and to reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by which the hostility has been killed.

When reading this, you will be able to understand my insight into this secret of Christ.

But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

But among you there must not be either sexual immorality, impurity of any kind, or greed, as these are not fitting for the saints.

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

Slaves, obey your human masters with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart as to Christ,

Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

and in all of this, by taking up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that my situation has actually turned out to advance the gospel:

Be imitators of me, brothers and sisters, and watch carefully those who are living this way, just as you have us as an example.

giving thanks to the Father who has qualified you to share in the saints’ inheritance in the light.

He delivered us from the power of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of the Son he loves,

because you know that you will receive your inheritance from the Lord as the reward. Serve the Lord Christ.

For the one who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there are no exceptions.

I, Paul, write this greeting by my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.

Now may God our Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you.

that each of you know how to possess his own body in holiness and honor,

He died for us so that whether we are alert or asleep we will come to life together with him.

and to esteem them most highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.