Grace and Perseverance
(Hebrews 12:1–3)

1Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace which is in Christ Jesus: 2and the things which thou hast heard from me, before many witnesses, these commit to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. 3Do thou therefore endure hardship, as becomes a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4No one, that enters into military service, embarrasseth himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him. 5And if any one contend in the public games, he gains not the crown unless he contend fairly. 6The husbandman must labour first, in order to partake of the fruits. 7Consider what I say, and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.

8Remember Jesus Christ of the seed of David, who was raised from the dead, according to my gospel: 9for whose sake I suffer trouble even unto bonds, as if I were a malefactor; but the word of God is not bound. 10Therefore I submit to every thing for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is by Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.

11It is an undoubted truth, if we are dead with Him, we shall also live with Him:

12if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him: if we disown Him, He will also disown us.

13If we are unfaithful, He continueth faithful notwithstanding; He cannot renounce Himself.

The Lord’s Approved Workman

14These things remind them of, charging them before the Lord not to contend about words, which is profitable for nothing, and tends to the subversion of the hearers. 15Endeavour to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16But avoid prophane empty harangues; for they will proceed to more impiety, 17and their discourse will eat like a gangrene. Of whom is Hymeneus and Philetus; who have erred from the truth, 18saying that the resurrection is already past; and subvert the faith of some. 19However, the foundation of God standeth firm, having this inscription, The Lord knoweth them that are his; and, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

20In a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honor, some for meaner uses. 21If therefore any one purify himself from these corruptions, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified and fitted for the Master's use, being prepared for every good work. 22Flee youthful passions: and follow righteousness, fidelity, love, and peace, with all those that call upon the Lord out of a pure heart: 23but foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they produce quarrels; for the servant of the Lord ought not to wrangle, 24but to be gentle towards all men, ready to teach, patient under injuries, 25with meekness instructing those of different sentiments, not knowing but God may give them repentance to the acknowledgement of the truth; 26and they may awake out of the snare of the devil, who have been captivated by him to his will.