3:1 Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for any honest work,
3:2 to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all men.
3:3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by men and hating one another;
3:4 but when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,
3:5 he saved us, not because of deeds done by us in righteousness, but in virtue of his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit,
3:6 which he poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
3:7 so that we might be justified by his grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life.
3:8 The saying is sure. I desire you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to apply themselves to good deeds; these are excellent and profitable to men.
3:9 But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels over the law, for they are unprofitable and futile.
3:10 As for a man who is factious, after admonishing him once or twice, have nothing more to do with him,
3:11 knowing that such a person is perverted and sinful; he is self-condemned.
3:12 When I send Artemas or Tych′icus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicop′olis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.
3:13 Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apol′los on their way; see that they lack nothing.
3:14 And let our people learn to apply themselves to good deeds, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not to be unfruitful.
3:15 All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.
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