The Day of the Lord

(Zephaniah 1:7-18; 2 Peter 3:10-13)

1But as to times and dates it is unnecessary that anything be written to you. 2For you yourselves know perfectly well that the day of the Lord comes like a thief in the night. 3While they are saying "Peace and safety!" then in a moment destruction falls upon them, like birth-pains on a woman who is with child; and escape there is none. 4But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that daylight should surprise you like a thief; 5for all of you are sons of Light and sons of the day. We belong neither to the night nor to darkness. 6So then let us not sleep, like the rest of the world, but let us keep awake and be sober. 7For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who drink freely, drink at night. 8But let us, belonging—as we do—to the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. 9For God has not pre-destined us to meet His anger, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ; 10who died on our behalf, so that whether we are awake or are sleeping we may share His Life. 11Therefore encourage one another, and let each one help to strengthen his friend, as in fact you do.

Christian Living

12Now we beg you, brethren, to show respect for those who labour among you and are your leaders in Christian work, and are your advisers; 13and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14And we exhort you, brethren, admonish the unruly, comfort the timid, sustain the weak, and be patient towards all. 15See to it that no one ever repays another with evil for evil; but always seek opportunities of doing good both to one another and to all the world. 16Be always joyful. 17Be unceasing in prayer. 18In every circumstance of life be thankful; for this is God's will in Christ Jesus respecting you. 19Do not quench the Spirit. 20Do not think meanly of utterances of prophecy; 21but test all such, and retain hold of the good. 22Hold yourselves aloof from every form of evil.

Final Blessings

23And may God Himself who gives peace, make you entirely holy; and may your spirits, souls and bodies be preserved complete and be found blameless at the Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24Faithful is He who calls you, and He will also perfect His work.

25Brethren, pray for us.

26Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. 27I solemnly charge you in the Lord's name to have this Letter read to all the brethren.

28May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.