1 Peter 3 Cross References - AUV

¹ In the same way [that Jesus was submissive], you wives should submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, even though they may not obey the [Gospel] message [they have heard] they may, without your talking [to them about it], ² be won by observing your godly and respectful behavior. ³ Do not let your [adornment] be [the decorations] of the physical body, such as elaborate hair-dos, the wearing of golden [jewelry] and the wearing of [stunning] outfits. ⁴ But [the kind of adornment you should display is] that of the inner person, with its enduring qualities of a meek and calm spirit, which are extremely valuable in God’s eyes. ⁵ For this is the way holy women in ancient times decorated themselves. Their hope was in God and they were known for being in subjection to their own husbands. ⁶ Sarah obeyed her husband Abraham, even referring to him [in respectful terms such] as “sir.” You [wives] are her [spiritual] descendants if you also do what is right and are not fearful [that things in life will turn out badly]. ⁷ [You] husbands, in the same way, should live with your wives in an understanding way, recognizing their feminine nature as being physically weaker than yours, and showing special honor to them because of it. [Realize] that sharing your lives together is a gracious gift [from God]. [If you have the right relationship with them] it will help avoid problems in your prayer lives. ⁸ Now to summarize: All of you should think alike. Be sympathetically understanding [toward one another]. Be loving toward [your] brothers [and sisters]. Be tender-hearted and humble-minded. ⁹ Do not repay a wrong action with [another] wrong action, nor abusive [language] with [additional] abuse, but rather be a blessing [to one another]. For the purpose of your being called [by God] was so that you could receive a blessing [from Him eventually]. ¹⁰ For [Psalm 39:12 says], “The person who loves [his] life and wants to have happy days, should avoid saying anything bad or deceptive. ¹¹ He should turn away from wrong living and do what is good. He should desire peace and do whatever it takes to maintain it. ¹² For the Lord’s eyes see what the righteous person does and He hears their [earnest] prayers, but the Lord looks with disapproval on the person who does wrong.” ¹³ And who do you think would [try to] hurt you if you become enthusiastic for doing what is right? ¹⁴ But even if you have to suffer for doing what was right, you still have [God’s] blessing. So, do not be afraid of the threats [of your persecutors], and do not let it worry you. ¹⁵ But instead, set aside a place in your hearts where Christ is [in full control as] Lord, and be prepared always to give a suitable reply to every person who asks you for a reason why you have an inner hope. But [be sure you do it] in a meek and respectful way, however. ¹⁶ May your conscience be able to so approve of your conduct that, even if you are ridiculed, those doing it will [eventually] have to be ashamed [of themselves] for criticizing your Christian behavior. ¹⁷ For, if it is God’s will that you should suffer, it is better [for you] that it be on account of doing right than doing wrong. ¹⁸ For Christ suffered once for people’s sins [to be forgiven]. [It was the case of] a righteous Man suffering for unrighteous people, so that He could bring you [or, “us”] to God [for salvation]. [Though] He [i.e., Jesus] was put to death physically, He was brought back to life by the Holy Spirit [Note: Some translations say “in spirit”]. ¹⁹ It was by the Holy Spirit that He went to preach [See Eph. 2:17] to the [now departed] spirits [of pre-Flood people who are now] in prison [i.e., Hades]. ²⁰ These people had disobeyed [Noah’s preaching, See II Pet. 2:5] back when God’s patience waited [for them to repent, See Gen. 6:3], during the days of Noah, when the ship was being constructed. It was by that means [i.e., the ship floating them to safety through the Flood waters] that a few persons, eight of them, were saved [from destruction] through water. ²¹ This water prefigured immersion [into Christ], which now also saves you, not by removing dirt from the [physical] body, but [by serving] as an appeal [or, “pledge”] to God for a clear conscience through the raising of Jesus Christ from the dead. ²² He has [now] gone to heaven, and is [seated] at the right side of God, where the angels and [other] authorities and powers have been subjected to Him.

⁵ “Those persons who have a humble attitude [toward themselves] are blessed because they will inherit [the best of] the earth.

⁹ “Those persons who attempt to make peace [between people] will be blessed because they will be called God’s children. ¹⁰ “Those persons who have suffered for trying to do what is right will be blessed because the kingdom of heaven belongs to them. ¹¹ You will be blessed when people speak against you and harm you and say bad things about you that are untrue, because of [your devotion to] me.

¹¹ You will be blessed when people speak against you and harm you and say bad things about you that are untrue, because of [your devotion to] me. ¹² Be happy and very glad, for your reward in heaven will be great. For they persecuted the prophets [who lived] before you in the same way.

²³ Therefore, if you are offering your [sacrificial] gift on the Altar and [just then] you remember that your brother has a grievance against you, ²⁴ [stop right there]; leave your gift at the Altar and [immediately] go to that brother and settle the matter first, before returning to offer your gift.

³⁹ But I tell you, do not offer resistance to an evil person, but whoever hits you on the right side of the face, allow him [to hit you] on the other side also.

⁴⁴ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ⁴⁵ in order to be [true] children of your Father in heaven, for He makes His sun to rise on evil [as well] as on good people. He [also] sends rain on those who live right [as well] as on those who do not live right.

¹³ And do not allow us to fall under temptation, but deliver us from [being harmed by] the evil one.’

¹⁴ But the door that is narrow and the road that is restricted lead to [spiritual] life and [only] a few people will find them.

¹⁸ Yes, you will [even] be brought in front of governors and kings for being loyal to me. [This will give you an opportunity] for witnessing to them [as well] as to the [unconverted] Gentiles.

¹⁸ Yes, you will [even] be brought in front of governors and kings for being loyal to me. [This will give you an opportunity] for witnessing to them [as well] as to the [unconverted] Gentiles. ¹⁹ But when they turn you over [to them], do not worry about how to speak or what you should say. For you will be told [i.e., by God] what to say at the right time.

¹⁹ But when they turn you over [to them], do not worry about how to speak or what you should say. For you will be told [i.e., by God] what to say at the right time. ²⁰ For it will not be you who speaks, but [rather] the Holy Spirit of your Father will be speaking in you.

²⁰ For it will not be you who speaks, but [rather] the Holy Spirit of your Father will be speaking in you. ²¹ [At that time] a person will turn his brother over to be killed, and the father [will do the same to] his child. And children will rebel against their parents and turn them over to be killed. ²² And you will be hated by everyone for being loyal to me. But the person who endures [this persecution by remaining faithful] to the end [of his life] is the one who will be saved [i.e., from spiritual and physical destruction].

²⁸ And do not be afraid of those who can kill your body but not your soul. Instead, fear Him [i.e., God] who is able to destroy both your soul and body in hell. [See note on 5:29].

³¹ So, do not be afraid, for you are [much] more valuable than many sparrows.

³⁹ The person who finds [everything to satisfy him in] this life [here on earth] will lose [never ending life]. But the person who [is willing to] lose [the comforts and security of] this life [here on earth] for my sake [i.e., in loyal service to me] will find it [i.e., never ending life]. [See Mark 10:29-30]

²⁹ Accept my reins [on your life], and learn about me, because I am gentle and humble, and [in my service] you will experience rest in your spirits.

¹⁶ But your eyes are fortunate for they [really] see, and so are your ears, for they [really] hear. ¹⁷ For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people have desired to see the things you are seeing, but did not get to. They desired to hear the things you are hearing, but did not get to.

²⁵ For whoever would [try to] save his life [i.e., by neglecting spiritual things] will lose it [i.e., miss out on the blessings of God]. But whoever [is willing to] lose his life [i.e., in commitment to God’s service] for my sake will find it [i.e., obtain both temporal and spiritual blessings].

¹⁵ “And if your brother sins against you, go and show him where he wronged you, [but] keep it between just the two of you. If he listens to you [i.e., accepts your reasoning and repents], you have won your brother [back].

¹⁹ I tell you again, if two of you agree [here] on earth concerning anything you ask for [i.e., in prayer], God in heaven will grant it to you.

³³ Should you not also have had pity on your fellow-servant just as I pitied you?’

³ Some Pharisees came to Him, [attempting] to put Him to a test. They said, “Is it permissible by the law of Moses for a man to divorce his wife for any reason [he chooses]?” ⁴ And He answered them, “Have you not read [Gen. 1:27; 5:2] that when God created [mankind as] male and female, ⁵ He said [Gen. 2:24], ‘For this reason [i.e., since He made one woman for one man], a man will leave [the home of] his father and mother and will cling to his wife, [so that] the two of them will [then] become one flesh [i.e., united in such a close relationship as to constitute one body]?’ ⁶ So, [upon becoming husband and wife] they no longer function [entirely] as two persons, but [as] one body. Therefore, those whom God [so] joins together [in the marriage bond], no person must [ever] separate.” ⁷ They replied, “Why then did Moses order [a man] to provide a legal divorce decree [Deut. 24:1], and then divorce his wife?” ⁸ Jesus said to them, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives [only] because of the rebellious spirits you [Jews] had. But this was not how it was [intended to be] from the beginning [i.e., when God created one woman for one man]. ⁹ And I tell you, whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits sexual unfaithfulness [toward her], unless the reason for the divorce was sexual unfaithfulness [on his wife’s part]. And the person who marries a woman who has been divorced commits sexual sin with her [i.e., because she is still rightfully married to her first husband].”

¹⁷ Jesus answered him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is [only] One who is good [i.e., God]. But if you want to enter [never ending] life, [then] obey His commandments.”

²⁹ And every person who has left his house, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or children or property, for my name’s sake [i.e., to become a servant of the Lord], will receive [back] a hundred times as much [in this life] and will [also] inherit never ending life.

⁵ [Zech. 9:9], ‘You should tell the daughter of Zion [i.e., the people of Jerusalem], look, your King is coming to you. He is gentle and [will be] riding on a donkey, [even] on a colt, the offspring of the donkey.’”

⁴⁴ [Psa. 110:1] ‘The Lord [i.e., God] said to my [i.e., David’s] Lord [i.e., Jesus], sit at my right side until I put your enemies [in full subjection] beneath your feet.’

²⁶ You blind Pharisees! First wash the inside of the cup and dish, so [then] the outside will be clean also.

³⁷ As it was during the days of Noah, so it will be when the presence of the Son of man [arrives]. ³⁸ For in those days before the Flood, people were eating and drinking [i.e., partaking of ordinary meals], men were getting married and women were being given away in marriage [right up] until the day Noah entered the ship. ³⁹ And the people [i.e., of Noah’s day] did not know [when it would happen] until the Flood came and swept them all away. It will be the same way when the presence of the Son of man [arrives].

³⁴ Then the King will say to those at His right side, ‘You who are blessed by my Father, come and receive the kingdom which has been prepared for you since the creation of the world,

³⁹ And He went on ahead a short distance and fell face-down and prayed, “My Father, allow this cup [i.e., of suffering] to pass away from me if it is [at all] possible; nevertheless, let it not be what I want, but what You want [for me].”

⁴² He [then] went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if this [cup of suffering] cannot pass away unless I drink it [i.e., experience the suffering], [then] let what You want be done.”

⁶⁹ Now Peter was sitting outside in a courtyard and a servant-girl approached him and said, “You also were with Jesus, the Galilean.” ⁷⁰ But he denied [it] in front of all of them, saying, “I do not know what you are talking about.” ⁷¹ And when he had gone out by the gate, another servant-girl saw him and said to those nearby, “This man also was with Jesus of Nazareth.” ⁷² And he denied [it] again, [this time] with an oath, saying, “I do not [even] know the man.” ⁷³ And a little later, those standing nearby came to Peter and said, “[We know] for sure, you also are one of them [i.e., Jesus’ disciples], because your accent gives you away.” ⁷⁴ Then Peter began to curse and swear, “[I tell you], I do not know the man.” And immediately a rooster crowed. ⁷⁵ Then Peter remembered the words Jesus had said, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny [knowing] me three times.” And he went out and cried bitterly.

¹⁹ Then while he was seated in Pilate’s courtroom of justice, Pilate’s wife sent [word] to him, saying, “You should have nothing to do with that innocent man. For I was very troubled in a dream over him today.” [Note: That is, she was troubled over a dream she had before waking up that morning].

²⁴ So, when Pilate saw that he was not convincing anyone, but that a riot was brewing instead, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd saying, “I am not responsible for this man’s blood. [Note: Some ancient manuscripts say “righteous man’s blood”]. You tend to the matter.”

¹⁹ So, as you go, make disciples out of people from all the nations, then immerse believers [See Mark 16:15-16] into the name of [i.e., to enter a relationship with] the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

³⁵ For whoever would [try to] save his life [i.e., by neglecting spiritual things] will lose it [i.e., miss out on the blessings of God]. But whoever [is willing] to lose his life [i.e., in commitment to God’s service] for my sake and [the work of] the Gospel’s sake, will save it [i.e., obtain both temporal and spiritual blessings].

¹⁷ As Jesus was leaving to go on His way, a man ran to Him and kneeled down in front of Him and asked, “Good Teacher, what should I do in order to possess never ending life?”

²⁹ Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, no one who has left his house, or brothers, or sisters, or mother, or father, or children or property for my sake and the Gospel’s sake [i.e., to become a servant of the Lord],

³⁶ [It was] David himself [who] said by [inspiration of] the Holy Spirit [Psa. 110:1], ‘The Lord [i.e., God] said to my [i.e., David’s] Lord [i.e., Jesus], sit at my right side until I make your enemies the footrest [i.e., in subjection] under your feet.’

⁷ You will always have poor people with you, and you can do something good for them whenever you want to, but you will not always have me with you.

¹⁶ The person who believes [i.e., the Gospel] and is immersed will be saved [i.e., from condemnation], but whoever does not believe it will be condemned.

¹⁹ So then, after the Lord Jesus had spoken to them He was taken up to heaven, where He sat down at the right side of God.

⁷⁹ to shine on those who are sitting in darkness and [are under] the shadow of death, and to direct our feet into the way of peace.”

³⁷ and has been a widow [all these years], and is now eighty-four years old.) She has never left the Temple, but worships [God] by fasting [i.e., going without food and/or water for religious reasons] and praying night and day.

⁹ Then Jesus said to them, “I ask you, is it permitted by the law of Moses to do something good or to do something harmful on the Sabbath day? To save a life or to destroy it?”

²² You are blessed when men hate you and withdraw their fellowship from you and speak abusively about you and reject your name as evil, [all] for being loyal to the Son of man. ²³ Be happy at that time and jump for joy and realize that your reward in heaven will be great, for the forefathers [i.e., of your corrupt Jewish leaders] treated the prophets the same way.

²⁷ But I tell you people who are listening [to me], love your enemies and do good things to those who hate you. ²⁸ [Ask God’s] blessing on those who curse you; pray for those who treat you spitefully. ²⁹ Whoever hits you on one side of the face, allow him [to hit you on] the other side also; and when someone takes away your coat, do not stop him from also taking away your shirt [i.e., if he insists on it].

³⁵ But love your enemies and do good things to them; and lend to them without expecting it to be returned, and your reward [i.e., from God] will be great and you will be [considered] sons of the Highest [i.e., God]. For He is kind to unthankful and evil people [as well].

² and certain women who had been healed from [domination by] evil spirits and diseases. [These women were] Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven evil spirits had been driven out, ³ and Joanna, the wife of Chuzas, Herod’s property manager, and Susanna and many others. These [all] had provided the material support for the group from their own means.

²⁵ Just then a certain teacher of the law of Moses stood up and [attempted to] test Jesus, saying, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit [never ending] life?”

³³ But [then] a certain Samaritan [Note: This was a person despised by the Jews and regarded by them as a ‘half-breed’], as he traveled along, came to where the [injured] man was [lying], and upon seeing him [lying there], felt deep pity [for him].

⁴⁰ You foolish people! Did not the One [i.e., God] who made the outside [i.e., your body] also make the inside [i.e., your spirit]?

⁴ And I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who can kill your body and after that can do nothing more. ⁵ But I am warning you about whom you should fear. Fear the One [i.e., God] who, after He has killed [i.e., the body], has power to throw [you] into hell [See note on Matt. 5:29]. Yes, I tell you, fear Him.

³² “ [And], do not be afraid, little flock [Note: Jesus refers to His small band of disciples as sheep following Him as their Shepherd], for your Father was pleased to give you the kingdom.

²⁴ “You should try hard to enter [God’s kingdom] by means of the narrow door, for I tell you, many people will try to enter it but will not be able to. ²⁵ Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, leaving you standing outside knocking on the door, [and] saying, ‘Sir, [please] open [the door] for us.’ and he answers you, ‘I do not know you or where you came from,’

¹⁵ And He said to them, “You are people who claim to be just in the eyes of [other] people, but God knows [what is in] your hearts. For that which is held up as most important among people [i.e., fame or fortune ?] is disgusting in the eyes of God.

²⁶ “And just as it happened in the days of Noah, so it will be in the days of the Son of man. ²⁷ People were eating and drinking and [men were] marrying and [women] were being given away in marriage [right up] until the day that Noah entered the ship and the Flood came and drowned them all. ²⁸ “It happened in a similar way in the days of Lot [i.e., Abraham’s nephew]. People were eating and drinking and buying and selling and planting and building. ²⁹ But on the day that Lot left Sodom, fire and sulphur rained down from the sky and consumed them all. ³⁰ “It will be the same way on the day the Son of man is revealed [i.e., at His second coming].

¹⁸ Then a certain ruler [Note: This man was young and rich. See Matt. 19:16-22] asked Jesus, “Good Teacher, what should I do in order to inherit never ending life?”

⁴² For David himself said in the book of Psalms [Psa. 110:1], ‘The Lord [i.e., God] said to my [i.e., David’s] Lord [i.e., Jesus], sit at my right side

¹⁴ Determine in your hearts, therefore, not to plan ahead how you will answer them [when interrogated], ¹⁵ for I will give you a mouth [i.e., the ability to speak properly] and wisdom [i.e., the knowledge of what to say], which none of your opponents will be able to resist or speak against.

⁴⁷ [As] Jesus saw Nathaniel coming toward Him, He said [this] about him, “Look, [there is] a true Israelite, a completely honest man!”

³¹ We know that God does not listen to sinners [i.e., when they pray]; but God does listen to the person who reveres Him and does what He wants.

²⁵ The person who loves his [earthly] life will [eventually] lose it [forever], but the person who hates his life in this world will retain never ending life.

¹ [Jesus continued], “Do not allow your hearts to be upset. You should believe in God, and believe in me also.

²⁷ I leave you with peace; I give you my peace. I am not giving you peace like the world gives. Do not allow your hearts to be upset or afraid.

¹⁵ I am not praying that you should take them out of the world, but that you should protect them from the evil one [i.e., the devil].

¹¹ and said, "You men from Galilee, why are you standing there looking up at the sky? This Jesus who was received up from your presence into the sky will return in the same way you saw Him go there."

¹⁴ These men continued in united prayer [for the kingdom to come? See 1:6; Matt. 6:10] along with [certain] women, Mary the mother of Jesus and His [half-] brothers.

¹ And when the day of Pentecost came [Note: This was a Jewish festival held fifty days following the Passover Festival. Lev. 23:15-21], they [i.e., the twelve apostles] were all gathered together in one place [i.e., their second story living quarters, 1:13 ?].

³⁴ Now David is not the one who ascended into heaven for he [spoke of Jesus when he] said [Psa. 110:1], 'The Lord [i.e., God] said to my [i.e., David's] Lord [i.e., Jesus], sit at my right side ³⁵ until I put your enemies [in subjection] beneath your feet.' ³⁶ Therefore, let all those who make up the household of Israel [i.e., God's people] know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you have crucified, both Lord and Christ."

³⁸ And Peter replied, "Every one of you must repent [i.e., change your hearts and lives] and be immersed in the name of Jesus Christ [i.e., by His authority] so that your sins will be forgiven [by God] and then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit [to live in your hearts].

¹⁴ But you denied the Holy and Righteous One [His rightful freedom] and asked for a murderer to be released to you [instead].

²¹ who must be received into heaven until [God's appointed] times when everything will be restored [to its intended purpose]. God had spoken about this through the proclamations of His holy prophets of long ago.

⁸ Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, addressed them, saying, "Rulers and elders of the people,

⁸ Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, addressed them, saying, "Rulers and elders of the people, ⁹ if we are being questioned today concerning how this man with a serious handicap was made completely well,

⁹ if we are being questioned today concerning how this man with a serious handicap was made completely well, ¹⁰ we want you men and all the people of Israel to know that this man was made completely well through the name of Jesus Christ from Nazareth. [He is the One] whom you people put to death on the cross, but God raised from the dead.

¹⁰ we want you men and all the people of Israel to know that this man was made completely well through the name of Jesus Christ from Nazareth. [He is the One] whom you people put to death on the cross, but God raised from the dead. ¹¹ He is that [Psa. 118:22], 'stone that was rejected by you builders but was made the principal stone by which the entire building is aligned.'

¹¹ He is that [Psa. 118:22], 'stone that was rejected by you builders but was made the principal stone by which the entire building is aligned.' ¹² And there is salvation in no other One [than Jesus] for there is no other Name in the whole world, proclaimed by men, by which [a person] can be saved."

¹² And there is salvation in no other One [than Jesus] for there is no other Name in the whole world, proclaimed by men, by which [a person] can be saved." ¹³ Now when these men saw how boldly Peter and John spoke, and perceived that they were uneducated and [even] ignorant men, they were quite surprised; then they recognized that they had been with Jesus.

¹⁹ But Peter and John replied, "You decide whether it is right before God to listen to you men or to Him;

³² So, the large number of believers were united in heart and soul [i.e., mind and spirit] and not one of them said that anything he owned [really] belonged to him, but they shared all things in common.

²⁹ But Peter and the apostles answered them, "We must obey God instead of [you] men [in this situation]. ³⁰ The God of our forefathers raised up Jesus [from the dead], whom you put to death by hanging Him on a tree [i.e., the cross]. ³¹ But God exalted Him at His right side to be a Prince and Savior and to give the people of Israel [an opportunity] to repent [i.e., change their hearts and lives] and [receive] forgiveness of [their] sins [through Him].

³⁶ As they [i.e., Philip, the Ethiopian eunuch and his attendants] traveled along they came to a certain [body of] water. The [Ethiopian] eunuch said, "Look, here is [a body of] water, why can’t I be immersed [right now]?" {{Verse

¹⁶ I will show him how many things he will have to suffer for my name's sake."

³⁶ Now at Joppa [Note: This was also a town on the west coast of Palestine, today called "Jaffa," and is now a part of Tel Aviv] there was a certain disciple named Tabitha (she was also called Dorcas, which means "Gazelle"). She practiced many good deeds and always gave money to poor people.

³³ The jailor immediately took Paul and Silas, and cleansed [and soothed] their wounded [backs] and then he and his [believing] household were immersed [into Christ].

⁹ Then the Lord spoke to Paul in a night vision [i.e., a divinely given dream]: "Do not be afraid, but speak up and do not hold [anything] back, ¹⁰ for I will be with you [See Matt. 28:20] and no one will attack you or hurt you, for I have many people in this city [i.e., who will be converted]."

¹⁴ And when he could not be dissuaded [from going to Jerusalem] we stopped [trying to convince him], saying, "Let the Lord's will be done in the matter."

³⁹ Paul answered, "[No], I am a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of an important city, and I beg you to allow me to speak to these people."

¹⁴ And he said [to me], 'The God of our forefathers has appointed you to know His will and to see the Righteous One [i.e., Jesus], and to hear His voice [speaking to you].

¹⁶ So now, what are you waiting for? Get up and be immersed [into Christ], and have your sins washed away as you appeal to His name [i.e., to Christ's authority].'

¹⁶ So, for this reason I make every effort to have a clear conscience before God and men at all times.

²⁵ And as he discussed the matters of doing right, and [maintaining] self control and the coming judgment, Felix became terrified and answered, "Go on away for now; I will call you back when it is convenient for me."

³ The next day we stopped at Sidon [i.e., a seaport on the northwest coast of Palestine]. Julius treated Paul with kindness, [even] giving him the opportunity to meet his friends [there] and receive help [from them].

⁷ Now in that general vicinity there was property belonging to the chief of the island, a man named Publius, who welcomed us courteously and entertained us for three days.

⁴ He was appointed to be the Son of God with power through the Spirit of holiness [Note: This could refer to the Holy Spirit] when He was raised from the dead.

⁴ Or, do you despise the abundance of God’s kindness and tolerance and patience [toward you], not realizing that His kindness is intended to cause you to repent? [i.e., to change your hearts and lives]. ⁵ But your stubbornness and refusal to repent are storing up wrath [i.e., punishment] for yourselves, [to be experienced] on the Day of Wrath [i.e., the day of judgment] when God’s just judgment will be revealed.

²⁹ But the [true] Jew is the person who is one on the inside, and [his] circumcision is a heart condition, [produced] by the Holy Spirit and not by the written law of Moses. [Note: Some translate “Spirit” here as “spirit” and make it simply an amplification of “heart”]. This person receives his praise from God and not [merely] from people.

²⁵ [This] Jesus was delivered up [to die] for our sins and was raised [from the dead] to make us right with God.

¹ So, since we are made right with God by [our] faith, we have peace with Him through our Lord Jesus Christ. ² Through Jesus we have also gained access by [our] faith to this unearned favor [of God]. We stand firm in it, and are glad that we have the hope of being honored by God.

⁶ For while we were still helpless, at [just] the proper time, Christ died for ungodly people. ⁷ Someone would not likely die to rescue a righteous person, though possibly someone would dare to die in order to rescue a good person. ⁸ But God demonstrates His own love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

¹⁴ Yet [physical] death ruled [over mankind] from the time of Adam to Moses, even over those people who had not sinned the way Adam did. [Now] Adam prefigured the coming of Jesus.

³ Or, do you not know that all of us who were immersed into Christ Jesus were immersed into His death? ⁴ Therefore, we were buried with Him through [our] immersion [in water] into [a relationship with] His death, so that, just like Christ was raised up from the dead through the glorious power of the Father, so we also can [be raised up from the water to] live a new life. ⁵ For, if we have become united with Christ in an act similar to His death [i.e., by being buried in water], we will also be [united with Him] in an act similar to His resurrection from the dead [i.e., our rising from the water to live a new life]. ⁶ We know that our old self was [figuratively] crucified with Christ, in order that the body of sin [i.e., our whole life of sin] might be destroyed [i.e., become powerless to control our actions and thoughts], so that we should not be enslaved to the practice of sin any longer.

⁶ We know that our old self was [figuratively] crucified with Christ, in order that the body of sin [i.e., our whole life of sin] might be destroyed [i.e., become powerless to control our actions and thoughts], so that we should not be enslaved to the practice of sin any longer.

¹⁷ Thank God that you people, who were once slaves to [the practice of] sin, became obedient from [your] heart to the pattern of teaching [i.e., the Gospel message] you committed yourself to.

² For a married woman is legally bound to her husband for as long as he lives. But, when he dies, she is released from the marriage contract.

¹⁹ For I do not do the good [things] I want to, but I practice the evil [things] I do not want to.

²¹ So, I find this principle [at work]: [Although] I want to do what is good, evil is [always] present [and often wins out]. ²² For in my heart I am delighted with God’s law,

³ For what the law was not able to do [for mankind], since it was [too] weak [to deliver them from condemnation] because fleshly people [were unable to obey it perfectly], God condemned sin in the flesh [i.e., sin was declared evil and its power over man broken]. God did this by sending His own Son in a body like sinful man’s, and to destroy sin,

⁶ For the one whose mind is [controlled] by the flesh will suffer [spiritual] death; but the one whose mind is [controlled] by the Holy Spirit will enjoy [never ending] life and peace.

¹¹ But if the Spirit of God, who raised up Jesus from the dead, lives in your hearts, [then] that One [i.e., God] who raised up Christ Jesus from the dead, will restore life to your mortal bodies also, through [the power of] God’s Spirit who lives in your hearts.

²⁶ And in the same way, the Holy Spirit helps [us in] our weakness; for we do not know what we ought to pray for [Note: Some translators understand this as “how to pray”]. But the Holy Spirit goes to God on our behalf with groanings [in our hearts] that are not expressed [in words]. ²⁷ And God, who searches our hearts, knows what the Holy Spirit [has] in mind, because He [i.e., the Holy Spirit] goes to God on behalf of the saints [i.e., God’s holy people] in harmony with God’s will. ²⁸ And we know that God works out everything for the good of those who love Him and are called [to serve Him] in harmony with His purpose [for them].

³⁰ And [that class of] persons whom God [so] predetermined, He also called [through the Gospel. See II Thess. 2:14]. And those He called, He also made right with Himself. And those He made right with Himself, He also [determined to be] honored [i.e., in the future life].

³⁴ Who condemns [us]? Certainly not Jesus, for He is the One who died [i.e., to save us], and what is more, He was raised from the dead and is [now] at the right side of God. He also goes [to God] on our behalf [i.e., as we pray].

³⁸ For I am convinced that neither death, nor [the trials of] life, nor [evil] angels, nor [evil] rulers, nor present or future [circumstances], nor [evil] powers,

¹ I am telling [you] the truth in Christ [i.e., since I am a Christian]; I am not lying. My conscience, [confirmed] by the Holy Spirit, supports my statements [as true],

⁷ Neither are all [Jewish] people children [of God], [simply] because they are Abraham’s descendants. But [Gen. 21:12 says], “It is through Isaac that you [i.e., Abraham] will have descendants.” ⁸ This means that it is not the physical descendants [of Abraham] who are God’s children, but it is the children [born] according to [God’s] promise who are [Abraham’s true] descendants. ⁹ For these are the words of the promise [Gen. 18:10], “I [i.e., God] will come at the appointed time and Sarah will have a son.”

²² What if God [did] patiently put up with people who deserved His wrath and [who were] ready for destruction, even though He was willing to demonstrate His wrath and power?

⁹ So, if you profess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe with your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. ¹⁰ For a person believes [in Christ] with his heart in order to be made right with God, and he makes a profession with his lips in order to be saved.

¹⁶ But not everyone [of the Israelites] obeyed [that] good news. For Isaiah said [Isa. 53:1], “Lord, who has believed our message?”

² And you people must not be conformed to [the values and standards of] this age, but you should become transformed [i.e., changed in attitude and action] by having your mind renewed [i.e., to think in a totally different way]. Then you will be able to determine [and practice] God’s will, the thing that is good, and acceptable and perfect.

¹⁰ In your love for your brothers, show tender affection toward one another. Try to outdo one another in showing respect [for each other].

¹⁴ Ask God’s blessing on people who persecute you, instead of cursing them. ¹⁵ Be happy with those who are joyful. Cry with those who are sad. ¹⁶ Have the same [good] thoughts toward one another. Do not [always] be thinking you are a “bigshot,” but lower yourself to accept humble tasks [or, humble people]. Do not think you are so smart. ¹⁷ Do not [try to] pay back a wrong done to you by doing something wrong to the other person. Think about how to live honorably in front of all people. ¹⁸ If it is at all possible, as far as your part is concerned, live peacefully with all people. ¹⁹ Do not take revenge on someone who has wronged you, but leave it up to God’s wrath [to take care of it], for it is written [Deut. 22:35], “The Lord says, I will pay people back [for doing wrong] because taking revenge belongs to me.” ²⁰ But [Prov. 25:21-25 says], “Feed your enemy if he is hungry; give him something to drink if he is thirsty. For when you do this, it will be [like] heaping burning coals on his head.” [i.e., it can cause him burning shame that can lead to his repentance and ultimate forgiveness]. ²¹ [So], do not be conquered by evil, but [instead] conquer evil by doing good.

³ For [our] rulers are not a threat to [the person doing] a good deed, but to [the person doing] an evil one. So, do you want to avoid having to be afraid of the authorities? Then do what is good and you will be commended by them [generally].

¹⁷ For God’s kingdom is not a matter of what people eat or drink, but [instead, it is a matter] of doing what is right, having peace [of heart] and having [inner] joy, which come from the Holy Spirit.

¹⁹ So then, let us pursue such things that produce peace and things that build one another up [spiritually].

⁵ May God [who is the source] of steadfastness and encouragement, give you [a sense of] like-mindedness among yourselves, in harmony with [the example of] Christ Jesus,

¹⁰ Now I urge you, brothers, through the name [i.e., by the authority] of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you should all agree in what you say, so that no divisions [continue] among you. Be restored [to unity] by having common thoughts and convictions [i.e., in spiritual matters].

⁶ Now I have applied these things, brothers, to myself and to Apollos as an illustration for your benefit, so that you might learn to “follow the written message.” [Note: This is thought to have been a common way of referring, in that day, to the importance of adhering to Old Testament Scripture]. So, none of you should be more proud of one [leader] than of another.

¹² we work hard with our hands. [Though] we are cursed, we [ask God’s] blessing [on people]; [though] we are persecuted, we persevere; ¹³ [though] we are slandered, we reply kindly. We have become [like] the scum of the earth, the dregs of all society, to this day.

³ The husband should fulfill his [marital] duty to his wife, and the wife should do the same thing for her husband.

¹⁶ How can you know, [Christian] wife, whether or not you will [be able to] convert your husband? Or how can you know, [Christian] husband, whether or not you will [be able to] convert you wife?

¹⁹ For although I am free from [being accountable to] all people, I placed myself under obligation to them [as a slave], so as to win as many as possible [to Christ]. ²⁰ I behaved like a Jew in front of the Jews in order to win Jews [to Christ]. I behaved like a person who was under [obligation to observe] the law [i.e., Jews] in front of those who observe that law, although I was not [really] under [obligation to] it. I did this to win those who are under [obligation to observe] the law. ²¹ I [also] behaved like a person without [obligation to observe] the law [i.e., a Gentile] in front of those who are not obligated to it, although I was not [really] without obligation to God’s law; but was under [obligation to] Christ’s law. I did this to win those who are without [obligation to observe] the law [i.e., Gentiles]. ²² I behaved like a weak person in front of weak people [See 8:9-12], in order to win them over [i.e., to help them become stronger]. I have become all things to all people so that, in every way, I could save some of them.

³ But I want you to know that Christ is the [spiritual] head [i.e., authority] over every man; and the man is the [spiritual] head over the woman [Note: The Greek words for “woman” and “wife” are the same. “Wife” is obviously meant by the context]; and God is the head over Christ.

¹³ For we were all immersed by means of the one Holy Spirit into one body [i.e., the church], whether [we were] Jews or Greeks [i.e., Gentiles], whether slaves or free people, and were all given the one [and the same] Holy Spirit to drink. [Note: This probably refers to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, given to all immersed believers. See John 7:37-39; Acts 2:38].

²² On the contrary, those parts of the body which seem to be weaker [i.e., delicate organs like the heart, lungs, kidneys, etc.] are necessary [for life]. ²³ And those parts of the body which we consider less honorable [i.e., probably female breasts, buttocks, etc.], we clothe with greater honor. [Note: The Greek word for “clothe” here refers to clothing elsewhere in the New Testament]. And our unpresentable parts [i.e., probably sex organs] need to be more presentable [i.e., by being covered up with modest clothing], ²⁴ whereas, our presentable parts [i.e., probably face and hands] do not need [covering up]. But God has put the body together [in such a way as] to give greater honor to that part which lacked it,

²⁶ So, if one part [i.e., one Christian] suffers, then all the parts [i.e., the other Christians] should suffer with it. Or, if one part is honored, all the [other] parts should rejoice with it.

¹ You should make loving [others] your aim, yet eagerly desire [to possess] spiritual gifts, and especially [the gift of] prophecy.

³⁴ the women should remain quiet in the assemblies. For they are not permitted to speak [i.e., in a language supernaturally, or to prophesy], but they are to be in subjection [i.e., to male leaders. See I Tim. 2:11-12], as the law also says. [See Gen. 3:16?].

²⁴ Then [i.e., at Christ’s return] the end [of the world] will occur, when He will turn over the kingdom to God, the Father, after He has abolished all [hostile] dominion, authority and power.

¹² For this is what we boast of: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially toward you, in holiness and godly sincerity, not with human wisdom, but with the favor of God.

²⁴ For we do not have [the right to] rule over your faith [i.e., to dictate concerning your personal relationship with God], but we want to work with you for your happiness. For you are [already] standing firm in your faith. [Note: This whole narrative alludes to some unresolved problems still existing there in Corinth].

¹⁵ For we [i.e., through our preaching] are like a fragrant incense which goes up to God, [and spreads the knowledge] of Christ among both saved and lost people. ¹⁶ To lost people [we become] a smell of death [i.e., we bring condemnation to people who reject our message]; to saved people [we become] a fragrance of life [i.e., we bring salvation to people who accept our message]. And who is adequate to [accomplish] such tasks?

² Instead, we have renounced [the practice of] secret, disgraceful behavior. We do not practice deception, nor resort to distorting God’s message. But, by making known the truth [i.e., the true message], we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the presence of God.

¹⁶ Therefore, we do not get discouraged, for though our physical body is decaying, yet our inner person is being renewed daily.

²¹ God considered Christ to be sinful on our behalf, even though He never sinned, so that we could be considered right with God through Him.

¹ [So], since we have these promises [See 6:16-18], dear ones, we should purify ourselves from everything that pollutes [our] body and spirit while living lives completely separated [from sin], out of reverence for God.

¹ Now I Paul, who am humble [when speaking] face to face with you, but bold when I am away from you, urge you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ [Note: This means either Paul was imitating Christ’s behavior or that the Corinthians were to do so]:

¹⁰ So, I am pleased to [endure] weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions and difficulties, [all] for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak [physically], then I am strong [spiritually].

⁴ For He was weak when He was crucified [i.e., by assuming a human body capable of suffering and death], but [now] He lives by God’s power. For we too are weak, [along] with Him [i.e., each of us experiences the frailties of a human body], but by [this same] power from God, we will live with Him to serve you. [Note: The various translations differ widely on how to properly translate this difficult verse].

⁴ who gave Himself to [save us from] our sins so that He might deliver us from [the control and condemnation of] this present evil world. [This is] according to the will of our God and Father,

¹³ Christ bought us back from the curse [caused by our not obeying all the requirements] of the law of Moses; He became a curse for us [by dying on the cross], for it is written [Deut. 21:23], “Every one who hangs on a tree [i.e., a cross] is cursed [i.e., cut off from God].”

²⁷ For all of you who were immersed into [a relationship with] Christ have been clothed with Him [i.e., His life].

²² For it is written in the law about Abraham’s two sons [Gen. 16]; one [was] by his slave woman [Hagar] and the other by the free woman, [his wife, Sarah]. ²³ Now the son [Ishmael], born to the slave woman, was born simply of their natural relationship; but the son [Isaac], born to the free woman, was born in fulfillment of a [divine] promise. ²⁴ This set of circumstances contains an illustration; for these two women [Hagar and Sarah] represent the two Agreements [between God and mankind]. The one [Agreement], given at Mount Sinai, represents Hagar, whose children became [the Israelites], enslaved under bondage [to the requirements of the law of Moses]. ²⁵ Now this woman, Hagar, is similar to Mount Sinai, in Arabia, and represents the present [earthly] Jerusalem [i.e., Israel], consisting of children in bondage [to the law of Moses]. ²⁶ But the heavenly Jerusalem [Heb. 12:22] consists of free people, and is the mother of us [Christians].

²² But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness and self-control. There can be no law against [practicing] these things.

¹⁰ So then, we should do the right thing toward every person whenever we have the opportunity, and especially toward people who are part of God’s family [i.e., those making up “the faith”].

²⁰ which He exerted when raising Christ from the dead and seating Him at His right side in the heavenly realms [i.e., heaven itself]. ²¹ [There He is exalted] high above all rulers and authorities and powers and dominion and every name [i.e., title of honor] that can be given, not only in this present age but [also] in the one to come.

¹⁶ [This was also intended] to reestablish harmony between both of these peoples and God in [this] one body, through [Christ’s death on] the cross. By doing this He put to death the hostility [between them]. ¹⁷ And Christ came and preached peace to you [Gentiles], who were far away [from God], and peace to those [Jews] who were near [to Him]. ¹⁸ For through Him we [Jews and Gentiles] both have access to the Father by means of one Holy Spirit.

⁶ This secret plan is that the Gentiles [now] share in the inheritance along with us [Jews], and are fellow-members of the body [i.e., the church], and that they share, along with us [Jews], in the promise of the Gospel, in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus.

² Live in a humble, gentle and patient way, showing tolerance [for the weaknesses] of one another out of love [for them].

²² You were [taught] to put away [the conduct of] your former lifestyle, your old person who is being corrupted by deceitful desires, ²³ and to be renewed in your inner person. ²⁴ And you should put on the new person who has been [re-] created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

³⁰ And do not grieve God’s Holy Spirit by whom you were sealed [i.e., given evidence of God’s ownership] until the day of redemption [i.e., until you receive your new body in heaven. See 1:14]. ³¹ So, put away from you all [kinds of] bitterness and anger and wrath and brawling and slander, along with all [kinds of] malice [i.e., bad attitudes], ³² and be kind and compassionate toward one another, forgiving each other, just as God also forgave you [because of your fellowship] in Christ.

¹ So, as dearly loved children, you people should [try to] be like God.

²² Wives, you should submit to your own husbands, as you would to the Lord. ²³ For the husband is the [spiritual] head over his wife, just as Christ is also the [spiritual] head over the church, since He is the Savior of the body. ²⁴ But just as the church submits to Christ, so wives also should submit to their husbands in everything. ²⁵ Husbands, you should love your wives just as Christ also loved the church, and gave up His life for her, ²⁶ so that He could dedicate her [to Himself], after cleansing her by means of the washing of water [i.e., immersion], accompanied by the word. [Note: “The word” here refers either to a person’s profession of faith (See Rom. 10:9) or to the Gospel message (See Rom. 10:17), both of which are associated with immersion].

²⁶ so that He could dedicate her [to Himself], after cleansing her by means of the washing of water [i.e., immersion], accompanied by the word. [Note: “The word” here refers either to a person’s profession of faith (See Rom. 10:9) or to the Gospel message (See Rom. 10:17), both of which are associated with immersion]. ²⁷ [This is] so He could present the church to Himself in all her splendor, without any kind of stain or wrinkle, but that she should be holy and without [moral] flaw. ²⁸ In the same way also, husbands should love their own wives as they love their own bodies. The man who loves his own wife [actually] loves himself.

³³ However, each of you men individually should also love his own wife the way he loves himself. And the wife should respect her husband.

⁵ Slaves, you should obey those who are your earthly masters, out of reverence and eagerness to please them, with a sincere heart, as you would [obey] Christ.

¹⁸ [Then] offer all kinds of prayers and requests in [harmony with] the Holy Spirit at all times, and be alert constantly in making requests for all the saints [i.e., God’s holy people].

²⁷ So, [whatever happens], live your daily lives in such a way as to be worthy of the Gospel of Christ, so that, whether I come and see you or remain absent from you, I will hear about you, that you are standing firm in one spirit [i.e., united in purpose, and] contending with one mind for the faith of the Gospel [i.e., for the body of Christian teaching].

²⁹ Because God has granted you [the privilege], on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake.

¹⁶ So, we should continue living by the same [standard] that we have [already] attained.

²⁰ But we are [really] citizens of heaven and we are waiting for a Savior [to return] from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,

⁸ Finally, brothers, give [careful] thought to these things: Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovable, whatever is commendable. If it is excellent; if it is praiseworthy; [think about it]. ⁹ You people should do those things which you have learned and received and heard from me, and seen in me, and [then] the God [who gives] peace will be with you.

⁵ [You have these qualities] because of the hope stored up for you in heaven, which [hope] you previously heard about through the message of truth when the Gospel

²¹ And though you were once estranged [from God] and were enemies [of His] in your mind because of your evil deeds, ²² yet now God has reconciled [you] to Himself through the death of Christ’s physical body in order to present you holy, without fault and free from just blame before Him [on judgment day]. ²³ [This will happen] if you continue in the faith [Note: This means either “continue to observe God’s teaching” or, “continue to believe”], firmly grounded and established, and not moved away from the hope offered by the Gospel message, which you have heard and which was preached to people throughout the entire created world under heaven. I, Paul, was made a minister of this Gospel.

²⁷ He was pleased to make known to these people the wealth of His splendor among the Gentiles; this hidden secret, which is Christ among you, [is] the hope of being honored [i.e., in heaven].

¹² [This happened when you were] buried with Christ in [the act of] immersion, from which you were also raised up with Him through [your] faith in the accomplishment of God, who raised Him up from the dead.

¹ If then you people have been raised up together with Christ [i.e., from your burial in immersion, See 2:12-13 with Rom. 6:4], pay attention to the things that are above [i.e., heavenly things], where Christ is seated at the right side of God.

³ For you died [with Christ, See 2:20], and your life is [now] hidden with Christ in [fellowship with] God.

⁹ Do not lie to one another, since you have put away [the conduct of] your old person with its practices, ¹⁰ and have put on the new person, who is being [daily] renewed with full knowledge, according to the image of God, who [re-] created him.

¹² So, as God’s elect [i.e., His people], holy and dearly loved [by Him], clothe yourselves with a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

¹⁵ You should let the peace given by Christ rule in your hearts, since you people were called [to be at peace] in one body [i.e., the church]; and you should be thankful.

¹⁸ You wives should submit to your husbands, as this is proper in [the fellowship of] the Lord. ¹⁹ You husbands should love your wives and not be harsh toward them.

²² You slaves should obey your earthly masters in everything, [and] do not do it just when they are looking [at you], or to gain their favor, but do it with a sincere heart, out of reverence for the Lord.

⁵ Be wise in the way you live in front of outsiders [i.e., non-Christians], making the most of every opportunity. ⁶ Your speech should always be favorable, seasoned with salt [i.e., interesting and appropriate], so that you may know how to properly answer each person [you talk with].

⁴ Each of you should know how to control his own body in a dedicated and honorable way,

¹¹ [We also urge you to] make it your aim to live a quiet life, and to attend to your own business matters, and to work with your hands, as we urged you. [Note: Possibly this exhortation was directed toward the tendency of some people there to neglect ordinary responsibilities in view of an imminent return of Christ].

¹⁵ Make sure that no one does anything wrong to someone who wrongs him, but always look for something good you can do for one another and for everyone.

⁸ He will inflict punishment on those people who do not know God [as Savior], and on those who do not obey the Gospel message of our Lord Jesus.

¹² Now we command and urge such people, in [the fellowship of] the Lord Jesus Christ, that they work quietly and earn their own living.

⁵ But the goal of this instruction is [to] love [God and people] from a pure heart, a good conscience and a sincere faith.

¹⁹ holding on to [your] faith and a good conscience. Some people have rejected these things, resulting in the “shipwreck” of their faith [i.e., their spiritual life was ruined].

² [Offer them] for kings and for all people in prominent [governmental] positions, so that we can live a peaceful and quiet life in all reverence [toward God] and respectability [toward people].

⁹ I also want the women to dress themselves in proper clothing, with modesty and discretion, not with [elaborately] braided hair, or gold [ornaments], or pearls, or expensive clothing, ¹⁰ but with good deeds, which are [more] appropriate for women who claim to be godly.

¹⁰ but with good deeds, which are [more] appropriate for women who claim to be godly. ¹¹ A woman should learn [the Scriptures] in quietness, being fully submissive. ¹² But I do not allow a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man [in the assembly], but she should remain quiet.

¹⁵ But she [i.e., womankind] will be saved [from condemnation, in spite of the “curse” of suffering pain] through childbearing [See Gen. 3:16], provided they [i.e., all women] continue to have faith and love and holiness, along with discretion.

¹² Do not allow anyone to look down on you because you are [so] young, but you should be an example to those who believe [in Christ] in your speech, in your conduct, in your love, in your faith [and] in your purity.

⁵ Now the woman who is a true widow, and living all alone, has placed her hope in God and continues [to offer] special requests and prayers [for help ?] night and day.

¹⁰ having a reputation for doing good deeds, [such as] bringing up children, showing hospitality to strangers, washing the feet of the saints [i.e., God’s holy people], assisting people in trouble and devoting herself to doing all [other] kinds of good deeds.

¹² Fight the good battle of the faith; take hold of never ending life, to which you were called [i.e., by the Gospel. See II Thess. 2:14], [when] you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. [Note: This “confession” probably refers to a person’s acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord and Christ prior to his immersion. See Acts 2:36; Rom. 10:9-10].

¹⁸ [Urge them] to do what is good, to be rich in [the practice of] good deeds, to be generous and willing to share [with others].

³ I thank God, whom I worship [or, “serve”] with a clear conscience, as my forefathers did, that I can remember you [i.e., your commitment] continually in my prayers night and day.

²⁵ [He must] gently correct those people who oppose [him], in hope that God will give them [opportunity for] repentance, leading to a [full] knowledge of the truth,

²⁵ [He must] gently correct those people who oppose [him], in hope that God will give them [opportunity for] repentance, leading to a [full] knowledge of the truth, ²⁶ and that they will come to their senses and escape from being trapped by the devil, who had captured them to do what he wanted.

² [and provides] hope for never ending life. God, who cannot lie, promised this [life] before the beginning of time,

³ Older women, likewise, should be reverent in their behavior, not slanderers, not addicted to much wine, teachers of what is good.

³ Older women, likewise, should be reverent in their behavior, not slanderers, not addicted to much wine, teachers of what is good.

³ Older women, likewise, should be reverent in their behavior, not slanderers, not addicted to much wine, teachers of what is good. ⁴ Then they can train the young women to love their husbands, to love their children,

⁴ Then they can train the young women to love their husbands, to love their children,

⁴ Then they can train the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, ⁵ to be sensible, [morally] pure, [good] homemakers, kind [and] in subjection to their own husbands, so that God’s message will not be spoken against.

⁵ to be sensible, [morally] pure, [good] homemakers, kind [and] in subjection to their own husbands, so that God’s message will not be spoken against. ⁶ In the same way, you should exhort the younger men to be sensible.

⁶ In the same way, you should exhort the younger men to be sensible. ⁷ In everything [you do], you should show that you are a [proper] example of doing good deeds. In your teaching show integrity, dignity, ⁸ and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that the person who opposes [us] will have to be ashamed for not having anything bad to say about us.

⁸ and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that the person who opposes [us] will have to be ashamed for not having anything bad to say about us. ⁹ Slaves should be in subjection to their own masters in everything. They should try hard to please them, without talking back ¹⁰ or keeping [part of their master’s] property for themselves, but proving to be completely trustworthy, so that they will make the teaching of God our Savior attractive in every way. ¹¹ For God’s unearned favor has appeared, bringing salvation to all people [i.e., in the coming of Christ]. ¹² It instructs us to give up ungodly living and worldly desires and to live sensible, righteous and godly lives in this present age, ¹³ while looking forward to the blessed hope [i.e., the hope that produces blessings] and the coming splendor of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. ¹⁴ He gave Himself up for us, to buy us back from [enslavement to] all [kinds of] wickedness and to purify for Himself a group of people who belong to Him and who are eager to do good deeds.

¹⁴ He gave Himself up for us, to buy us back from [enslavement to] all [kinds of] wickedness and to purify for Himself a group of people who belong to Him and who are eager to do good deeds. ¹⁵ You should teach these things and exhort and rebuke people with full authority. Do not let anyone look down on you. [See note on I Tim. 4:12].

² to slander no one, to be peaceful, to be considerate [or, “gentle”] and to show every courtesy to all people.

⁵ He saved us, not because of any good deeds we ourselves had done, but because of His mercy. [He saved us] through the washing of new birth [Note: This refers to our immersion in water] and the renewing [work] of the Holy Spirit, ⁶ whom God poured out upon us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior. ⁷ [This was] so that, being made right with God by His unearned favor, we could have the hope of [possessing our] inheritance of never ending life [in heaven].

⁷ [This was] so that, being made right with God by His unearned favor, we could have the hope of [possessing our] inheritance of never ending life [in heaven].

³ This Son expresses the radiance of God’s splendor and represents His very Being, and He sustains everything by His powerful word. After He had provided cleansing for [man’s] sins, He sat down at the right side of the Majesty [i.e., God] on high [i.e., in heaven].

¹³ But which one of the angels did God ever say [this] about [Psa. 110:1], “You should sit at my right side until I put your enemies [in full subjection] beneath your feet”? ¹⁴ Are not all angels ministering spirits sent out [by God] to serve those people who will inherit salvation?

⁶ but Christ [was faithful] as a Son over God’s household. And we [Christians] are that household, if we hold on to our confidence [in Christ], and to the boasting [i.e., joy] of our hope [in God], firmly to the end [of our lives].

⁹ and after becoming perfectly [qualified], He became the source of never ending salvation to all those who obey Him.

¹ So, we should leave the basic principles of Christ’s teaching and go on to maturity. [We should] not lay again a foundation of repentance [i.e., turning away] from deeds of death [i.e., acts that lead to spiritual death or that spring from a spiritually dead person], and of faith in God;

¹⁴ saying [Gen. 22:16-17], “I will certainly bless you and will multiply [your descendants].”

¹⁸ He did this so that by two unchangeable things [i.e., His promise and His oath], (and it is impossible for God to lie), we, who have fled [to God] for refuge, could be greatly encouraged to take hold of the hope set before us [i.e., the hope of never ending life]. ¹⁹ We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, [a hope] that is safe and secure, and one that enters the curtain [i.e., figuratively, of the heavenly sanctuary], ²⁰ where Jesus, our forerunner, [already] entered on our behalf, having become a Head Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.

¹ Now this is the main point [or, the summary] of what we are saying: We have such a head priest [i.e., as described in chapter 7] who sat down at the right side of the throne of the Majesty [i.e., God] in heaven.

¹⁴ how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Holy Spirit [or, His eternal Spirit] offered Himself without [moral] blemish to God, cleanse our consciences from deeds which lead to [spiritual] death to serve the living God?

²⁴ For Christ did not enter the Holy of Holies made by hand, which is [only] a counterpart of the true one, but into heaven itself, where He now appears in God’s presence for us. [See verse 12].

²⁶ For then He would have had to suffer often since the creation of the world; but now at the end of the ages [i.e., the final period of world history] He has been revealed once [for all] to remove sin by sacrificing Himself.

²⁸ so Christ also, who was once [for all] offered [as a sacrifice] to take away the sins of many people, will come back a second time, not to take away sin, [but] to provide salvation to those who are waiting for Him.

¹² But when this Priest [i.e., Christ] had offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, He sat down at the right side of God.

⁷ By [having] faith, when Noah was warned [by God] about conditions that had not yet been seen [i.e., regarding events of the coming Flood], he acted out of reverent concern [for God] by constructing a ship to save [i.e., rescue] his household [from the Flood waters]. By this [i.e., his faith which led to action], Noah condemned the world and inherited righteousness because of his faith. ⁸ By [having] faith, when Abraham was called [by God] to leave [his homeland] and go to a place he would later receive as an inheritance [i.e., Palestine], he obeyed God and went out, not knowing where he was going.

¹¹ By [having] faith, Sarah herself received the ability to have children, even though she was [sterile, being] past the age of child-bearing, since she considered God faithful to His promise. [Note: Some translations consider “Abraham” to be the subject of this highly controversial verse. See Lightfoot, pages 222-225].

¹⁹ [So], he reasoned that God was able to raise up [Isaac] from the dead, which, in a sense, he did receive him back [from the dead].

² We should fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and completer of the [or, “our”] faith. [Note: Jesus is here pictured as the one who completely fulfills the life of faith, or who provides us with the ability to live such a life]. [And] because He could look forward to joy, He endured the cross, despising its shame, and has sat down at the right side of God’s throne.

¹⁴ Actively seek to live in peace with all people. And be dedicated to God, because no one will see God without this.

¹ Continue to love [one another] as brothers.

¹⁶ But do not forget to do good deeds and share [with others], for God is very pleased with such “sacrifices.”

¹⁸ Pray for us [continually]. We are convinced that we [i.e., the writer of Hebrews] have a clear conscience [i.e., regarding our relationship to you] and we want to behave properly in every way.

¹² The person who perseveres under trials is blessed, because when he has been approved by God, he will receive the crown of [never ending] life, which God has promised to those who love Him.

²¹ Therefore, you should put away [from you] all moral filth and overflowing wickedness and humbly receive the word [of God], planted within you [by the Holy Spirit. See John 16:8], which is capable of saving your souls.

²⁶ If anyone considers himself to be religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, this person is self-deceived and his religion is worthless.

¹³ For the person who has shown no mercy will be judged without mercy. [For] mercy wins out over condemnation.

¹ Not many of you should be teachers, my brothers, because you [should] know that we [teachers] will be judged more strictly. ² For we all make mistakes in many areas [of life]. If anyone does not make a mistake in what he says, he is a perfect person, capable of keeping a tight rein on his whole life also. ³ Now if we put bits in the mouths of horses so that they will obey us, we can govern the direction of their entire bodies as well. ⁴ Look, even though ships are huge and are driven by strong winds, still their direction can be governed by a very small rudder, wherever the pilot desires to sail. ⁵ So, the tongue is a small part [of the body], yet it boasts of great accomplishments. Look at how large a forest is burned up by even a tiny spark. ⁶ And the tongue is [like] a fire [i.e., like that spark]. [For] the tongue, as a part of the body, is [like] the world of evil. It corrupts the entire life [of a person] and inflames the course of nature itself [i.e., it affects a person throughout his whole earthly existence], and is ignited by hell itself [i.e., the evil produced by the fiery tongue has hell as its source and destiny]. ⁷ For all kinds of animals and birds and reptiles and ocean creatures are being subdued and have been subdued by mankind, ⁸ but no one can subdue the tongue. It is an uncontrollable [source of] evil and full of deadly poison. ⁹ We praise the Lord and Father with it, and [also] curse men who are created in God’s likeness with it. ¹⁰ Praise and cursing come out of the same mouth! My brothers, these things should not be happening.

¹³ Who [then] is the wise and understanding person among you? He should show by his good conduct [that he has] deeds of gentleness [stemming] from wisdom. ¹⁴ But if you people have bitter jealousy and rivalry in your hearts, do not be arrogant [over it] and deny the truth. ¹⁵ This “wisdom” is not the kind that comes from [God] above, but is earthly, unspiritual and demonic [i.e., it is motivated by an evil spirit and not the Holy Spirit]. ¹⁶ For when jealousy and rivalry exist, there is [also] disorder and every [kind of] evil practice. ¹⁷ But the [true] wisdom, which is from [God] above, is first of all pure, then peace-loving, patient and easily persuaded. [It is] full of mercy and produces a crop of good deeds; [it is] impartial [or, unwavering] and sincere.

¹⁷ But the [true] wisdom, which is from [God] above, is first of all pure, then peace-loving, patient and easily persuaded. [It is] full of mercy and produces a crop of good deeds; [it is] impartial [or, unwavering] and sincere.

¹⁷ But the [true] wisdom, which is from [God] above, is first of all pure, then peace-loving, patient and easily persuaded. [It is] full of mercy and produces a crop of good deeds; [it is] impartial [or, unwavering] and sincere. ¹⁸ [People who are] peacemakers sow [seeds of] peace and it produces a crop of righteousness [in the lives of others].

¹⁷ So, the person who knows the good [he ought] to be doing, but is not doing it, is sinning.

⁶ You have condemned and murdered the righteous man [i.e., the innocent person, See verse 4] and he does not [even] resist you.

¹¹ Notice that we consider those who endured [suffering with patience] to be blessed [by God]. You people have heard of Job’s patience and have seen what the Lord finally did [for him]. The Lord is very compassionate and merciful.

¹⁶ So, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another to be healed [from sin sickness]. The special request of a righteous person is empowered with [great] effectiveness.

¹⁹ My brothers, if anyone among you strays away from the truth [of God’s inspired message], and someone brings him back [to it], ²⁰ that person should know that whoever brings a sinner back from the error of his way will save that soul from [spiritual] death and will cover over a large number of sins [i.e., the many sins of that person will become forgiven].

³ God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, is to be praised for being so merciful as to have given us a new birth, which provides for us a hope of never ending life through the means of Jesus Christ’s return from the dead.

³ God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, is to be praised for being so merciful as to have given us a new birth, which provides for us a hope of never ending life through the means of Jesus Christ’s return from the dead. ⁴ Through Him we have an inheritance that cannot be corrupted or contaminated, and will never disappear; it is reserved in heaven for you.

¹¹ They studied [their own prophecies] to learn what, or which, [person or] time the Holy Spirit in them pointed to, in predicting the sufferings of Christ and the glories yet to come. ¹² It was revealed to these prophets that you people, not they, were the ones being ministered to in the matters now being announced to you by those who preached the Gospel to you by the Holy Spirit, who was sent from heaven. [This message contained] things which angels would like to look into.

¹⁵ but according to the Holy One, who called you [i.e., God], you people also should become holy [i.e., separated for God’s service] in all your conduct,

¹⁷ And if you call upon [God as] your Father, who judges each person’s work impartially, [then] conduct yourselves during the time you spend in this life showing reverence [to God].

²² [Since] you have purified your souls by [your] obedience to the truth [i.e., the Gospel message], which produces a genuine love for your brothers, [now] you should have this kind of fervent, heartfelt love for one another. ²³ You have experienced new birth, not from seed that can decay, but from seed that cannot decay, through the living and enduring word of God.

¹ Therefore, you should put out of your lives all malice [i.e., bad attitudes], and all deceit and hypocrisy, and all envy and unwholesome talk.

¹² You should live such good lives before [unconverted] Gentiles, so that even though they accuse you of being evildoers, by seeing your good deeds, they will [be led to] honor God [for you] on the day He visits us again [i.e., to bring judgment].

¹⁵ For it is God’s will that, by doing good, you should put to silence the ignorant [talk and actions] of foolish people.

¹⁷ Show [proper] respect for everyone. Love your [Christian] brothers [and sisters]. Have an awe-inspiring respect for God. Show honor to the king.

¹⁹ For those of you who put up with such suffering unjustly, because of your close relationship to God, are to be commended.

¹⁹ For those of you who put up with such suffering unjustly, because of your close relationship to God, are to be commended. ²⁰ But it is no credit to you if you put up with a beating you deserve. But if you patiently tolerate suffering for doing good, this is pleasing to God.

²⁰ But it is no credit to you if you put up with a beating you deserve. But if you patiently tolerate suffering for doing good, this is pleasing to God.

²⁰ But it is no credit to you if you put up with a beating you deserve. But if you patiently tolerate suffering for doing good, this is pleasing to God. ²¹ [After all], this is what you were called to do, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you would follow in His steps.

²¹ [After all], this is what you were called to do, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you would follow in His steps. ²² [For] He neither sinned nor used deceitful words.

²² [For] He neither sinned nor used deceitful words.

²² [For] He neither sinned nor used deceitful words. ²³ When He was spoken to with harsh insults, He did not reply in the same way. When He was made to suffer, He did not threaten [His tormentors], but instead entrusted Himself to God, [whom He knew] would make a righteous judgment [in the matter].

²³ When He was spoken to with harsh insults, He did not reply in the same way. When He was made to suffer, He did not threaten [His tormentors], but instead entrusted Himself to God, [whom He knew] would make a righteous judgment [in the matter]. ²⁴ Jesus took upon Himself our sins [when] His body was placed upon the cross so that we, [through] dying to [i.e., giving up] the sinful life, would live for righteousness. You were healed [from your sins] by His being brutally treated.

¹ In the same way [that Jesus was submissive], you wives should submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, even though they may not obey the [Gospel] message [they have heard] they may, without your talking [to them about it], ² be won by observing your godly and respectful behavior.

² be won by observing your godly and respectful behavior.

² be won by observing your godly and respectful behavior. ³ Do not let your [adornment] be [the decorations] of the physical body, such as elaborate hair-dos, the wearing of golden [jewelry] and the wearing of [stunning] outfits. ⁴ But [the kind of adornment you should display is] that of the inner person, with its enduring qualities of a meek and calm spirit, which are extremely valuable in God’s eyes.

⁴ But [the kind of adornment you should display is] that of the inner person, with its enduring qualities of a meek and calm spirit, which are extremely valuable in God’s eyes. ⁵ For this is the way holy women in ancient times decorated themselves. Their hope was in God and they were known for being in subjection to their own husbands. ⁶ Sarah obeyed her husband Abraham, even referring to him [in respectful terms such] as “sir.” You [wives] are her [spiritual] descendants if you also do what is right and are not fearful [that things in life will turn out badly].

⁶ Sarah obeyed her husband Abraham, even referring to him [in respectful terms such] as “sir.” You [wives] are her [spiritual] descendants if you also do what is right and are not fearful [that things in life will turn out badly]. ⁷ [You] husbands, in the same way, should live with your wives in an understanding way, recognizing their feminine nature as being physically weaker than yours, and showing special honor to them because of it. [Realize] that sharing your lives together is a gracious gift [from God]. [If you have the right relationship with them] it will help avoid problems in your prayer lives.

¹⁴ But even if you have to suffer for doing what was right, you still have [God’s] blessing. So, do not be afraid of the threats [of your persecutors], and do not let it worry you.

¹⁴ But even if you have to suffer for doing what was right, you still have [God’s] blessing. So, do not be afraid of the threats [of your persecutors], and do not let it worry you. ¹⁵ But instead, set aside a place in your hearts where Christ is [in full control as] Lord, and be prepared always to give a suitable reply to every person who asks you for a reason why you have an inner hope. But [be sure you do it] in a meek and respectful way, however.

¹⁵ But instead, set aside a place in your hearts where Christ is [in full control as] Lord, and be prepared always to give a suitable reply to every person who asks you for a reason why you have an inner hope. But [be sure you do it] in a meek and respectful way, however.

¹⁵ But instead, set aside a place in your hearts where Christ is [in full control as] Lord, and be prepared always to give a suitable reply to every person who asks you for a reason why you have an inner hope. But [be sure you do it] in a meek and respectful way, however. ¹⁶ May your conscience be able to so approve of your conduct that, even if you are ridiculed, those doing it will [eventually] have to be ashamed [of themselves] for criticizing your Christian behavior.

²¹ This water prefigured immersion [into Christ], which now also saves you, not by removing dirt from the [physical] body, but [by serving] as an appeal [or, “pledge”] to God for a clear conscience through the raising of Jesus Christ from the dead.

¹ Therefore, since Christ has suffered physically, you people should fortify yourselves with the same attitude He had. For the person who has suffered physically [i.e., in standing for Christ] has quit sinning.

⁶ This is the purpose that the Gospel was preached to those who have died physically [for the faith]: It was so that, even though they had been judged physically [i.e., by suffering death at the hands of men], they could still live spiritually in the presence of God.

¹³ You should rejoice that you are sharing some of what Christ has suffered, so that you will get to rejoice all the more when He returns in His splendor. ¹⁴ If you are spoken against for being Christians, you have God’s blessing, because His glorious Holy Spirit rests upon you [to provide comfort, See John 14:16]. ¹⁵ [However], you should not have to suffer for murdering, stealing, doing evil or interfering in the affairs of others.

¹⁵ [However], you should not have to suffer for murdering, stealing, doing evil or interfering in the affairs of others. ¹⁶ But if a person should have to suffer because he is a Christian, he should not be ashamed [of it], but instead, he should bring honor to God by [wearing] the name [of Christ]. ¹⁷ For the time has [now] come for the house of God [the church, See I Tim. 3:15] to begin receiving judgment [i.e., by undergoing persecution], and if it starts with us [Christians], what will be the [ultimate] end of people who do not obey the Gospel of God?

¹⁹ Therefore, those who [are allowed to] suffer in harmony with God’s [permissive] will, should commit their souls to a trustworthy Creator, [who will take everything into account], while they go on [trying] to do what is right.

⁵ And in the same way, you younger [Christians] should be [respectfully] submissive to the older ones. And all of you should [be willing to] humbly serve one another, for God stands opposed to [the efforts of] proud people, but extends His unearned favor to those [who serve] with humility.

¹⁰ And the God who bestows every unearned favor [upon His people], who invited you to partake of His eternal splendor through Christ Jesus, will restore, confirm, strengthen and stabilize you people [in the faith], after you have gone through a brief time of suffering.

⁷ and brotherly kindness along with your godliness, and with your brotherly kindness, develop love.

⁵ and if He did not spare the ancient world of Noah’s day, when He brought a flood on those ungodly people (though Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven other people, were saved from it);

¹¹ Since all these things are [certain] to be destroyed, what kind of persons should you be, [if not like those] living holy lives, and in a godly manner,

¹⁵ And consider [that] the patience of the Lord means [further opportunities for] salvation, [just] as our dearly loved brother Paul also wrote to you, using the wisdom given to him by God.

⁹ [But] if we confess our sins [to God], He is faithful [to His promise] and righteous [in His judgment], and will forgive us of those sins and cleanse us from all of our wrongdoing.

¹⁴ [For] we [can] know that we have passed out of [the realm of spiritual] death and into [spiritual] life, because we [show] love for the brothers [and sisters]. The person who does not love [them] continues to be [spiritually] dead.

¹⁸ Little children [i.e., dear ones], we should not [merely] claim to love [people], or [even just] talk about it, but [we should love] by what we do [for them] in a genuine way. ¹⁹ And this is how we will know that we are following [God’s] truth, and will have assurance [of it] in our hearts and before God [as well].

¹¹ Dear [friend], do not imitate what is evil, but [only] what is good. The person who does what is good is [a child] of God; the one who does evil has not seen God [spiritually].

⁵ They were found not to be liars; [for] they were without just blame.

¹⁰ Then I fell down in front of him to worship him. But he said to me, “Do not do that; I am [only] a fellow-servant with you and with your brothers who hold onto the testimony about Jesus. You should worship God. For the testimony about Jesus is the spirit [i.e., the purpose, or source] of prophecy.”

⁷ And when the thousand years are over, Satan will be released from his prison,