I became a servant of this gospel according to the gift of God’s grace that was given to me by the exercise of his power.

and to enlighten everyone about God’s secret plan – a secret that has been hidden for ages in God who has created all things.

to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Now what is the meaning of “he ascended,” except that he also descended to the lower regions, namely, the earth?

But practicing the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ, who is the head.

From him the whole body grows, fitted and held together through every supporting ligament. As each one does its part, the body grows in love.

Because they are callous, they have given themselves over to indecency for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness.

Therefore, having laid aside falsehood, each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another.

The one who steals must steal no longer; rather he must labor, doing good with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with the one who has need.

You must put away every kind of bitterness, anger, wrath, quarreling, and evil, slanderous talk.

Neither should there be vulgar speech, foolish talk, or coarse jesting – all of which are out of character – but rather thanksgiving.

For you can be confident of this one thing: that no person who is immoral, impure, or greedy (such a person is an idolater) has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.

Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.

For the things they do in secret are shameful even to mention.

Therefore be very careful how you live – not as unwise but as wise,

This mystery is great – but I am actually speaking with reference to Christ and the church.

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but raise them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Obey with enthusiasm, as though serving the Lord and not people,

Masters, treat your slaves the same way, giving up the use of threats, because you know that both you and they have the same master in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.

Finally, be strengthened in the Lord and in the strength of his power.