Remind them to submit to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,
to defame no one, not to be quarrelsome, to be reasonable, showing all meekness toward all people.
For at one time we ourselves were also senseless, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.
But when the kindness and benevolence of God our Savior appeared,
he saved us, not because of righteous works that we ourselves did, but on the basis of his mercy, through the washing of a new beginning and renewal by the holy spirit,
which he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
so that, since we have been declared righteous by his grace, we became heirs with the hope of life in the age to come.
This statement is trustworthy, and I want you to strongly insist on these things, so that those who have believed God will be intent on applying themselves to good works. These things are good and profitable for people.
But avoid foolish speculations and genealogies and strife and fighting about the law, for they are unprofitable and pointless.
Have nothing to do with a divisive person after admonishing him a first and second time,
knowing that such a person has gone astray and is sinning; he is self-condemned.
Final Instructions and Greetings
When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, make every effort to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.
Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey, so that they lack nothing.
And let our people also learn to apply themselves to good works for pressing needs, so that they are not unfruitful.
All who are with me greet you. Greet those who are our friends in the faith. Grace be with you all.