1Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work.

2They must not slander anyone, but be peaceable, gentle, showing complete courtesy to all people.

3For we too were once foolish, disobedient, misled, enslaved to various passions and desires, spending our lives in evil and envy, hateful and hating one another.

4But “when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared,

5he saved us not by works of righteousness that we have done but on the basis of his mercy, through the washing of the new birth and the renewing of the Holy Spirit,

6whom he poured out on us in full measure through Jesus Christ our Savior.

7And so, since we have been justified by his grace, we become heirs with the confident expectation of eternal life.”

Summary of the Letter

8This saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on such truths, so that those who have placed their faith in God may be intent on engaging in good works. These things are good and beneficial for all people.

9But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, quarrels, and fights about the law, because they are useless and empty.

10Reject a divisive person after one or two warnings.

11You know that such a person is twisted by sin and is conscious of it himself.

Final Instructions and Greeting

12When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.

13Make every effort to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; make sure they have what they need.

14Here is another way that our people can learn to engage in good works to meet pressing needs and so not be unfruitful.

15Everyone with me greets you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.