Be Ready for Every Good Deed

1Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, 2to slander no one, to be peaceable, considerate, demonstrating all gentleness to all men. 3For 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. 4But when the kindness and affection of God our Savior appeared, 5He 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, 6whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7so that having been justified by His grace, we would become heirs [†]according to the hope of eternal life. 8This 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. 9But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and conflicts about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. 10Reject a factious man after a first and second warning, 11knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned.

Personal Instructions and Greetings

12When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, be diligent to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. 13Diligently help send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way so that nothing is lacking for them. 14And our people must also learn to lead in good [†]works to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful.

15All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in the faith.

Grace be with you all.