1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
2 To speak evil of no one (see 2:5), to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness to all men.
3 For we ourselves also were at one time foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving (the condition of being a slave) divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man appeared,
5 Not by works of righteousness which we did, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing by the Holy Spirit; (2 things mentioned here but only 1 meant. A reference here to the gifts abundantly bestowed "on us" before the truth was announced regarding the believer's completeness in Christ, apart from ordinances.)
6 Which He shed ("Pouring out" attributed to God, and the Spirit spoken of as if water) on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior;
7 In order that being justified by His grace, we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
8 Faithful the saying, and concerning these things I will that you affirm strongly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.
9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
10 A man that is a heretic after a first and second admonition reject;
11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sins, being condemned of himself.
12 When I shall send Artemas to you, or Tychicus (see Acts 20;4. Eph. 6:21. Col. 4:7. 2 Tim. 4:12), be diligent to come to me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.
13 Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting to them.
14 And let our people also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.
15 All that are with me salute you. Greet them that love us in faith. The grace be with you all. Amen.