We’re Christ’s fools, but you are so wise in Christ! We’re the weak ones, but you are so strong! You have the glory, but we are despised!<n>From the context Paul appears to be speaking rather ironically.</n>


text:
Right up till now we’re hungry and thirsty. We have no clothes. We’re badly beaten up, and we have no place to call home.


text:
We struggle on doing manual work. When people curse us, we bless them. When they persecute us, we put up with it.


text:
When they insult us, we respond with kindness. Even now we are treated like dirt, the worst trash in the whole world.<pb/>


text:
I’m not writing like this to make you feel ashamed, but to caution you as my children whom I love so much.


text:
Even though you may have thousands of Christian instructors, you don’t have many fathers—it was in Christ Jesus that I became your father when I shared the good news with you.


text:
That’s why I sent Timothy to you, my trustworthy son in the Lord who I love so much. He will remind you about the way I follow Christ, just as I always teach in every church I visit.


text:
But I am coming to visit you soon, if that’s what the Lord wants. Then I’ll find out what these arrogant people are saying, and what kind of power they have.


text:
I hear reports that sexual immorality is happening among you, immorality that even the foreigners don’t practice. A man is living with his father’s wife!


text:
You are so proud of yourselves! Shouldn’t you have wept with sadness, and excluded the man who did this?


text:
Even though I’m not physically present there, I am there in spirit and just as if I were there I’ve already made my judgment of the one who has done this.


text:
When you meet together in the name of the Lord Jesus I’ll be there with you in spirit and with the power of our Lord Jesus.


text:
Hand over this man to Satan so his sinful nature may be destroyed and he himself be saved on the day of the Lord<n>This is not to suggest that Satan “cooperates” in the salvation process. This “handing over to Satan” is figurative language that is meant to indicate that the one involved is allowed to experience the consequences of his sin so that he may choose to return and be saved.</n>.<pb/>


text:
You shouldn’t be proud about this. Don’t you know that it only takes a little yeast to make the whole batch of dough rise?<n>In other words, it only takes a small amount of sin to infect the whole church.</n>


text:
Get rid of this old yeast so that you can be a new batch of dough to make bread without yeast. Christ our Passover lamb has been sacrificed.


text:
So let us celebrate this festival<n>At the time of the Passover the Jews ate bread made without yeast, and threw out all the yeast from their homes. Paul is using this imagery to say that the yeast of sin needs to be removed just as the symbol of sin (yeast) was removed at the time of the sacrifice of the Passover.</n>, not with old yeast or the yeast of evil and wickedness, but with the bread made without yeast, the bread of sincerity and truth.<pb/>


text:
I wasn’t referring to the immoral people of this world, those who are greedy and cheat others, or those who worship idols, otherwise you’d have to leave this world!


text:
What I meant when I wrote was that you shouldn’t associate with anyone who is called a Christian who is immoral or greedy or worships idols; or who is abusive or a drunkard or who cheats others. Don’t even share a meal with anyone like that!


text:
It’s not my place to judge those outside the church. But shouldn’t you judge those who are inside the church?


text:
God judges those that are outside the church. “Expel the wicked from among you.”<n>This is a quotation from Deuteronomy, repeated in several places: Deut 13:5, 17:7, 19:19, 22:24, 24:7.</n><pb/>


text:
How dare any of you file a lawsuit before pagan judges if you have a dispute with your neighbor! Instead you should bring this before other believers.


text:
Don’t you know that Christian believers will judge the world? If you’re going to judge the world, are you not fit to judge in the most minor cases?


text:
So if you have to judge things that relate to this life, how can you go to judges that are not respected by the church?<n>Or “why not choose judges from the least respected members of the church?”</n>


text:
I’m trying to shame you by saying this. What? You can’t find one wise person among you who can settle a dispute that you have?


text:
The very fact you have lawsuits against each other already is a complete disaster. Wouldn’t it be better to accept the injustice? Why not let yourselves be defrauded?


text:
Don’t you know those who are unjust will not inherit the kingdom of God? Don’t be fooled! People who are immoral, worship idols, commit adultery, sexual perverts, homosexuals,


text:
Some of you were once like that, but you have been made clean and holy. You have been made right in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God.<pb/>


text:
People say, “I’m free to do anything”—but not everything is appropriate! “I’m free to do anything”—but I will not let anything control me! People say,


text:
“Food for the stomach, and the stomach for food”—but God will destroy both of them. Also, the body is not meant to be used for immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.


text:
By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us up the same way<n>Referring to raising up the body, continuing the subject of the discussion.</n>.


text:
Don’t you know your bodies are parts of Christ’s body? Should I take the parts of Christ’s body and join them to a prostitute? Absolutely not!


text:
Don’t you realize that anyone who has sex with a prostitute becomes “one body” with her? Remember that Scripture says, “The two will become one body.”<n>Gen. 2:24.</n>


text:
Stay away from sexual immorality! All other sins that people commit are outside of the body, but sexual immorality is a sin against your own body.


text:
Don’t you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit that is within you, that you received from God?


text:
Now about what you wrote to me: “It’s good not to marry.”<n>It seems that some in Corinth were single and the church was writing to ask if this was permissible.</n>


text:
However, because of the temptation to sexual immorality, it is better that each man have his own wife, and each woman her own husband.


text:
The wife’s body doesn’t just belong to her, but her husband; and similarly the husband’s body doesn’t just belong to him but his wife.


text:
So don’t deprive each other, except by mutual consent for a while— for example because you want to spend time in prayer. Afterwards be together again so that Satan won’t tempt you to sin because of your lack of self-control.


text:
However I wish that everyone was like me, but each person has their own gift from God—one has this gift, one has another.


text:
To those who are not yet married, or who are widowed, I would say it is better if they remain like me.


text:
But if they lack self-control, then they should get married—for it is better to marry than burn with desire.<pb/>


text:
These are my instructions to those who are married—in fact not from me but the Lord: The wife should not leave her husband


text:
(or if she does, she should not re-marry, or she should return to her husband); and the husband should not leave his wife<n>One particular problem in the early church was of one spouse becoming Christian, and how then to relate to the non-Christian spouse. This seems to be what is addressed here.</n>.


text:
Now, to the rest of you, (and this is me speaking, not the Lord), I would say, “if a Christian man has a non-Christian wife and she is willing to stay with him, he should not leave her.


text:
And if a Christian woman has a non-Christian husband, and he is willing to stay with her, she should not leave her husband.”<pb/>


text:
For a husband who is not a Christian, the marriage relationship is made holy by the Christian wife, and for a wife who is not a Christian, the marriage relationship is made holy by the Christian husband<n>Paul is not saying here that by being married to a Christian the non-Christian spouse therefore becomes a Christian or experiences salvation. He is concerned to address the issue that by being married to a non-Christian spouse in some way “defiles” the marriage or the Christian in the relationship. That this is the real issue is made clear concerning children of such a marriage—they are also not “impure” but they are “holy,” and this is not any reference to the actual spiritual state of the children.</n>. Otherwise it would mean your children were impure, but now they are holy.


text:
However if the non-Christian spouse leaves, let them leave. In such cases the Christian man or woman is not slavishly bound, for God has called us to live in peace.


text:
Apart from such cases, each of you should remain in the situation that the Lord has placed you, and continue to live the life to which God has called you. That’s my instruction to all the churches.


text:
Were you circumcised when you were converted? Don’t become uncircumcised. Were you uncircumcised when you were converted? Don’t become circumcised.


text:
Circumcision doesn’t mean anything, and uncircumcision doesn’t mean anything. Keeping the commandments of God is what really matters.


text:
Everyone should remain in the position they were in when they were called<n>“Called”—in other words, conversion.</n>.


text:
If you were a slave when you were called, don’t worry—though if you have an opportunity to become free, take it.


text:
If you were a slave when the Lord called you, you are now free, working for the Lord. In the same way if you were called when you were free, you are now Christ’s slave!


text:
Brothers and sisters, remain in the position you were in when you were called, living with God.<pb/>


text:
Now about “people who are not married,”<n>Literally, “virgins.” Paul here continues discussing the issues that the Corinthian church has raised. See 7:1.</n> I don’t have a specific instruction from the Lord, so let me give you my opinion as someone who by the Lord’s mercy is considered trustworthy.


text:
If you do get married, you haven’t sinned. If an unmarried woman gets married, she hasn’t sinned. But you will have many troubles in this current world and I would want to spare you these.


text:
I’m telling you, brothers and sisters, that time is short, and from now on for those who are married it may seem as if they are not married,


text:
and those who weep as if they did not weep, and those that celebrated as if they had not celebrated, and those that bought as if they did not own,


text:
and those who are engaged with the world as if it is not fulfilling—for the present world order is passing away<n>In this long sentence Paul indicates that even marriage must be related to contemporary events (“time is short”). Living under persecution, expecting the end of all things, means that even marriage is viewed differently, along with everything else.</n>.<pb/>


text:
I would prefer you to be free from such worries. A man who is not married pays attention to what is important to the Lord, and how he can please the Lord.


text:
But a man who is married pays attention to what is important in this world, and how he can please his wife.


text:
As a result his loyalties are divided. Similarly an unmarried woman or girl pays attention to what is important to the Lord, so she may live a life dedicated both in body and spirit. But a married woman pays attention to what is important in this world, and how she can please her husband.


text:
I’m telling you this for your benefit. I’m not trying to put a noose around your neck, but to show you the right thing to do so you can serve the Lord without being distracted.<pb/>


text:
But if a man thinks he’s behaving improperly with the woman he’s engaged to, and if he thinks he will give in to his strong sexual desire, and if he thinks he ought to get married, he is not sinning by getting married.


text:
But if a man stays true to his principles, and there is no obligation to marry, and has the power to keep his feelings under control and stay engaged to her, he does well not to marry.


text:
So the man who marries the woman he’s engaged to does well, while the one who does not get married does better.<pb/>


text:
A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies<n>The word used here means “to fall asleep,” the usual New Testament expression for death.</n>, she is free to marry whoever she wants in the Lord<n>Meaning it must be a marriage between two Christians.</n>.


text:
But in my opinion she would be happier if she didn’t re-marry—and I think I too have the Spirit of God when I say this.<pb/>


text:
Now about “food sacrificed to idols.”<n>Paul continues answering the issues the Corinthians have raised.</n> So “we all have knowledge” about this subject. Knowledge makes us proud, but love strengthens us.


text:
So regarding eating food sacrificed to idols: we know that there are no such things as idols in the world, and that there is only one real God.


text:
Even though there are some things called “gods,” whether in heaven or on earth—in fact there are many “gods” and “lords.”


text:
But for us there is only one God, the Father, from whom everything was made, and he is the goal of our existence; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom everything was made, and he is the means of our existence<n>This is a complex verse the meaning of which is much debated. It is seen as an early “creed” or declaration, identifying God as Creator and Re-creator, the focus of our lives. It literally says, “But to us one God the Father, from whom the all and we into him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom the all and we through him.”</n>.<pb/>


text:
But not everyone has this “knowledge.”<n>Paul takes issue with this knowledge being misapplied, as seen in verse 10 when it could be seen as being proud and arrogant.</n> Some who up to now have been so used to idols as a reality that when they eat food sacrificed to an idol, their conscience (which is weak) tells them they have defiled themselves.


text:
But food doesn’t gain us God’s approval! If we don’t eat this food, we’re not bad, and if we do eat this food, we’re not good.


text:
Just take care not to use this freedom you have to eat food sacrificed to idols to become offensive to those with a weaker attitude.


text:
If another believer sees you who have such “better knowledge”<n>See under 8:7.</n> eating food in an idol temple, won’t his weak conscience be convinced to eat food sacrificed to idols?<n>In other words, deciding to follow another’s example, while still believing it is a sin.</n>


text:
In this way you sin against other believers, wounding their weaker consciences, and you sin against Christ.


text:
So if eating food sacrificed to idols would cause my fellow believer to stumble, I will never eat such meat ever again, so that I don’t offend any believer.<pb/>


text:
Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Haven’t I seen Jesus our Lord? Aren’t you the results of my work in the Lord?


text:
Even if I’m not an apostle to others, at least I am one to you. The proof of my being an apostle of the Lord is you!<pb/>


text:
Don’t we have a right to be accompanied by a Christian wife, like the rest of the apostles, the Lord’s brothers, and Peter?


text:
Is it only Barnabas and myself who have to work to support ourselves?<n>The original is given in terms of a double negative. The suggestion is that only Paul and Barnabas are not given the privilege of not having to work.</n>


text:
Which soldier ever had to pay his own salary? Who plants a vineyard and doesn’t get to eat its fruits? Who feeds a flock and doesn’t consume its milk?<pb/>


text:
In the law of Moses it’s written, “Don’t muzzle the ox when it’s threshing out the grain.”<n>Deuteronomy 25:4.</n> Was God just thinking about oxen?


text:
Wasn’t he directing this at us? Surely this was written for us—for anyone who plows should plow in hope and anyone who threshes should hope to share in the harvest.


text:
If others exercise this right over you, don’t we deserve it even more? Even so we did not exercise this right. On the contrary we would rather put up with anything than hold back the gospel of Christ.<pb/>


text:
Don’t you know that those who work in temples receive their meals from temple offerings, and those that serve at the altar receive their portion of the sacrifice on the altar?


text:
In just the same way the Lord ordered that those who announce the good news should live from supporters of the good news.


text:
But I have not made use of any of these provisions, and I’m not writing about this to suggest it should be done in my case. I’d rather die than to have anyone take away my pride in not having received any benefit.<pb/>


text:
I have nothing to boast about in sharing the good news because it’s something I feel compelled to do. In fact it’s dreadful for me if I don’t share the good news!


text:
If I’m doing this work because of my own choice, then I have a reward. But if it wasn’t my choice, and an obligation was placed on me,


text:
then what reward do I have? It’s the opportunity to share the good news without charging for it, not demanding my rights as a worker for the good news.<pb/>


text:
Even though I am free and serve no one, I have placed myself in service to everyone so that I might gain more.


text:
To the Jews I behave like a Jew so that I might win Jews. To those who are under the law I behave as someone under the law (even though I am not obligated under the law), so that I might win those under the law.


text:
To those who don’t operate according to the law,<n>Meaning those who are not Jews, who do not observe the law of Moses.</n> I behave like them, (though not disregarding God’s law, but operating under the law of Christ), so that I might gain those who don’t observe the law.<pb/>


text:
To those who are weak,<n>Probably referring to the “weaker believer” issue mentioned in 8:7 and on.</n> I share in their weakness so that I may win the weak. I have ended up being “everyman” to everyone so that by using every possible means I might win some!


text:
Wouldn’t you agree that there are many runners in a race, but only one gets the prize? So run your best, so you may win!


text:
Every competitor who participates in the games maintains a strict training discipline. Of course they do so to win a crown that doesn’t last. But our crowns will last forever!<pb/>


text:
I also treat my body severely to bring it under my control, for I don’t want somehow to be disqualified after sharing the good news with everybody else.<pb/>


text:
Now I want to explain this to you, brothers and sisters. Our forefathers lived under the cloud, and they all passed through the sea<n>The cloud of God’s presence, and the passage through the Red Sea.</n>.


text:
and drank the same spiritual drink, for they “drank from a spiritual rock” that accompanied them. That rock was Christ.


text:
You must not worship idols, as some of them did, as it’s recorded in Scripture: “The people feasted and drank, and indulged in pagan worship.”<n>See Exodus 32:6.</n>


text:
All the things that happened to them are examples to us and were written down to warn us, we who are living close to the end of time.


text:
You won’t experience any greater temptation than anyone else, and God is trustworthy. He won’t allow you to be tempted more than you can bear, and when you are tempted, he will provide for you a way out so you can stay strong.


text:
When we give thanks for the cup we use in the Lord’s Supper, don’t we share in the blood of Christ? When we break the communion bread, don’t we share in the body of Christ?


text:
What am I saying then? That anything sacrificed to idols means anything, or that an idol has any real existence? Of course not!


text:
The pagans are sacrificing to demons, and not to God. I don’t want you to have anything to do with demons!


text:
You can’t drink the Lord’s cup as well as the cup of demons; you can’t eat from the Lord’s table as well as the table of demons.


text:
Some say, “I’m free to do anything”—but not everything is appropriate! “I’m free to do anything”—but not everything is constructive!<n>See 6:12.</n>


text:
Eat whatever is sold in the market without asking questions because of your conscience<n>This refers back to the issue of food sacrificed to idols</n>,


text:
If a non-Christian invites you to a meal, and you feel like going, eat whatever you are served, without asking questions because of your conscience.


text:
But if someone tells you, “This food has been sacrificed to idols,” don’t eat it for the sake of the one who mentioned it and for conscience’ sake.


text:
His conscience I mean, not yours. For why should my freedom be determined by someone else’s conscience?<n>This question seems to be at odds with the previous verse. Paul is arguing for tolerance—both of the one who is offended at eating meat sacrificed to idols, and the other who sees no problem with it since the “gods” of idols do not exist.</n>


text:
If I choose to eat with thankfulness, why should I be criticized for eating what I’m thankful to God for?


text:
just as I try to please everybody in all I do. I don’t think of what benefits me, but what benefits others, so that they may be saved.<pb/>


text:
I’m grateful that you always remember me and that you are keeping to the teachings just as I passed them on to you.


text:
I do want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, the man is the head of the woman, and God is the head of Christ<n>The meaning of “head” in this context is much discussed. In Scripture “head” can have to do with “origin,” “source,” or “authority.”</n>.


text:
A woman’s head is dishonored if she prays or prophesies with her head uncovered—it’s just as if she had her hair shaved off.


text:
If a woman’s head is not covered, then she should have her head shaved. If it’s scandalous for a woman to be shorn or shaven, then she should have her head covered.


text:
A man shouldn’t cover his head, because he is the image and glory of God, while the woman is the glory of the man.


text:
That’s why the woman should have this sign of authority on her head out of respect for the watching angels<n>As many commentators note, this is one of the most difficult verses in the New Testament to understand and translate. Some understand the “authority” as the head covering demonstrating the woman is respectable and has a position in relationship to man. Others see this as an “authority” to speak and prophesy, since this would not normally be a woman’s role in this society. There are many other interpretations of this, as well as of the phrase literally translated “because of the angels.”</n>.


text:
Even so, from the Lord’s perspective, the woman is as essential as the man, and the man as essential as the woman<n>Literally, “nevertheless neither woman without man nor man without woman in the Lord.”</n>.


text:
As the woman came from the man, so the man comes from the woman<n>Referring back to Creation, where Eve is made from Adam, but from then on women gave birth to men.</n>—but more importantly everything comes from God.


text:
However a woman with long hair brings herself glory, because her hair is given to her as a covering.


text:
But if anyone wants to argue about this, we don’t have any other custom than this, and neither do any other of God’s churches<n>Paul clearly indicates this is simply the way things work in practice in the church by using the word “custom” or “habit” rather than the word “rule” or “command.”</n>.<pb/>


text:
Now in giving you the instructions that follow I can’t commend you, because when you meet together you cause more harm than good!


text:
First of all, I hear that when you have church meetings that you are split into different factions, and I believe there’s some truth to this.


text:
Of course such splits among you must happen so those who are genuine can prove themselves by their evidence!


text:
Don’t you have your own houses to eat and drink in? Do you look down on God’s church, and humiliate those who are poor? What should I tell you? That you’re doing really well? I have nothing good to say about you for doing this!<pb/>


text:
For I received from the Lord what I passed on to you: the Lord Jesus on the night he was betrayed took some bread.


text:
After giving thanks, he broke the bread into pieces and said, “This bread is my body, which is given for you. Remember me by doing this.”


text:
In the same way he took the cup, after the meal, and said, “This cup is the new agreement<n>This translates the word often rendered as “covenant” which has limited use in modern English. The idea is of an agreement between two parties. In this case it is the relationship between God and human beings.</n> sealed with my blood. Remember me when you drink it.


text:
For every time you eat this bread and drink from this cup you announce the Lord’s death, until he returns.”<pb/>


text:
So anyone who eats the bread or drinks from the Lord’s cup in a dishonorable way will be guilty of doing wrong against the body and blood of the Lord.


text:
Those who eat and drink bring judgment on themselves if they don’t recognize their relationship with the body of the Lord.


text:
But when we are judged, we are being disciplined by the Lord so that we won’t be condemned along with the world.


text:
If anyone is hungry, then eat at home so that when you meet together you won’t bring condemnation on yourselves. I’ll give you more directions when I visit.<pb/>


text:
Now about “spiritual gifts.”<n>Paul takes up another issue that the Corinthians have asked him about.</n> My brothers and sisters, I want to explain this to you.


text:
You know that when you were pagans, you were deceived, being led astray by worshiping idols who couldn’t even speak.


text:
Let me make it clear to you: no one who speaks in the Spirit of God says, “Curse Jesus!” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord!” except by the Holy Spirit.


text:
There are different ways of working, but they come from the same God, who is at work in all of them.


text:
One person is given by the Spirit the ability to speak words of wisdom. Another is given a message of knowledge by the same Spirit.


text:
Another receives the gift of strongly trusting in God by the same Spirit. Another receives gifts of healing from that one Spirit.


text:
Another is given the ability to perform miracles. Another receives the gift of prophecy. Another is given the gift of spiritual discernment. Another receives the ability to speak different languages while another is given the gift of interpreting languages.


text:
But all of these gifts are the work of the one and the same Spirit, sharing with each person as he alone chooses.<pb/>


text:
Just like the human body is one unit but has many parts—all the parts of the body even though there are many of them, make up one body—so is Christ.


text:
For it was through one Spirit that we were all baptized into one body. It doesn’t matter whether we are Jews or Greeks, slave or free—we all were given the one Spirit to drink.


text:
If the foot were to say, “Because I’m not a hand, I’m not part of the body,” would that make it not part of the body?


text:
If the ear were to say, “Because I’m not an eye, I’m not part of the body,” would that make it not part of the body?


text:
If the whole body was an eye, how could you hear anything? If the whole body was an ear, how could you smell anything?<pb/>


text:
Quite the opposite: some of those parts of the body that seem the most insignificant are the most essential.


text:
In fact those parts of the body we do not consider to be decent to reveal we “honor” more by covering them up—what is indecent we treat with greater modesty!


text:
What’s presentable doesn’t need such covering up. God has so arranged the body that more honor is given to the parts that are less presentable.


text:
This is so there wouldn’t be any conflict within the body—the different parts should care equally for each other.


text:
So when one part is suffering, all the other parts of the body suffer with it, and when one part is treated well, then all the other parts of the body are happy too!<n>Here Paul seems to be thinking far more of the body of the church than a physical body.</n><pb/>


text:
In the church, God has arranged first for some to be apostles, secondly for some to be prophets, thirdly teachers. Then there are those who perform miracles, those with healing gifts, those who can help others, those good at administration, and those who can speak different languages.


text:
But you should set your hearts on the most significant gifts<n>Having discussed the different spiritual gifts, Paul states that believers should desire the most important ones. Of course which these are would be a matter of much debate. What he really is doing is setting the scene for the next chapter, for without love none of these gifts, even those considered the most significant, are worth anything.</n>. So now I will show you a far better way.<pb/>


text:
If I were to have eloquence in human languages—even the language of angels—but have no love, then I would only be an echoing gong or a clashing cymbal.


text:
If I were to speak prophecies, to know every secret mystery and be completely knowledgeable, and if I were able to have so much faith I could move mountains, but have no love, then I am nothing.


text:
If I were to donate everything I own to the poor, or if I were to sacrifice myself to be burned as a martyr, and have no love, then I gain nothing.<pb/>


text:
Love does not act improperly, or insist on having its own way. Love is not argumentative and doesn’t keep a record of wrongs.


text:
Love never fails. Prophecies will come to an end. Tongues will become silent. Knowledge will become useless.


text:
When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I grew up I left behind such child-like ways.


text:
At the moment we peer into a mirror’s dim reflection, but then we shall see face to face. For now I only have partial knowledge, but then I shall know completely, just as I am completely known.


text:
Make love your most important objective! But also do your best to gain spiritual gifts, especially the ability to speak God’s message<n>Literally, “prophesy,” but in the sense of telling the good news rather than foretelling the future. The terms “speaks God’s message,” “God’s prophetic message,” or “speaks for God” are used here.</n>.


text:
Those who speak in a tongue<n>This is clearly not the use of normal human language. There is much debate over this phenomenon. Clearly the early church was gifted with the ability to speak and be understood in different human languages as Acts 2 makes clear. However some kind of “ecstatic utterance” appears to be in view here. Its practice in Corinth was being abused, and so Paul has to counteract the problem here.</n> are not talking to people, but to God, because nobody can understand them as they speak mysteries in the Spirit.


text:
However the words of those who speak for God build people up—they provide encouragement and comfort.


text:
Those that speak in a tongue only build themselves up, but those who speak God’s message build up the church. I would like it if you all spoke in tongues, but I’d prefer if you could speak God’s message.


text:
Those who speak for God are more important than those who speak in tongues, unless they interpret what’s been said, so that the church can be built up.<pb/>


text:
Brothers and sisters, if I come to you speaking in tongues, what benefit would I be to you unless I bring you some revelation, or knowledge, or prophetic message, or teaching?


text:
Even when it comes to something non-living such as musical instruments like a flute or a harp: if they don’t produce clear notes, how will you know what tune is being played?


text:
It’s the same situation for you—unless you speak using words that are easy to understand, who will know what you’re saying? What you say will be lost on the wind.


text:
If I don’t understand the language, those who speak make no sense, and I make no sense to them<n>Literally, I am a barbarian to the one who speaks, and the one who speaks is a barbarian to me. The very word “barbarian” comes from the idea that sounds being made make no sense—“baa-baa” etc.</n>.


text:
It’s the same for you—if you are keen to have spiritual gifts, try to have many of those that will build up the church.


text:
For if I pray out loud in a tongue, my spirit is praying, but it does nothing for my understanding!<pb/>


text:
So then, what should I do? I will pray “in the Spirit,” but I will pray with my mind too. I will sing “in the Spirit,” but I will sing with my mind too<n>Paul here seems to be using the phraseology of some of those in Corinth who were proud of being “in the Spirit” as if that was superior to anything else. Paul points out that being “in the Spirit” is not helpful unless it produces understanding.</n>.


text:
For if you only pray “in the Spirit,” how can ordinary people that don’t have understanding say “Amen” after your prayer of thanks, since they haven’t a clue what you said?


text:
But in church I would rather speak five understandable words to teach others than ten thousand words in a tongue nobody understands.


text:
Brothers and sisters, don’t think like children. Be as innocent as babies in regard to evil, but be grown up in your understanding.


text:
As Scripture records, “‘I will speak to my people through other languages and the lips of foreigners, but even then they won’t listen to me,’ says the Lord.”<n>Isaiah 28:11, 12.</n><pb/>


text:
Speaking in tongues is a sign, not to believers, but those who don’t believe. Speaking God’s prophetic message is the opposite: it is not for those who don’t believe, but for believers.


text:
If the whole church is meeting together and you are all speaking in tongues, and some people come in who don’t understand, or people who don’t believe, won’t they say that you are insane?


text:
But if everyone is speaking God’s message, and someone comes in who isn’t a believer, or someone who doesn’t understand, they will be convinced and called to account by everyone’s words.


text:
The secrets of their heart will be laid bare, so they will fall to their knees<n>Literally, “fall on his face.”</n> and worship God, affirming that God is truly among you.<pb/>


text:
So then, brothers and sisters, what should you do? When you meet together, different people will sing, or teach, or share a special message, or speak in a tongue, or give an interpretation. But everything should be done to build up and encourage the church.


text:
If anyone wants to speak in a tongue, make it just two, or three at the most, taking turns, and someone should interpret what is said.


text:
If there’s no one there to interpret, those who speak in tongues should keep quiet in church and only speak to themselves, and God.


text:
Similarly, have two or three of those who give God’s prophetic message speak, and let everyone else think about what was said.


text:
However if a special revelation comes to someone who is sitting down, then the first speaker should give way to them.


text:
for God is not a God of disorder but of peace and quiet<n>This statement is to deal with the situation where people are claiming special revelation/inspiration and therefore wanting precedence—with the obvious arguments that would result.</n>. This is the way it should be in all the churches of God’s people.


text:
“Women should stay quiet in the churches—they shouldn’t speak. They should respect their situation, as the laws states.


text:
If they want to learn they can do so at home, asking their husbands. It is not proper<n>“Not proper.” By using this term (which also can mean shameful or disgraceful) Paul reveals this is related to the cultural context.</n> for women to speak in church.”<n>The reason for placing 14:34-35 in quote marks is the understanding that this is the position outlined in the letter from Corinth, and Paul is quoting them before refuting their argument. The fact that just 3 chapters earlier in 11:5 Paul refers to women praying and prophesying indicates that this statement cannot be read as a blanket ban on women speaking in church. From the context it appears possible that women in the church at Corinth were questioning and arguing, being part of the disorder he mentions, and this suggested solution in the letter from the church at Corinth is what Paul is addressing here.</n>


text:
Anyone who thinks they are a prophet, or that they have some spiritual gift, should be aware that what I’m writing to you is a command of the Lord.


text:
Now I want to remind you about the good news I announced to you. You accepted it, and you have stood firm for it.


text:
It is through this good news that you are saved if you hold on to the message that I gave you. Otherwise you trusted for nothing!


text:
I passed on to you what I myself had also received, a message of vital importance: that Christ died for our sins, according to Scripture;


text:
After that he appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still alive today, though some have died.


text:
For I’m the least important apostle of all, not even fit to be called an apostle since I persecuted God’s church.


text:
But by God’s grace I am what I am, and his grace given to me wasn’t wasted. On the contrary I’ve worked harder than all of them—though not me, but God’s grace working through me.


text:
So whether it’s I or them, this is the message we shared with you that brought you to trust in God.<pb/>


text:
Now if the message declares that Christ has been raised from the dead, how is it that some of you say there’s no resurrection of the dead?


text:
And if Christ isn’t raised, then our message we shared with you is pointless, and your trust in God is pointless too.


text:
In addition, we would be shown to be false witnesses of God when we testified that God raised Christ from the dead. But God didn’t raise Christ from the dead if it’s true that there’s no resurrection.


text:
and if Christ hasn’t been raised, then your trust in God is useless, and you are still in your sins.


text:
But Christ ‘has’ been raised from the dead, the firstfruits<n>The word “firstfruits” refers to the first sample of a harvest that was given as an offering to God, also seen as a guarantee of a successful harvest. Christ as the firstfruits therefore means he is both the initial harvest from the dead and the guarantee of their resurrection.</n> of the harvest from those who have died.


text:
After this comes the end, when Christ hands over the kingdom to God the Father, having destroyed<n>Destroyed in the sense of ending their power.</n> all rulers, authorities, and powers.


text:
Christ has to rule until he has put all his enemies under his feet<n>Meaning they have been conquered and humbled.</n>.


text:
As Scripture says, “He put everything under his feet.” (Of course when it says “everything” is put under him it’s obvious this doesn’t refer to God who placed everything under Christ’s authority.)


text:
When everything has been placed under Christ’s authority, then the Son will also place himself under God’s authority, so that God who gave the Son authority over everything may be all in all<n>“All in all.” Various explanations have been given for this phrase. It is obviously referring to the completeness of God’s rulership in the Universe, and is perhaps best translated literally from the original as “all in all.”</n>.<pb/>


text:
Otherwise what will those people do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why then would people be baptized for them?<n>The theological meaning of this verse is much debated. However, the actual words are translated simply enough.</n>


text:
I die every day—let me say it bluntly, my brothers and sisters. This is just as sure as the pride I have for what Christ Jesus has done in you.


text:
Humanly speaking, what would I gain by fighting with those people in Ephesus who were like wild animals, if the dead are not raised? If the dead are not raised, “let’s eat and drink, for tomorrow we die”!<pb/>


text:
Come to your senses as you should, and stop sinning! Some of you don’t know God. I tell you this to shame you.<pb/>


text:
When you sow, you don’t sow the plant it will grow into, just the bare seed, whether wheat or whatever you’re planting.


text:
God makes the plant grow into the form he has chosen, and different seeds produce different plants with different forms.


text:
What living things are made from is not the same. Human beings have one kind of body tissue, while animals have another, birds another, and fish another.


text:
There are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies. Heavenly bodies have one kind of beauty, earthly bodies another.


text:
The sun shines in one way, and the moon another, while the stars are different again, with each one shining in a different way.<pb/>


text:
It’s the same with the resurrection of the dead. The body is sown in decay; it is raised to last forever.


text:
It is sown as a natural body; it is raised as a spiritual body. Just as there are natural bodies there are spiritual bodies.


text:
As Scripture says, “The first man, Adam, became a living being;”<n>Genesis 2:7.</n> but the last Adam a life-giving spirit.


text:
Just as we bore the likeness of the earthly man so we shall bear the likeness of the man from heaven.


text:
However I tell you this, my brothers and sisters: our present bodies<n>Literally, “flesh and blood.”</n> cannot inherit the kingdom of God. These decaying bodies cannot inherit what lasts forever.<pb/>


text:
in a moment, in the blink of an eye, at the sound of the last trumpet. The trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised never to die again, and we will be changed.


text:
For this perishable body must be clothed with a body that never perishes. This mortal life must be clothed with immortality.


text:
When this perishable body has been clothed with a body that never perishes, and this mortal life has been clothed with immortality, then the Scripture will come true that says, “Death has been totally conquered and destroyed.


text:
So my dear brothers and sisters: be strong, stand firm, doing everything you can for the Lord’s work, since you know that nothing you do in the Lord is wasted.<pb/>


text:
Now about “collecting money for fellow-believers.” I’m giving you the same instructions for you to follow as I did to the churches in Galatia.


text:
On the first day of the week everybody should set aside some money you’ve earned. I don’t want there to be any collections to have to be made when I’m with you.


text:
When I get there I will write recommendation letters for whoever you choose, and they will take your donation to Jerusalem.


text:
and I may stay with you for a while, perhaps spend the winter, and then you can send me on my way to wherever I’m headed.


text:
This time I don’t want to come and see you for just a short time. I hope I can stay for a while with you, if that’s what the Lord permits.


text:
because a tremendous door of opportunity has opened up for me there, though there are plenty who oppose me.<pb/>


text:
Now if Timothy arrives, make sure that he has nothing to fear by being with you, for he’s working for the Lord just as I am.


text:
Don’t let anyone look down on him. Cheerfully send him on his way so he can come and see me—the brothers and sisters and I are waiting for him.


text:
As for our brother Apollos: I urged him to go and see you together with the other believers, but he wasn’t willing to go at the moment. He’ll come and visit when he gets the chance.<pb/>


text:
You know that Stephanas and his family were among the first converts in Achaia, and they dedicated themselves to helping God’s people. I’m pleading with you, my brothers and sisters,


text:
I’m delighted that Stephanas, Fortunatas, and Achaicus have arrived here, for they did what you weren’t able to.


text:
They have been a great source of encouragement to me, and to you. People like that deserve your recognition.<pb/>


text:
The churches of Asia<n>Referring to the Roman province of Asia Minor.</n> send their greetings. Aquila and Priscilla, along with the church that meets in their home, send their best wishes.


text:
Anyone who doesn’t love the Lord should be excluded from the church<n>Literally, “let him be accursed.”</n>. Come Lord!


text:
This letter comes from Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ according to the will of God, and from Timothy, our brother. It is sent to the church of God in Corinth, together with all of God’s people throughout Achaia.


text:
Praise be to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! He is the compassionate Father and the God of all comfort.


text:
He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those who are also in trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.


text:
If we are in distress, it is for your comfort and salvation. If we are being comforted, it is for your comfort, which results in you patiently bearing the same sufferings that we suffer.


text:
We have great confidence in you<n>Literally, “our hope in you is firm.”</n>, knowing that as you share in our sufferings you also share in our comfort.<pb/>


text:
Brothers and sisters, we won’t keep you in the dark about the trouble we had in Asia. We were so overwhelmed that we were afraid we wouldn’t have the strength to continue—so much so we doubted we would live through it.


text:
In fact it was like a death sentence inside us. This was to stop us relying on ourselves and to trust in God who raises the dead.


text:
He saved us from a terrible death, and he will do so again. We have total confidence in God that he will continue to save us.


text:
You help us by praying for us. In this way many will thank God for us because of the blessing that God will give us in response to the prayers of many.<pb/>


text:
We take pride in the fact—and our conscience confirms it—that we have acted properly towards people, and especially to you. We have followed God’s principles of holiness and sincerity, not according to worldly wisdom but through the grace of God.


text:
For we are not writing anything complicated that you can’t read and understand. I hope you’ll understand in the end,


text:
even if you only understand part of it now, so that when the Lord comes you will be proud of us, just as we are of you.<pb/>


text:
Because I was so sure of your confidence in me I planned to come and visit you first. That way you could have benefited twice,


text:
as I would go on from you to Macedonia, and then return from Macedonia to you. Then I would have had you send me on my way to Judea.


text:
Why did I change my original plan? Do you think I make my decisions lightly? Do you think that when I plan I’m like some worldly person who says Yes and No at the same time?


text:
The truth of the Son of God, Jesus Christ, was announced to you by us—me, Silvanus, and Timothy—and it wasn’t both Yes and No. In Christ the answer is absolutely Yes!


text:
However many promises God has made, in Christ the answer is always Yes. Through him we respond, saying Yes<n>Literally, “Amen,” which means “Yes,” or “I agree.”</n> to the glory of God.


text:
This isn’t because we want to dictate how you relate to God, but because we want to help you have a joyful experience—for it’s by trusting God that you stand firm.<pb/>


text:
That’s why I wrote what I did, so that I wouldn’t be sad over those who should make me happy. I was so sure that all of you would share in my happiness.


text:
I was crying many tears when I wrote to you, in great anguish and with a heavy heart—not to make you sad, but so you would know how much love I have for you.<pb/>


text:
That’s why I wrote: so I could discoverer your true character and whether you’re doing everything you were told to do.


text:
Anyone you forgive, I forgive too. What I have forgiven, whatever it may be, I have forgiven before Christ for your benefit.


text:
Now when I arrived in Troas to spread the good news of Christ, the Lord opened a door of opportunity for me.


text:
But my mind wasn’t at peace because I couldn’t find my brother Titus. So I said goodbye and went over to Macedonia<n>From Troas to Macedonia would involve a sea-crossing.</n>.<pb/>


text:
But praise be to God, who always leads us in a triumphal procession in Christ, and reveals through us the sweet scent of his knowledge wherever we go!


text:
We are like a fragrance of Christ to God, rising up from among those who are being saved as well as those who are dying.


text:
To those who are dying it is the smell of decay, while to those who are being saved it is the scent of life! But who is up to such an assignment?


text:
We are not like the majority who trade in the word of God for profit. Quite the opposite: we are sincere in sharing the word of God in Christ, knowing God is watching us.<pb/>


text:
Are we starting to speak well of ourselves again? Or do we need to have some letter of recommendation for you, or from you, as some people do?


text:
You demonstrate that you are a letter from Christ, delivered by us; not written with ink but with the Spirit of the living God; not written on stone slabs but on human hearts.


text:
Not that we would consider ourselves able to do this on our own—it’s God who gives us this capacity!


text:
He also gave us the ability to be ministers of a new agreement<n>Or “covenant.”</n>, based not on the letter of the law, but on the spirit. The letter of the law kills, but the spirit gives life.


text:
However, the old way of relating to God, written in letters carved in stone, ended in death, even though it came with God’s glory—so much so that the Israelites couldn’t even bear to look at Moses’ face because it shone so brightly, even though the glory was fading.


text:
If that was so, shouldn’t the new way of relating to God in the Spirit come with even greater glory?


text:
If the old way that condemns us has glory, the new way that makes us right with God has so much more glory!


text:
For the old that was once glorious has no glory at all in comparison with the incredible glory of the new.


text:
We don’t have to be like Moses, who had to put on a veil to cover his face so the Israelites wouldn’t be dazzled by the glory, even though it was fading away.


text:
In spite of that, their hearts became hard. For right up until today when the old agreement is read, the same “veil”<n>In other words, they are not able to see clearly.</n> remains. Only through Christ can it be removed.


text:
So all of us, with our faces unveiled, see and reflect the glory of the Lord as in a mirror. We are being transformed into the same mirror image, whose glory grows brighter and brighter. This is what the Lord the Spirit does.<pb/>


text:
But we have given up secret, shameful acts. We don’t behave in deceitful ways and we don’t distort the word of God. We demonstrate who we are by revealing the truth before God so everybody can decide in their own minds.


text:
The god of this world has blinded the minds of those who don’t trust in God. They can’t see the light of the good news of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.<pb/>


text:
We are not promoting<n>Literally, “preaching.”</n> ourselves, but Christ Jesus as Lord. In fact we are your servants for Jesus’ sake.


text:
For God who said, “Let light shine out of the darkness,” shone in our hearts to illuminate the knowledge of God’s glory in the face of Jesus Christ.


text:
But we have this treasure in clay jars, to show that this supreme power comes from God and not from ourselves.<pb/>


text:
We are attacked from every direction, but we are not crushed. We are at a loss as to what to do, but never in despair.


text:
In our bodies we always share in the death of Jesus, so that we can also demonstrate the life of Jesus in our bodies.


text:
While we live we are always under the threat of death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be revealed in our mortal bodies.


text:
Since we have the same spirit of trust in God that Scripture refers to when it says, “I trusted in God, and so I spoke out,” we also trust in God and speak out for him.


text:
We know that God who raised the Lord Jesus will also raise us with Jesus, and will bring us into his presence with you.


text:
It’s all for you! As God’s grace reaches many more, thankfulness to God will be even greater, to his glory.


text:
So we don’t give up. Even though our physical bodies are falling apart, our inner selves are being renewed daily.


text:
These trivial troubles we have only last for a little while, but they produce for us an ever-increasing degree of glory.


text:
We don’t concern ourselves with what can be seen, for we look forward to what can’t be seen. What we see is temporary, but what we can’t see is eternal.<pb/>


text:
We know that when this earthly “tent”<n>The symbolism here is of the earthly body as a tent, and the heavenly body is a house—both of which “clothe” the person.</n> we live in is taken down, we have a house prepared by God, not made by human hands. It is eternal and is in heaven.


text:
While we are in this “tent” we sigh, being weighed down by this life. It’s not so much that we want to take off the clothing of this life but that we look forward to what we shall be clothed with, so that what is mortal may be overwhelmed by life.


text:
So we remain confident, knowing that while we are at home here in our physical bodies, we are away from the Lord.


text:
For all of us must appear before Christ’s seat of judgment. Each of us will receive what we deserve for what we have done in this life, whether it is good or bad.<pb/>


text:
Knowing how we are in awe of the Lord, we try to convince others. It’s clear to God what we are, and I hope that it’s clear to your minds too.


text:
We are not trying to speak well of ourselves again, just trying to give you the opportunity to be proud of us, so you can answer those who are proud of outward show and not what they are inside<n>Literally, “in the heart.”</n>.


text:
If we are “crazy people,”<n>This may have been a criticism of Paul and his companions by those in Corinth.</n> it’s for God. If we make good sense, it’s for you.


text:
Christ’s love urges us on, because we’re absolutely sure that he died for everyone, and so everyone died.


text:
Christ died for everyone so that they shouldn’t live any longer for themselves, but for him who died and rose again for them.<pb/>


text:
From now on we don’t look at anyone from a human point of view. Even though we once viewed Christ this way, we don’t do so any longer.


text:
God did all this by changing us from enemies into friends through Christ. God gave us this same work of changing his enemies into his friends.


text:
For God was in Christ bringing the world back from hostility to friendship with him, not counting anyone’s sins against them, and giving us this message to change his enemies into his friends.


text:
So we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God is pleading through us: “Please, won’t you come back and be God’s friend?”


text:
God made Jesus, who never personally sinned, experience the consequences of sin so that we could have a character that is right as God is right<n>Or, “we could become right as God is right.”</n>.<pb/>


text:
As workers together with God we also plead with you not to make your acceptance of God’s grace worthless.


text:
Just as God said, “At the right time I heard you, and on the day of salvation I rescued you.”<n>Isaiah 49:8.</n> Believe me: now is the right time! Now is the day of salvation!


text:
We don’t put anything in anyone’s way that would trip them up, making sure the work we do won’t be criticized.


text:
Instead we try to demonstrate we are good servants of God in every way we can. With a great deal of patience we put up with all kinds of trouble, hardship, and distress.


text:
We have been beaten up, thrown into prison, and attacked by mobs. We have been worked to the bone, suffering sleepless nights and hunger.


text:
We demonstrate who we are by living blameless lives in the knowledge of God, with a great deal of patience, being kind and filled with the Holy Spirit, showing sincere love.


text:
We speak truthfully<n>Or “word of truth,” meaning the gospel.</n>, living in the power of God. Our weapons consist of what is true and right; we attack with our right hand and we defend with our left<n>Literally, “weapons of the right and left.” This may mean the use of a sword with the right hand and a shield with the left.</n>.


text:
We continue whether we are honored or dishonored, whether we are cursed or praised. People call us frauds but we tell the truth.


text:
We are disregarded, even though we are well-known; given up for dead, but we’re still alive; lashed, but not killed.


text:
Seen as miserable, we are always rejoicing; as poor, but we make many rich; as destitute, but we own everything!<pb/>


text:
Don’t join together with people who don’t believe—for what connection does goodness have with wickedness? What do light and darkness have in common?


text:
How could Christ and the Devil<n>Literally, “Belial.”</n> ever agree? How could a believer and an unbeliever share together?


text:
What compromise could the Temple of God make with idols? For we are a temple of the living God, just as God said: “I will live in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people.”<n>Leviticus 26:12 and Ezekiel 37:27.</n>


text:
“So leave them, and separate yourselves from them, says the Lord. Don’t touch anything that is unclean, and I will accept you.”<n>Isaiah 52:11 and Ezekiel 20:34, 41.</n>


text:
“I will be like a Father to you, and you will be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.”<n>2 Samuel 7:14 or 1 Chronicles 17:13.</n><pb/>


text:
Dear friends, since we have these promises, we should wash ourselves clean from all that makes both body and spirit dirty, aiming for complete holiness out of reverence for God.


text:
Please make room in your hearts for us! We haven’t done anyone wrong, we haven’t corrupted anyone, and we haven’t taken advantage of anyone.


text:
I’m not saying this to condemn you—as I already told you, you mean so much to us that we live and die together with you!


text:
I speak up very strongly for you because I am so proud of you. You are such an encouragement to me. I am so happy for you despite all our troubles.<pb/>


text:
When we arrived in Macedonia we didn’t have a minute’s peace. We were attacked from every direction, with external conflicts and inner fears.


text:
Not just by his arrival, but also by the encouragement you gave him. He told us how you were longing to see me, how sorry you were, and how concerned you were about me, which made me even happier.


text:
Even though I made you sorry by the letter I wrote, I don’t regret it—though I did regret it because the letter did hurt you, but just for a while.


text:
I’m happy now, not for hurting you, but because this pain led you to change your minds. You were made sorry in a way God would want, and so weren’t harmed by us in any way.


text:
The kind of sorrow God wants us to have makes us change our minds and brings salvation. This kind of sorrow leaves no sense of regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.


text:
See what happened to you when you had this very same experience of sorrow that God wants. Remember how enthusiastic you became, how keen you were to defend yourselves, how angry you were at what had happened, how seriously you took it, how you longed to do right, how concerned you were, how you wanted justice to be done. In all of this you showed that you were sincere in wanting to make things right<n>Paul appears to be referencing previous issues that needed attention e.g. chapter 2.</n>.<pb/>


text:
So when I wrote to you, I wasn’t writing about who did the wrong or who was wronged, but to show you how devoted you are to us in God’s sight.


text:
We are so encouraged by this. Added to our own encouragement, we were so pleased to see how happy Titus was, because you set his mind at rest.


text:
I boasted<n>Here and elsewhere in this letter Paul speaks of his boasting. This should be taken to mean his commendation of others, rather than pride in himself.</n> to him about you, and you didn’t let me down. Just as all I’ve told you is true, my boasting about you to Titus has proved to be true too!


text:
Titus cares for you even more as he remembers how you did what he told you, how you welcomed him with great respect.


text:
Brothers and sisters, we want to let you know about the grace of God shown to the Macedonian churches.


text:
Even though they have suffered terrible trouble, they are overflowing with happiness; and even though they are very poor, they are also overflowing in their generosity.


text:
they kept on pleading with us to have a part in this privilege of sharing in this ministry to God’s people.


text:
They didn’t just do what we hoped they would do, but they gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us, as God wanted them to do.


text:
So we have encouraged Titus—since it was he who started this work with you—to return and complete this gracious ministry of yours.<pb/>


text:
Since you have an abundance of everything—your trust in God, your eloquence, your spiritual knowledge, your complete dedication, and in your love for us—make sure that your abundance also extends to this gracious ministry of giving.


text:
I’m not ordering you to do this, but to prove how sincere your love is in comparison with the dedication of others<n>Presumably meaning the other churches such as those in Macedonia.</n>.


text:
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Even though he was rich, he became poor for you, so that through his poverty you could become rich.


text:
This is my advice: it would be good if you finished what you started. Last year you were not only the first to give but the first to want to do so.


text:
Now finish what you planned to do. Be as keen to finish as you were to plan, and give as you are able.


text:
At the moment you have more than enough and can meet their needs, and in turn when they have more than enough they can meet your needs. In that way everyone is treated fairly.


text:
As Scripture says, “The one who had much didn’t have any excess, and the one who didn’t have much didn’t have too little.”<n>This refers to the gathering of manna in Exodus 16:8.</n><pb/>


text:
Though he agreed to do what we told him, he’s coming to see you because he really wants to, and had already decided to do so.


text:
We’re also sending with him a brother who is praised by all the churches for his work in spreading the good news.


text:
He was also appointed by the churches to go with us as we deliver this gracious offering we’re carrying. We do this to honor the Lord and to show our eagerness to help others.


text:
We’re concerned to do things the right way, not only in the eyes of the Lord, but also in the eyes of everyone.


text:
We’re also sending with them another brother who has proved to be reliable on many occasions, and who is eager to help. He is now even more eager to help because of the great confidence he has in you.


text:
If anyone asks about Titus, he is my companion. He works with me on your behalf. The other brothers are representatives from the churches and an honor to Christ.


text:
So please welcome them before all the churches and show them your love, proving how rightly proud we are of you.<pb/>


text:
I know how keen you are to help—I was boasting about this to those in Macedonia that you in Achaia have been ready for over a year, and your enthusiasm has encouraged many of them to give.


text:
But I’m sending these brothers so that my boasting about you regarding this won’t be proved wrong, and that you’re prepared, just as I said you would be.


text:
This is just in case some Macedonians should come with me and find you unprepared. We, not to mention you, would be really embarrassed if this project failed!


text:
That’s why I decided I should ask these brothers to visit you in advance, and complete the arrangements to collect this offering, so that it would be ready as a gift, and not as something demanded.<pb/>


text:
I want to remind you of this: If you only sow a little, you’ll only reap a little; if you sow plenty, you’ll reap plenty.


text:
Everybody should give as they’ve already decided—not reluctantly, or because they have to, for God loves those who give with a cheerful spirit.


text:
God is able to graciously provide you with everything, so that you will always have all you need—with plenty to help others too.


text:
As Scripture says, “He gives generously to the poor; his generosity is everlasting.”<n>Psalm 112:9. In the context of the Psalm this refers to a generous man.</n>


text:
God, who provides seed to the sower and gives bread for food, will provide and multiply your “seed” and increase your harvest of generosity.


text:
You will be made rich in every way so that you can always be very generous, and your generosity will lead others to be grateful to God.


text:
When you serve in this way, not only are the needs of God’s people met, but also many will give grateful thanks to God.


text:
By giving this offering you show your true nature, and those who receive it will thank God for your obedience, since it shows your commitment to the good news of Christ and your generosity in giving to them and everyone else.


text:
This is me Paul, personally appealing to you through Christ’s kindness and gentleness, the one who is “shy” when I have to face you but who is “bold” when I’m not there<n>Paul seems to be dealing with an accusation some have made against him.</n>.


text:
I’m pleading with you, so that the next time I’m with you I won’t have to be as tough as I think I’ll have to be, boldly dealing with those who think we behave in worldly ways.


text:
Our weapons are not of this world but God’s mighty power that destroys fortresses of human thinking, demolishing misleading theories.


text:
Every high wall that stands tall and proud against the knowledge of God is knocked down. Every rebel idea is captured and brought into obedient agreement with Christ.


text:
Look at what’s staring you in the face! Anyone who considers that they belong to Christ should think again—just as they belong to Christ, so do we!


text:
Even though I may seem to be boasting a little too much about our authority, I’m not embarrassed about it. The Lord gave this authority to us to build you up, not to knock you down.


text:
People say, “His letters are tough and severe, but in person he’s feeble, and he’s a useless speaker.”


text:
People like that should realize that what we ‘say’ through letters when we’re not there we will ‘do’ when we are there!


text:
We’re not so arrogant to compare ourselves with those who think so much of themselves. Those who measure themselves by themselves, and compare themselves with themselves, are really foolish!


text:
But we won’t boast about ourselves in extravagant terms that can’t be measured. We simply measure what we have done using God’s system of measurement that he gave us—and that includes you.


text:
We are not over-extending our authority in saying this, as if we didn’t get as far as you, for we did get to you and share with you the good news of Christ<n>Paul is saying that he was working within his commission to spread the gospel when he came to Corinth. It may be that some were saying that Corinth was not really part of Paul’s jurisdiction.</n>.


text:
We’re not boasting in extravagant terms that can’t be measured, claiming credit for what others have done. On the contrary, we hope that as your trust in God grows, our work among you will greatly increase.


text:
Then we can share the good news in places way beyond you, without boasting about what’s already been done where someone else has worked<n>Paul wants to avoid issues of who gets credit for doing what, and would rather move on with the work of spreading the good news.</n>.


text:
I agonize over you with a divine kind of jealousy, for I promised you to a single husband—Christ—so that I could present you as a pure virgin to him.


text:
I worry that in some way, just as the serpent deceived Eve with his devious cunning, that you might be led astray in your thinking from your sincere and pure commitment to Christ.


text:
If anyone comes and tells you about a different Jesus to the one we shared with you, you easily go along with them<n>In other words, they are too tolerant of others who come with a very different understanding of the good news.</n>, accepting a different spirit to the one you received, and a different kind of good news to the one you believed.<pb/>


text:
Even though I may not be skilled in giving speeches, I do know what I’m talking about. We have made this absolutely clear to you in every way.


text:
Was it wrong of me to humble myself so you could be elevated, since I shared the good news with you at no charge?


text:
When I was there with you and needed something, I wasn’t a burden to anyone because the believers who came from Macedonia took care of my needs. I was determined never to be a burden to you and I never shall.


text:
This is as certain as the truth of Christ that is in me: nobody in all Achaia will stop me boasting about this!


text:
I’ll continue to do what I’ve always done, so as to remove any opportunity for those who want to boast that their work is the same as ours.


text:
These people are false apostles, dishonest workers, who pretend<n>Literally, “transform themselves into.” Also in verse 14.</n> to be apostles of Christ.


text:
So it’s no wonder then if those who serve him pretend to be agents of good. But their final end will be in accordance with what they’ve done.<pb/>


text:
Let me say it again: please don’t think I’m being foolish. However, even if you do, accept me as someone who is foolish, and let me also boast a little<n>Paul suggests that he also should be allowed to boast as the false apostles were boasting.</n>.


text:
You’re happy to put up with fools, since you are so wise!<n>Clearly a sarcastic or ironic comment; also what follows…</n>)


text:
You put up with people who make you slaves, who take what you have, who exploit you, who arrogantly put you down, who hit you in the face.


text:
I’m so sorry that we were too weak to do anything like that! But whatever people dare to boast about, I dare to do too. (Here I’m talking like a fool again).<pb/>


text:
Are they servants of Christ? (This will sound like I’m talking crazy). But I have done so much more. I’ve worked harder, been imprisoned more often, whipped more times than I can count, faced death time and again.


text:
Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent twenty-four hours adrift on the ocean.


text:
During my many journeys I have faced the dangers of crossing rivers, robber gangs, attacks from my own countrymen, as well as from foreigners<n>Literally, “Gentiles.”</n>. I have faced danger in cities, in the deserts, and on the sea. I have faced the danger of people who pretend to be Christians.


text:
I have faced hard labor and struggles, many sleepless nights, hungry and thirsty, often going without food, cold, without enough clothing to keep warm.<pb/>


text:
While I was in Damascus, the governor under King Aretas had the city guarded in order to capture me.


text:
I suppose I have to boast, even though it doesn’t really help. Let me go on to visions and revelations from the Lord.


text:
I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was taken up to the third heaven (whether physically in the body, or out of it, I don’t know, but God knows).


text:
I know that this man (whether taken up physically in the body, or apart from it, I don’t know, but God knows),


text:
how he was taken up into Paradise, and heard things too wonderful to be spoken, in words so sacred that no human being is allowed to say.


text:
I wouldn’t be foolish if I wanted to boast, because I’d be telling the truth. But I won’t boast, so that nobody will think more of me than what they see me doing or hear me saying.


text:
Also, because these revelations were so amazingly great, and so that I wouldn’t become proud, I was given a “thorn in my flesh”<n>Probably some physical problem in Paul’s body.</n>—a messenger from Satan to hurt me so that I wouldn’t become proud.


text:
But he told me, “My grace is all you will need, for my power is effective in weakness.” That’s why I happily boast about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me.


text:
So I appreciate weaknesses, insults, troubles, persecutions, and difficulties that I suffer for Christ’s sake. For when I’m weak, then I’m strong!<pb/>


text:
I’m talking like a fool, but you made me do it! You should really have been speaking well of me, for in no way am I inferior to the super-apostles<n>See 11:5.</n>, even though I don’t count for anything.


text:
Yet the marks of an apostle were patiently demonstrated among you—signs, wonders, and powerful miracles.


text:
In what way were you inferior to the other churches except I wasn’t any burden to you? Please forgive me for doing you wrong!<n>Again a statement that should be viewed as ironic; similarly verse 16.</n>


text:
Now I’m preparing to visit you for the third time, and I won’t be a burden to you. I don’t want what you have, I want you yourselves! After all, children shouldn’t save up for their parents, but parents should for their children.


text:
I will happily spend myself, and be spent, for you. If I love you so much more, will you love me even less?


text:
Well, even if that’s so, I wasn’t a burden to you. Maybe I was being devious, and tricked you with my cunning ways!


text:
I urged Titus to go and see you, and I sent another brother with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? No, we both have the same spirit and use the same methods.


text:
Maybe you’re thinking that all along we’ve been just trying to defend ourselves. No, we speak for Christ before God. Everything we do, friends, is for your benefit.


text:
I do worry when I visit that somehow I won’t find you as I would want to, and that you won’t find me as you would want to! I’m afraid that there will be arguments, jealousy, anger, rivalry, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder.


text:
I’m afraid that when I visit, my God will humble me in your presence, and that I will be weeping over many of those who have sinned previously, and who still have not repented of impurity, sexual immorality, and indecent acts that they committed.<pb/>


text:
This is my third visit to you. “Any charge must be verified by two or three witnesses.”<n>Deut. 19:15.</n>


text:
I already warned those of you who were sinning when I visited the second time. Even though I’m not there, I’m warning them again—and all the rest of you—that when I visit I won’t hesitate to act against them,


text:
since you’re demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in the way he relates to you; rather he works powerfully among you.


text:
Even though he was crucified in weakness, now he lives through the power of God. We too are weak in him, but you will see that we live with him through the power of God.


text:
Examine yourselves to see if you are trusting God. Put yourselves to the test. Don’t you yourselves realize that Jesus Christ is in<n>Or “in union with.”</n> you? Unless you have failed the test…


text:
We pray to God that you won’t do anything bad—not so we can show we passed the test, but so you can do what is good, even if we appear to be failures.


text:
That is why I write about this while I’m not with you, so that when I am with you I won’t have to treat you harshly by imposing my authority. The Lord gave me authority for building up, not for tearing down.<pb/>


text:
Finally, brothers and sisters, I say goodbye. Continue to improve spiritually. Encourage one another. Be in agreement. Live in peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you.


text:
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.


text:
This letter comes from Paul, an apostle not appointed by any human organization or human authority<n>Literally, “not by men nor through man.”</n>. Quite the contrary: I was appointed by Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Jesus from the dead.


text:
All the brothers and sisters here with me join in sending this letter to the churches in Galatia.<pb/>


text:
Jesus gave himself for our sins to set us free from this current world of evil, following the will of our God and Father.


text:
I’m shocked at how quickly you’re abandoning the God who by the grace of Christ called you. You are turning to a different kind of good news


text:
that isn’t good news at all! Some people there are confusing you, wanting to pervert the good news of Christ.


text:
But if anyone, even we ourselves, or even an angel from heaven, should promote any other kind of good news<n>Clearly Paul doesn’t think this is good news at all, so maybe should be in ironic quotes: “good news.”</n> than what we have already told you, let them be condemned!


text:
I repeat what we’ve told you before: if anyone promotes any other kind of good news<n>As 1:8.</n> than what you’ve already accepted, let them be condemned!<pb/>


text:
Whose approval do you think I want—that of people or of God? Do you think I’m trying to please people? If I wanted to please people I wouldn’t be a servant of Christ!<pb/>


text:
Let me make it clear, my friends, regarding the good news I’m declaring—it did not come from any human being.


text:
I didn’t receive it from anyone, and nobody taught it to me—it was Jesus Christ who revealed it to me.


text:
You heard how I behaved as a follower of the Jewish religion—how I fanatically persecuted God’s church, savagely trying to destroy it.


text:
I surpassed my contemporaries in the practice of the Jewish religion because I was so fervently devoted to the traditions of my ancestors.<pb/>


text:
to reveal his Son to me so that I could announce the good news to the nations<n>Or “Gentiles.”</n>, I didn’t discuss this with anyone.


text:
I didn’t go to Jerusalem to talk to those who preceded me as apostles; instead I left for Arabia, and then later returned to Damascus.


text:
They had only heard people say, “The man who used to persecute us is now spreading the faith he once tried to destroy!”


text:
I went because of what God had shown me<n>Literally, “according to revelation.”</n>. I met with the recognized church leaders there in private and explained to them the good news I was sharing with the foreigners<n>Literally, “Gentiles.”</n>. I didn’t want the course I had followed, and what I was working so hard for, to come to nothing.


text:
But as it turned out, nobody even insisted that Titus who was with me should be circumcised, though he was Greek. (


text:
That issue only arose because some false Christians slipped in to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus, trying to make us slaves.


text:
We never gave into them, not even for a moment. We wanted to make sure to keep the truth of the good news unchanged for you.)<pb/>


text:
But those considered to be important didn’t add anything<n>Or, “made no changes.”</n> to what I said. (It doesn’t concern me what kind of leaders they were, because God doesn’t judge people the way we do.)


text:
On the contrary, once they realized that I’d been given responsibility to share the good news with the foreigners just as Peter had been given the responsibility to share the good news with the Jews,


text:
(for the same God<n>Literally, “the One.”</n> who worked through Peter as apostle to the Jews also worked through me as apostle to the foreigners),


text:
and once they recognized the grace that had been given to me, then James, Peter, and John, who bore the responsibility<n>Literally, “considered pillars.”</n> of church leadership, shook me and Barnabas by the hand as their fellow-workers.


text:
We were to work for the foreigners, while they would work for the Jews. Their only instruction was to remember to look after the poor, something I was already very committed to.<pb/>


text:
However when Peter came to Antioch I did have to confront him directly, because he was clearly wrong in what he did.


text:
Before some of James’ friends arrived, Peter used to eat with the foreigners. But when these people came he stopped doing this and stayed away from the foreigners. He was afraid of being criticized by those who insisted that men had to be circumcised.


text:
As well as Peter, other Jewish Christians became hypocritical too, to the extent that even Barnabas was persuaded to follow their hypocrisy.<pb/>


text:
When I realized that they weren’t taking a firm stand for the truth of the good news, I said to Peter in front of everyone, “If you’re a Jew yet live like the foreigners and not like Jews, why are you forcing the foreigners to live like Jews?


text:
but we know that nobody is made right by doing what the law demands—it is only through trusting in Jesus Christ. We have trusted in Christ Jesus so that we could be made right by placing our confidence in Christ, and not through doing what the law says—because nobody is made right by observing the requirements of the law.”<pb/>


text:
For if, as we look to be made right in Christ, we ourselves prove to be sinners, does that then mean that Christ is in the service of sin?<n>The idea here is that by giving up observance of the Jewish law we then become sinners, and Christ has led us into sin—a concept that Paul strongly rejects.</n> Of course not!


text:
For if I were to rebuild what I’ve destroyed, then I only demonstrate I’m a law-breaker<n>In other words, if I return to the old system of law as the means of being set right with God, all I do is prove that I am in violation of the law as a sinner.</n>.


text:
I’ve been crucified with Christ— so it’s no longer me who lives, but it is Christ living in me. The life I now live in this body, I live by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me, and who gave himself for me.


text:
How could I dismiss God’s grace? For if we can be made right through keeping the law then Christ died a pointless death!<pb/>


text:
You Galatians, you’ve lost your heads!<n>The word used here is usually translated as “foolish”; however today that has become more of an epithet. Paul’s point is that they are not thinking—the word really means “mindless.” The same word is used again in verse 3.</n> Who has put you under a spell? The death of Jesus Christ on a cross was clearly presented to you so you could see!


text:
So tell me—did you receive the Spirit by keeping the law or by placing your trust in what you heard?


text:
You really have lost your heads! You began living<n>Meaning, “You began your Christian lives.”</n> in the Spirit. Do you really think you can now make yourselves perfect by your own human efforts<n>Or “by human means.”</n>?


text:
Let me ask you: does God<n>Literally, “the one.”</n> give you the Spirit and do so many miracles among you because you keep the law, or is it because you trust in what you heard?<pb/>


text:
In Scripture it’s foreseen that God would make right the foreigners who trusted in him. The good news is revealed to Abraham beforehand with the words, “Through you all the nations will be blessed.”


text:
All those who rely on keeping the law<n>As a means of salvation.</n> are under a curse, for as Scripture says, “Cursed is everyone who doesn’t carefully obey everything that’s written in the book of the law.”


text:
Clearly nobody is made right with God by attempting to keep the law, for “Those who are made right will live by trusting God.”<n>Habakkuk 2:4.</n>


text:
Obedience to the law has nothing to do with trusting God. Scripture only says, “You will live if you observe everything the law requires.”<n>Leviticus 18:5.</n>


text:
Christ has rescued us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us. As Scripture says, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”<n>Deut. 21:23.</n>—


text:
so that through Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham could come to the foreigners as well, and we could receive the promise of the Spirit by trusting God.<pb/>


text:
Brothers and sisters, here’s an example from daily life. If a contract is drawn up and agreed, signed and sealed, nobody can ignore it or add to it.


text:
Now the promises were given to Abraham, and to his son.<n>Literally, “seed.”</n> It doesn’t say, “sons” as if plural, but singular: “and to your son,” meaning Christ.


text:
Let me explain. The law, coming four hundred and thirty years later, doesn’t cancel the previous covenant that God made, breaking the promise.


text:
If the inheritance is derived from obedience to the law, it no longer comes from the promise. But God graciously gave it to Abraham by means of the promise.<pb/>


text:
What was the point of the law, then? It was added to show what wrongdoing really is, until the son came to whom the promise had been made. The law was put in place by angels through the hand of a mediator.


text:
But a mediator isn’t needed when there’s only one person involved. And God is one!<n>The idea here is that the Old Testament law needed a mediator (Moses). But in the case of the promise this was made directly to Abraham, and according the argument that Paul is developing here, directly fulfilled that promise through Jesus Christ. In this way, says Paul, the promise and its fulfillment are superior to the law.</n><pb/>


text:
So does the law work against God’s promises? Of course not! For if there was a law that could give life, then we could be made right by keeping it.


text:
But Scripture tells us that we all are prisoners of sin. The only way we can receive God’s promises is by trusting in Jesus Christ.


text:
Before we trusted in Jesus we remained in the custody of the law until this way of trusting was revealed.


text:
Let me explain what I’m saying. An heir who is under-age is no different from a slave, even though the heir may be the owner of everything.


text:
It’s just the same for us. When we were children, we were slaves subject to the basic rules<n>The word translated “rules” here is subject to wide interpretation. Originally the word referred to the alphabet, then took the meaning of the “ABC’s” of life. Paul is comparing the ceremonial law to such letters and symbols, basic instructions useful for existence but having no power to save and heal. The same word is used in verse 9.</n> of the law.


text:
so that he could rescue those who were kept under the rule of law, so that we could receive the inheritance of adopted children.<pb/>


text:
To show you are his children, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, causing us to call out, “Abba,” meaning “Father.”


text:
Since you are now no longer a slave, but a child, and if you are his child, then God has made you his heir.<pb/>


text:
But now you’ve come to know God—or better, to be known ‘by’ God. So how can you go back to those useless and worthless rules? Do you want to be slaves to those rules all over again?


text:
You’re observing special days and months, seasons and years<n>This refers to the observing of special feast days and times in the Old Testament system.</n>.


text:
I’m pleading with you, my friends: be like me, because I became like you<n>In other words, a “liberated Gentile.”</n>. You’ve never treated me badly.


text:
You remember that it was because I was sick that I shared with you the good news on my first visit<n>It seems that because Paul was delayed due to sickness that he had the chance to share the good news with the Galatians.</n>.


text:
Even though my illness was difficult for you, you didn’t despise or reject me—in fact you treated me like an angel of God, like Christ Jesus himself.<pb/>


text:
So what’s happened to all your gratefulness? I tell you, back then if you could have pulled out your eyes and given them to me, you would have!


text:
These people are keen to gain your support, but not for any good reasons. On the contrary, they want to keep you away from us so that you will enthusiastically support them.


text:
Of course it’s good to want to do good. But this should be at all times, not just when I’m there with you!<n>Suggesting these people were only wanting to be helpful to the Galatians to fulfill their own agenda.</n>


text:
I really wish I could be with you right now so I could change my tone of voice… I’m so worried about you.<pb/>


text:
However the son from the servant girl was born following a human plan<n>Referring to Sarah’s plan to have a child through her servant-girl.</n>, while the son from the free woman was born as the result of the promise.


text:
This provides an analogy: these two women represent two covenants. One covenant is from Mount Sinai—Hagar—and she gives birth to slave children.


text:
Hagar symbolizes Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to the current Jerusalem, because she is in slavery with her children.


text:
As Scripture says, “Rejoice you who are childless and who have never given birth! Shout aloud for joy, you who have never been in labor—for the abandoned woman has more children than the woman who has a husband!”<n>Isaiah 54:1.</n>


text:
However just as the one born according to a human plan persecuted the one born through the Spirit, so it is today.


text:
But what does Scripture say? “Send away the servant girl and her son, for the son of the servant girl will not be an heir together with the son of the free woman.”<n>Genesis 21:10.</n>


text:
Christ set us free so we could have real freedom. So stand firm and don’t get burdened down again by a yoke of slavery.


text:
Let me, Paul, tell you bluntly: if you rely on the way of circumcision, Christ will be of absolutely no benefit to you.


text:
Those of you who think you can be made right by the law are cut off from Christ—you have abandoned grace.<pb/>


text:
For in Christ Jesus being circumcised or uncircumcised doesn’t achieve anything; it’s only trust working through love that matters.


text:
I’m confident in the Lord that you won’t change the way you think, and that the one who is confusing you will face the consequences<n>Or, “judgment.”</n>, whoever he is.<pb/>


text:
As for me, brothers and sisters, if I were still advocating circumcision—why am I still persecuted? If that was true, it would remove the issue of the cross that offends people so much.


text:
If only those who are causing you trouble would go even further than circumcision and castrate themselves!<n>Not to be taken literally, of course, but symbolically, pushing the circumcision philosophy to the extreme.</n><pb/>


text:
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to freedom! Just don’t use your freedom as an excuse to indulge your sinful human nature—instead serve one another in love.


text:
For the desires of the sinful nature are opposed to the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are opposed to the sinful nature. They fight one another, so you don’t do what you want to do.


text:
envy, drunkenness, feasting, and similar things. As I warned you before so I warn you again: nobody who behaves like this will inherit the kingdom of God.<pb/>


text:
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed to the cross their sinful human nature, together with all their sinful passions and desires.


text:
My friends, if someone is led astray by sin, you who are spiritual should bring them back with a gentle spirit. Watch out that you don’t get tempted too.


text:
Carefully examine your actions. Then you can be satisfied with yourself, without comparing yourself to anyone else.


text:
If you sow according to your sinful human nature, from that nature you’ll reap self-destruction. But if you sow according to the Spirit, from the Spirit you’ll reap eternal life.


text:
So while we have time<n>i.e. the time of opportunity.</n>, let’s do good to everyone—especially to those who belong to the family of faith.<pb/>


text:
Those people who only want to make a good impression are forcing you to be circumcised just so they won’t be persecuted for the cross of Christ.


text:
Even those who are circumcised don’t keep the law, but they want to have you circumcised so that they can boast about you and claim you as their followers<n>The boast is that they have convinced others to follow their belief in the ongoing importance of the Jewish rite of circumcision (and other Jewish practices, the problem noted throughout Galatians).</n>.


text:
May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Through this cross, the world has been crucified to me, and I’ve been crucified as far as the world is concerned.


text:
Please, don’t anyone trouble me anymore, because I carry on my body the scars of Jesus<n>In other words, the wounds Paul received when he was persecuted for following Jesus.</n>.


text:
This letter comes from Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus according to God’s will, to the Christians<n>Literally, “saints.”</n> in Ephesus and those who trust in Christ Jesus.


text:
Praise God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with all that’s spiritually good in the heavenly world,


text:
just as he chose us to be in him<n>Or “in union with him.”</n> before the beginning of this world, so that in love we could be holy and without fault before him.


text:
He decided in advance to adopt us as his children, working through Jesus Christ to bring us to himself. He was happy to do this because this is what he wanted.


text:
So we praise him for his glorious grace that he so kindly gave us in his beloved Son.<n>Son is assumed here. The Greek says “beloved one.”</n>


text:
Through him we gain salvation through his blood, the forgiveness of our sins as a result of his priceless grace


text:
at the appropriate time to bring everyone<n>Paralleling Col. 1:20.</n> together in Christ—those in heaven and those on the earth.


text:
‘In him’—we were chosen beforehand, according to the plan of the One who is working everything out according to his will,


text:
for the purpose that we<n>“We” meaning Jewish Christians.</n> who were the first to hope in Christ could praise his glory.


text:
‘In him’—you<n>“You” meaning Gentile Christians.</n> too have heard the word of truth, the good news of your salvation. ‘In him’—because you trusted in him you were stamped with the seal of the Holy Spirit’s promise,


text:
which is a down-payment on our inheritance when God redeems what he’s kept safe for himself—us, who will praise and give him glory!<pb/>


text:
That’s the reason, because I’ve heard of your trust in the Lord Jesus and the love that you have for all Christians,


text:
I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom to see and know him as he really is.


text:
the glorious riches he promises as an inheritance to his trustworthy people. May you also understand God’s amazing power


text:
that he demonstrated in raising Christ from the dead. God seated Christ at his right hand in heaven,


text:
far above any other ruler, authority, power, or lord, or any leader with all their titles—not only in this world, but also in the coming world too.


text:
God has made everything subject to the authority of Christ, and has given him the responsibility as head over everything for the church,


text:
which is his body, filled full and made complete by Christ, who fills and brings everything to completion.<pb/>


text:
living your lives according to the ways of the world, under the control of the devil,<n>Literally, “the ruler of the power of the air.”</n> whose spirit is at work in those who disobey God.


text:
All of us were once like that, our behavior determined by the desires of our sinful human nature and our evil way of thinking. Like everyone else, in our nature we were children of anger.<n>The Greek literally says “Children in nature of anger.” Following the previous thought about human nature, this could mean we are “naturally angry” or rebellious towards God. Alternatively, this could be viewed that we are the object of divine anger, though God is not specifically mentioned here.</n><pb/>


text:
even while we were dead in our sins, has made us alive together with Christ. Trusting in him has saved you!


text:
so that in all eternity to come he could demonstrate the amazing extent of his grace in showing us kindness through Christ Jesus.


text:
For you’ve been saved by grace through trusting in him—it’s not through yourselves, it’s the gift of God!


text:
We’re the product of what God does, created in Christ Jesus to do good, which God already planned that we should do.<pb/>


text:
So you who are “foreigners” humanly-speaking, called “uncircumcised” by those who are “circumcised”<n>That is, the Jews (circumcised) and the Gentiles (uncircumcised).</n> (which is only a procedure carried out by human beings), you need to remember


text:
that once you had no relationship to Christ. You were barred as foreigners from being citizens of Israel, strangers to the covenant God had promised. You had no hope and you lived in the world without God.


text:
But now, in Christ Jesus, you who were once a long way off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.<pb/>


text:
Christ is our peace. Through his body<n>From the context it appears that Paul is referring here to Jesus’ crucifixion.</n> he made the two into one, and broke down the separating wall of hostility that divided us,


text:
freeing us from the law with its requirements and regulations. He did this so he could create in himself one new person out of the two and so make peace,


text:
and completely reconcile both of them to God through the cross as if they were just one body, having destroyed our hostility towards each other.<pb/>


text:
He came and shared the good news of peace with those of you who were far away, and those who were nearby,


text:
That means you’re no longer strangers and foreigners; you are fellow citizens of God’s people and belong to God’s family


text:
that’s being built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone.


text:
(well, I’m assuming you’ve heard that God gave me the specific responsibility of sharing God’s grace with you),


text:
how, by what God showed me, made clear the mystery that was previously hidden. I wrote to you briefly before about this,


text:
In past generations this wasn’t made clear to anyone, but now it’s been revealed to God’s holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit


text:
that foreigners are joint heirs, part of the same body, and in Christ Jesus share together in the promise through the good news.<pb/>


text:
I became a minister of this good news through the gift of God’s grace that I was given by his power that was at work in me.


text:
This grace was given to me, the least important of all Christians, in order to share with the foreigners the incredible value of Christ,


text:
and to help everyone see the purpose of the mystery which from the very beginning was hidden in God who made everything.


text:
God’s plan was that the various aspects of his wisdom would be revealed through the church to the rulers and authorities in heaven.


text:
So I’m asking that you don’t get discouraged that I’m suffering—it’s for you and you should value that!<pb/>


text:
asking him that out of his wealth of glory he may strengthen you in your innermost being with power through his Spirit.


text:
you may have the power to comprehend with all God’s people the breadth and length and height and depth of Christ’s love.


text:
May you know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you’re made full and complete by the fullness of God.<pb/>


text:
Now may he who—through his power working in us—can do infinitely more than we ever ask for or even think about,


text:
may he be glorified in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations for ever and ever. Amen.<pb/>


text:
So I—this prisoner in the Lord—am encouraging you to make sure you live according to the principles to which you were called.


text:
As Scripture says, “When he ascended to the heights he took captives with him, and gave gifts to humanity.”<n>Quoting Ps. 68:18.</n>


text:
(Regarding this: it says he ascended, but that means he also had previously descended to our lowly world.


text:
The one that descended is the same one who also ascended to the highest heaven in order that he could make the whole universe complete).<pb/>


text:
with the purpose of preparing God’s people for the work of helping others, to help the body of Christ to grow.


text:
We grow together until we all reach the state of being one in our trust in and knowledge of the Son of God, completely grown up, measuring up to full maturity in Christ.


text:
We shouldn’t be little children any more, tossed about and blown along by every passing breeze of doctrine, confused by human trickery, led into error by crafty people who deceitfully scheme;


text:
instead by speaking the truth in love we ought to grow up in everything into Christ, who is our head.


text:
It’s because of him that the whole body operates, every joint holding it together as each individual part does what it’s supposed to, and the whole body grows, building itself up in love.<pb/>


text:
So let me say this to you—in fact I insist on it in the Lord—that you should no longer live like the foreigners do, in their empty-headed way.


text:
In the darkness of their minds they don’t understand, and they have been cut off from the life of God because they don’t know anything and in their stubbornness they don’t want to know.


text:
Because they are past caring they abandon themselves to sensuality, and greedily do all kinds of disgusting things.<pb/>


text:
Didn’t you hear about him? Weren’t you taught concerning him? Didn’t you learn the truth as it is in Jesus?


text:
and put on your new nature that God created so you will be like him, right and holy in the truth.<pb/>


text:
Thieves, stop your stealing, and do honest, productive work with your hands, so you’ll have something to give to those who need it.


text:
Don’t use bad language. Speak words that will encourage people as necessary, so that those who listen will be helped.


text:
Don’t disappoint the Holy Spirit of God that marked you as belonging to him until the day of redemption.


text:
Get rid of every kind of bitterness, rage, anger, verbal abuse, and insults, along with all forms of evil.


text:
Be kind and compassionate to each other, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you.<pb/>


text:
Live in love, just as Christ loved you. He gave himself for us, a gift and sacrificial offering to God like a sweet-smelling perfume.


text:
Sexual immorality or any kind of indecency or greed should never be mentioned concerning you, as God’s people should not be doing such things.


text:
Obscene talk, stupid chatter, and coarse jokes are totally inappropriate—instead you should be thanking God.


text:
You know it’s absolutely sure that no-one who is sexually immoral, or commits indecency, or who is greedy, or is an idol-worshiper will inherit anything in the kingdom of Christ and God.


text:
Don’t let anyone fool you with lying words, for it’s because of such things that God’s judgment is passed on the children of disobedience.


text:
At one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. You are to live as children of light


text:
but when anything is exposed by the light then it’s revealed as it is. Light makes everything visible.


text:
That’s why it’s said, “Wake up, those of you who are sleeping, rise up from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”


text:
Share together with one another using psalms and hymns and sacred songs, singing and making music to the Lord with your heart.


text:
The husband is head of the wife in the same way as Christ is head of the church—his body and its savior.


text:
In the same way that the church does what Christ says, wives should do what their husbands tell them in all things.


text:
Husbands, you should love your wives in the same way as Christ loved the church and gave himself for it.


text:
He made it holy, he made it clean by washing in the water of the word,<n>Presumably an allusion to baptism.</n>


text:
so that he could make the church his own, with no flaw or blemish or any kind of fault, but holy and blameless.


text:
Husbands should love their wives just like this, as they love their own bodies. A man who loves his wife loves himself—


text:
for no one ever hated his own body, but feeds it and looks after it, just as Christ does for the church,


text:
“This is why a man leaves his father and mother, and is joined to his wife, and the two are united in one.”<n>Quoting Genesis 2:24.</n>


text:
However each husband should love his own wife as he does himself, and the wife should respect her husband.<pb/>


text:
“that things may go well for you and you may live a long life on the earth.”<n>Quoting Deut. 5:16.</n>


text:
Fathers, don’t make your children mad, but look after them by disciplining them and instructing them about God.


text:
Servants, obey those who are your human masters, with proper respect and awe, doing things from sincere motives as if you were serving Christ.


text:
Don’t just work well when you’re being watched to gain approval, but work like servants of Christ, honestly doing God’s will,


text:
You know that whoever does what’s good will be rewarded by the Lord, whether that person is a servant or someone who is free.


text:
Masters, you should treat your servants the same way. Don’t threaten them, remember that the Lord in heaven is both their master and yours, and he treats people the same, without favoritism.<pb/>


text:
We’re not fighting against human forces, but against supernatural rulers and powers, the dark lords of this world, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.


text:
Take all the weapons God provides so that you may be able to stand your ground in the day of evil and after doing all you can, to find yourself still standing!


text:
Above all, take up the shield of trusting God, by which you’ll be able to put out all the devil’s flaming arrows.


text:
Pray for me too so that I’ll be given the right words to say, and that I’ll be able to explain confidently the hidden truths of the good news.


text:
I’m an imprisoned ambassador for the sake of the good news, so please pray that I will speak fearlessly, as I should.


text:
Tychicus, our good friend and faithful minister, will give you all my news and explain everything so you’ll know how I’m doing.


text:
Peace to all the Christians there, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, with love and trust in him.


text:
This letter comes from Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all God’s people in Christ Jesus living in Philippi, and to the church leaders and assistants.


text:
because you’ve been partners with me in spreading the good news right from the beginning up till now.


text:
I’m absolutely sure that God who began this good work in you will continue working and bring it to a successful conclusion when Jesus Christ returns.<pb/>


text:
It’s appropriate for me to be thinking this way about all of you because you mean so much to me. Whether I’m in prison or out there making the good news clear, all of you share God’s grace together with me.


text:
God is my witness as to my great affection for every one of you in the caring love of Christ Jesus.<pb/>


text:
so that you can work out what’s really important. That way you can be genuine and blameless when Christ returns,


text:
filled with the fruits of living right that come through Jesus Christ and give glory and praise to God.<pb/>


text:
I want you to know, my brothers and sisters, that all I’ve experienced has worked out to move the good news forward!


text:
For everyone—including the whole praetorian guard<n>Bodyguards to the Roman Emperor.</n>—now knows that I’m in chains for Christ;


text:
and because of my chains most of the Christians here have been encouraged to speak God’s word boldly and fearlessly!


text:
Those others present Christ deceptively because of their selfish ambitions, trying to cause me problems in my imprisonment.<pb/>


text:
But so what? All I care about is that Christ is presented every which way, whether just pretending or whether from true convictions. That’s what makes me happy—and I will go on being happy!


text:
Why? Because I’m convinced that through your prayers for me, and through the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, this will turn out to be my salvation.<n>Paul may be referring to salvation from his immediate situation or his ultimate salvation, or both.</n>


text:
For it’s my strongest hope and expectation not to do anything of which I would be ashamed. Instead it’s my bold hope, as always, that even now Christ will be greatly honored through me, whether I live or die.<pb/>


text:
But if I’m to go on living here and this would be productive work, then I really don’t know what’s best to choose!


text:
Since I’m absolutely sure of this, I know that I’ll stay here, remaining with you all to help you as your trust and delight in God grows,


text:
Just be sure that the way you live your lives corresponds to the good news of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or not I can get to hear how you’re doing—that you stand firm in full agreement with one another, spiritually united as you work together for the trusting faith of the good news.


text:
Don’t let your enemies scare you. By being brave you will demonstrate to them that they will be lost, but that God himself will save you.


text:
You’re experiencing the same struggle you saw me having—a struggle I still have, as you now know.<pb/>


text:
So then, if you’re encouraged by being in Christ, if you’re comforted by his love, if you share together in the Spirit, if you have compassion and sympathy—


text:
then make my joy complete by thinking the same way and loving the same way, spiritually united and having one purpose.


text:
Don’t do anything from a spirit of selfishness or pride, but humbly think of others better than you do of yourself.


text:
None of you should be preoccupied about your own things—instead concern yourself with the interests of others too.<pb/>


text:
Instead he emptied<n>Indicating that Jesus chose to “empty” himself of his divine powers.</n> himself, taking the nature of a servant, becoming like a human being.


text:
That’s why God placed him in the position of greatest honor and power, and gave him the most prestigious name—


text:
so that in the name of Jesus everyone should bow in respect, whether in heaven or on earth or under the earth,


text:
So, my good friends, continue to work towards the goal of salvation with complete reverence and respect for God, following what you were told—not just when I was with you, but even more so now I’m away from you.


text:
For it’s God who is working within you, creating the will and the ability to do what he wants you to do.


text:
so that you’ll be sincere, innocent of any wrong. Be God’s blameless children living in the middle of a dishonest and corrupt people. Shine among them as lights to the world,


text:
holding out to them the word of life. That way I’ll have something to be proud of when Christ returns, proving I didn’t run around and work for nothing!


text:
So even if I pour out my life as a sacrifice and offering so you may trust in God, I’m happy for it, and I’m glad together with all of you,


text:
I’m hoping, if that’s what the Lord Jesus wants, to send Timothy to you soon. It will cheer me up once I know how you’re doing.


text:
But you already know what he’s like—just as a child working to help his father, so he’s worked with me to spread the good news.


text:
But I thought it was important to send Epaphroditus to you. He’s a brother to me, a co-worker and fellow-soldier. He’s the one you sent to look after me,


text:
He certainly was sick—he nearly died—but God had mercy on him. Not just on him, but on me too, so that I wouldn’t have tragedy upon tragedy.


text:
That’s why I’m so keen to send him, so that when you see him you’ll be happy, and I won’t have to be so anxious.


text:
because in working for Christ he nearly died, putting his life on the line to make up for the help you weren’t in a position to give me.<pb/>


text:
To sum up: my dear friends, delight in the Lord! It’s not a burden for me to repeat these things to you—it’s to keep you safe!


text:
for it’s we who are truly circumcised, worshiping by the Spirit of God, placing our assurance in Christ Jesus. We have no confidence in human abilities<n>Literally, “flesh,” also in verse 4.</n>—


text:
for if there was a way to rely on human nature then I myself could have that confidence! If anyone thinks they have confidence in such human things, then I outdo them:


text:
I was circumcised on the eighth day, I’m an Israelite of the tribe of Benjamin, a true Hebrew. Regarding legal observance I’m a Pharisee;


text:
as for religious dedication I was a persecutor of the church; while in regard to doing right according to the law I was blameless!<pb/>


text:
Truly, I count everything as loss in exchange for the incredible benefit I’ve gained through knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. I’ve thrown away all these things for him, and consider them trash, so that I might gain Christ.


text:
I want to be found in him, not being right because of what I’ve done, or what the law requires, but made right through confidence in Christ, set right by God through trusting in him.


text:
I want to really know him, and the power of his resurrection—to take part in his suffering and become like him in his death,


text:
Not that I’ve already got it all, or that I’m already perfect—but I run so that I might win what was won for me by Christ Jesus.


text:
My friends, I don’t consider that I’ve already won, but this is my one objective: disregarding what is behind me, I strain forward to what is in front of me.


text:
I run towards the finish line to win the prize of God’s invitation to heaven through Christ Jesus.<pb/>


text:
Those of us who are spiritually mature should think like this, and if you think anything different, then God will reveal this to you.


text:
My friends, copy my example as others do and take note of the way to behave since you have us as a model.<pb/>


text:
The way some people live makes them enemies of the cross of Christ—as I’ve often told you before and repeat again though it pains me so much I want to weep.


text:
They will end up being completely lost, these people whose “god” is their physical desires and who are proud of what they should be ashamed of, thinking only about the things of this world.


text:
But our homeland is heaven, and we’re waiting for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, to come from there too.


text:
He will re-create our defective human bodies so that they will be made like his glorious body using the power by which he brings everything under his control.<pb/>


text:
So stand firm in the Lord, my dear friends who mean so much to me, who make me so happy! To me you are my crowning achievement! I truly love you and long to see you!


text:
In fact, my faithful fellow-worker,<n>An unknown Christian worker presumably located in Philippi.</n> let me ask you to help these women, for they worked together with me to spread the good news—as well as Clement and my other co-workers, whose names are recorded in the book of life.<pb/>


text:
Don’t worry about anything, but take everything to God in prayer, explaining your requests to him and thanking him for all he does.


text:
Then the peace that comes from God, which is better than we can ever imagine, will keep your hearts and minds protected in Christ Jesus.<pb/>


text:
Lastly, whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, beautiful, commendable, whatever is truly good and deserves to be praised, think about these kinds of things.


text:
Put into practice what you learned and received from me, what you saw me doing and heard me say. Then the God of peace will be with you.<pb/>


text:
I’m so happy in the Lord that you’ve at last thought about me again—realizing that you were concerned about me before but you couldn’t do anything about it.


text:
I’m not talking about my own needs, because I’ve already learned to be satisfied in whatever situation I find myself.


text:
I’m used to having nothing, and I’ve experienced having plenty too. In every possible situation I’ve learned the secret of dealing with having plenty and going hungry, of being rich and of living in poverty:


text:
You Philippians remember that right at the beginning of sharing the good news, when I left Macedonia, that yours was the only church that helped me financially.


text:
Not that I’m looking for a donation—I’m looking for your “account” to increase in “profit.”<n>Paul is using business terms, but probably referring figuratively to their spiritual “account.”</n>


text:
For I have everything, more than I need! I’m thankful to receive from Epaphroditus the things you sent. They’re like a sweet-smelling sacrifice that pleases God and that he approves of.


text:
My God will fill you with everything you need in accordance with his glorious wealth in Christ Jesus!


text:
Greet every fellow-believer in Christ Jesus. The Christian brothers and sisters with me send their greetings.


text:
This letter comes from Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus according to the will of God, and from our brother Timothy.


text:
To the believers and trusting Christians at Colossae: may you have grace and peace from God our Father.


text:
because of the hope prepared for you in heaven. You already heard about this in the good news, the message of truth


text:
that came to you just as it has gone throughout the whole world, spreading widely and bringing results. It’s done the same for you too, ever since you heard it and realized the true nature of God’s grace.


text:
Our dear friend and fellow-worker Epaphras, who is a trustworthy minister of Christ on our behalf, taught you about this.


text:
Because of this we continue to pray for you from the time we heard about you, asking God to give you understanding of what he wants you to do and to give you every kind of spiritual wisdom and understanding.


text:
That way you’ll live lives that rightly represent the Lord and please him, producing all kinds of good results and gaining greater knowledge of God.


text:
May you happily praise the Father, who has made it possible for us to share in the inheritance of God’s people who live in the light.


text:
The Son is the visible picture of the invisible God. He was before<n>Literally, “first-born,” denoting position rather than timing of birth.</n> all creation,


text:
for everything was created through him—in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, empires, rulers, leaders and authorities—everything was created through him and for him.


text:
He is also the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the first and highest of those raised from the dead, so that he is supreme in everything.


text:
and through him brought back everything in the universe to himself, since he made peace through the blood of his cross, through him reconciling all those on the earth and in heaven.<n>The “he/him” can be confusing here. Supplying the actual nouns may help, though it makes for a clumsy translation: “God was pleased to have God’s full nature live in Christ, 20and through Christ brought back everything in the universe to himself (God), since Christ made peace through the blood of Christ’s cross, through Christ reconciling all those on the earth and in heaven.”</n>


text:
but now he has reconciled you through his dying human body, bringing you into his presence where you stand holy, pure, and faultless.


text:
But your trust in him must continue rock-solid and immovable. Don’t be shaken from the hope of the good news that you heard, the good news that’s been shared throughout the world—that’s the work that I Paul have been doing.<pb/>


text:
I’m happy to have trouble for your sake, for by means of what happens to me physically I’m part of Christ’s sufferings that he continues to experience for the sake of his body, the church.


text:
I serve the church following the direction God gave me about you, to present fully the word of God to you.


text:
This is the mystery that was hidden down through the ages and for many generations, but it’s now been revealed to God’s people.


text:
God wanted to make known to them the glorious wealth of this mystery to the nations:<n>Or “Gentiles.”</n> Christ living in you is the glorious hope!


text:
We’re telling everyone about him, instructing and teaching them in the best way we know how so that we can bring everyone before God fully mature in Christ.


text:
That’s what I’m working for too, making every effort as I rely on his strength which is powerfully at work in me.<pb/>


text:
I want you to know how hard I’m working for you, and for those at Laodicea—in fact for all those who haven’t met me personally—


text:
so that you may be encouraged. May you be bound together in love, experiencing the great benefit of being completely sure in your understanding, for this is what the true knowledge of God brings. May you know the revealed mystery of God, which is Christ!


text:
I’m telling you this so that no one will fool you by spinning you a tale.<n>Literally, “false arguments.”</n>


text:
Even though I’m not physically there with you, I’m with you in spirit. I’m so happy to see the way you stick together and how firm you are in your trust in Christ.


text:
grounded in him and built up by him. May your trust in him continue to grow strong, following what you were taught, full of gratitude to God.<pb/>


text:
Watch out that nobody enslaves you through their philosophy and worthless delusions, following human traditions and concepts of this world, and not following Christ.


text:
and you have been made full<n>Or “complete,” “whole.”</n> in him. He is supreme over every ruler and authority.<pb/>


text:
You were “circumcised” in him but not by human hands. You have been set free from sinful human nature by the “circumcision” Christ performed.<n>Clearly this is not talking about physical circumcision but what it was supposed to mean spiritually.</n>


text:
You were buried with him in baptism, and you were raised with him through your trust in what God did by raising him from the dead.


text:
And even though you were dead because of your sins and being physically “uncircumcised,” he brought you to life together with him. He has forgiven us all our sins.


text:
He wiped out the record of our debts according to the Law that was written down against us; he took away this barrier<n>Note that the barrier is on our side, not God’s.</n> by nailing it to the cross.


text:
He stripped away the power of spiritual rulers and authorities,<n>Clearly speaking about ‘evil ‘spiritual agencies.</n> and having publicly revealed what they were truly like, he led them captive behind him in victory.<pb/>


text:
So don’t let anyone criticize you for what you eat or what you drink, or regarding which religious festival, new moon ritual, or ceremonial sabbaths you choose to observe.<n>In this context Paul is referring to the various yearly festival days of the Jewish ceremonial system.</n>


text:
Don’t let anyone cheat you out of your prize by insisting you have to beat yourself,<n>Self-mortification; the phrase could also be translated “false humility.”</n> or worship angels. They think they are better than anyone else because of visions they say they’ve had, and become ridiculously conceited in their sinful minds.


text:
Such people are not connected to the head that directs the body, nourished and joined together through the body’s sinews and muscles. As the body is united together it grows the way God wants it to grow.<pb/>


text:
If you died with Christ to the religious demands that this world insists upon,<n>Probably referring both to Jewish religious regulations and to pagan ceremonies and taboos.</n> why would you make yourself subject to such demands as if you were still part of this world?


text:
These commands refer to things that don’t last since they’re used up,<n>This tends to indicate that the rules are about food and drink which will of course be consumed and then “used up.”</n> and they’re based on man-made requirements and teachings.


text:
Such rules may make some kind of sense to those who practice self-centered piety, who are so proud of being humble, and who “mortify the body;” but in reality they don’t help at all in dealing with sinful desires.<pb/>


text:
So if you’ve been brought back to life with Christ, look for what comes from above, where Christ is, sitting at God’s right hand.


text:
So kill your worldly nature—sexual sin, immorality, lust, evil desires, greedily wanting to have more—this is the worship of idols.


text:
and put on your new self that is always being made more like your Creator, understanding better who he really is.


text:
In this new situation there’s no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, foreigner, barbarian<n>Literally, “Scythian,” a “barbarian” people from what is now southern Russia, the Ukraine, and Central Asia.</n>, slave or free, for Christ is everything, and he lives in all of us.<pb/>


text:
Since you are God’s special people, holy and dearly loved, adopt a sympathetic nature that is kind, humble, gentle, and patient.


text:
Be patient with one another, forgive others among you if you have grievances against one another. Just as the Lord forgave you, you should do the same.


text:
May the peace of Christ direct your thinking, because you were called to this by God who makes you one, and thank God for it!


text:
Let Christ’s message fully live in you. In every wise way teach and instruct one another through psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, graciously singing praise to God from your hearts.


text:
Whatever you do, whether in word or action, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, praising God the Father through him.


text:
Those of you who are servants, do everything your human masters tell you, not with just an eye to please them, but honestly and sincerely, respecting the Lord.


text:
because you know that the Lord will give you your reward—an inheritance! You’re serving Christ the Lord!


text:
Whoever does what’s wrong will be paid back for the wrong they’ve done, and God has no favorites.<pb/>


text:
You masters, treat your servants in a way that is right and fair, recognizing that you too have a Master in heaven.


text:
Pray for us too that God may open a door of opportunity to spread the message, to tell about the revealed mystery of Christ—which is the reason I’m here in prison.


text:
Always be gracious when you speak. Make sure it’s in good taste, and think about how best to answer everyone.<pb/>


text:
Tychicus will tell you all about what’s happening to me. He’s a dear brother, a trustworthy minister and co-worker in the Lord.


text:
I’m sending him to you for this very reason—so that you’ll know how things are with me and this will cheer you up.


text:
Onesimus is going with him too, a trusted and dear brother, who’s one of you. They’ll explain to you everything that’s going on here.


text:
Aristarchus who’s with me here in prison sends his best wishes; likewise Mark, Barnabas’ cousin (you’ve already had instructions to welcome him if he visits you),


text:
and Jesus—also called Justus—who are the only Jewish Christians<n>Literally, “belonging to the circumcision.”</n> among those working with me here for the kingdom of God, men who have been a great help to me.


text:
Epaphras who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends his greetings. He’s always passionate in his prayers on your behalf, praying that you’ll stand firm as grown-up Christians, totally convinced about everything as God would want.


text:
For the record I can tell you that he’s done a lot for you, and for those in Laodicea and Hierapolis as well.


text:
And when this letter has been read to you, make sure it’s read to the church in Laodicea too, and that you also read the letter sent to Laodicea.


text:
This letter comes from Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy to the church of the Thessalonians who belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May you have grace and peace!


text:
We remember you before our God and Father—how you put your trust in him into practice, how you work hard in love, and how you patiently wait in the hope of our Lord Jesus Christ.


text:
The good news we brought to you wasn’t just words, but had power too, for the Holy Spirit completely convinced you. In the same way you know what kind of men we are since we demonstrated to you that we were working for your benefit.<pb/>


text:
You were imitating us and the Lord when you received the message, for despite your troubles you experienced the joy the Holy Spirit gives.


text:
So you have become an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Greece!<n>Literally, “Achaia,” also verse 8.</n>


text:
You have broadcast the Lord’s message, not only in Macedonia and Greece, but everywhere people have heard of your trust in God—so there’s no need for us to tell anybody about it!


text:
In fact they talk about what a marvelous welcome you gave us, how you abandoned idols and turned to God, how you serve the true and living God,


text:
as you look forward to the coming of his Son from heaven—Jesus, the one God raised from the dead, who will save us from the judgment to come.<pb/>


text:
You’ll recall that after having had much trouble and bad treatment at Philippi, with the help of God we still dared to share God’s good news with you, despite the opposition we faced.


text:
On the contrary, we have God’s approval for what we say—he’s entrusted us with sharing the good news. We don’t set out to please people, but God. He’s the one who judges our motives.


text:
As you know, we’ve never used flattering words. Nor were we covering up some greedy, selfish attitude—as God is our witness!


text:
We weren’t trying to win anybody’s praise—not from you, nor anyone else. We could have become a “burden” to you as messengers of Christ,


text:
We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not just God’s good news, but also our very own selves, because you had become so dear to us.<pb/>


text:
Don’t you remember, brothers and sisters, all our hard work— working day and night so we wouldn’t be a burden to any of you as we shared God’s good news with you?


text:
You yourselves can testify as to how we acted, and God can too—how we treated you believers with a holy attitude, fairly and blamelessly.


text:
You know how we cared for every one of you like a father caring for his own children. We encouraged you, comforted you, and shared with you our experience


text:
so that you could live as God would want you to live—the God who calls you to his own kingdom and glory.<pb/>


text:
Another thing: we’re always thanking God that when you heard and accepted the word of God, you didn’t treat it as some human words, but what it truly is, the word of God. This is what is at work in those of you who trust in him.


text:
The experience you brothers and sisters have had imitates that of God’s churches that belong to Christ Jesus in Judaea. Just like your fellow Jewish Christians you suffered as they did at the hands of the Jewish leaders


text:
who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets, and chased us out. They don’t please God and they are hostile to everyone,


text:
trying to stop us speaking to the other nations<n>“Gentiles.”</n> to prevent them from being saved. They’re always sinning to the maximum extent, but for them full judgment has arrived!<pb/>


text:
Brothers and sisters, since we felt as if we’d experienced a family separation because we hadn’t seen you for a while (separated physically though not in spirit), we tried even harder to come and see you again face to face because that’s what we wanted to do.


text:
For what gives us hope, what makes us happy, what we are really proud of as we stand before our Lord Jesus Christ when he comes back—is having you there too!


text:
So when we couldn’t bear it any longer, we decided it would be best for us to stay behind in Athens,


text:
and send Timothy on to you. He is our brother and God’s co-worker in spreading the good news of Christ. We sent him to strengthen and encourage you in your trust in God


text:
Even while we were with you we kept on warning you that we would suffer persecution soon— and as you well know that is exactly what has happened.


text:
This is why, when I couldn’t stand it anymore, I sent to find out whether you were still trusting in God. I was concerned that the Devil<n>“The Devil,” Literally, “the tempter.”</n> had successfully tempted you and that all our work had been for nothing!<n>“Successfully tempted”—the original is actually just “tempted” but in English this doesn’t imply what Paul fears—that the temptation has succeeded. The issue here is not being tempted, but falling into sin as a result of temptation.</n><pb/>


text:
Now Timothy has just returned from visiting you and he has brought us good news of your trust in God and the love you have. He’s told us that you still have fond memories of us, longing to see us just as we long to see you.


text:
This news really encouraged us while we were suffering troubles ourselves, brothers and sisters, knowing that you continue to hold on to your trust in God.


text:
As we go into the presence of our God, how can we ever thank God enough for you because of all the joy you bring to us?


text:
Night and day we pray with all our hearts, hoping to see you again face to face, and to help you continue developing your trust in God.


text:
May the Lord increase your love so it overflows to one another, and to everyone, just as we love you.


text:
In this way may the Lord strengthen you so you may stand with minds that are holy and blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones.<pb/>


text:
A few more things: Brothers and sisters, we plead with you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to behave in ways that please God, just as we instructed you. Of course you’re already doing this, just do it more and more!


text:
in order that each of you may control yourselves<n>This could also be translated as “know how to take a wife.”</n> in a way that is holy and respectful,


text:
not indulging passionate lust like the heathen<n>“Gentiles,” “other nations.”</n> who have no knowledge of God.


text:
Don’t cheat or take advantage of another Christian in these matters, for the Lord is the one who executes justice in all such things, as we’ve already clearly explained to you, and warned you about.


text:
So anyone who rejects this position isn’t just rejecting what a human being is saying; they are rejecting God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.<pb/>


text:
We certainly don’t need to write and tell you to love fellow believers, because God teaches you to love one another—


text:
and in fact you are demonstrating this love to all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so we want to encourage you, brothers and sisters, to love more and more.


text:
Try to live a quiet life, minding your own business, doing your own work, as we’ve already explained to you,


text:
so that your way of life may be respected by non-Christians and you won’t have to rely on anyone to provide what you need.<pb/>


text:
We don’t want you to be confused about what happens when people die,<n>Literally, “fall asleep.”</n> brothers and sisters, so that you won’t grieve like others who don’t have any hope.


text:
Since we’re convinced that Jesus died and rose again, we’re also sure that God will bring<n>“Bring…those,” obviously those who are resurrected from the earth, from the context of the two following verses.</n> with Jesus those who have died trusting in him.


text:
What we’re telling you comes from the Lord: those of us who are alive and still here when the Lord comes certainly won’t precede those who have died.


text:
For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the cry of the archangel, and with the sound of God’s trumpet, and those who have died in Christ will rise first.


text:
Then those of us who are alive and still here will be carried up together with them into the clouds, and we shall meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever!


text:
When people talk about peace and security suddenly they will be completely ruined. It will be just like the sudden onset of childbirth, and they certainly won’t escape.


text:
But you, brothers and sisters, are not in the dark about this so that you won’t be caught by surprise when the Day of Judgment<n>Literally, “Day.”</n> arrives suddenly like a thief.


text:
For you are all children of light and children of the day. We don’t belong to the night or to darkness.


text:
So then we shouldn’t be sleeping like everybody else—we should stay awake and keep ourselves clear-headed.


text:
But since we belong to the day we should keep our heads clear, strapping on the breastplate of trust and love, and putting on as a helmet the hope of salvation.


text:
For God hasn’t placed us in a position to be punished, but has reserved us for salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.


text:
He’s the one who died for<n>“For” in the sense of “for the sake of” rather than “in place of.”</n> us so that whether we’re alive or dead we shall live together with him.


text:
Brothers and sisters, we’re asking you to respect those who work with you, who lead you in the Lord and teach you.


text:
We urge you, brothers and sisters, to warn those who are lazy, encourage those who are anxious, help those who are weak, and be patient with everyone.


text:
Make sure none of you pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to one another, and to everyone.


text:
May the God of peace himself make you completely holy, and may your whole being—body, mind and spirit—be kept blameless for when our Lord Jesus Christ returns.


text:
This letter comes from Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy to the church of the Thessalonians who belong to God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.


text:
We keep on thanking God for you, brothers and sisters—we just have to! This is the right thing to do because your trust in God is growing in leaps and bounds, and the love you all have for each other increases more and more.<pb/>


text:
We speak so proudly of you among the churches of God because of your patient courage and trust in God during all the persecution and trouble you’re going through.


text:
For this is evidence that God is right in the decisions he makes, and that you deserve the kingdom of God for which you are suffering.


text:
He will free you from your suffering—and us too—when the Lord Jesus appears from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels,


text:
They will rightly experience the consequence of eternal loss, separated from the presence of the Lord and his glorious power,


text:
on the day when he comes to receive glory from his people, admired by all those who trust in him. This includes you because you were convinced about what we told you.<pb/>


text:
That’s why we continue to pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of what he’s called us to do. May God powerfully fulfill every desire you have to do good and every action that comes from trusting him


text:
so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be honored by what you do—and in turn you are honored by him through the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.<pb/>


text:
Talking about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and how we’re brought together to him, brother and sisters—


text:
please don’t become upset or concerned by any spiritual revelation, or message, or letter supposedly from us that makes you think that the day of the Lord has already come.


text:
Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, because the Rebellion<n>Literally, “apostasy,” the end-time, final rejection of God.</n> must come first, and the lawless man be revealed, the one whose end is destruction.


text:
He is the enemy of God, and proudly sets himself up over everything that is called God and is worshiped. He even installs himself in God’s Temple, claiming to be God.


text:
Now you know what’s keeping him in check, because he will be revealed for what he is at the appropriate time.<n>-12. This whole section is much debated as to its meaning.</n>


text:
For the secret ways of lawlessness<n>Literally, “mystery of lawlessness,” indicating the “revealed secret” of the anti-God power that is not only law-breaking but is truly law-less—without any respect for law.</n> are already at work; however he who now restrains it will continue to do so until he is out of the way.


text:
Then the lawless one will be revealed, the one whom the Lord Jesus will wipe out, blowing him away,<n>Literally, “by the breath of his mouth.”</n> destroying him by the brilliance of his coming.


text:
He (the lawless one) comes to do Satan’s work, having all kinds of powers, using miracles, and performing amazing but deceptive displays.


text:
Using every type of evil trick he deludes those who are on their way to destruction, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.


text:
Because of this God sends them a convincing delusion so that they put their trust in the lie.<n>The lie: in this context surely meaning the fundamental Lie about the nature and character of God told by the Enemy (Is. 14, Ez. 28), who even claims to be God (2:4). In terms of God’s “sending” of this delusion, note that in Scripture God is often speaking of causing that which he does not prevent.</n>


text:
As a result everyone who did not trust in the truth will be condemned, for they preferred what is evil.<pb/>


text:
But we just have to keep on thanking God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you to be saved through the Spirit who makes you right as you trust in the truth.


text:
This is what he called you to through the good news we shared with you, so that you could participate in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.


text:
So, brothers and sisters, stand firm, and hold on to what you’ve been taught, whether by what you were told, or through a letter from us.


text:
Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God the Father (who through his grace gave us eternal confidence and a trustworthy hope),


text:
Lastly, brothers and sisters, please pray for us, so that the Lord’s message may spread and be truly appreciated, just as it is by you—


text:
May the Lord lead you into a deeper understanding of God’s love for you and the endurance of Christ.<n>“The endurance of Christ” could mean the endurance demonstrated by Christ, or the endurance given by Christ—or both.</n><pb/>


text:
Now we want to tell you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, not to associate with any believer who can’t be bothered to work for their living—those who don’t follow the teachings they learned from us.


text:
You certainly know that you should follow our example, because while we were with you we weren’t lazy,


text:
—we didn’t eat anyone’s food without paying for it. Instead we worked hard day and night so we wouldn’t be a burden to any of you.


text:
Not that we don’t have the right to do so—but we wanted to be an example to you, so that you could copy what we did.


text:
Even while we were with you we gave strict instructions that anybody who didn’t want to work shouldn’t eat.


text:
We’re ordering such people, urging them in the Lord Jesus, to settle down and work to pay for their own food.<pb/>


text:
Take note of anyone who doesn’t do what we’re telling you in this letter, and make sure you don’t associate with them, so that they may become embarrassed.<n>In other words, that they would be encouraged to do what they should.</n>


text:
May the Lord of peace himself grant you peace in every situation in every way. May the Lord be with all of you.


text:
Notice the greeting to you from me, Paul, in my own handwriting. This is my signature on every letter I write.


text:
This letter comes from Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus appointed by the authority of God our Savior and Christ Jesus, who is our hope.


text:
I’m sending it to you Timothy. You are my true son<n>Actually “little child.”</n> because of your trust in God. May you have grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.<pb/>


text:
When I was on my way to Macedonia I asked you to stay behind in Ephesus, so that you could speak with those who teach false ideas and insist that they stop.


text:
They shouldn’t concern themselves with legends and never-ending obsessions about ancestry.<n>Or “endless genealogies”—a situation that is not clear from the context.</n> Such ideas only lead to pointless debates, instead of understanding God as we trust in him.<pb/>


text:
The reason why I insist on this is so we may have love that comes from a pure heart, from a clear conscience and sincere trust in God.<pb/>


text:
They have ambitions to be teachers of the law, but they have no idea what they’re talking about or what they’re so boldly announcing!<pb/>


text:
We also know that law isn’t laid down for those who do what is right, but for those who are rebellious and ignore the law. It applies to people who have no use for God, who are sinful, who treat nothing as holy and are completely irreligious. It’s for those who kill fathers and mothers, for murderers,


text:
for those who are sexually immoral, homosexuals, kidnappers, liars, false witnesses—and anything else that’s opposed to good teachings


text:
I’m just so grateful to Christ Jesus our Lord for the strength he’s given me, and that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to work for him.


text:
Even though I used to insult God, and persecuted and abused God’s people, God showed me mercy because of my ignorance and unbelief.


text:
Our Lord in his grace filled me to overflowing with trust and love that comes from Christ Jesus.<pb/>


text:
You can trust this saying that everyone should accept: “Christ Jesus came to this world to save sinners,” and I’m the worst of them.


text:
For this reason I was shown mercy—since I’m the worst sinner, Jesus Christ could demonstrate his infinite patience as an example to those who choose to trust in him and gain eternal life.<pb/>


text:
Honor and glory forever and ever to the eternal King, the immortal, invisible, and only God! Amen.<pb/>


text:
These are the instructions I want to give to you, Timothy, my son, following the prophecies that brought you this far,<n>The Greek is ambiguous—it could refer to prophecies about Timothy, or that Timothy followed the prophecies…</n> so you can fight the good fight!


text:
Keep on trusting God and make sure you have a clear conscience. Some have refused to do this and have shipwrecked their trust in God.


text:
Hymenaeus and Alexander are such people, and I have “handed them over to Satan”<n>The phrase “Handed over to Satan” is not explained and could mean being “excommunicated” from the church community, or allowing them to experience the results of their sins. The fact they are supposed to learn something indicates that Paul believed their redemption was still possible.</n> to teach them not to misrepresent God.<pb/>


text:
First of all, I want to encourage you to pray for everybody: make requests of God, ask on their behalf, and give thanks.


text:
Pray like this for kings and all types of leaders so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives, always thinking about God and taking life seriously.


text:
I was appointed to share this message and be its messenger,<n>Literally, “an apostle.”</n> a teacher to the foreigners<n>Literally, “Gentiles.”</n> about trusting God and the truth (I’m not lying, I’m telling the truth!).<pb/>


text:
What I really want is for men everywhere to pray sincerely to God.<n>Literally, “holding up holy hands.”</n> No anger or arguments!


text:
In the same way, women should dress sensibly, modestly, and appropriately. They should be attractive not in their hairstyle or by wearing gold or pearls or expensive clothes,


text:
I don’t allow women to be instructors, or to dominate men; let them remain quiet.<n>Or tranquil, calm.</n>


text:
However women will be saved through becoming mothers,<n>“Through child-bearing.” The meaning and implication of this verse are much debated…</n> as long as they continue to trust and love, and to live holy, sensible lives.<pb/>


text:
This is a trustworthy statement: “If someone aspires to be an elder, this is a good work to want to do.”


text:
An elder must be above reproach, married to one wife, self-controlled, well-balanced, sensible, hospitable, and able to teach.


text:
He should be someone who doesn’t get drunk or become violent, but is gentle, and is not argumentative or greedy for money.


text:
He should not be a new believer, in case he gets so full of himself<n>Or “he becomes proud and arrogant.”</n> he falls under the same condemnation as the devil.


text:
People outside the church should also speak well of him so that he won’t disgrace himself and fall into the devil’s trap.<pb/>


text:
Similarly deacons<n>“Deacons,” directly from the Greek work “diakonos,” meaning servant.</n> should be respected, and not hypocritical. They should not be addicted to drink, and should not be trying to dishonestly enrich themselves.


text:
Their wives<n>“Their wives”: or simply “women.”</n> should be respected too. They should not slander people with gossip, and they should be self-controlled and trustworthy in all they do.


text:
Those who serve well as deacons gain a good reputation and much confidence in their trust in Christ Jesus.<pb/>


text:
if I’m delayed you’ll know how people should behave themselves in God’s house. This is the church of the living God, the support pillar and foundation of the truth.


text:
There’s no question about it: the revealed truth about God is amazing! He was made known to us in human form, he was vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, declared to the nations, trusted in by the world, and taken up in glory!<pb/>


text:
However the Spirit very clearly explains that in the last times some will abandon their trust in God, and will listen to deceptive spirits and beliefs that come from demons.


text:
tell people to not marry and not to eat certain foods made by God that should be accepted with thanks by those who trust and know the truth.


text:
Everything created by God is good, and nothing should be rejected but should be received with thanks,


text:
If you point out these things to the brothers and sisters you will be a good minister<n>The word is actually the one used for “deacon.”</n> of Christ Jesus. You gain strength by trusting in the truth, and in the good teaching you’ve followed.


text:
for while physical exercise is useful to some extent, spiritual exercise is much more useful. For “it has promise for the present life, and for the life to come.”


text:
You can trust this saying<n>Assuming the saying is the previous verse.</n> that should be accepted by everyone.


text:
The reason we work and do the best we can is because our hope is in the living God. He is the Savior of all people, especially of those who trust in him.<pb/>


text:
Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young. Be an example to those who trust in God—in the way you speak, the kind of life you live, in love, in trust, and in purity.


text:
Until I get there, make sure you read the Scriptures to the church, and encourage them by your speaking and teaching.


text:
Don’t neglect the gracious gift you have that was given to you by prophetic inspiration when the church elders laid their hands on you.


text:
Think carefully about these things, and dedicate yourself completely to them so that everyone can see the progress you’re making.


text:
Mind what you’re doing and what you’re teaching. Keep going with all of this, because as you do so you’ll save both yourself and those who listen to you.<pb/>


text:
Don’t rebuke a man who is older than you. Instead, encourage him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers,


text:
For the Christian responsibility of a widow’s children or grandchildren is to do their duty for their own family, and repay their parents by helping them out. This is what pleases God.


text:
Now a real widow, having no family, alone and without support, puts her hope in God and prays for help night and day.


text:
But a widow who concentrates on pleasing herself is already dead, even though she’s still physically alive.


text:
But those who don’t look after their relatives, especially their own family, have denied their beliefs, and are worse than those who don’t believe.


text:
Only widows over sixty who have been faithful to their husbands should be put on the list.<n>The list of those widows who should be helped by the church.</n>


text:
The widow should have a reputation for doing good. Did she bring up children properly? Has she been hospitable? Has she washed the feet of church members? Has she helped those who were in trouble? Has she really tried to do good in every way?<pb/>


text:
Don’t take on widows who are younger, because when their physical desires make them want to re-marry they abandon their dedication to Christ.


text:
In this they are guilty of breaking their previous commitment.<n>The idea here is that the widows have made a commitment to serve Christ in the church, and they are helped by the church because of this. To re-marry would annul this commitment.</n>


text:
They also get used to a lazy life, just visiting each other in their homes. Not only lazy, but they gossip and meddle, talking about things they shouldn’t.


text:
So my best advice is that younger widows marry and have children and take care of the home. That way there’s no opportunity for criticism from the Enemy.


text:
Any Christian woman who has widows in the family should help them, so that the church is not burdened with the responsibility, and can help those widows who are truly in need.<pb/>


text:
Elders who direct the church well should be seen as doubly valuable,<n>Or “should receive adequate pay.”</n> particularly those who work in speaking the Word and in teaching.


text:
As Scripture says, “You must not muzzle the ox when it is threshing the corn.” Also, “The worker deserves to be paid.”<n>Deut. 25:4; Luke 10:7.</n>


text:
Before God and Christ Jesus, and the holy angels, I instruct you to follow these instructions without bias. Don’t do anything from an attitude of favoritism.


text:
Don’t be in a hurry to lay hands on anyone; and don’t get involved in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.<pb/>


text:
Don’t just drink water, but use a little bit of wine because of your bad stomach—you’re sick so often!<pb/>


text:
The sins of some people are really obvious, and they are clearly guilty, but the sins of others are not seen until later.


text:
All who are bound under slavery should consider their masters worthy of respect, so that God’s name and Christian beliefs won’t be defamed.


text:
Slaves who have Christian masters should not disrespect them because they are brothers. Instead they should serve them even better, because those who are benefiting from their service are fellow-believers they should love. Teach these instructions, and encourage people to follow them.<pb/>


text:
Those that teach different beliefs, and don’t listen to good counsel, particularly the words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the true teachings of God,


text:
are arrogant and don’t understand anything. They’re obsessed with speculation and philosophical debates which only lead to jealousy, arguments, malicious gossip and evil suspicions—


text:
the constant arguing of people whose minds are totally corrupt and who have lost the truth, thinking that they can profit financially from religion…<pb/>


text:
Those who are determined to become rich fall into the trap of temptation, following many foolish and damaging impulses.


text:
For the desire to be rich leads to many kinds of evil results. Some of those who longed for this have turned away from the truth, and have hurt themselves, experiencing a lot of pain.<pb/>


text:
But you as a man of God should run away from such things. You should seek to do what is right, practice true religion, and trust in God. Aim to love, to be patient, and gentle.


text:
Fight the good fight as you trust in God. Hold on tightly to the eternal life to which you were called. This is what you promised to do in front of many witnesses.<pb/>


text:
My charge to you before God the Life-giver, and before Christ Jesus who testified to the good news before Pontius Pilate,


text:
is to follow faithfully what you’ve been told<n>Literally, “keep the commandment.”</n> so you will be above criticism until our Lord Jesus Christ appears.


text:
At the right time Jesus will be revealed—he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings, and Lord of lords.


text:
He is the only one who is immortal, and lives in unapproachable light. No one has seen him or can see him—honor and eternal power is his! Amen.<pb/>


text:
Warn those who are rich in the present world not to become proud. Tell them not to place their trust in wealth that is so insecure but in God who so freely gives us everything for our enjoyment.


text:
Tell them to do good, and to become rich in doing good things, ready to share what they have, and to be generous.


text:
In this way they store up treasure that will provide a solid basis for the future, so that they can take hold of true life.<pb/>


text:
Timothy, take care of what’s been given to you. Don’t pay any attention to pointless chatter and arguments based on so-called “knowledge.”


text:
This letter comes from Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus chosen by God, sent to tell about the promise of real life<n>The Greek simply uses the word for life, but Paul is surely referring here to the abundant life that relates to eternal life (see 1 Tim. 1:16).</n> that is in Christ Jesus.


text:
I’m sending it to you Timothy, my dear son. May you have grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.<pb/>


text:
I’m always thinking of you and I’m so thankful to God, whom I serve as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience. I never forget to mention you in my prayers.


text:
I keep in mind your sincere trust in God, the same trust that that your grandmother Lois and mother Eunice also had—and I know that same trust continues in you.<pb/>


text:
That’s why I want to remind you to revitalize God’s gracious gift to you which you received when I placed my hands on you.<n>Paul clearly “laid his hands” on Timothy in a way to designate a special blessing.</n>


text:
So don’t be ashamed to tell others about our Lord, or be ashamed of me. Instead be ready to share in suffering for the good news as God gives you strength.


text:
He is the one who has saved us and called us to live a holy life—not through what we do, but by God’s own plan and through his grace.


text:
He gave this grace to us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, and is now revealed in the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus. He destroyed death, making life and immortality brilliantly clear through the good news.


text:
That’s also the reason I’m suffering all this, but I’m not ashamed, because I know whom I’ve trusted. I’m confident that he can look after what I’ve entrusted to him until the Day<n>“Day,” referring to the end-time Day of Judgment.</n> he returns.<pb/>


text:
You should follow the model of good advice that you learned from me, with an attitude of trust and love in Christ Jesus.


text:
You already know that everyone from Asia<n>The Roman province of Asia Minor (now in modern-day Turkey).</n> has abandoned me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes.


text:
May the Lord be kind to the family of Onesiphorus, because he often took care of me and wasn’t embarrassed about me being in prison.


text:
May the Lord grant him his blessing in the Day of Judgment. (Timothy, you’re very much aware of how much Onesiphorus did for me when he was in Ephesus).<pb/>


text:
Take what you heard me say in front of many witnesses and share it with those who are trustworthy, who then can teach others as well.


text:
A soldier on active duty doesn’t get caught up in the business of everyday life. He wants to please the one who enlisted him.


text:
Focus your mind on Jesus Christ, a descendant of David, who was raised from the dead. This is my good news,


text:
and I’m suffering imprisonment because of it as if I were a criminal—but the word of God is not imprisoned.


text:
Despite all this I’m willing to keep on going for the sake of God’s people<n>Literally, “the elect.”</n> so that they may gain the salvation of Christ Jesus that is eternal glory.


text:
This is what you should remind people about, telling them before God that they shouldn’t have meaningless arguments over words. To do this only harms those who listen.<pb/>


text:
Make sure you work hard so you can present yourself to God and gain his approval. Be a worker that doesn’t need to be embarrassed, using the word of truth correctly.


text:
Their teachings are as destructive as gangrene that destroys healthy flesh. Hymenaeus and Philetus are like this.


text:
They have deviated from the truth by saying that the resurrection has already happened, which has ruined some people’s trust in God.<pb/>


text:
But God’s solid, trustworthy foundation stone stands firm, with this inscription, “The Lord knows those who belong to him,” and “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord should stay away from all that is evil.”


text:
A stately home doesn’t just have cups and bowls<n>Literally, “vessels” or “utensils.” There seems to be no good English equivalent for “home containers.”</n> made of gold and silver. It also has ones made from wood and clay. Some are made for special use; others for more commonplace functions.


text:
So if you get rid of what is evil, you will become a cup or bowl that is holy and special, useful to the Lord, ready to do all that’s good.<pb/>


text:
Run away from anything that fires up the desires of youth. Run after what is right and trustworthy, run after love and peace along with those who are true and pure Christians.


text:
gently correcting opponents. Perhaps God may help them to come to repent and to understand the truth.


text:
In this way they may come to their senses and escape the devil’s trap. For he has captured them and made them do whatever he wants.<pb/>


text:
People will love themselves and love money. They will be boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, and without God in their lives.


text:
Heartless and unforgiving, they’ll commit slander and have no self-control. Brutal people who hate what’s good,


text:
they will betray others and be totally thoughtless. They are absurdly full of themselves, living so much for pleasure that they don’t care about loving God.


text:
They may give an outward impression of being religious, but they don’t actually believe it works. Stay away from these people!<pb/>


text:
They’re the kind of people that slip into homes and take control of vulnerable women who are burdened down by the guilt of sin and distracted by all kinds of desires.


text:
Just like Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, these teachers also oppose the truth. They are people with corrupted minds whose supposed trust in God is a lie.<n>Or “whose trust in God is counterfeit.”</n>


text:
But they won’t get far. Their stupidity will be obvious to everyone, just like that of Jannes and Jambres.<pb/>


text:
But you know all about my teaching and behavior, and my aim in life. You know my trust in God and my love. You know what I’ve had to endure—


text:
how I’ve been persecuted and what I’ve suffered. You know what happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—the troubles I had and how the Lord rescued me from all of them.<pb/>


text:
Of course it’s true that everyone who wants to live a life devoted to God in Christ Jesus will experience persecution,


text:
while wicked people and frauds will do well, going from bad to worse, deceiving others and deceiving themselves too.


text:
But you must hold onto the things you’ve learned and are convinced are true. You know who taught you.


text:
From your childhood you’ve known the holy Scriptures which can give you understanding for salvation by trusting in Christ Jesus.


text:
All Scripture inspired by God is useful for teaching, for confronting what is wrong, for setting us straight, and for telling us what is right.


text:
This is how God provides a thorough preparation for those who work for him to accomplish all that’s good.<pb/>


text:
This is what I instruct you to do before God and Christ Jesus who will judge the living and the dead when he comes to establish his kingdom.


text:
Speak God’s word whether it is convenient or not, tell people where they’re going wrong, warn them, encourage them. Do this with a great deal of patient teaching.<pb/>


text:
For the time is coming when people won’t bother to listen to true teaching. Instead they will be curious to listen to something different,<n>Literally, “having itching ears.”</n> and will surround themselves with teachers who’ll tell them what they want to hear.


text:
You need to keep your wits about you at all times. Put up with troubles, do the work of sharing the good news, fulfill your ministry.<pb/>


text:
Now there’s a prize reserved for me—the crown for a life lived according to what is right. The Lord, (who is the judge that always does what’s right), will give that to me on that Day.<n>See note on 1:12.</n> And not just to me, but to everyone who longs for his coming.<pb/>


text:
Demas has abandoned me because he loves the things of this world more, and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.


text:
When you come please bring the cloak I left behind with Carpus in Troas—and the books, especially the parchments.


text:
When it came to my first defense,<n>Referring to a judicial trial.</n> no-one stood up for me—everyone abandoned me. May they not be blamed for this.


text:
But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength so that I could declare the whole of the message so that all the foreigners<n>Literally, “Gentiles.”</n> could hear it. I was rescued out of the lion’s mouth!


text:
The Lord will rescue me from all the evil things done against me, and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. His is the glory forever and ever. Amen.


text:
Please try to come before winter. Eubulus sends his best wishes—and Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers and sisters too.


text:
This letter comes from Paul, servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. I’m sent to build up the trust of God’s chosen people and to share the knowledge of the truth that leads to lives lived for God.


text:
but which at the proper time he revealed through his word in the message which I was entrusted to give, following the command of God our Savior.


text:
This letter is sent to Titus, my true son through the trust in God we share in common. May you have grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.<pb/>


text:
The reason I left you in Crete was for you to organize what was still needed and to appoint elders in every town, as I told you.


text:
An elder must have a good reputation, the husband of one wife, and have children who believe and who are not accused of being wild or disobedient.


text:
As a leader for God, a head elder must have a good reputation and not be arrogant. He should not have a quick temper nor get drunk; he shouldn’t be violent or greedy for money.


text:
He should be hospitable, someone who loves what’s good and does what’s right. He should be living a life for God, self-controlled,


text:
and must be devoted to the trustworthy message as it’s taught. In this way he can encourage others through correct teaching, and be able to convince those who disagree.<pb/>


text:
For there are many rebels around who talk a lot of deceptive nonsense, especially from the circumcision group.<n>Referring to those Jewish believers who taught that circumcision was necessary for salvation.</n>


text:
Their talking must stop, these people who throw whole families into turmoil, teaching things that aren’t right for the sake of making money.


text:
As someone of their own people,<n>Not necessarily of the circumcision faction or any other dissident group, but someone from Crete.</n> a prophet, has stated, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts who are lazy, greedy people.”


text:
This is a true statement! Consequently give them a good telling-off so that they can have a healthy trust in God,


text:
To those who have clean minds everything is clean, but to those who are corrupt and refuse to trust in God, nothing is clean—both their minds and their consciences are corrupt.


text:
They claim to know God, but they prove this is false by what they do. They are detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good.<pb/>


text:
Older men shouldn’t drink; they should be respectable and sensible,<n>“Sensible,” or “thoughtful,” “self-controlled,” “decent.” Also in 2:5, 2:6, and 2:12.</n> with a healthy trust in God, loving and patient.


text:
Similarly older women ought to behave in a way that shows they live their lives for God. They shouldn’t destroy people’s reputations by what they say, and they shouldn’t be addicted to wine.


text:
They should be teachers of what’s good, teaching the young wives to love their husbands and their children.


text:
They are to be sensible and pure, working in their homes, doing good and listening to what their husbands tell them. In this way the word of God will not be spoken about badly.


text:
You should set an example of doing good in all areas of life: show integrity and seriousness in what you teach,


text:
sharing healthy beliefs that can’t be criticized. In this way those who are opposed will be ashamed of themselves and won’t have anything bad to say about us.


text:
Tell servants to always obey their masters. They should try to please them and not talk back to them.


text:
They shouldn’t steal things for themselves, but show they are completely trustworthy so that they may rightly represent the truth about God our Savior in every way.<pb/>


text:
It teaches us to reject a godless way of life with the desires of this world. Instead we should live thoughtful, self-controlled lives that are right before God in the present world


text:
as we look for the wonderful hope of the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.


text:
He gave himself for us, so that he could set us free from all our wickedness, and to make us clean for him—a people who belong to him, keen to do good.<pb/>


text:
This is what you should be teaching. You have the authority to encourage and to correct as necessary. Don’t let anyone look down on you.<pb/>


text:
Remind them to follow what rulers tell them to do, and to obey authorities. They should always be ready to do what is good.


text:
They should not speak badly about anyone, and they should not be argumentative. Tell them to show gentleness and kindness to everyone.


text:
For there was a time when we too were foolish and disobedient. We were deceived and slaves to various desires and pleasures. We lived wicked lives full of jealousy, hateful people hating one another.<pb/>


text:
not because of anything good that we’ve done, but because of his mercy. He did this through the cleansing of rebirth and renewal of the Holy Spirit,


text:
You can trust what I’m saying, and I want you to emphasize these instructions so that those who trust in God will think seriously about them and continue to do good. They are excellent and helpful for everyone.


text:
Avoid pointless discussions, and obsessions about ancestry. Don’t get into arguments, and avoid fights over the Jewish laws—they’re useless and don’t help at all.


text:
As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, try and come to me at Nicopolis because I’m planning to spend the winter there.


text:
Do all you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way so that they have everything they need.


text:
May our people learn the habit of doing good in providing for the daily needs of others. They need to be productive!


text:
Everyone here with me sends their greetings. Give our best wishes to those who love us, those who trust in God. May grace be with you all.


text:
This letter is sent from Paul, prisoner of Jesus Christ, and from our brother Timothy, to Philemon, our good friend and co-worker;


text:
I pray that you will put the generous nature of your trust in God into action as you recognize all the good things we share in Christ.


text:
Your love, my dear brother, has brought me much happiness and encouragement. You have revived the hearts of those of us who believe!<pb/>


text:
I’d have preferred to keep him here with me so that he could have helped me as you would have done while I am in chains for telling the good news.


text:
But I decided not do anything without your permission. I didn’t want you to be forced to do good, but to do so willingly.


text:
He’s not a servant anymore, because he’s more than a servant. He’s a specially-loved brother, particularly to me, and even more to you, both as a man and as a fellow-believer in the Lord.<n>Literally, “in the flesh and in the Lord.”</n><pb/>


text:
So if you consider me as a colleague working together with you for the Lord,<n>“A colleague working together with you for the Lord.” The word in Greek is “partner,” but this needs explaining because of modern usage.</n> welcome him as if you were welcoming me.


text:
I Paul am signing this with my own hand: I will repay you. Of course I won’t mention what you owe me, including your very self!


text:
I’m writing about this to you because I’m convinced you’ll do as I ask—in fact I know you’ll do even more than I’ve asked!


text:
In the meantime please have a room ready for me, for I hope to be able to return to see you soon in answer to your prayers.


text:
God, who in the past spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at various times and in many ways,


text:
has in these last days spoken to us through his Son. God appointed the Son heir of everything, and made the universe through him.


text:
The Son is the radiant glory of God, and the visible expression of his true character. He sustains everything by his powerful command. When he had provided cleansing for sin he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.


text:
God never said to any angel, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father,” or “I will be a Father to him, and he will be a Son to me.”<n>Hebrews is full of Old Testament quotations and allusions, some of which are not quoted exactly or are given in summary form. It is therefore difficult at times to identify the exact source or sources, and to avoid burdening the text with too many footnotes Old Testament quotes will not usually be given here.</n><pb/>


text:
Also, when he brought his firstborn<n>“Firstborn”: this term is not to be taken that there was a time when Jesus did not exist; it is used to identify rank rather than chronology.</n> Son into the world, he said, “Let all God’s angels worship him.”


text:
but about the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, lasts forever and ever, and justice is the ruling scepter of your kingdom.


text:
You love what is right, and hate what is lawless. That is why God, your God, has placed you above everyone else by anointing<n>The ancient practice of pouring oil over the head of a person was to indicate they were being chosen for a specific position, a high honor.</n> you with the oil of joy.”<pb/>


text:
“You, Lord, laid the foundations of the earth in the beginning. The heavens are the product of your hands.


text:
and you will roll them up like a cloak. Like clothes, they will be changed, but you never change, and your life never ends.”<n>Literally, “your years never fail.”</n>


text:
But he never said to any angel, “Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies in subjection under your feet.”


text:
What are the angels? They are beings that serve, sent out to help those who will receive salvation.<pb/>


text:
If the message the angels brought was trustworthy, and every sin and disobedient act brings its own consequence,<n>Literally, “receives its reward.”</n>


text:
how will we escape if we don’t pay attention to this great salvation that the Lord first announced, and then we had confirmed to us by those who heard him.


text:
God also testified through signs and miracles, by acts that show his power, and by the gifts of the Holy Spirit, given as he chose.<pb/>


text:
But as it’s been said, “What are human beings that you should worry about them? What is a son of man<n>“Son of man”: in normal use means just a human being; however Jesus applied this generic term to himself.</n> that you should care about him?


text:
You set him a little lower than the angels; you crowned him with glory and honor, and placed him over all your creation.<n>Instead of just referring to humanity, this can also refer to Jesus: “You made him less than the angels for a while, and then you crowned him with glory and honor.” The whole passage can be seen in this dual way, referring to Jesus as the son of man, both representative and Savior of humanity.</n>


text:
You gave him authority over everything.”<n>Again this can apply to humanity, God giving authority over the creatures as mentioned in Genesis 1, or it can apply to the authority of Jesus as Lord.</n> Nothing was left out when God gave him authority over everything. However we see that not everything is subject to his authority yet.<pb/>


text:
But we see Jesus, placed a little lower than the angels, through the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor. Through God’s grace Jesus experienced death for everyone.<pb/>


text:
It was appropriate that God, who creates and maintains everything, should bring many of his children to glory, and to completely prepare through suffering the one who leads them to salvation.


text:
For both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy belong to the same family.<n>Literally, “all from one.”</n> That’s why he doesn’t hesitate to call them “brothers,”


text:
saying “I will announce your name to my brothers; I will praise you among your people when they meet together.”<n>“Meet together”: the word is “ecclesia” which eventually came to mean “church.”</n>


text:
Also: “I will place my trust in him,” and “Here I am, together with the children God has given to me.”<pb/>


text:
Because the children share flesh and blood in common, he shared in this in the same way so that through death he could destroy the one that had the power of death—the devil—


text:
That’s why it was necessary for him to become like his brothers in everything, so that he could become a merciful and trustworthy high priest in the things of God, to forgive his people’s sins.


text:
So, my brothers and sisters who live for God and who share in this heavenly calling, we need to think carefully about Jesus—the one we say is sent by God,<n>Literally, “apostle.”</n> and is the High Priest.


text:
He was faithful to God in the work he was chosen to do, just like Moses was faithful to God in God’s house.<n>The word “house” here means more than the building: it refers to the members of the house, the household, the family.</n>


text:
But Jesus deserves much greater glory than Moses, in the same way that the builder of a house deserves more credit than the house.


text:
As a servant, Moses was faithful in God’s house. He provided evidence of what would be announced later.


text:
But Christ is a son, in charge of God’s house. And we are God’s house as long as we hold on with confidence to the hope we boast we believe in.<pb/>


text:
don’t harden your hearts<n>“Harden your hearts,” meaning to become stubborn or obstinate.</n> like the time you rebelled against him, when you tested him in the wilderness.


text:
Your fathers put me through it, trying my patience, and they saw the evidence I gave them for forty years.<pb/>


text:
“That generation made me angry<n>As always, God uses human terms. We should not understand God as being angry as we are, especially when it comes to “losing our temper” and acting in unloving or irrational ways. The same comment applies in 3:11.</n> and so I said, ‘They’re always mistaken in what they think, and they don’t know me or what I’m doing.’


text:
So in my frustration I vowed, ‘They shall not enter my rest.’”<n>“Rest.” This concept is developed more in chapter 4 and is related to the Sabbath, the Promised Land, and God’s invitation to come to him. While it is not the easiest of phrases, “entering rest” is perhaps the best translation since it retains the basis which is to be developed later, and includes all the various allusions.</n><pb/>


text:
Brothers and sisters, make sure that none of you has an evil mindset that’s given up trusting in the God of life.


text:
Encourage each other every day while you still have “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and become hard-hearted.


text:
For we are partners with Christ as long as we hold on to our confidence in God from beginning to end.<pb/>


text:
As Scripture says, “If you hear what God is saying to you today, don’t harden your hearts like the time you rebelled against him.”


text:
Who was it that rebelled against God, even though they heard what he said? Wasn’t it all those who were led out of Egypt by Moses?


text:
Who was God upset with for forty years? Wasn’t it those who sinned, those who were buried in the desert?


text:
Who was God speaking of when he vowed they should not enter into his rest? Wasn’t it those who disobeyed him?


text:
Therefore let’s take care to make sure that even though God has given us his promise of entering his rest, none of you miss out!


text:
For we’ve heard the good news just like they did, but it didn’t help them because they didn’t accept and trust in what they heard.


text:
However those of us who trust in God ‘have’ entered into that rest God mentioned when he said, “In my frustration I vowed, ‘They shall not enter my rest.’” (This is so even though God’s plans were already complete when he created the world).


text:
Regarding the seventh day there’s a place in Scripture that says, “God rested on the seventh day from all his work.”


text:
God’s rest is still there for some to enter, even though those who previously heard the good news failed to enter because of disobedience.


text:
So God again sets a day—today—saying a long time later through David<n>Referring to Psalm 95:7.</n> as he did before, “If you hear what God is saying to you today, don’t harden your hearts.”


text:
As a result we should try hard to enter that rest so nobody falls through following the same bad example of disobedience.


text:
For God’s word is alive and effective, sharper than any twin-edged sword, so penetrating it separates life and breath,<n>Greek “psuche” and “pneuma,” sometimes translated “soul” and “spirit,” though it is hard to understand the meaning since in common thought there is no difference between “soul” and “spirit.” The translation of “life” and “breath” is employed since it is considered that this better expresses the original thought.</n> bone joints and their marrow, judging the thoughts and intentions of the mind.


text:
No living being is hidden from his sight; everything is exposed and visible to the one we’re accountable to.<pb/>


text:
Since we have such a great high priest who has ascended to heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us make sure we hold on to what we say we believe.


text:
For the high priest we have isn’t one who doesn’t sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who was tempted in all the ways we are, but did not sin.


text:
So we should go confidently to God on his throne of grace so we can receive mercy, and discover grace to help us when we really need it.<pb/>


text:
Every high priest is chosen from the people and is appointed to work for the people as they relate to God. He presents to God both their gifts and sacrifices for their sins.


text:
The high priest understands how ignorant and deluded people feel because he also experiences the same kind of human weaknesses.


text:
No one can take the position of high priest for himself; he must be chosen by God, just like Aaron was.


text:
In just the same way Christ did not honor himself by becoming high priest. It was God who said to him, “You are my Son. Today I have become your Father.”


text:
Jesus, while he was here in human form, prayed and appealed with loud cries and tears to God, the one who was able to save him from death. Jesus was heard because of his respect for God.


text:
Even though he was God’s Son, Jesus learned practically the meaning of obedience through suffering.<n>The usual translation that Jesus “learned obedience through suffering” could suggest that Jesus was not originally obedient, or that suffering was necessary in order for him to learn—both rather strange ideas to place on Jesus, the pre-existing Son of God.</n>


text:
When his experience was complete,<n>Avoiding the term “having been made perfect,” which in the minds of some might suggest he wasn’t perfect in the first place.</n> he became the source of eternal salvation to everyone who does what he says,


text:
We have much to say about Jesus, and it’s hard to explain because you don’t seem able to understand!


text:
By now you should have had enough time to become teachers, but you need someone to teach you the fundamentals, the first principles of God’s word. It’s like you need to go back to baby milk instead of solid food!


text:
Solid food is for grown-ups—those who by always using their brains have learned to tell the difference between good and evil.<pb/>


text:
So let’s not get stuck on the basic teachings about Christ, but let’s progress to a more mature understanding. We don’t need to go over again the ideas of repenting from what we used to do, about trusting in God—


text:
or teachings about baptism, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.


text:
It’s impossible for those who once understood and experienced God’s heavenly gift—who shared in receiving the Holy Spirit,


text:
and then completely abandon God, for them to be brought back to repentance once more. They themselves have crucified the Son of God all over again and publicly humiliated him.


text:
But land that only produces weeds and thorns is worthless, and is about to be condemned. In the end all that can be done is to burn it.<pb/>


text:
God wouldn’t be so unjust as to forget what you’ve done and the love you’ve shown for him by the care you’ve shown for fellow-believers—something you’re still doing.


text:
We want each of you to show the same kind of commitment, confident in God’s hope until it’s fulfilled.


text:
Don’t be spiritually lazy, but follow the example of those who through trusting in God and patience inherit what God has promised.


text:
When God gave his promise to Abraham he could swear by no one greater so he took an oath on himself,


text:
People swear on things that are greater than they are, and when they have some dispute the oath is taken as the final word on the matter.


text:
That’s why God wanted to demonstrate more clearly to those who would inherit the promise that he would never ever change his mind.


text:
So by these two actions<n>That is, the promise and the oath.</n> that can’t be changed, and since it’s impossible for God to lie, we can have total confidence, having run for safety to take hold of the hope God presented to us.


text:
This hope is our spiritual anchor—it’s both certain and reliable, and it takes us past the curtain to the presence of God.


text:
That’s where Jesus went in on our behalf, because he had become a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.<pb/>


text:
Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of the Most High God. He met Abraham who was returning from defeating the kings and blessed him.


text:
Abraham gave him a tithe of all that he had won. Melchizedek’s name means “king of right” while king of Salem means “king of peace.”


text:
We don’t have any information about his father or his mother or his family tree. We don’t know when he was born or when he died. Like the Son of God he continues as a priest forever.<pb/>


text:
Think how great this man was for Abraham the patriarch to give him a tithe of what was won in battle.


text:
Yes, the sons of Levi who are priests were commanded by the law to receive a tithe from the people, their brothers and sisters, who are descended from Abraham.


text:
But Melchizedek who doesn’t share their ancestry received tithes from Abraham, and blessed the one who had God’s promises.


text:
In the one case tithes are received by men who die, but in the other by one who is said to be living.


text:
So you could say that Levi, the one who receives tithes, has paid tithes through being a descendant of Abraham,


text:
for he was yet to be born from his father<n>Literally, “in his father’s loins.”</n> when Melchizedek met Abraham.<pb/>


text:
Now if perfection could have been achieved through the priesthood of Levi (for that’s how the law was received), what was the need for another priest to come following the order of Melchizedek, and not following the order of Aaron?


text:
The one we’re talking about comes from a different tribe, a tribe that has never provided priests to serve at the altar.


text:
It’s clear that our Lord is a descendant of Judah, and Moses said nothing about priests coming from this tribe.


text:
and who didn’t become a priest by virtue of his human ancestry but by the power of a life that cannot be ended.


text:
(for the law didn’t make anything perfect). But now it’s been replaced by a better hope by which we can come close to God.


text:
This<n>Referring to the new way of approaching God.</n> was not without an oath, even though those who become priests do so without an oath.


text:
But he became a priest with an oath because God told him, “The Lord has taken a solemn vow and will not change his mind: You are a priest forever.”


text:
This is how Jesus became the guarantee of an agreed relationship with God<n>“An agreed relationship with God.” This translates a single word in Greek that has traditionally been translated as “covenant.” However the word “covenant” does not normally occur in everyday English and so has become a “theological” word. Much has been written about this concept and the terms used, and “covenant” has often been retained as there does not seem to be an effective way of explaining what is meant here. The covenant concept is extensively developed in chapters 8 and 9. Problems exist with alternative words. The word “contract” can mean the result of bargaining, which is not the case here. Similarly “treaty” or “agreement” when seen in human terms may refer to mutual negotiations. But here the word refers to something that is God’s initiative, and certainly is not between equals. Perhaps a better concept is “a promise that is agreed to with corresponding obligations,” but such wording would be even more cumbersome.</n> that is so much better.<pb/>


text:
As a result he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, living always to plead their case on their behalf.<pb/>


text:
He is exactly the high priest we need: holy and without fault, pure and separate from sinners, and given a place in the highest heavens.


text:
Unlike those human high priests, he doesn’t need to offer a daily sacrifice for his sins and then the sins of the people. He did this once, and for everyone, when he offered himself.


text:
The law appoints imperfect men as high priests, but God gave his solemn vow after the law, and appointed his Son, perfect forever.<pb/>


text:
The main point of what we’re saying is this: We have just such a high priest who is seated at the right hand of God, who sits in majesty on his throne in heaven.


text:
He serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle that was set up by the Lord and not by human beings.


text:
Since it’s the responsibility of every high priest to offer gifts and sacrifices, this high priest must also have something to offer.<pb/>


text:
Now if he was here on earth, he wouldn’t be a priest at all, because there are already priests to present the offerings that the law requires.


text:
The place they serve is a copy, a mere shadow of what is in heaven. That’s what God told Moses when he was going to set up the tabernacle: “Be careful to make everything according to the blueprint you were shown on the mountain.”<pb/>


text:
But Jesus has been given a far better ministry just as he is the one who mediates a far better agreed relationship between us and God, which is based on much better promises.


text:
Pointing out their failings,<n>Making it clear that the failure of the “first covenant” was not due to a faulty agreement but that God’s people did not live up to their responsibilities under the agreement.</n> God told his people, “Pay attention,’ says the Lord, because the days are coming when I will make a new agreement relating to the house of Israel and the house of Judah.


text:
This will not be like the promised agreement I made with their ancestors when I led them by the hand out of the land of Egypt. For they didn’t keep their part of the agreed relationship, so I gave up on them, says the Lord.<pb/>


text:
“The relationship I promise to the house of Israel is this: After that time, says the Lord, I will place my laws in their minds, and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.


text:
No one will need to teach his neighbor, and no one will need to teach anyone in their family, telling them, ‘You ought to know the Lord.’ For everyone will know me, from the smallest to the greatest.


text:
By saying, “A new agreed relationship,” he makes the first agreement out-of-date. The one that’s old and worn out has almost disappeared.<pb/>


text:
The first room in the tabernacle housed the candlestick, the table, and the sacred bread. This was called the Holy Place.


text:
This contained the golden altar of incense, the gold-covered “agreement chest.”<n>a. Traditionally translated “ark of the covenant,” a wooden box symbolizing the place of meeting, reconciliation, and agreement between God and his people.</n> Inside this were the golden pot containing manna, Aaron’s rod that had produced buds, and the stone inscriptions of the agreement.<n>b. Usually believed to be the stone inscriptions of the ten commandments.</n>


text:
Above this were the glorious angel cherubim covering the place of reconciliation. We can’t discuss all of this in detail now.<pb/>


text:
Once all of this had been set up, the priests would go in regularly to the first room of the tabernacle to perform their duties.


text:
But only the high priest went into the second room, and only once a year. Even then he had to make a sacrifice involving blood,<n>Blood is a frequent theme in the latter part of Hebrews. It is a shorthand symbol for life, and the shed blood of death, and while the original context of the sacrificial system is certainly literal, its use in Hebrews when applied to Christ is primarily as a symbol of what he accomplished by his life, death, and resurrection.</n> which he offered for himself and for the people’s sins of ignorance.<pb/>


text:
By this the Holy Spirit indicated that the way into the true Most Holy Place hadn’t been revealed while the first tabernacle still existed.<n>The meaning of this statement is the subject of much debate. It could be generally concluded that in the light of the new revelation of God through Jesus that is the focus of the New Testament and particularly the Book of Hebrews that this passage is referring to Jesus as the full revelation of God, providing “access” to him, and that this had not happened under the old system (reference Jesus’ statement in John 14:6).</n>


text:
This is an illustration for us in the present, showing us that the gifts and sacrifices that are offered can’t make the worshiper’s conscience clear.


text:
They’re just religious regulations—about food and drink, and various ceremonies involving washing—which were put in place until the time of God’s new way of relating to him.<pb/>


text:
Christ has come as a high priest of all the good experiences we now have. He went into the greater, more complete tabernacle that wasn’t made by human hands—not part of this created world.


text:
He didn’t enter through the blood of goats and calves, but through his own blood. He entered once, for all time, into the Most Holy Place, setting us free forever.<pb/>


text:
For if the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a cow sprinkled on those who are ritually unclean make the body ceremonially clean,


text:
how much more does the blood of Christ—who offered himself in his sinless life to God through the eternal Spirit—clean your consciences from your past sinful lives so you can serve the living God?<pb/>


text:
This is why he is the mediator of a new agreed relationship. Since a death has occurred to set them free from the sins committed under the first agreed relationship, now those who are called can receive the promise of an eternal inheritance.


text:
A will is only valid when there’s been a death—and is never applied while the person who made it is still alive.


text:
After Moses had given all the commandments of the law to everyone, he took the blood of calves and goats, and together with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, sprinkled the book<n>The book of the law.</n> itself and all the people.


text:
He said to them, “This is the blood of the agreed relationship that God has told you he wants with you.”


text:
According to ceremonial law, almost everything is made clean with blood, and without shedding blood nothing is made ritually free from the stain of sin.


text:
So if the copies of what is in heaven needed to be cleansed in this way, the things in heaven needed cleansing by better sacrifices.<pb/>


text:
For Christ hasn’t entered a Most Holy Place constructed by human beings that is only a pattern of the original. He has entered heaven itself, and now appears on our behalf, speaking for us in God’s presence.


text:
This was not to repeatedly offer himself, like a high priest has to enter the Most Holy Place year after year, offering blood that is not his own.


text:
Otherwise Christ would have had to suffer many times since the creation of the world. No: just this one time at the end of the present age he came to remove sin by sacrificing himself.


text:
so too for Christ—having been sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people, he will come again, not to deal with sin, but to save those who wait for him.<pb/>


text:
The law is just a shadow of the good that was to come, and not the actual reality. So it can never through the repeated sacrifices offered year after year make right those who come to worship God.


text:
Otherwise wouldn’t the sacrifices have stopped being offered? If the worshipers had been made clean once and for all, they wouldn’t have had guilty consciences any longer.


text:
That’s why when Christ<n>The original simply says “he;” Christ is inferred from 9:24, 28.</n> came into the world he said, “You didn’t want sacrifices or offerings, but you did prepare a body for me.


text:
Then I said, ‘God, see I’ve come to do what you want me to do, just as it says about me in the book.’”<n>Actually “the heading of a scroll,” meaning the Scriptures.</n>


text:
As mentioned above, “You didn’t want sacrifices or offerings, and burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin gave you no pleasure,” (even though they are offered in accordance with the law’s requirements).


text:
Then he said, “See, I’ve come to do what you want.” He gets rid of the first agreement so he can set up the second,


text:
through which we all are made holy through Jesus Christ offering his body once and for all time.<pb/>


text:
Every priest officiates in the services day after day, again and again offering the same sacrifices that can never remove sins.


text:
But this Priest, after he had offered a single sacrifice for sins that lasts forever, sat down at God’s right hand.


text:
“This is the agreement that I will make with them later on, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them in their minds.” Then he adds,


text:
Now we have the confidence, brothers and sisters, to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus.


text:
Through his life and death,<n>“His life and death”: Literally, “his body.”</n> he opened up a brand-new, living way through the veil to God.


text:
let us come close to God with sincere minds, totally trusting in him. Our minds have been sprinkled to purify them from our evil way of thinking, and our bodies have been washed clean by pure water.


text:
So let us hold onto the hope we’re telling others about, never hesitating, for God who promised is trustworthy.


text:
We should not give up meeting together, as some have done. In fact we should be encouraging one another, especially as you see the End<n>Literally, “the Day.”</n> approaching.<pb/>


text:
For if we deliberately go on sinning after we’ve understood the truth, there’s no longer any sacrifice for sins.


text:
All that’s left is fear, expecting the impending judgment and the terrible fire that destroys those who are hostile to God.


text:
Someone who rejects the law of Moses is put to death without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses.


text:
How much worse do you think someone will deserve their punishment if they have trampled underfoot the Son of God, if they have disregarded the blood that sealed the agreement and makes us holy, treating it as ordinary and trivial, and have abused the Spirit of grace?


text:
We know God, and he said, “I will make sure that justice is done; I will give people what they deserve.” He also said, “The Lord will judge his people.”


text:
Just remember the past when, after you understood the truth,<n>Literally, “were enlightened.”</n> you experienced a great deal of suffering.


text:
Sometimes you were made a spectacle of, being insulted and attacked; at other times you stood in solidarity with those who were suffering.


text:
You showed your sympathy for those in prison, and took it cheerfully when your possessions were confiscated, knowing that you have something better coming that will truly last.<pb/>


text:
Those who do what is right will live by trusting in God, and if they draw back from their commitment, I won’t be pleased with them.”<n>-38. This is a rather free reference to Isaiah 26:20 and Habakkuk 2:3-4. Clearly the one promising to return is viewed in this context as Jesus.</n>


text:
But we’re not the kind of people who draw back and end up being lost. We are those who trust in God to save us.<pb/>


text:
Through our trust in God we understand that the whole universe was created by God’s command, that what can be seen was made out of what cannot be seen.<pb/>


text:
By trusting him Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain, and as a result God identified him as someone who lived right. God showed this by accepting his offering. Even though Abel has been dead for a long time, he still speaks to us through what he did.


text:
By trusting God Enoch was taken to heaven so he didn’t experience death. He couldn’t be found on earth because God took him to heaven. Before this happened he was known as someone God was pleased with.<pb/>


text:
You can’t expect God to be pleased with you if you don’t trust him! Anyone who comes to God must believe that God exists, and that he rewards those who are searching for him.<pb/>


text:
Noah trusted God, and was warned by him about things that had never happened before. Because Noah paid serious attention to what God said, he constructed an ark to save his family. By trusting God, Noah showed that the world was wrong, and received the reward of being set right by God.<pb/>


text:
Through trusting God Abraham obeyed when God called him to go to the land God was going to give him. He left, not knowing where he was going.


text:
Trusting in God he lived in the promised land—but as a foreigner, living in tents, together with Isaac and Jacob who shared with him in inheriting the same promise.


text:
For Abraham was looking forward to a city built on foundations that last, with God as its builder and maker.<pb/>


text:
By her trust in God even Sarah<n>Some versions say Abraham.</n> herself was given the ability to conceive a child though she was too old, because she trusted God who had made the promise.


text:
That is why the descendants of Abraham, (who was as good as dead!), became as numerous as the stars of heaven, as countless as the sand of the sea-shore.<pb/>


text:
They all died still trusting in God. Though they didn’t receive the things God promised, they were still looking for them as it were from a distance and welcomed them, acknowledging that on this earth they were foreigners, people just passing through.<pb/>


text:
But they’re looking for a better country instead, a heavenly country. That is why God isn’t disappointed with them, and is happy to be called their God, for he has built a city for them.<pb/>


text:
Abraham trusted God when he was tested and offered Isaac to God. Abraham, who had accepted God’s promises, was still ready to offer to God his only son,<n>Of course Isaac was not literally Abraham’s only son; the term in Greek indicates primacy.</n>


text:
Abraham had thought it through and decided that God could bring Isaac back to life from the dead. In a sense that’s what did happen—Abraham received Isaac back from the dead.<pb/>


text:
Trusting in God, Jacob as he was dying blessed each of Joseph’s sons, and worshiped God, leaning on his staff.


text:
Trusting in God, Joseph too, when his own death approached, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites, and gave instructions about what to do with his bones.


text:
Trusting in God, Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born. They recognized he was a special child. They weren’t afraid to go against what the king had commanded.<pb/>


text:
Trusting in God, Moses, when he grew up, refused to be known as the adopted son of Pharaoh’s daughter.


text:
Instead he chose to share in the sufferings of God’s people rather than to enjoy the temporary pleasures of sin.


text:
He counted the rejection he experienced from following Christ to be of far greater value than the wealth of Egypt—because he was focused on the reward to come.<pb/>


text:
Trusting in God, he left Egypt and wasn’t scared of Pharaoh’s anger—he kept going with his eyes fixed on the invisible God.


text:
Trusting in God he observed the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, so that the destroying angel would not touch the Israelites.<n>“Angel” and “Israelites” supplied by context.</n>


text:
Trusting in God the Israelites crossed the Red Sea as if it were dry land. When the Egyptians attempted to do the same they were drowned.


text:
Trusting in God, the Israelites marched around the walls of Jericho for seven days, and the walls fell down.


text:
Trusting in God, Rahab the prostitute didn’t die with those who rejected God, because she had welcomed the Israelite spies in peace.<pb/>


text:
What other examples should I give? I don’t have time to talk about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah; about David, Samuel, and the prophets.


text:
Because of their trust in God they conquered kingdoms, did what was right, received God’s promises, shut the mouths of lions,


text:
put out blazing fires, escaped being killed by the sword, were weak but made strong, did mighty deeds in war, and routed enemy armies.<pb/>


text:
Women were given their dead family members back through resurrection. Others were tortured, refusing to compromise and be pardoned, because they wanted to be part of a better resurrection.


text:
Some were stoned, cut in pieces, tempted, killed by the sword. Some dressed in sheepskins and goatskins: destitute, oppressed, and mistreated.


text:
The world was not worthy to have such people who wandered in the deserts and mountains, living in caves and holes in the ground.<pb/>


text:
For that reason, since we are surrounded by such a great crowd of people who gave evidence of their trust in God, let’s get rid of everything that holds us back, the seductive sins that trip us up, and let’s keep on running the race placed before us.


text:
We should keep on looking to Jesus, the one who begins and completes our trust in God. Because of the joy ahead of him Jesus endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God’s throne.


text:
Think about Jesus who endured such hostility from sinful people so you don’t grow tired and become discouraged.<pb/>


text:
Have you forgotten<n>Or “You have forgotten.”</n> God’s appeal to you when he reasons with you as his children? He says, “My child, don’t treat the Lord’s discipline lightly, and don’t give up when he corrects you either.


text:
Be patient as you experience God’s discipline because he is treating you as his children. What child doesn’t experience a father’s discipline?


text:
If you are not disciplined, (which everyone has experienced), then you are illegitimate and not true children.


text:
For if we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we even more be subject to the discipline of our spiritual Father which leads to life?


text:
They disciplined us for a short while as they thought appropriate, but God does so for our benefit in order that we can share his holy character.


text:
When it happens, all discipline seems painful and not something to be happy about. But later on it produces peace in those who have been trained in this way so that they do what is right.<pb/>


text:
Make straight paths to walk on, so that those who are crippled won’t lose their way, but will be healed.


text:
Do your best to live in peace with everybody, and look for holiness—if you don’t have this you won’t see the Lord.


text:
Make sure that none of you lack God’s grace, in case some cause of bitterness arises to give trouble and end up corrupting many of you.


text:
Make sure there’s nobody who is sexually immoral, or irreligious, like Esau was. He sold his birthright for a single meal.


text:
You remember that even when he wanted to receive the blessing later on he was refused. Even though he really tried, and cried hard, Esau couldn’t change what he had done.<pb/>


text:
You haven’t arrived at a physical mountain<n>Clearly the reference in context is to Mount Sinai.</n> that can be touched, that burned with fire, to a stormy place of black darkness,


text:
where the sound of a trumpet and a voice speaking was heard—and those who heard the voice begged never to hear it speak to them again.


text:
For they couldn’t take what they were told to do, such as, “Even if a farm animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned to death.”


text:
But you have arrived at Mount Zion, the city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem, with its thousands and thousands of angels.


text:
You have come to the church of the firstborn whose names are written down in heaven, to God, the judge of everyone, and to those good people whose lives are complete.


text:
You have come to Jesus, who shares with us the new agreed relationship, to the sprinkled blood that means more than that of Abel.<n>Probably meaning that Jesus shed his blood in a spirit of forgiveness, while in the context of the first murder God references Abel’s blood as calling out for vengeance.</n>


text:
Make sure you don’t reject the one who is speaking! If they didn’t escape when they rejected God on earth, it is even more certain that we won’t escape if we turn away from God who warns us from heaven!


text:
Back then God’s voice shook the earth, but his promise is now: “One more time I’m going to shake not only the earth, but heaven too.”


text:
This expression, “one more time,” indicates that all creation that is shaken is removed so that everything that is not shaken may remain.<pb/>


text:
Since we’re receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us have a gracious attitude, so we can serve God in a way that pleases him, with reverence and respect.


text:
Don’t forget to show love for strangers too, because by doing so some have welcomed angels without knowing it.


text:
Remember those who are locked up in prison as if you were imprisoned with them. Remember those who are mistreated as if you were physically suffering with them.<pb/>


text:
Everyone should honor marriage. Husbands and wives should be faithful to each other.<n>Literally, “the bed undefiled.”</n> God will judge adulterers.


text:
Don’t love money; be content with what you have. God himself has said, “I’ll never let you down; I’ll never give up on you.”


text:
That’s why we can confidently say, “The Lord is the one who helps me, so I won’t be afraid. What can anyone do to me?”


text:
Remember your leaders who explained God’s word to you. Look again at the results of their lives, and imitate their trust in God.


text:
Don’t get distracted by different kinds of strange teachings. It’s good for the mind to be convinced by grace, not by laws concerning what we eat.<n>The word here is simply “food,” but the following context indicates that it refers to the ceremonial law and what kinds of food were permissible.</n> Those who followed such laws didn’t gain anything.


text:
The carcasses of the animals, whose blood is carried by the high priest into the most holy place as an offering for sin, are burned outside the camp.


text:
In the same way Jesus also died outside the city gate so that he could make God’s people holy through his own blood.


text:
For we don’t have a permanent city to live in here, we’re looking for the home that is still to come.


text:
So let us through Jesus always offer a sacrifice of praise to God—this means speaking well of God, declaring his character.<n>Literally, “name,” which frequently refers to the nature and character of the person described. This is found in such English expressions as “having a good name,” i.e. character.</n>


text:
And don’t forget to do what is good, and to share with others what you have, for God is pleased when you make such sacrifices.


text:
Follow your leaders, and do what they tell you, for they are watching out for you and are accountable. Act in such a way that they can do this happily—and not with sadness, for that wouldn’t help you!<pb/>


text:
Please pray for us. We’re convinced we have acted in good conscience, always wanting to do what’s right in every situation.


text:
Now may the God of peace who raised our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, from the dead, with the blood of an eternal agreement—


text:
may he provide you with all that is good so you can do his will. May he work in us, doing everything that pleases him, through Jesus Christ—glory to him forever and ever. Amen.<pb/>


text:
I want to encourage you, brothers and sisters, to pay attention to what I’ve written to you in this short letter.


text:
You should know that Timothy has been set free. If he gets here soon, I will come with him to see you.


text:
Give my greetings to all your leaders, and to all the believers there. The believers here in Italy send their greetings.


text:
This letter comes from James, servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is sent to the twelve tribes scattered abroad<n>Referring to the twelve tribes of Israel, of course.</n>. Best wishes to you!<pb/>


text:
Let your endurance become as strong as possible, so that you will be completely mature, without any shortcomings.<pb/>


text:
But when you ask, remember to trust in God—don’t have any doubts. Someone who doubts is like the crashing waves of the sea, tossed about and driven by the wind.


text:
while the rich should “boast” in the humble position they now have<n>, 10. Referring primarily to the way they are viewed by God; not necessarily their position in society…</n>, since they will fade away like flowers in the field.


text:
For the sun rises along with the blistering wind and scorches the grass. The flowers fall and their beauty is marred. Everything the rich achieve will fade in just the same way.<pb/>


text:
Happy is anyone who patiently endures temptation, for when they’ve proved that they are trustworthy, they will receive the crown of life which God promises to those who love him.


text:
Nobody should say when they’re tempted, “I’m being tempted by God.” For God is not tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone.


text:
All that’s good, every perfect gift, is from above, and comes down from the Father who made heaven’s lights. Unlike them he doesn’t change—he doesn’t vary or cause shadows<n>James seems to be referring to the varying movements of heavenly bodies and eclipses (shadows).</n>.


text:
He chose to give us new life through the word of truth, so that out of all his creation we would be very special to him<n>Usually thought to refer to God’s call and provision for us to be born again spiritually.</n>.<pb/>


text:
Remember this, my dear friends: everyone should be quick to listen but slow to speak, and slow to get angry,


text:
because human anger doesn’t reflect the good character of God<n>Literally, “achieve God’s righteousness.”</n>.


text:
So get rid of all that’s filthy and evil. Humbly accept the word that’s been implanted within you—for this is what can save you.


text:
If you just listen to the word, and don’t act on it, it’s like staring at your own face in a mirror.


text:
But if you look to the perfect law of freedom and follow it, not as someone who just listens and then forgets, but as someone who acts on it—then you will be blessed in what you do.


text:
If you think you’re religious, but don’t control what you say, you deceive yourself—your religion is pointless.


text:
In the eyes of our God and Father, religion that’s pure and genuine is to visit orphans and widows in their suffering, and to keep yourself from being contaminated by the world.<pb/>


text:
Imagine that a man comes into your synagogue wearing gold rings and fine clothes, and then a poor man comes in dressed in rags.


text:
If you pay special attention to the well-dressed man, and say, “Please sit here in a seat of honor,” while you say to the poor man, “Stand over there, or sit on the floor by my feet;”


text:
Listen, my dear friends: Didn’t God choose those who the world considers poor to be rich in their trust in him, and to inherit the kingdom he promised to those who love him?


text:
But you’ve treated the poor shamefully. Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you before the courts?


text:
Don’t they insult the honorable name<n>Usually understood to be the name of Jesus.</n> of the one who called you and to whom you belong?<pb/>


text:
If you really observe the royal law of Scripture: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” then you do well.


text:
God told you not to commit adultery, and he also told you not to kill. So if you don’t commit adultery, but you do kill, you’ve become a law-breaker.


text:
Anyone who doesn’t show mercy will be judged without mercy. Yet mercy wins out over judgment!<n>The exact meaning of this verse is debated, but the fundamental point is to emphasize the merciful character of God.</n><pb/>


text:
My friends, what’s the good of someone saying they trust in God when they don’t do what’s right? Can such “trust” save them?


text:
and you say to them, “Blessings on you! Stay warm and have a good meal!” and you don’t provide what they need to survive, what’s the good of that?


text:
By itself even your trust-based faith in God is dead and worthless if you don’t actually do what’s right.<pb/>


text:
Someone may argue, “You have your trust in God; I have my good deeds.” Well, show me your trust in God without good deeds, and I will show you my trust in God by my good deeds!


text:
You believe that God is one God? That’s great—but demons believe in God too, and they’re scared of him!


text:
Wasn’t our father Abraham made right<n>Or “shown to be right.”</n> by what he did—by offering his son Isaac on the altar?


text:
You notice that his trust in God worked together with what he did, and through what he did his trust in God was made complete.


text:
In this way scripture was fulfilled: “Abraham trusted God, and this was considered as him doing right, and he was called the friend of God.”<pb/>


text:
In the same way, wasn’t Rahab the prostitute made right by what she did when she looked after the messengers and then sent them away by a different road?


text:
Just as the body is dead without the spirit, trust in God is dead if you don’t do what’s right.<pb/>


text:
My friends, not many of you should become teachers, because you know that we who teach will have a heavier responsibility in the judgment.


text:
All of us make mistakes in many ways. Anyone who doesn’t make mistakes in what they say is truly a good person who can keep the whole body under control.


text:
We put bridles into the mouths of horses so that they’ll obey us, and we can direct them wherever we want.


text:
Look at ships as well: even though they’re very big and are driven along by strong winds, they’re steered by a very small rudder in the direction the pilot wants to go.<pb/>


text:
In just the same way the tongue is a very small part of the body, but it makes great boasts! Think how a big forest can be set on fire by a very small flame!


text:
And the tongue is a fire! The tongue is a world of evil among the parts of the body. It disgraces all you are as a person, and can burn down the whole of your life, since it is set on fire by Gehenna<n>Gehenna: the trash dump outside of Jerusalem where fires were used to burn the trash. The word is used symbolically as the endpoint for the wicked.</n>.


text:
We use the same tongue to bless our Lord and Father, as well as to curse people who are made in God’s image—


text:
My friends, a fig tree can’t produce olives, and a vine can’t produce figs, any more than a salt water spring can produce fresh water!<pb/>


text:
Who among you has wisdom and understanding? Let their good lives demonstrate what they do—doing what is right with wise kindness and consideration.<pb/>


text:
But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t boast about it and don’t lie against the truth.


text:
Wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition you’ll also find confusion and all kinds of evil practices.<pb/>


text:
However, wisdom that comes from above is first of all pure, and it also brings peace. It is kind and open to reason. It is full of mercy and produces good things. It is genuine and not hypocritical.


text:
Where do the fights and quarrels you’re having come from? Aren’t they due to the sensual passions that are in conflict within you?


text:
You burn with desire, but don’t get what you want. You kill for what you lust after, but don’t get what you’re looking for. You argue and you fight, but you don’t get anything, because you don’t pray for it.


text:
You pray, but don’t receive anything, because you ask with a wrong motive, wanting to spend what you’d receive on your selfish pleasures.


text:
You adulterous people! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world is hatred towards God? Those who want to be friends of the world make themselves enemies of God.<pb/>


text:
Do you think Scripture doesn’t mean what it says: that the spirit that he put in us is very jealous<n>Or “God has placed a spirit in us that is filled with strong desires.”</n>?


text:
But God gives us even more grace, as Scripture says: “God is against those who are arrogant, but gives grace to those who are humble.”


text:
Come close to God and he will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners. Purify your hearts, you people with divided loyalties.


text:
Friends, don’t speak badly of one another. Anyone who criticizes a fellow-believer and condemns<n>Or “judges.”</n>them, criticizes and condemns the law. If you condemn the law you’re not someone who keeps the law, because you’re sitting in judgment of it.


text:
There’s only one lawgiver and judge—the one who can either save or destroy you—so who are you to judge your neighbor?<pb/>


text:
Come on now!—you people who say, “Either today or tomorrow we’ll go to such-and-such a city, spend a year in business there, and make a profit.”


text:
You have no idea what will happen tomorrow! What’s your life like? It’s just a mist that appears for a little while, and then is gone.


text:
Your gold and your silver are corroded, and this corrosion will be evidence against you, eating away your flesh like fire. You hoarded up your wealth in these last days.


text:
Look, the wages of your farm workers that you cheated are crying out against you—the cries of the farm workers have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.


text:
You’ve enjoyed a life of luxury here on earth, full of self-indulgent pleasure, fattening yourselves up for the day of slaughter!


text:
Friends, be patient as you wait for the Lord’s return. Think of the farmer waiting patiently for the earth’s precious harvest as it grows with the early and later rains.


text:
My friends, don’t complain about each other, so you won’t be judged. Look, the judge is standing right at the door!


text:
Take the prophets as an example, my friends—see how they spoke in the Lord’s name as they suffered and waited patiently.


text:
Notice that we say that those who endure are blessed. You’ve heard about the patience of Job, and you’ve seen how the Lord brought this to a positive conclusion—for the Lord is full of compassion and mercy.<pb/>


text:
Above all, my friends, don’t swear. Not by heaven, not by earth, and not by any other kind of oath. Just let your yes be yes, and your no be no, so you won’t fall under condemnation.


text:
Are any of you suffering? You should pray. Are some of you cheerful? You should sing songs of praise.


text:
Are any of you sick? You should call for the church elders and have them pray over you, and anoint you with oil in the Lord’s name.


text:
Such a prayer, trusting in God, will heal those who are sick, and the Lord will make them well. If they’ve committed sins, they will be forgiven.


text:
Admit the wrongs you’ve done to each other, and pray for one another so that you’ll be healed. Earnest prayer from those who live right is very effective.


text:
Elijah was a man who had the same human nature as we do. He prayed earnestly that it wouldn’t rain, and it didn’t rain on the earth for three and a half years.


text:
let them know that whoever rescues a sinner from the error of their ways will save them from death, and will gain forgiveness for many sins.


text:
This letter comes from Peter, apostle of Jesus Christ, and is sent to God’s chosen people: exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia.


text:
You were chosen by God the Father in his wisdom, made a holy people by the Spirit who obey Jesus Christ and are sprinkled with his blood. May you have grace and peace more and more!<pb/>


text:
Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Through his great mercy we have been born again and given a living hope<n>Or “a hope that brings us life.”</n> through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.


text:
Through your trust in him, God will protect you by his power until salvation arrives—the salvation that is ready to be revealed at the last day.<pb/>


text:
These prove that your trust in God is genuine, just as fire is used to prove if gold is genuine—even though that too can be destroyed—and your faith is more valuable than gold! In this way your trust in God will be recognized and you will receive praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ appears.<pb/>


text:
You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you cannot see him now, you trust in him and you’re filled with wonderful, indescribable happiness.


text:
It was this salvation that the prophets searched for and investigated when they spoke of the grace that was prepared for you.


text:
They tried to find out when and how this would take place, for the Spirit of Christ inside them spoke clearly about Christ’s sufferings and glory to come.


text:
It was explained to them that they were not doing this for themselves, but for you—since what they spoke about you’ve now learned from those who shared the good news with you by the Holy Spirit that heaven sent. Even the angels are eager to find out about all this!<pb/>


text:
Make sure your minds are in gear. Be clear-headed. Fix your hope exclusively on the grace you’ll be given when Jesus is revealed.


text:
Live like children that do what they’re told. Don’t allow yourselves to be shaped by your former sinful desires when you didn’t know any better.


text:
Since you call him Father, and recognize he judges everyone impartially based on what they do, take your time here on earth seriously, respecting him.<pb/>


text:
You already know that you were not set free from your pointless way of living that you inherited from your forefathers by things that don’t have lasting value, like silver or gold.


text:
He was chosen before the world was created, but he was revealed in these last days<n>Or “at the end of time.”</n> for your benefit.


text:
Through him you trust in God who raised him from the dead, and glorified him, so that you could have confidence and hope in God.


text:
Now that you’ve dedicated yourselves by following the truth, love each other sincerely like a true family<n>Or “with brotherly love.”</n>.


text:
You’ve been born again, not the product of a mortal “seed,”<n>The emphasis here is that different “seeds” produce different kinds of “life.”</n> but immortal, through the living, eternal word of God.


text:
For: “All people are like grass, and all their glory like wildflowers. The grass withers and the flowers fall.


text:
But the word of the Lord remains forever.”<n>Isaiah 40:6-8.</n> This word is the good news that was explained to you.<pb/>


text:
So give up all the evil things that you do: all your dishonesty, hypocrisy, and jealousy, all the ways you speak badly about others.


text:
You should become like newborn babies who only want pure spiritual milk, so you can grow in salvation


text:
As you come to him—the living stone that people rejected as useless, but is chosen by God and precious to him—


text:
you also become like living stones, being built into a spiritual house. You are a holy priesthood that offers spiritual sacrifices that God welcomes through Jesus Christ.


text:
As Scripture<n>Isaiah 28:16.</n> says, “See! I’m setting in Zion its main cornerstone, specially-chosen and valuable. Whoever trusts in him will not be disappointed<n>Or “ashamed.”</n>.”


text:
He is very valuable to you who do trust. But for those who don’t, “The stone the builders rejected that became the main cornerstone”<n>Ps. 118:22.</n>


text:
is “The stone that trips you up and the rock that makes you fall.”<n>Isaiah 8:14.</n> People stumble over this message because they refuse to accept it—which for them is entirely predictable.<pb/>


text:
In complete contrast, you are a specially-chosen family, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God. Consequently you can reveal the wonderful things he’s done, calling you out of darkness into his marvelous light.


text:
In the past you were nobodies, but now you are God’s people. In the past you hadn’t received mercy, but now you have received mercy.<pb/>


text:
My friends, I’m pleading with you as foreigners and strangers<n>“Foreigners and strangers”—not seeing this world as home.</n> in this world not to give in to physical desires that are in conflict with what is spiritual.


text:
Be sure to act appropriately when you’re with non-Christians, so even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see the good things you do and glorify God when he comes<n>Literally, “day of visitation.”</n>.<pb/>


text:
Yes, you are free people! So don’t use your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but live as God’s servants.


text:
Respect everyone. Show your love to the community of believers. Have reverence for God. Respect the king.


text:
If you are a servant then submit to your master—not just those who are good and kind, but those who are harsh masters as well.


text:
However there’s no credit when you’re punished for doing something wrong. But if you suffer for doing what is right, and you put up with it, then God’s grace is with you.<pb/>


text:
In fact this is what you were called to do, because Christ suffered for you and gave you an example, so you should follow in his footsteps.


text:
and when he was badly treated, he didn’t retaliate. When he suffered, he didn’t threaten to take revenge. He simply placed himself in the hands of the one who always judges rightly.


text:
He took our sins on himself in his body on the cross, so that we could die to sin and live rightly. “By his wounds you are healed.”<n>Isaiah 53:5.</n>


text:
At one time you were like sheep who had lost their way, but now you’ve returned to the Shepherd—the one who watches over you.<pb/>


text:
Wives, accept your husbands’ authority in the same way, so that if some husbands refuse to accept the word, they may still be won over without words by the way you behave,


text:
instead let it come from within, the lasting attractiveness of a gentle and peaceful spirit on the inside. That’s what God values.


text:
This is how holy women of the past who put their confidence in God made themselves beautiful, yielding to their husbands,


text:
like Sarah who obeyed Abraham, and called him “lord.”<n>Or “master.” Today such formality in a marriage relationship would be unusual.</n> You are her daughters if you do what’s right and are not intimidated.<pb/>


text:
Husbands, in just the same way, be considerate to your wives as you live together with them. Though she may not be as strong as you are, you should honor her since she will inherit equally with you God’s gift of life. Make sure to do this so nothing will get in the way of your prayers.<pb/>


text:
Finally, you should all have the same attitude. Be sympathetic and love each other. Be compassionate, and humble.


text:
Don’t pay back evil for evil, or retaliate when you’re abused, instead you should give a blessing—because that’s what you were called to do, so you could gain a blessing yourself.


text:
Remember: “Those who want to love life, and to see good days, must refrain from speaking evil, and not tell lies.


text:
For God sees those who do right, and he hears their prayers, but he opposes those who do evil.”<n>Psalm 34:12-16.</n><pb/>


text:
For even if you suffer for doing what’s right, you’re still better off. Don’t be scared over what people threaten, don’t worry about it,


text:
just keep your mind focused on Christ as Lord. Always be ready to explain to anyone who asks you the reason for the hope that you have. Do this in a gentle and respectful way.


text:
Make sure your conscience is clear, so that if anyone makes accusations against you, they will be embarrassed for speaking badly about the good way you live your life in Christ.


text:
It’s certainly better to suffer for doing good, (if that’s what God wants), than to suffer for doing wrong!


text:
Jesus died because of sins, once and for all, the One completely true and right for those who are bad,<n>Literally, “the right for the unright.”</n> so that he could bring you to God. He was put to death in the body, but he came to life in the spirit.<pb/>


text:
He went to speak to those “imprisoned”<n>Or “imprisoned souls.” There has been much debate over this phrase. The same word used for “souls” should note the same word is used for the eight people in verse 20. Some understand those “imprisoned” as those people at the time of the Flood who were “held captive” by their sinfulness (see Gen. 6:5).</n>


text:
that refused to believe, when God patiently waited in the time of Noah while the ark was being built. Only a few—in fact eight people—were saved “through water.”


text:
This water symbolizes baptism that now saves you, not by washing off dirt from your body, but as a positive response to God that comes from a clear conscience. It is the resurrection of Jesus Christ that makes your salvation possible.


text:
Having ascended to heaven, he stands at God’s right hand, with angels, authorities, and powers placed under his control.<pb/>


text:
Since Christ suffered physically, you must prepare yourselves with the same attitude he had—for those who suffer physically have turned away from sin<n>This is a difficult verse, since clearly suffering does not mean sinlessness. The implication is that just as Christ suffered unjustly, when Christians suffer unjustly they take part in the experience of Christ.</n>.


text:
In the past you’ve spent enough time following the ways of the world: immorality, sexual indulgence, drunken orgies, partying, binge drinking, and revolting idol-worship.


text:
People think it’s strange that you don’t join them in this wild and excessive lifestyle anymore, so they curse at you. But they will have to explain what they’ve done to the One who is ready to judge the living and the dead.


text:
so that although they were rightly judged as far as being sinful human beings is concerned, they could live in the spirit as far as God is concerned.<pb/>


text:
Most of all, you should love one another very deeply, for love covers many of the wrong things people do.


text:
Whatever gift you’ve been given, share it with others among you, as people who wisely demonstrate God’s grace in all its different forms.


text:
Anyone who speaks should do so as though God is speaking through them. Anyone who wants to help others should do so through the strength that God gives, so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. May glory and power be his forever and ever. Amen.<pb/>


text:
My friends, don’t be alarmed at the “ordeals of fire”<n>Literally, “a burning to test you.”</n> you’re having, as if these were unexpected.


text:
Be happy to the extent that you share in Christ’s suffering, because when he appears in his glory, you will be incredibly happy!


text:
but if it’s as a Christian, then you don’t need to be ashamed. Instead praise God that you’re called by that name!<pb/>


text:
For the time of judgment has come—and it begins with the house of God. If it begins with us, what will be the end of those who reject God’s good news?


text:
“If it’s hard for those who live right to be saved, what will happen to sinners, those who oppose God?”<n>Proverbs 11:31.</n>


text:
So then those who suffer according to the will of God, the trustworthy Creator, should make sure they are doing good.<pb/>


text:
I want to encourage the elders among you. I’m also an elder, a witness to Christ’s sufferings, and I will share in the glory that is to come.


text:
Look after God’s flock you have been given to care for, watching over it not because you’re forced to, but gladly, as God wants you to. Do this willingly, not looking to make a profit from it.


text:
Don’t be arrogant, lording it over those who have been put in your care, but be an example to the flock.


text:
Young people, do what the elders tell you. Indeed all of you should serve one another in humility, because “God is against the proud, but favors the humble.”<n>Proverbs 3:34.</n>


text:
Be responsible, and stay alert. The devil, your enemy, is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.


text:
Stand firm against him, trusting in God. Remember that your fellow-believers around the world are going through similar troubles.


text:
After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace who called you into his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore you, support you, strengthen you, and give you a solid foundation.


text:
With the help of Silvanus, whom I consider a trustworthy brother, I send this letter to you. In these few words I’ve written I want to encourage you and testify that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in God’s grace!


text:
The believers here in “Babylon,”<n>Literally, “those in Babylon.” Babylon in the NT is a symbol for Rome.</n> chosen together with you, send their greetings to you, as does Mark, my son.


text:
This letter comes from Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who share with us the same priceless trust in our God and Savior Jesus Christ, the One who is truly good and right.


text:
Through his divine power we have been given everything that’s important to live a God-centered life. This comes through knowing him who called us to himself by his own glory and goodness.<pb/>In this way he’s given us wonderful, priceless promises.


text:
Through these promises you can share in the divine nature, being rid of the corruption caused by this world’s evil desires.


text:
For this same reason, do everything you can! Add to your trust in God, goodness; add to goodness, knowledge;


text:
The more you have these qualities, the more they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.


text:
For anyone who doesn’t have such qualities is short-sighted, or blind. They forget that they’ve been cleansed from their past sins.


text:
So, brothers and sisters, be all the more determined to make sure you are truly “called and chosen.” If you do this, you won’t ever fall<n>There has been much debate over this verse. The idea is that you are meant to do all you can to hold onto salvation. It does not necessarily lead to the conclusion that you cannot lose salvation.</n>.


text:
You will receive a tremendous welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.<pb/>


text:
That’s why I always remind you about these things, even though you know them already, and you stand firm in the truth that you possess.


text:
I know the time when I shall leave this life will be coming soon— our Lord Jesus Christ has made this clear to me.


text:
We didn’t follow made-up myths when we told you about the coming in power of our Lord Jesus Christ—we saw his majesty for ourselves<n>This passage is a reference to the Transfiguration.</n>.


text:
He received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice of majestic glory spoke to him and announced, “This is my Son, the one I love, and who truly pleases me.”


text:
We also have the confirming word of prophecy that’s absolutely trustworthy, and you will benefit from paying close attention to it. It’s like a lamp that shines in a dark place until the day dawns, and the morning star rises in your hearts.


text:
Most of all you should realize that no prophecy of scripture is a matter for interpretation based on the whims of an individual,


text:
for no prophecy originated in human ideas, but prophets spoke for God as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.<pb/>


text:
But just as there were false prophets among the people then, there will be false teachers among you. They subtly introduce false and destructive teachings, even denying the Lord who redeemed them, quickly bringing destruction on themselves.


text:
Many will follow their immoral perversions, and because of them people will condemn the way of truth.


text:
They will greedily exploit you with false tales. However they are already condemned: their sentence has been hanging over them for a long time, their destruction won’t be postponed.


text:
For God didn’t even spare the angels when they sinned. He threw them into Tartarus<n>“Tartarus.” This is often translated as “hell,” however this word has associations from other mythologies. It seems that “Tartarus” was used to represent the word “sheol” of the Old Testament, meaning the place of the dead.</n>, holding them in dark pits ready for judgment.


text:
God didn’t spare the ancient world either, but he protected Noah who told people about the God who did right. He was one of the eight who were saved when God sent a flood upon a world of evil people.<pb/>


text:
God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to total destruction, burning them to ash, as an example of what will happen to those who live evil lives.


text:
But God rescued Lot because he was a good man, sickened by the disgusting immorality of his neighbors.


text:
(Lot lived among them, but he did what was good and right. He saw and heard what they did day after day, and their wickedness tormented him).<pb/>


text:
As you can see, the Lord is able to rescue from their troubles those who respect him, and to keep the wicked until the day of judgment when their punishment is completed.


text:
This is especially so for those who follow their corrupt human desires, and contemptuously disregard authority. Arrogant and proud, they’re not even afraid to defame heavenly beings.


text:
Angels, on the other hand, even though they are stronger and more powerful, don’t disparage them before the Lord.<pb/>


text:
These people are like mindless beasts, produced like farm animals to be captured and slaughtered. They condemn things they don’t know anything about, and just like animals they will be destroyed.


text:
They will be paid back in harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of fun is to commit their evil lusts in broad daylight. They are stains and blemishes on your community. They enjoy their deceptive pleasures even while they eat together with you.


text:
They’re always on the lookout for adulterous relationships—they just can’t stop sinning. They seduce the vulnerable; they have trained themselves in greed; they are offspring under a curse.


text:
They have abandoned the right path and went astray, following the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved to be paid for doing evil.


text:
But he was told off for his evil actions—a dumb donkey spoke with a human voice and stopped the prophet’s foolishness!<pb/>


text:
People like these are springs without water, mists blown away by the wind. They are destined for blackest darkness—forever.


text:
Inflated with their own nonsense, they appeal to sensual desires, luring back into immorality those who have only just escaped from those who live in error.


text:
They promise them freedom, even though they themselves are slaves to depravity. “You are a slave to whatever conquers you.”


text:
If people manage to escape from the evil influence of the world by knowing the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and then get tangled up in sin again and are defeated, they are worse off than they were in the first place.


text:
It would have been better not to have known the right way of truth, than to have known it and then turn away from the sacred instructions they’d been given.


text:
This proverb has come true for them: “The dog has returned to its own vomit, and the washed pig has gone back to rolling in the mud.”<pb/>


text:
My friends, this is my second letter to you. In both of them I’ve tried to stir you up and remind you to think clearly with pure minds.


text:
Remember the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets, and what the Lord and Savior commanded through your apostles.


text:
Above all you should know that derisive people will come in the last days, full of mockery and following their own evil desires.


text:
“So what happened to this coming he promised?” they ask. “Right from the time our ancestors died, everything’s continued as it always has, ever since creation began.”


text:
But they deliberately ignore the fact that by God’s command the heavens were created long ago. The earth came into existence from the water, and was surrounded by water.


text:
But by means of that same divine command the heavens and the earth that now exist are reserved for destruction by fire<n>“Destruction by fire”: Literally, “in fire”.</n> at the day of judgment when the wicked will be destroyed.<pb/>


text:
However, my friends, don’t forget this one thing: that for the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years is like a day.


text:
The Lord is not delaying the fulfillment of his promise, as some define delay, but he is being very patient with you. He doesn’t want anyone to be lost, but everyone to come and repent.<pb/>


text:
However the day of the Lord will come, unexpectedly like a thief. The heavens will explode with a thunderous roar, and the elements<n>It is not clear exactly what these “elements” refer to.</n> will be destroyed as they are burned up. The earth and everything in it will vanish<n>Or, “will be seen for what it is.”</n>.


text:
Since everything is going to be destroyed in this way, what kind of people should you be? You should be living lives that are pure, dedicated to God,


text:
waiting expectantly and being eager for the coming of the day of God. That day the heavens will catch fire and be destroyed, and the elements will melt in the heat.


text:
But as for us, we are looking for new heavens and a new earth that God has promised where everything is right<n>Or “where righteousness dwells.”</n>.<pb/>


text:
So, my friends, since you’re anticipating these things, make sure you’ll be found pure and blameless, and at peace with God.


text:
Remember that it is our Lord’s patience that gives the opportunity for salvation. That’s what our dear brother Paul was explaining to you in all his letters with the wisdom given to him by God.


text:
He spoke about these things, though some of what he wrote is certainly hard to understand. Some ignorant and unbalanced people have twisted what he wrote to their own loss—just as they do other scriptures.


text:
My friends, since you already know this, make sure that these errors of the wicked don’t lead you astray, and you don’t fall from your firm position.


text:
May you grow in the grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May he have glory, both now and forever! Amen.


text:
This letter is about the Word of life which existed from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our very own eyes and gazed upon, and which our hands have touched<n>The Greek sentence structure has been adjusted to make better sense in English.</n>.


text:
This Life was revealed to us; we saw it and give evidence about it. We are telling you about the One who is Eternal Life, who was with the Father, and who was revealed to us.


text:
What we have seen and heard we are now explaining to you, so that you may also share in this friendship<n>Literally, “fellowship.”</n> together with us—this friendship that is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.


text:
This is the message we received from him and that we declare to you: God is light, and there is absolutely no darkness in him at all<n>In the Greek there is a double negative for emphasis, literally, “darkness in him not there is, not at all.”</n>.


text:
If we claim to share this friendship with him and yet go on living<n>Literally, “walking.” Also in 1:7.</n> in darkness, we’re lying, and not living in the truth.


text:
But if we are living in the light, as he is in the light, then we share in this friendship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, makes us clean from every sin.<pb/>


text:
But if we confess our sins, he is trustworthy and right so that he can forgive us our sins and make us clean from all that is not right in us.


text:
My dear children, I’m writing this to you so you shouldn’t sin. But if anybody should happen to sin, we have someone who defends us before the Father—Jesus Christ, who is truly right.


text:
But those who follow God’s word have his love totally fill their hearts. This is how we know that we live in him.


text:
My friends, I’m not writing to you giving some new commandment, but an old commandment you’ve had from the beginning. This old commandment is one you have already heard.


text:
But in a sense I am giving you a new commandment. Its truth is revealed in Jesus and in you, for the darkness is coming to an end and the true light is already shining.


text:
Those who say they live in the light but hate a fellow Christian<n>Literally, “brother.”</n> still have the darkness inside them.


text:
Those who love their fellow Christians live in the light, and don’t cause others to sin<n>Literally, “there is no snare.” In other words something that trips others up.</n>.


text:
Those who hate a fellow Christian are in darkness. They stumble around in the dark, not knowing where they’re going because the darkness has blinded them.<pb/>


text:
Dear friends, I’m writing to you children<n>John identifies three groups: children, fathers, and young people. They probably refer to different ages of Christian experience rather than literal groups.</n>, for your sins have been forgiven through the name of Jesus.


text:
I’m writing to you fathers, for you know him who has existed from the beginning. I’m writing to you young people, for you have defeated the Evil One.


text:
I write to you little children, for you know the Father. I write to you fathers, for you know him who has existed from the beginning. I write to you young people, for you are strong. The word of God lives in you, and you have defeated the Evil One.<pb/>


text:
Don’t be in love with the world, and don’t long for the things of this world. If you love the world, you won’t have the Father’s love in you.


text:
For all the things of this world—our sinful desires, wanting everything we see, boasting about what we’ve accomplished in life— these things don’t come from the Father but from the world.


text:
The world and its evil desires are coming to an end, but those who do the will of God will live forever.<pb/>


text:
Dear friends, this is the last hour. As you’ve heard, the antichrist is coming. Many antichrists have already come. This is how we know this is the last hour.


text:
They left us, but they didn’t belong with us, for if they did, they would have remained with us. When they left they showed that none of them belonged with us.<pb/>


text:
But you have been anointed<n>Anointing is an act of pouring a liquid (usually oil) on someone’s head to indicate they are specially blessed and set apart for a particular role (like kingship in the Old Testament). Here anointing refers to the blessing of the Holy Spirit who, in the words of Jesus, leads to all truth.</n> with the Holy Spirit’s blessing, and all of you know what’s true.


text:
I’m not writing because you don’t know the truth, but because you do know it, and because no lie comes from the truth.


text:
Who is the liar?—anyone who denies that Jesus is the Christ<n>Meaning Messiah. (Christ in Greek). Both refer to the one who is anointed.</n>. The antichrist is anyone who denies the Father and the Son.


text:
Anyone that denies the Son does not have the Father; anyone who acknowledges the Son has the Father too.


text:
As for you, make sure what you heard from the beginning continues to live in you. If what you heard from the beginning lives in you, you will also live in the Son and in the Father.


text:
But the anointing you received from him means the Spirit<n>Spirit, supplied from verse 20.</n> lives in you, and you don’t need to be taught by anyone. The Spirit’s anointing teaches you about everything. It is the truth and not a lie. So live in Christ, just as you've been taught!<pb/>


text:
Now, my dear friends, continue to live in Christ, so that when he appears, we can be confident and not feel ashamed before him at his coming.


text:
If you know he is good and right<n>Literally, “righteous”—however this word is normally only used in a religious connection today and does not have much meaning in general English.</n>, then you also know that everyone who does what is right has been born of God.<pb/>


text:
Look at the amazing kind of love the Father has for us! This is why we can be called God’s children—for that’s who we are! The reason why the people of this world don’t recognize us as God’s children is because they don’t recognize him.


text:
My friends, we are already God’s children; however what we shall become hasn’t been revealed just yet. But we do know that when he appears, we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he really is.


text:
All those who live in him don’t go on sinning; all those who keep on sinning haven’t seen him and haven’t known him.<pb/>


text:
Dear friends, don’t let anyone fool you: those who do what is right ‘are’ right, in the same way as Jesus is right.


text:
Those who sin are of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. That’s the reason why the Son of God came—to destroy what the devil has done.


text:
All those who are born of God don’t keep on sinning, for God’s nature<n>Literally, “his seed.”</n> lives in them. They can’t keep on sinning because they are born of God.


text:
This is how God’s children and the devil’s children can be distinguished: all those who don’t do what’s right don’t belong to God, nor do those who don’t love their fellow Christians.<pb/>


text:
We cannot be like Cain, who belonged to the Evil One, and murdered his brother. Why did he murder him? Because Cain did what was evil, while his brother did what was right.


text:
The reason we know that we have changed from death to life is because we love our Christian brothers and sisters. Anyone who doesn’t love remains dead.


text:
All those who hate their Christian brothers and sisters are murderers, and you know that no murderers have eternal life within them!


text:
This is how we know what love is: Jesus laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for our Christian brothers and sisters.


text:
If one of you is living well in this world and you see your Christian brother or sister in need, but you don’t show compassion—how can God’s love be living in you?


text:
Dear friends, let’s not just say we love with words, but show our love in what we do and how we demonstrate the truth.


text:
This is how we will know that we belong to the truth, and how we will set our minds<n>Literally, “hearts.” It was believed that the heart was where you did your thinking.</n> at rest before God


text:
We’ll receive from him whatever we ask him for, because we follow his commands and do what pleases him.


text:
This is what he commands: we should trust in the name<n>Name in the sense of character and reputation rather than just a given name.</n> of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, just as he commanded us to do.


text:
Those who keep his commands continue to live in him, and he lives in them. We know that he lives in us by the Spirit he has given us.<pb/>


text:
Dear friends, don’t trust every spirit, but put the spirits to the test to find out whether they’re from God, for there are many false prophets out there in the world.


text:
How can you recognize God’s Spirit? Every spirit that accepts Jesus Christ came with a human body is from God;


text:
while every spirit that doesn’t accept Jesus, that spirit isn’t from God. In fact it is the spirit of the antichrist which you heard was coming, and which is already in the world.<pb/>


text:
But you belong to God, my friends, and you have defeated them<n>Referring back to the false prophets and the spirit that inspires them.</n>, for the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.


text:
We belong to God and whoever knows God listens to us, while whoever doesn’t belong to God doesn’t listen to us. This is how we can distinguish the spirit of truth from the spirit of deception.<pb/>


text:
Dear friends, let’s go on loving one another, for love comes from God. All those who love are born of God and know God.


text:
How was God’s love shown to us? God sent his one and only Son into the world so that we could live through him.


text:
This is love! It’s not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and he sent his Son to be the reconciliation for our sins.<pb/>


text:
No one has ever seen God. However, if we love one another then God lives in us, and his love is fulfilled in us.


text:
How can we know that we live in him, and that he lives in us? He’s given us the ability to love<n>Implied.</n> by his Spirit.<pb/>


text:
For we are witnesses to what we have seen and testify that the Father sent the Son as the Savior of the world.


text:
We have experienced and trusted in the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who live in love, live in God, and God lives in them.


text:
This is how love is made complete in us so that we can be confident on judgment day: by the fact that we live just like him in this world.


text:
Where there is love there can be no fear. God loves us completely, and this love drives all our fears away. If we do fear, it’s because we fear being punished, and this shows that we have not been fully re-made by the completeness of God’s love.


text:
Anyone who says, “I love God,” but hate a Christian brother or sister, is a liar. Anyone who doesn’t love a brother whom they can see, can’t love God whom they can’t see.


text:
Whoever trusts that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and whoever loves the father also loves his child.


text:
Everyone who is born of God defeats the world. The way we gain victory and defeat the world is by trusting God.


text:
He is the one who came through water and blood, Jesus Christ. He did not only come by water, but by water and blood<n>This is often interpreted to mean the water of baptism and the blood meaning his death.</n>. The Spirit gives evidence to confirm this, for the Spirit is the truth.


text:
the Spirit, the water, and the blood, and all three agree as one<n>, 8. The authenticity of verses 7 and 8 has been disputed.</n>.<pb/>


text:
If we accept the evidence that human witnesses provide, then the evidence that God provides is much more important. The evidence that God provides is his testimony about his Son.


text:
Those trusting in the Son of God have accepted and hold on to this evidence. Those who don’t trust God make God out to be a liar, because they don’t believe the evidence God has given about his Son.


text:
I’m writing to tell those of you who trust in the name of the Son of God so you can be certain you have eternal life.


text:
If we know that he hears our requests, we can be sure that we will receive what we’ve asked him for.


text:
If you see your Christian brother or sister committing a sin that is not a deadly sin<n>Deadly sin. Literally, “a sin to death.”</n>, you ought to pray and God will grant life to the one who’s sinned. (But not for a deadly sin. There’s a sin that is deadly, and I’m not saying people should pray about that.


text:
We recognize that those who are born of God don’t keep on sinning. The Son of God<n>Literally, the One born of God, following the concept at the beginning of the verse. The identification is made clear in the following verse.</n> protects them and the devil cannot harm them.


text:
We also know that the Son of God has come, and has helped us to understand so we can recognize the one who is true. We live in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God, and is eternal life<n>This can be understood to mean he gives eternal life, and also that he lives eternally.</n>.


text:
This letter comes from the elder<n>Understood to be John.</n> to the chosen lady<n>The “chosen lady” could refer to a church, or to a specific Christian lady. Similarly in verse 13.</n> and her children, whom I love in the truth. Not just from me, but from everyone who knows the truth,


text:
May grace, mercy and peace continue to be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and in love.<pb/>


text:
I was delighted to discover that some of your children are following the truth, just as the Father commanded us.


text:
Now I’m telling you, dear lady, not as a new instruction, but following what we’ve understood from the beginning, that we should love one another.


text:
This is what love is: we should follow God’s commands. The command, just as you heard right from the beginning, is that you should live in love<n>Or, “that you should behave this way.”</n>.<pb/>


text:
I’m telling you this because many deceivers have left and gone out into the world. They don’t accept that Jesus Christ has come as a human being. Anyone like this is a deceiver and an antichrist.


text:
Be careful that you don’t lose what we’ve worked so hard for, and that you receive all that you should.<pb/>


text:
All those who become extremists<n>Literally, “who go too far.”</n> and don’t continue to follow the teaching of Christ don’t have God with them. Those who continue to follow the teaching of Christ have both the Father and the Son with them.


text:
If people come to you and don’t show evidence of Christ’s teaching, don’t take them in, don’t welcome them—


text:
I have so many things to tell you that I won’t write any more with paper and ink, for I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face. How happy that would make us!


text:
This letter comes from the elder<n>Usually understood to refer to John, the writer of this letter.</n> to Gaius, my dear friend, whom I love in the truth.


text:
My friend, I pray most of all that you’re doing well and are in good physical health, for I know you’re doing well spiritually.<pb/>


text:
I was delighted when some fellow-believers arrived and told me about your commitment to the truth, and how you continue living in the truth.


text:
My friend, you show you are trustworthy in what you’re doing by looking after the brothers<n>Christian believers traveling around spreading the good news.</n>, even those you don’t know.


text:
They have spoken well about your love in front of the church. Please be so kind as to send them on their journey in a way that God would appreciate,


text:
for they are traveling in his name, not accepting anything from non-believers<n>Literally, “Gentiles.”</n>.


text:
I did write about this to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves being in charge<n>Literally, “loves to be first.”</n>, refuses to accept our authority.


