But the righteousness that is by faith says: “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down)

What then? Israel failed to obtain what it was diligently seeking, but the elect obtained it. The rest were hardened,

so they too have now been disobedient in order that, by the mercy shown to you, they too may now receive mercy.

Do not avenge yourselves, dear friends, but give place to God’s wrath, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except by God’s appointment, and the authorities that exist have been instituted by God.

Therefore we must not pass judgment on one another, but rather determine never to place an obstacle or a trap before a brother or sister.

“All things are lawful for me” – but not everything is beneficial. “All things are lawful for me” – but I will not be controlled by anything.

With regard to food sacrificed to idols, we know that “we all have knowledge.” Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.

For in the first place, when you come together as a church I hear there are divisions among you, and in part I believe it.

It is not rude, it is not self-serving, it is not easily angered or resentful.

and through your help to go on into Macedonia and then from Macedonia to come back to you and be helped on our way into Judea by you.

I do not mean that we rule over your faith, but we are workers with you for your joy, because by faith you stand firm.

But be that as it may, I have not burdened you. Yet because I was a crafty person, I took you in by deceit!

Now it is clear no one is justified before God by the law, because the righteous one will live by faith.

So we must not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not give up.

With every prayer and petition, pray at all times in the Spirit, and to this end be alert, with all perseverance and requests for all the saints.

What is the result? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is being proclaimed, and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,

He has not held fast to the head from whom the whole body, supported and knit together through its ligaments and sinews, grows with a growth that is from God.

Do not extinguish the Spirit.

and to you who are being afflicted to give rest together with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels.