1 Be Ready for Every Good Work Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,
2 to slander no one, to be peaceable, considerate, demonstrating all gentleness to all men.
3 For we ourselves also once were foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, despicable, hating one another.
4 But when the kindness and affection of God our Savior appeared,
5 He saved us, not by works which we did in righteousness, but according to His mercy, through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,
6 whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
7 so that having been justified by His grace, we would become heirs 3:7Or of eternal life according to hope according tothehope of eternal life.
8 This is a trustworthy saying. And concerning these things I want you to speak confidently, so that those who have believed God will be intent to lead in good works. These things are good and profitable for men.
9 But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and conflicts about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.
10 Reject a factious man after a first and second warning,
11 knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned.Personal Instructions and Greetings
12 When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, be diligent to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.
13 Diligently help send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way so that nothing is lacking for them.
14 And our people must also learn to lead in good 3:14Or occupations works to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful.
15 All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us inthefaith.Grace be with you all.