But all things being exposed by the light are made evident.

so that you can decide what is best, and thus be sincere and blameless for the day of Christ,

to the saints, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ, at Colossae. Grace and peace to you from God our Father!

since we heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and the love that you have for all the saints.

You learned the gospel from Epaphras, our dear fellow slave – a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf –

being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might for the display of all patience and steadfastness, joyfully

And you were at one time strangers and enemies in your minds as expressed through your evil deeds,

These are all destined to perish with use, founded as they are on human commands and teachings.

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,

Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing in the Lord.

Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer everyone.

As you know, we treated each one of you as a father treats his own children,

But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

sexually immoral people, practicing homosexuals, kidnappers, liars, perjurers – in fact, for any who live contrary to sound teaching.

So I want the men to pray in every place, lifting up holy hands without anger or dispute.

And he must be well thought of by those outside the faith, so that he may not fall into disgrace and be caught by the devil’s trap.

For those who have served well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that everyone will see your progress.

So I want younger women to marry, raise children, and manage a household, in order to give the adversary no opportunity to vilify us.

Elders who provide effective leadership must be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard in speaking and teaching.