1 Remind them to be submissive to their rulers and authorities; let them be obedient, ready for every good work;

2 they must speak evil of none, they must not be quarrelsome, but gentle, showing perfect meekness toward all.

3 For we were ourselves once foolish, disobedient, deceived, slaving for various lusts and pleasures, passing our lives in malice and envy. We were hateful, and we hated one another.

4 But when the kindness of God our Saviour, And his love toward men shined forth,

5 He saved us, not because of any deeds that we had done in righteousness, But because of his own pity for us. He saved us by that washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit

6 which he poured out upon us richly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

7 In order that being justified by his grace, We might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

8 This saying is trustworthy. On this I want you to firmly insist; that those who have faith in God must be careful to maintain honest occupations. Such counsels are good and profitable for men.

9 But avoid foolish questionings and genealogies and dissensions and wranglings about the law; for these are unprofitable and empty.

10 After a first and second admonition, refuse a man who is causing divisions;

11 you may be sure that such a man is perverted and sinning, and is self-condemned.

12 As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, join me in Nicopolis as quickly as you can, for I have arranged to winter there.

13 Speed Zenas the lawyer, and Apollos, on their journey diligently.

14 Let them want nothing, and "let our people learn to devote themselves to honest work to supply the necessities of their teachers," so that they be not unfruitful.

15 All who are with us salute you. Salute those who love me in faith. Grace be with you all.