Titus 3

¹Remind them to order themselves under rulers and authorities, to be obedient, and to be ready for every good work. ²They must slander no one, avoid fighting, and be forbearing, demonstrating every kind of gentle strength toward all people.

³For we ourselves were once senseless, disobedient, led astray, and enslaved to all sorts of desires and pleasures. We spent our lives in malice and envy; we were loathsome and we hated one another. ⁴But when the kindness and the love for humanity of God our Savior appeared, ⁵he saved us—not because of any deeds done in justice that we ourselves performed, but according to his own mercy. He did this through the washing of rebirth and the renewal of the Holy Spirit, ⁶whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior. ⁷His purpose was that, having been made just by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

⁸This is a trustworthy word, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have put their trust in God may be intent on devoting themselves to good works. These things are excellent and beneficial for everyone. ⁹But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and fights about the Law, for they are useless and futile. ¹⁰After a first and second warning, have nothing more to do with a factious person, ¹¹knowing that such a person is warped and sinful, being self-condemned.

¹²When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, make every effort to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. ¹³Diligently provide for the journey of Zenas the legal expert and Apollos, so that they lack nothing. ¹⁴And let our people also learn to devote themselves to good works to meet urgent needs, so they will not be unfruitful. ¹⁵Everyone with me sends you greetings. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.