Study Desk

Saved in Order to Do Good

Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities,^(a) to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,^(b)

to slander no one,^(c) to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.

At one time^(d) we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.

But when the kindness^(e) and love of God our Savior^(f) appeared,^(g)

he saved us,^(h) not because of righteous things we had done,⁽ⁱ⁾ but because of his mercy.^(j) He saved us through the washing^(k) of rebirth and renewal^(l) by the Holy Spirit,

whom he poured out on us^(m) generously through Jesus Christ our Savior,

so that, having been justified by his grace,⁽ⁿ⁾ we might become heirs^(o) having the hope^(p) of eternal life.^(q)

This is a trustworthy saying.^(r) And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good.^(s) These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

But avoid^(t) foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels^(u) about the law,^(v) because these are unprofitable and useless.^(w)

Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them.^(x)

You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.

As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus^(y) to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, because I have decided to winter there.^(z)

Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos^(aa) on their way and see that they have everything they need.

Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good,^(ab) in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.

Everyone with me sends you greetings. Greet those who love us in the faith.^(ac) Grace be with you all.^(ad)