# verses

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Therefore being a prophet; and knowing that God had sworn to him with an oath, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up the Messiah, to sit on his throne;


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foreseeing <i>this</i> he spake of the resurrection of Christ, <i>when he said,</i> that his soul was not left in the invisible state, nor did his flesh see corruption.


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Therefore being exalted by the right <i>hand</i> of God, and having received of the Father the promise of the holy Spirit, He hath poured forth this <i>gift,</i> which ye now see and hear.


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Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made this very Jesus, whom ye crucified, <i>both</i> Lord and Christ.


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Now when they heard <i>this,</i> they were pricked to the heart, and said unto Peter, and <i>to</i> the rest of the apostles, Brethren, what shall we do?


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And Peter said unto them, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of <i>your</i> sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the holy Spirit:


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for the promise is to you and to your children, <i>yea</i> and to all that are afar off, <i>even</i> as many as the Lord our God shall call.


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And with many other words did he press and exhort <i>them,</i> saying, Save yourselves from this perverse generation.


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They therefore that received his word with readiness were baptized: and in that <i>same</i> day there were added unto <i>them</i> about three thousand souls.


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And they continued stedfast in the apostles doctrine, and fellowship, and <i>in</i> the breaking of bread, and <i>in</i> prayers.


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And they sold <i>their</i> possessions and goods, and distributed to all, according as any one had need.


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And continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they partook of their food with gladness and simplicity of heart,


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praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.


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Now Peter and John were going up to the temple together at the hour of prayer, <i>which is</i> the ninth <i>hour.</i>


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And a certain man who had been lame from his birth was carried <i>along;</i> whom they laid every day at the gate of the temple, <i>which is</i> called Beautiful, to ask alms of those that were going into the temple:


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But Peter said, Silver and gold I have not; but what I have I give thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.


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And taking him by the right hand, he raised <i>him</i> up: and immediately his feet and ancles were strengthened:


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and leaping up he stood <i>firm,</i> and walked; and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.


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and knew that it was he who sat <i>to ask</i> for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with astonishment and extasy at what had befallen him.


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And as the lame <i>man</i> that was healed had hold of Peter and John, all the people being astonished ran together to them to the porch called Solomon's <i>porch.</i>


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And Peter seeing <i>this</i> said to the people, Men of Israel, why marvel ye at this, or why look ye <i>so</i> earnestly on us, as if by our own power or piety we had made this <i>man able</i> to walk?


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The God of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob, the God of our fathers hath glorified his son Jesus, whom ye delivered up, and denied before Pilate, when he determined to release <i>Him.</i>


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And through faith in his name, hath strengthened this <i>man,</i> whom ye see and know: his name, <i>I say,</i> and saith in Him, hath wrought this perfect cure before you all.


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but thus hath God accomplished those things which He had foretold by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer.


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Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out: that seasons of refreshing may come <i>upon you</i> from the presence of the Lord;


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whom heaven must indeed receive till the times of settling all things, of which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets from the beginning.


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For Moses said unto the fathers, the Lord your God will raise up a prophet unto you, of your brethren, <i>like</i> me, Him shall ye hear in all <i>things</i> whatever He shall say unto you;


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and every soul, who will not hearken to that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people: yea and all the prophets from Samuel,


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<i>Now</i> ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant, which God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, "And in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed:"


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<i>and</i> to you first God having raised up his son Jesus, sent Him to bless you; in <i>your</i> turning away every one of you from your iniquities.


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And while they were speaking to the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the sadducees came upon them,


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and <i>with them</i> Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest.


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And when they had set them in the midst, they asked <i>them,</i> By what power, or in what name have ye done this?


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by what <i>means</i> he is cured, be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, <i>but</i> whom God hath raised from the dead, <i>even</i> by Him doth this <i>man</i> stand <i>here</i> before you whole.


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And there is salvation in no other; for there is no other name under heaven given among men, by which we can be saved.


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Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were plain and illiterate men, they were amazed; and they knew them again that they had been with Jesus:


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and conferred among themselves, saying, What shall we do with these men? for that indeed an evident miracle hath been wrought by them is manifest to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and we cannot deny <i>it.</i>


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But that it may spread no farther among the people, let us severely charge them to speak no more to any man in this name.


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But Peter and John answered them, and said, Whether it be right in the sight of God to obey you rather than God, judge <i>ye:</i>


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So they threatened them more <i>severely,</i> and let them go; not finding how to punish them, because of the people: for they all glorified God for that which was done.


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Being dismissed they went to their own <i>company,</i> and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them.


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And when they heard <i>it,</i> they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, Thou <i>art</i> God, who hast made heaven and earth, and sea, and all <i>things</i> therein:


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who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain <i>things?</i>


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The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord and against his anointed.


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For of a truth both Herod and Pontius Pilate, <i>the</i> Gentiles and <i>the</i> people of Israel, combined against thy holy child Jesus,


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(whom Thou hast anointed,) to do whatever thy hand and thy counsel had before determined to be done.


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And now, Lord, behold their threatenings; and give unto thy servants to speak thy word with all freedom, while Thou art stretching forth thy hand to heal,


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And when they had prayed, the place in which they were assembled was shaken; and they were all filled with the holy Spirit, and they spake the word of God with freedom.


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And the heart and soul of the multitude that believed was one: no one called any of his possessions his own <i>property,</i> but they had all <i>things</i> common.


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And with great power did the apostles give <i>their</i> testimony of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.


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Neither was there any indigent <i>person</i> among them; for as many as were proprietors of lands or houses, sold them and brought the prices of what were sold,


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and laid them at the apostles feet; and distribution was made to every <i>one</i> according to their necessity.


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a Levite, by birth a Cyprian, having an estate, sold <i>it</i> and brought the money, and laid <i>it</i> at the feet of the apostles.


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sold a possession, and secreted part of the price, his wife also being conscious <i>to it;</i> and bringing: some part, laid <i>it</i> at the feet of the apostles.


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But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan <i>so</i> filled thine heart, that thou shouldst lie to the holy Ghost, and keep back <i>part</i> of the price of the land?


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While it remained, did it not remain thy own? and <i>when</i> sold, was <i>it not</i> in thy own power? what <i>is the meaning</i> that thou hast taken this into thine heart? Thou hast not lyed to men, but to God.


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And Ananias <i>at the</i> hearing <i>of</i> these words fell down and expired: and great fear came on all that heard these <i>things.</i>


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And <i>some of</i> the young <i>men</i> arose, and wrapped him up; and they carried <i>him</i> out, and buried <i>him.</i>


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And Peter said to her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much. And she said, Yes, for so much.


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Then Peter said unto her, Wherefore have ye agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold the feet of those, who have been burying thy husband, <i>now</i> at the door, and they shall carry thee out.


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And immediately she fell down at his feet and expired: and the young men coming in found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her by her husband.


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And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders done among the people: And they all met with one accord in Solomon's portico:


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And <i>true</i> believers were the more <i>willingly</i> added to the Lord, <i>even</i> multitudes both of men and women.


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insomuch that they brought the sick out into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at lest the shadow of Peter, as he came by, might pass over some of them.


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And a great number <i>out</i> of the cities round about also came together to Jerusalem, bringing those that were infirm and <i>that were</i> troubled with impure spirits; and they were all cured.


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Then the high priest rose up, and all <i>that were</i> with him, (being <i>of</i> the sect of the sadducees,) and were filled with rage:


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And hearing <i>this,</i> they went early in the morning into the temple and taught <i>the people.</i> But the high priest being come, and they that were with him, <i>to the council-chamber,</i> they called together the Sanhedrim, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent <i>orders</i> to the prison that they should be brought <i>before them.</i>


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and told <i>them,</i> saying, the prison we found shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we opened <i>them,</i> we found no body within.


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Now when the <i>high</i> priest, and the captain of the temple, and the chief priests heard these words, they were in doubt concerning them, what this would come to;


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when there came one and told them, saying, behold, the men whom ye put in prison, are in the temple teaching the people.


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Then the captain went with the officers and brought them, <i>but</i> not with violence; for they were afraid of the people least they should be stoned:


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saying, Did not we strictly charge you not to teach in this name? and behold ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and would bring this man's blood upon us.


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But Peter, and the <i>other</i> apostles, answered, and said, <i>We</i> ought to obey God rather than men.


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Him hath God exalted <i>with</i> his right hand <i>as</i> a prince and saviour, to give repentance to Israel, and remission of sins:


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and we are his witnesses of what we declare; and so <i>is</i> the holy Spirit, whom God hath given to them that obey Him.


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And when they heard <i>this,</i> they were cut <i>to the heart,</i> and took counsel to put them to death.


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But a certain pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, held in <i>much</i> esteem by all the people, stood up in the council, and ordered the apostles to be taken out a little while; and <i>then</i> he said unto them,


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For some time ago one Theudas arose, pretending to be some <i>extraordinary person,</i> to whom was joined a number of men, about four hundred: who was slain, and all that followed him were dispersed and came to nothing.


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After him arose Judas the Galilean, at the time of the registring, and drew much people after him: <i>but</i> he also perished, and all that followed him were dispersed.


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And <i>therefore</i> as to the present affair I advise you <i>to</i> refrain from these men and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nothing;


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So they took his advice, and having called for the apostles and scourged <i>them,</i> they charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.


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And they departed from the presence of the council rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer disgrace for his name.


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And every day in the temple and from house to house they ceased not <i>from</i> teaching and preaching <i>that</i> Jesus <i>was</i> the Christ.


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Now in those days, as the number of disciples increased, there rose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.


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So the twelve called the multitude of the disciples to <i>them</i> and said, It is not seemly that we should leave the word of God and attend at tables.


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Wherefore, brethren, look out from among you seven men of good character, full of the holy Spirit, and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this matter:


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And the advice pleased the whole multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith, and of the holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus a proselyte of Antioch.


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And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples in Jerusalem was greatly multiplied; and a great number of the priests became obedient to the faith.


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Now Stephen <i>being</i> full of grace and power, wrought miracles and great signs among the people.


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But there rose up some of the synagogue, which is called <i>that</i> of the libertines, and <i>some</i> of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia, and Asia, to dispute with Stephen:


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Then they suborned men to say, we heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and <i>against</i> God.


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And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes; and they came upon <i>him,</i> and forced him along with <i>them,</i> and brought <i>him</i> to the council:


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and they set up false witnesses; who said, This man is continually speaking blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law.


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For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and change the rites which Moses delivered to us.


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(And all that were sitting in the council, looking stedfastly at him, saw his face like the face of an angel.)


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And he said, "Brethren and fathers, hearken,---The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran,


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and said to him, Depart from thy <i>native</i> country and from thy kindred, and come into the country which I shall shew thee.


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Then he came out of the land of the Chaldeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, after his father died, He removed him into this land in which ye now dwell:


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though He gave him no inheritance in it, no not the breadth of a foot; but He promised to give it to him for a possession, even to his seed after him; though he had <i>then</i> no child."


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And God spake thus <i>unto him,</i> "that his seed should sojourn in a strange country, and they shall in slave and abuse them four hundred years:"


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and God said, "I will judge the nation, to which they shall be in slavery; and afterwards they shall come out, and shall worship me in this place."


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And He gave him the covenant of circumcision: and he begat Isaac, and circumcised him <i>on</i> the eighth day; and Isaac Jacob, and Jacob the twelve patriarchs.


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and delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and he appointed him governor over Egypt, and <i>over</i> all his houshold.


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And there came a famine over all the land of Egypt and Canaan, and great affliction; and our fathers could not find sustenance.


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and at the second <i>time</i> Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred was made known to Pharaoh.


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and were carried to Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre which he had bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor <i>the father</i> of Sychem.


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But as the time of the promise drew near, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people increased and multiplied in Egypt.


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Till another king arose, who knew not Joseph. This <i>king</i> formed crafty schemes against our nation,


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and oppressed our fathers, causing their children to be exposed, that their race might be extinguished.


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In which time Moses was born, who was exceeding beautiful, and he was nourished up in his father's house three months: and when he was exposed,


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And Moses was trained up in all the wisdom of the Egyptians: and he was mighty in words, and in deeds.


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And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel.


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And seeing one of them injured he defended <i>him,</i> and smiting the Egyptian he avenged him that was wronged.


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Now he supposed that his brethren would have understood that God would give them deliverance by his hand: but they understood not.


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And the next day he came to them, as they were <i>two of them</i> fighting, and <i>would have</i> persuaded them to agree, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren, why do ye injure one another?


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But he, that injured his neighbor, thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us?


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And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina, an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush.


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Now Moses, when he saw it, was amazed at the sight; and as he came near to observe it, there was a voice of the Lord to him,


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<i>saying,</i> "I <i>am</i> the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob;" but Moses trembling durst not look on.


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And the Lord said to him, "Take off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place on which thou standest is holy ground.


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I have seen the oppression of my people <i>that are</i> in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. Therefore come now, and I will send thee into Egypt."


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This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? did God send, by the hand of the angel that appeared to him in the bush, <i>to be their</i> ruler and deliverer.


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<i>And</i> he brought them out, performing wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the red sea, and in the wilderness, forty years.


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---This is that Moses who said unto the children of Israel, "A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you, of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall ye hear."


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This is he who was in the assembly in the wilderness, with the angel that spake to him on mount Sinai, and <i>with</i> our fathers; <i>and</i> who received the oracles of life to give unto us.


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To whom our fathers would not be subject, but renounced <i>him,</i> and in their hearts turned <i>back</i> into Egypt,


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saying to Aaron, Make us gods to go before us; for <i>as to</i> this Moses, who brought us out of the land of Egypt, we know not what is become of him. And they made a calf in those days,


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Then God turned <i>away,</i> and gave them up to worship the host of heaven, as it is written in the book of the prophets, "O house of Israel, did ye offer to me <i>your</i> victims and sacrifices, for <i>the space of</i> forty years in the wilderness?


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yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them <i>by:</i> and I will carry you away beyond Babylon."


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The tabernacle of witness was among our fathers in the wilderness, as He, that spake unto Moses, ordered <i>him</i> to make it according to the model which he had seen <i>in the mount:</i>


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and which our fathers receiving, <i>they</i> with Joshua, brought into the territory of the nations, whom God drove out from before the face of our fathers, till the days of David, who found favor in the sight of God,


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"Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool; what house will ye build for me, saith the Lord, or what is the place of my rest?


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Ye stiff-necked, and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the holy Spirit: as your fathers <i>did,</i> so <i>do</i> ye.


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Which of the prophets did not your fathers persecute? and slew those who prophesied concerning the coming of that righteous <i>One,</i> of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers;


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And when they heard these <i>things,</i> they were cut to the heart and gnashed <i>their</i> teeth at him.


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But he being full of the holy Spirit looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right <i>hand</i> of God:


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and he said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing at the right <i>hand</i> of God.


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and cast <i>him</i> out of the city and stoned <i>him:</i> and the witnesses laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man, whose name was Saul.


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And bending his knees, he cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this he fell asleep.


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And Saul was well pleased with his execution. For at that time there was a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all dispersed through the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.


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But Saul made havock of the church, entring into the houses, and dragging <i>out</i> men and women, committed <i>them</i> to prison.


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And the people unanimously attended to the things which were spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he wrought:


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for impure spirits crying with a loud voice came out of many that were possessed <i>by them;</i> and many paralytic and lame <i>persons</i> were cured.


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But there was before in the city a man named Simon practising magic and bewitching the people of Samaria, giving out that he was some great <i>person.</i>


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Whom they all <i>greatly</i> regarded, from the lest to the greatest, saying, This <i>man</i> is <i>as</i> the great power of God.


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And they were attentive to him, because he had for a considerable time astonished them by <i>his</i> magic <i>arts.</i>


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But as they believed Philip, preaching the <i>things</i> concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women;


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and Simon himself also believed, and was baptized, and kept constantly with Philip: and beholding the signs and miracles <i>that were</i> wrought, he was amazed.


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Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John:


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who when they were come down prayed for them that they might receive the holy Spirit: (for He was not yet fallen upon any of them,


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only they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus:) <i>and</i> then they laid <i>their</i> hands on them,


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And when Simon saw that the holy Spirit was given by the imposition of the hands of the apostles, he offered them money,


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But Peter said unto him, Let thy money perish with thee, since thou thoughtest to purchase the gift of God with money.


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Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray to God, if so be the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee:


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And Simon answered, and said, Do ye pray to the Lord for me, that none <i>of the things</i> which ye have spoken may come upon me.


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And they having testified and declared the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.


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And an angel of the Lord spake to Philip, saying, Arise and go southward to the way that leads down from Jerusalem to Gaza, which is desert.


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And he arose and went; and behold a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, and her high-treasurer, who had come to Jerusalem to worship,


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and the Spirit said to Philip, Go near and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip running <i>up</i> to <i>him,</i>


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And he said, How can I, unless some one guide me? and he desired Philip to come up and sit with him.


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And the portion of scripture, which he was reading, was this, "He was led as a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before it's shearer <i>is</i> dumb, so He opened not his mouth:


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in his humiliation his judgement was taken away, and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken away from the earth."


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And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom doth the prophet say this? of himself, or of some other <i>person?</i>


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And as they went on <i>their</i> way, they came to a certain water: and the eunuch said, See <i>here is</i> water, what hindereth me from being baptized?


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And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.


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And he ordered the chariot to stop: and they both went down to the water, Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.


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And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, and the eunuch saw him no more: but went on his way rejoicing.


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But Philip was found at Azotus; and as he passed along, he preached the gospel in all the cities, till he came to Cesarea.


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But Saul still breathing <i>out</i> threatnings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, came to the high priest, and desired of him letters to the synagogues at Damascus,


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that if he should find any of this persuasion, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.


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And as he was on his journey, and came near to Damascus, suddenly there shone <i>round</i> about him a light from heaven;


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and he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, <J>Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?</J>


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And he said, Who art Thou, Lord? And the Lord said, <J>I am Jesus </J><i>the Nazarene</i><J> whom thou art persecuting: </J><i>it is</i><J> hard for thee to kick against the goads.</J>


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And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, <J>Arise and go into the city, and it shall be told thee, what thou must do.</J>


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And Saul rose from the earth, but when he opened his eyes he could not see: so they led him by the hand, and brought him to Damascus.


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Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias, and the Lord said to him in a vision, <J>Ananias,</J> and he said, Behold, I <i>am here,</i> Lord.


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And the Lord <i>said</i> unto him, <J>Arise and go into the street which is called Strait, and enquire in the house of Judas for </J><i>one</i><J> Saul, of Tarsus:</J>


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<J>for behold he is praying, and hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias, coming in and putting </J><i>his</i><J> hand upon him, that he might recover his sight.</J>


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And Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard from many of this man, how much mischief he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:


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and here <i>too</i> he hath authority from the chief priests to apprehend all that call upon thy name.


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But the Lord said unto him, <J>Go thy way, for he is the instrument I have chosen, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:</J>


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And Ananias went away and came into the house; and putting his hands on him, said, "Brother Saul, the Lord, <i>even</i> Jesus, who appeared to thee on the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the holy Spirit."


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And immediately there fell from his eyes as it were scales; and he instantly recovered his sight, and arose and was baptized.


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And when he had taken <i>some</i> nourishment, he was strengthened. Now Saul was with the disciples at Damascus <i>for</i> some time.


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But all that heard him, were amazed, and said, Is not this he that persecuted those in Jerusalem who called on this name, and came hither for this end, that he might carry them bound to the chief priests?


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But Saul prevailed more <i>and more,</i> and confounded the Jews that dwelt at Damascus, fully proving that this <i>same Jesus</i> is the Christ.


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but Saul was apprised of their design. And they watched the gates day and night, to make away with him:


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And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he attempted to associate with the disciples: and they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple.


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But Barnabas took and brought him to the apostles, and related to them, how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that He had spoken to him; and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.


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And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem, and preaching openly in the name of the Lord Jesus:


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but when the brethren knew <i>it,</i> they brought him down to Cesarea, and sent him away to Tarsus.


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Then the churches throughout all Judea, and Galilee, and Samaria, had rest, being edified and walking in the fear of the Lord; and through the consolation of the holy Spirit were multiplied.


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And it came to pass that as Peter was going through all <i>parts,</i> he came down also to the saints that dwelt at Lydda.


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And Peter said unto him, Eneas, Jesus the Messiah, healeth thee. Arise, and make thy bed. And he rose up immediately.


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And there was at Joppa a certain female disciple named Tabitha, who by interpretation is called <i>in Greek</i> Dorcas: <i>and</i> she was full of good works and alms-deeds.


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And it happened, about the same time, that she fell sick and died: and when they had washed her they laid her <i>out</i> in an upper chamber.


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And as Lydda was near to Joppa, the disciples hearing that Peter was there sent two men to him, intreating <i>him</i> that he would not delay to come to them.


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Then Peter arose, and went with them: and when he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber. And all the widows stood round him weeping, and shewing him the coats and garments which Dorcas made when she was with them.


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But Peter, putting them all out, kneeled down and prayed: and <i>then</i> turning to the body he said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up.


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And giving her <i>his</i> hand he raised her up, and calling the saints and widows he presented her alive.


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Now there was a certain man at Cesarea named Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian <i>band:</i> a pious man,


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and one that feared God, with all his house; giving also much alms to the people, and praying to God continually.


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He evidently saw in a vision, about the ninth hour of the day, an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius!


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and he looking earnestly at him, and being afraid, said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up as a memorial before God.


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He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea-<i>side:</i> he shall tell thee what thou must do.


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As soon as the angel, that spake to Cornelius, was departed, he called two of his domestic servants, and a devout soldier, that constantly attended him.


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On the morrow, while they were on their journey, and drawing near to the city, Peter went up on the top of the house to pray, about the sixth hour.


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And he was very hungry, and desired <i>something</i> to eat: but while they were getting <i>it</i> ready, he fell into a trance; and saw heaven opened,


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and some thing descending to him, like a great sheet tied at the four corners, and let down to the earth:


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in which were all kinds of four-footed creatures, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.


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And the voice <i>said</i> to him again the second time, <J>What God hath cleansed, do not thou account polluted.</J>


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Now while Peter was doubting in himself what might be <i>the meaning</i> of the vision which he had seen, behold the men that were sent from Cornelius, having enquired for Simon's house, stood at the door;


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And as Peter was pondering upon the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold there are three men enquiring for thee:


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Then Peter went down to the men that were sent to him from Cornelius, and said, Behold I am <i>the person</i> whom ye seek: what is the cause for which ye are come?


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And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a righteous man, and one that feareth God, and of a good character among all the nation of the Jews, hath been warned from God by an holy angel, to send for thee to his house, and to hear what thou shalt say.


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Then he invited them in, and entertained <i>them that night.</i> And on the morrow Peter set out with them; and some of the brethren from Joppa went with him.


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And the next day they came into Cesarea; and Cornelius was waiting for them, having called together his relations and intimate friends.


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And he said unto them, Ye know how unlawful it is for a man that is a Jew, to associate with or go to <i>the house of</i> one of another nation: but God hath shewn me, that I should not call any man polluted or unclean.


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And therefore I came <i>to you,</i> when I was sent for, without demur. I ask therefore on what account ye sent for me.


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And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting till this hour, and at the ninth hour I was praying in my house, when behold a man stood before me in bright raiment,


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Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, who is sirnamed Peter, (he lodgeth in the house of <i>one</i> Simon a tanner, by the sea-<i>side,</i>) who when he cometh, will talk with thee.


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Immediately therefore I sent to thee, and thou hast done well that thou art come. And now we are all here present before God, to hear all the things which God hath charged thee with <i>to us.</i>


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<i>According to</i> the declaration which He made to the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.


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Ye know the report that was <i>spread</i> through all Judea, having begun from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached: <i>concerning</i> Jesus of Nazareth,


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how God anointed Him with the holy Spirit and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed by the devil: for God was with Him.


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And we are witnesses of all <i>things</i> that He did, both in the country of Judea, and in <i>the city of</i> Jerusalem: whom <i>notwithstanding</i> they put to death, hanging <i>Him</i> on a tree.


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but to witnesses before appointed by God, <i>even</i> to us, who did eat and drink with Him, after He rose from the dead.


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And He commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is He who is appointed by God <i>to be</i> judge of the living and of the dead.


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To Him do all the prophets bear witness, that whosoever believeth on Him shall receive the forgiveness of <i>their</i> sins through his name.


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And those of the circumcision <i>that were</i> believers, who came with Peter, were astonished, that the gift of the holy Spirit was conferred upon the Gentiles also:


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Then said Peter, Can any one forbid water, that these <i>persons</i> should not be baptized, who have received the holy Spirit, as well as we?


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And he ordered them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. And they desired him to stay <i>there</i> some days.


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Now the apostles and brethren that were in Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God.


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And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, those <i>that were</i> of the circumcision contended with him, saying,


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saying, I was praying in the city <i>of</i> Joppa; and in a trance I saw a vision, some thing like a large sheet descending from heaven, let down by the four corners; and it came close to me.


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And looking stedfastly upon it, I observed four-footed creatures and wild beasts, and reptiles, and fowls of the air.


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And the voice answered me a second time from heaven, <J>What God hath cleansed do not thou call polluted.</J>


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And behold at that very time there came three men to the house where I was, sent from Cesarea to me.


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And the Spirit ordered me to go with them, doubting nothing. And these six brethren also came with me, and we entred into the man's house;


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and he told us how he had seen an angel in his house, standing and saying to him, Send men to Joppa, and fetch hither Simon,


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And when I began to speak, the holy Spirit fell on them, even as <i>it did</i> upon us at the beginning.


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Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, <J>John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the holy Spirit.</J>


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As therefore God gave to them the like gift that <i>He did</i> to us, upon our believing on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I, <i>that I should be</i> able to withstand God?


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And when they heard these things they acquiesced, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God given to the Gentiles also repentance unto life.


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Now they that were dispersed by the trouble, which arose about Stephen, travelled as far as Phenicia, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but the Jews only.


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But some of them were Cyprians, and Cyrenians, who when they came to Antioch, discoursed with the Grecians <i>also,</i> preaching the Lord Jesus.


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And the report of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem; and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.


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Who, when he was come, and saw the grace of God, rejoiced, and exhorted them all with steadiness of heart to adhere to the Lord.


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For he was a good man, and full of the holy Spirit, and of faith: and many were added unto the Lord.


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And they assembled in the church a whole year, and taught much people: and the disciples were first called Christians at Antioch.


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And one of them, named Agabus, stood up and signified by the Spirit, that there would be a great famine over all the earth: which accordingly came to pass in the reign of Claudius Cesar.


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And each of the disciples, according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren who dwelt in Judea.


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And seeing that it was pleasing to the Jews, he proceeded to apprehend Peter also, (in the days of unleavened bread:)


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whom he seized and put into prison, delivering him to four quaternions of soldiers to guard him; intending, after the passover, to bring him out to the people.


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And when Herod was about to bring him forth, that <i>very</i> night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the guards at the door watched the prison.


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And behold an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the room; and smiting Peter on the side, he waked him, and said, Rise up quickly. And his chains fell off from <i>his</i> hands.


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And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself and tie on thy sandals: and he did so. And he saith unto him, Throw thy garment round thee, and follow me.


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So he went out and followed him; and he did not know, that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he saw a vision.


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And passing through the first and second guard, they came to the iron gate, that leadeth into the city, which of its own accord opened to them: and they went out and passed on through one street; and then the angel departed from him.


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And Peter being come to himself said, Now I know truly, that the Lord hath sent his angel and hath delivered me from the hand of Herod, and <i>from</i> all the expectation of the people of the Jews.


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And considering with <i>himself,</i> he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, <i>who was</i> sirnamed Mark, where many were gathered together and praying.


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And knowing Peter's voice, through <i>excess of</i> joy she did not open the door, but ran in and told <i>them,</i> that Peter was standing at the door.


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And they said to her, Thou art mad: but she confidently affirmed that it was so. Then said they, It is his angel.


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But Peter continued knocking; and when they opened <i>the door,</i> they saw him, and were astonished.


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But he made a sign to them with <i>his</i> hand to be silent, and related to them, how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go, tell these things to James and to the <i>other</i> brethren. And he departed and went to another place.


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Now as soon as it was day, there was no small disturbance among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.


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And Herod searching for him, and not finding <i>him,</i> brought the keepers to a trial, and ordered them to be executed. Then he went down from Judea to Cesarea, and abode <i>there.</i>


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And Herod was going to make war upon the Tyrians and Sidonians: but they came to him with one consent, and making interest with Blastus the king's chamberlain, they sued for peace; because their territory was supplied with provision by the king's <i>country.</i>


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And upon a set day, Herod arrayed in <i>his</i> royal robes, and sitting upon his throne, made an oration to them.


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but immediately an angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and being devoured by worms he died.


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And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their charge, taking along with them John <i>who was</i> sirnamed Mark.


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Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers, as Barnabas, and Simeon called Niger, and Lucius the Cyrenean, and Manaen who had been educated with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul;


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and as they were ministring to the Lord, and fasting, the holy Spirit said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul, for the work to which I have called them.


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These therefore being sent forth by the holy Spirit came down to Seleucia, and from thence they sailed away to Cyprus.


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And when they arrived at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John for <i>their</i> assistant.


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And going <i>quite</i> through the island even to Paphos, they found <i>there</i> a certain magician, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus.


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Who was with the proconsul Sergius Paulus, an understanding man: who calling for Barnabas and Saul, desired to hear the word of God.


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But Elymas the magician (for so his name signifies) withstood them endeavouring to turn away the proconsul from the faith.


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Then Saul, who also <i>is called</i> Paul, being filled with the holy Spirit, and looking earnestly at him,


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said, O thou son of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, <i>who art</i> full of all deceit and craft, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?


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And now behold, the hand of the Lord <i>is</i> upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing <i>even</i> the sun for a time. And immediately there fell upon him a mist and darkness; and groping about he sought for some<i>body</i> to lead him by the hand.


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Then the proconsul, seeing what was done, believed, being struck <i>with admiration</i> at the doctrine of the Lord.


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Now Paul and those that were with him loosing from Paphos, came to Perga in Pamphylia: but John departed from them and returned to Jerusalem.


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And they passing on from Perga came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath-day, and sat down.


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And after the reading of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation to the people, deliver <i>it.</i>


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Then Paul stood up, and made a sign with <i>his</i> hand, and said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.


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---The God of this people Israel chose our fathers, and raised the people, while they sojourned in the land of Egypt, and with mighty power brought them out of it.


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And after these <i>things,</i> about <i>the space of</i> four hundred and fifty years, He gave them judges till Samuel the prophet.


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And then they desired a king: and God gave them Saul the Son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for <i>the space of</i> forty years.


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And having removed him, He raised up David for their king, to whom also He gave testimony and said, I have found David <i>the son</i> of Jesse, a man after my own heart, who will perform all my will.


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And as John was fulfilling his course, he said, Whom do ye take me to be? I am not <i>He:</i> but behold there cometh <i>one</i> after me, the shoes of whose feet I am not worthy to unloose.


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---Men <i>and</i> brethren, children of the race of Abraham, and <i>all</i> those among you that fear God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.


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For the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and their rulers, not knowing Him, have indeed fulfilled the words of the prophets, which are read every sabbath-day, <i>in</i> condemning <i>Him.</i>


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And though they found <i>in Him</i> no capital offence, yet they desired <i>of</i> Pilate that He might be put to death.


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And when they had finished all <i>things that were</i> written concerning Him, they took <i>Him</i> down from the cross and laid <i>Him</i> in a tomb.


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and He was seen for many days by those that came up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses to the people.


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that the promise made unto the fathers God hath fulfilled unto us their children, having raised up Jesus again: as it is also written in the second psalm, "Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee."


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And that He raised Him from the dead, no more to return to <i>the place of</i> corruption, He hath said thus, "I will give you the sure mercies of David."


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Wherefore he saith also in another <i>place,</i> Thou wilt not suffer thine holy <i>One</i> to see corruption.


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Now David having served his own generation according to the will of God, fell asleep, and was laid with his fathers, and saw corruption: but He whom God raised,


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Be it known therefore unto you, brethren, that through Him is preached unto you the remission of sins:


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and by Him every one that believeth is justified from all <i>things,</i> from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.


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"Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and vanish; for I do a work in your days, which ye will not believe, though any <i>one</i> should declare it unto you."


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As they went out of the synagogue of the Jews, the Gentiles desired that these words might be spoken to them on the following sabbath.


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And when the synagogue was broken up, many of the Jews and of the devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas; who addressing themselves to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.


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But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and contradicted the things which were spoken by Paul, opposing and reviling <i>him.</i>


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Then Paul and Barnabas boldly said, It was necessary that the word of God should be first spoken to you; but since ye reject it, and judge not yourselves worthy of eternal life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles:


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for so the Lord hath commanded us, <i>saying,</i> "I have appointed thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation to the utmost <i>part</i> of the earth."


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And when the Gentiles heard <i>this,</i> they rejoiced and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were determined for eternal life believed.


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but the Jews stirred up devout and honorable women, and the heads of the city, and raised a persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their territories.


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And at Iconium they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great number both of the Jews and of the Greeks believed.


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They therefore stayed a considerable time speaking freely of the Lord, who bare witness to the word of his grace, and gave signs and wonders to be done by their hands.


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but when there was an effort both of the Gentiles and of the Jews, together with their rulers, to offer violence <i>to them,</i> and to stone them;


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being apprised <i>of it</i> they fled to the cities of Lycaonia, Lystra and Derbe, and the adjacent country:


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And there was sitting at Lystra, a man disabled in his feet, who had never walked <i>at all,</i> being lame from his birth.


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This <i>man</i> heard Paul speaking; who looking earnestly at him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,


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And the people, seeing what Paul had done, lifted up their voice, saying in the Lycaonian tongue, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.


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And the priest of Jupiter, who<i>se image</i> was before the city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, and with the people would have offered sacrifices <i>to them.</i>


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But the apostles Barnabas and Paul, when they heard <i>of it,</i> rent their clothes, and ran in among the people,


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crying out, and saying, "Sirs, why do ye these <i>things?</i> we also are men subject to the like infirmities with you, and we preach the gospel unto you, that ye may turn from these vanities to the living God, who made the heaven, and the earth, and the sea,


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and all <i>things</i> therein, who in generations past suffered all the nations to walk in their own ways: though He left not Himself without witness;


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for He did <i>us</i> good, <i>in</i> giving us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness."


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And saying these <i>things,</i> they with difficulty restrained the people from sacrificing to them.


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But there came thither <i>some</i> Jews from Antioch and Iconium, and persuading the multitude, stoned Paul, and dragged <i>him</i> out of the city, supposing him to be dead.


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But when the disciples were gathered round him, he rose up and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.


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And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, and Iconium, and Antioch;


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confirming the souls of the disciples, exhorting <i>them</i> to continue in the faith, and <i>telling them</i> that through many afflictions we must enter into the kingdom of God.


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And when they had appointed them elders in every church, praying and fasting, they recommended them to the Lord, in whom they had believed.


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And from thence they sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God, for the work which they had <i>now</i> fulfilled.


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And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they related what God had done by them, and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.


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Now some that came down from Judea, taught the brethren, <i>saying,</i> Except ye be circumcised according to the law of Moses, ye cannot be saved.


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A dissension therefore arising, and Paul and Barnabas having no small dispute with them, it was resolved that Paul and Barnabas, and some others, should go up to the apostles and elders at Jerusalem about this question.


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They therefore, being brought forward on their way by the church, passed through Phenicia and Samaria, relating the conversion of the Gentiles: and they gave great joy to all the brethren.


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And when they came to Jerusalem, they were received by the church, and <i>by</i> the apostles and elders, and they told them all that God had done by them.


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But there rose up, <i>said they,</i> some of the sect of the pharisees that believed, saying, that it was necessary to circumcise them, and enjoin <i>them</i> to keep the law of Moses.


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And after much debate, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Brethren, ye know that a good while ago, God, <i>who was</i> among us, chose that the Gentiles should hear by my mouth the word of the gospel, and believe.


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And God who knoweth the heart, bare witness to them, giving them the holy Spirit, as <i>He had done</i> also to us:


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Now therefore why do ye tempt God, <i>in</i> imposing a yoke on the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?


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But we believe that we shall be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, in like manner as they.


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And all the multitude kept silence, and gave attention to Barnabas and Paul, relating what signs and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.


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---Simeon hath related, how God at first condescended to take out of the Gentiles a people to his name.


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as it is written, "After this will I return, and rebuild the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will repair its ruins, and set it up again.


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That the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, even all the nations, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord who doth all these <i>things.</i>"


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wherefore my advice is, not to trouble those who from among the Gentiles are converted to God; but to write to them,


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that they abstain from the pollutions of idols, and <i>from</i> fornication, and <i>from what is</i> strangled, and <i>from</i> blood.


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For Moses hath <i>had</i> from ancient times those that preach him in every city, and is <i>still</i> read in the synagogues every sabbath-<i>day.</i>


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Then it seemed good to the apostles, and elders, and the whole church, to send men chose from among themselves to Antioch <i>along</i> with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas sirnamed Barsabas, and Silas; leading men among the brethren:


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and they wrote by their hand, as follows, The apostles and elders and brethren <i>here</i> to the Gentile brethren <i>which are</i> in Antioch, and Syria, and Cilicia, send greeting.


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Forasmuch as we have heard, that some who went out from us, have troubled you by <i>their</i> discourses, unsettling your minds, saying, <i>ye must</i> be circumcised, and keep the law; to whom we gave no <i>such</i> commission;


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it seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you, with our beloved <i>brethren</i> Barnabas and Paul,


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We have therefore sent <i>with them</i> Judas and Silas, to tell <i>you</i> the same things also by word <i>of mouth.</i>


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For it seemed good to the holy Spirit, and <i>so</i> to us, to lay no more burthen upon you than these necessary <i>things.</i>


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That ye abstain from <i>meats</i> offered to idols, and from blood, and from <i>what has been</i> strangled, and from fornication: from which ye will do well to keep yourselves. Farewel.


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Being thus dispatched they came to Antioch, and when they had assembled the brethren, they delivered the epistle.


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And Judas and Silas being prophets also themselves, exhorted and established: the brethren by many discourses.


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And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, Let us return and visit our brethren in every city, where we have preached the word of the Lord, <i>and see</i> how they are.


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But Paul did not think proper to take him with <i>them,</i> who left them in Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.


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And there was a sharp dispute, so that they separated from each other; and Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus: but Paul chose Silas and departed,


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Then he came to Derbe and Lystra: and behold there was a certain disciple there, named Timothy, the son of a believing Jewess, but of a Grecian father.


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<i>wherefore</i> Paul was desirous that he should go forth with him, and took and circumcised him because of the Jews that were in those parts; for they all knew that his father was a Greek.


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And as they passed through the cities, they delivered to them the decrees that had been made by the apostles and elders at Jerusalem.


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And when they had passed through Phrygia and Galatia, being forbidden by the holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia, they came to Mysia, and endeavoured to go to Bithynia:


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And Paul saw a vision in the night, There stood a certain man of Macedonia, intreating him and saying, Come over into Macedonia and help us.


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And as soon as he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to depart into Macedonia, concluding that the Lord called us to preach the gospel to them.


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Therefore we set sail from Troas, and came in a direct course to Samothracia, and the <i>day</i> following to Neapolis;


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and from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of <i>that</i> part of Macedonia, <i>and</i> a <i>Roman</i> colony. And we staid some time in this city.


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And on the sabbath-day we went out of the city to a river-side, where there used to be prayer: and we sat down and preached to the women that resorted <i>thither.</i>


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And a certain woman named Lydia, a purple-seller of the city of Thyatira, who worshipped God, heard <i>us:</i> whose heart the Lord opened to attend to the things that were spoken by Paul.


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And when she was baptized and her family, she requested <i>us,</i> saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and lodge <i>there.</i> And she constrained us.


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Now as we were going to <i>the place of</i> prayer, there met us a young woman that had a spirit of divination, who brought her masters much gain by soothsaying.


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She following Paul and us, cried out, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, who shew us the way of salvation.


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And this she did for many days. But Paul being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.


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And he came out that instant. And when her masters saw, that the hope of their gain was gone, they seized on Paul and Silas, and dragged them into the court to the magistrates.


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And when they brought them to the governors, they said, These men cause great disturbance in our city, for they are Jews, and teach customs,


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And the populace rose up together against them: and the officers stripped off their clothes, and ordered them to be scourged.


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And when they had given them many stripes, they cast <i>them</i> into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely.


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Who having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.


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Now in the middle of the night Paul and Silas were praying and singing praises to God, and the prisoners heard them.


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And on a sudden there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bonds were loosed.


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The jailor waking, and seeing the prison-doors open, drew his sword and was going to kill himself, thinking that the prisoners were fled.


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And he took them at that <i>very</i> time of the night, and bathed their stripes: and was baptized, he and all his immediately <i>after.</i>


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And he brought them into his house, and spread a table <i>for them,</i> and rejoiced, believing in God with all his household.


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And the jailor told these words to Paul, <i>saying,</i> the governors have sent <i>orders,</i> that you should be discharged; now therefore depart, and go in peace.


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But Paul said unto them, They have publicly beaten us, uncondemned, <i>and</i> Romans, and cast us into prison, and do they now turn us out privately? No verily, let them come themselves and fetch us out.


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And the serjeants reported these words to the governors: and they were afraid when they heard that they were Romans.


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And they came and intreated them, and when they had brought them out, they desired them to leave the city.


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And when they were come out of the prison, they went into <i>the house of</i> Lydia: and seeing the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.


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Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews.


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And according to <i>his</i> custom Paul went in among them, and for three sabbath-<i>days</i> discoursed to them from the scriptures;


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opening <i>them</i> and shewing, that the Messiah was to suffer and rise again from the dead: and that this is the Christ <i>even,</i> Jesus, whom, <i>said he,</i> I preach unto you.


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And some of them believed and joined themselves to Paul and Silas, and a great number of the devout Greeks, and of the women of distinction not <i>a</i> few.


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But the unbelieving Jews being filled with envy, collected some loose profligate fellows, and making a tumult set <i>all</i> the city in an uproar: and assaulting Jason's house, they sought for them <i>in order</i> to bring them out to the populace.


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But not finding them, they dragged Jason and some <i>of the</i> brethren to the rulers of the city, crying out, these <i>men</i> that have turned the world upside down,


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are come hither also, and Jason has privately received them. And they all act contrary to the decrees of Cesar, saying, there is another king, <i>one</i> Jesus.


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And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night to Berea: who, when they were come <i>thither,</i> went into the synagogue of the Jews.


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These were more ingenuous than those at Thessalonica; for they received the word with all readiness of mind, searching the scriptures daily, whether these <i>things</i> were so.


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And therefore many of them believed: and of the Grecian women of quality, and of men <i>likewise</i> not <i>a</i> few.


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But when the Jews of Thessalonica knew that the word of God was preached by Paul at Berea, they came thither also, to stir up the people.


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And they that conducted Paul attended him to Athens: and receiving an order to Silas and Timothy, to come to him as soon as possible, they departed.


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Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his Spirit was greatly moved, when he saw the city wholly given up to idolatry.


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He therefore disputed in the synagogue with the Jews and <i>other</i> devout persons <i>on the sabbath-day,</i> and with whomsoever he met in public every day.


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But some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers encountered him; and some said, What would this babler say? and others, He seemeth to be a proclaimer of foreign deities: because he preached to them Jesus and the resurrection.


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And they took and brought him to the Areopagus, and said, May we know what this new doctrine is, of which thou speakest?


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For thou bringest strange <i>things</i> to our ears; we would therefore know what these <i>things</i> mean.


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(Now all the Athenians, and strangers sojourning <i>among them,</i> spent their time in nothing else, but to tell or to hear something new.)


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Then Paul stood up in the midst of the Areopagus and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that you are indeed over-much religious:


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for as I was passing along, and looking at what ye worshipped, I found an altar on which there was inscribed, "To the unknown God." Whom therefore ye worship unknown, Him do I declare unto you.


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The God that made the world and all things therein, being lord of heaven and earth dwelleth not in temples made with hands:


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nor is He served by the hands of men, <i>as</i> needing any <i>thing:</i> for He giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;


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and hath made of one blood every nation of men to dwell upon all the face of the earth, having determined the seasons before-appointed <i>them,</i> and the bounds of their habitation;


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that they might seek the Lord, if possibly they might trace Him, and find <i>Him:</i> though indeed He is not far from every one of us.


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For in Him we live and move, and exist; as some also of your own poets have said, "For we his offspring are."


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Being then the offspring of God, we ought not to imagine that the Deity is like to gold, or silver, or stone, carved by the art and device of man.


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Wherefore though God overlooked the times of <i>this</i> ignorance, He now requireth all men every where to repent.


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Because He hath fixed a day, in which He will judge the world in righteousness, by <i>that</i> man whom He hath appointed <i>thereto;</i> having given assurance <i>of it</i> to all <i>men, by</i> raising Him from the dead.


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And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some laughed at <i>it:</i> and others said, We will hear thee again concerning this <i>matter.</i>


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Some however adhered to him, and believed: among whom <i>was</i> Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.


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And finding <i>there</i> a certain Jew, named Aquila, a native of Pontus, <i>who was</i> lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla, (because Claudius <i>Cesar</i> had ordered all the Jews to depart from Rome,) he went to them;


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And when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul was <i>very</i> urgent in spirit, testifying to the Jews that Jesus <i>was</i> the Messiah.


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But as they opposed and blasphemed, he shook his garment, and said unto them, Your blood <i>be</i> upon your own heads; I am clear <i>of it:</i> from henceforth I will go to the Gentiles.


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And departing thence, he went to the house of one named Justus, who worshipped God, whose house was contiguous to the synagogue.


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But Crispus the ruler of the synagogue believed on the Lord with all his house: and many of the Corinthians hearing <i>the word</i> believed, and were baptized.


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<J>for I am with thee, and no man shall lay </J><i>hands</i><J> on thee to hurt thee; for I have much people in this city."</J>


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But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose against Paul, and brought him to the seat of justice,


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And when Paul was going to speak, Gallio said to the Jews, If it were indeed an act of injustice, or <i>some</i> wicked crime, it would be reasonable that I should bear with you.


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But if it be a question about words, and names, and your law, settle <i>it</i> yourselves; for I will be no judge of these <i>matters.</i>


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Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him <i>even</i> before the tribunal: but Gallio did not concern himself about the matter.


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And after Paul had staid <i>there</i> yet a considerable time, he took leave of the brethren, and sailed from thence to Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila, after he had shaved his head at Cenchrea; for he had a vow.


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And he came to Esphesus, and left them there: but <i>before his departure</i> he himself went into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.


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Though when they desired him to stay longer with them, he did not consent: but took his leave of them,


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saying, I must by all means keep the approaching feast at Jerusalem; but I will return to you again, God willing. So he sailed from Ephesus;


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and landing at Cesarea, went up <i>to Jerusalem,</i> and after he had saluted the church, he went down to Antioch.


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And when he had spent some time <i>there,</i> he departed, and went in order through the country of Galatia and Phrygia strengthening all the disciples.


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Now there came to Ephesus a certain Jew named Apollos, an Alexandrian by birth, an eloquent man, <i>and</i> mighty in the scriptures.


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Who had been instructed in the way of our Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spake and taught clearly the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.


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And as he began to speak openly in the synagogue, Aquila and Priscilla heard him and took him home, and expounded to him the way of God more perfectly.


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And as he was inclined to go into Achaia, the brethren wrote to the disciples exhorting <i>them</i> to receive him: who when he arrived, was very helpful to those who had believed through grace.


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For he disputed vehemently with the Jews in public, proving by the scriptures, that Jesus was the Christ.


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Now it came to pass while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul having passed through the upper parts <i>of Asia</i> came to Ephesus:


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and finding some disciples <i>there,</i> he said unto them, Have ye received the holy Spirit since ye embraced the faith? And they said unto him, Nay, we had not even heard whether the holy Spirit be <i>yet given.</i>


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Then said Paul, John indeed baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people, that they should believe in Him that was coming after him, that is, in Christ Jesus.


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And as Paul laid <i>his</i> hands on them, the holy Spirit came upon them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. And the men were <i>in</i> all about twelve.


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and spake boldly, disputing <i>with them</i> for <i>the space of</i> three months, and persuading <i>them of</i> the things concerning the kingdom of God.


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But as some were hardened and refractory, speaking evil of the way <i>of life</i> before the multitude, he departed from them, and took away the disciples <i>with him,</i> disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.


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And this he did for two years; so that all the inhabitants of Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard the word of the Lord Jesus.


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so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases lest them, and evil spirits went out of them.


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Then some of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to name the name of the Lord Jesus over those that had evil spirits, saying, "We adjure you by Jesus, whom Paul preacheth."


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And the man in whom the evil spirit was, leapt upon them, and mastered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.


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And this became known to all, both Jews and Greeks, that dwelt at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.


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And a great number of those that had used inquisitive arts, brought the books, and burned <i>them</i> before <i>them</i> all: and they computed the price of them, and found <i>it to be</i> fifty thousand <i>pieces</i> of silver.


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After these things, Paul purposed in spirit to pass through Macedonia and Achaia, and go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome.


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So he sent into Macedonia two of those that ministred to him, Timothy and Erastus, <i>but he</i> himself stayed <i>some</i> time in Asia.


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For one Demetrius, a silver-smith, who made silver models of Diana's temple, brought no small gain to the artificers: whom he got together,


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and <i>with them</i> the workmen <i>they employed</i> about such things, and said, My friends, ye know that by this employment we get our wealth.


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And ye see and hear, that not only at Ephesus, but in almost all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and perverted many people, saying, that they are no gods which are made by hands.


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So that we are not only in danger of this, that the business <i>we follow</i> will come to nothing; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana will be despised; and her magnificence destroyed, whom all Asia and the <i>whole</i> world worshippeth.


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Hearing <i>this</i> and being filled with rage, they cried out, saying, Great <i>is</i> Diana of the Ephesians.


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And the whole city was filled with confusion: and they rushed with one accord into the theatre, dragging with <i>them</i> Gaius and Aristarchus <i>two</i> Macedonians, fellow-travellers with Paul.


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And some also of the chief <i>men</i> of Asia, being his friends, sent to him and desired him not to venture himself into the theatre.


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Some therefore cried one thing, and some another; for the assembly was confused, and the greater part did not know for what they were come together.


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And they brought Alexander forward out of the multitude, the Jews urging him on. And Alexander beckoning <i>with</i> the hand, would have made a defence to the people.


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But when they knew that he was a Jew, they all cried out with one voice, for near two hours, Great <i>is</i> Diana of the Ephesians.


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And when the Secretary had appeased the multitude, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there who doth not know that the city of the Ephesians is devoted to the service of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter?


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Since therefore these things are incontestible, ye ought to be quiet <i>and composed,</i> and to do nothing rashly.


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For ye have brought these men <i>hither,</i> who are neither robbers of temples, nor blasphemers of your goddess.


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If Demetrius therefore, and the artificers that are with him, have a charge against any <i>one,</i> the law-courts are open, and there are <i>Roman</i> proconsuls <i>likewise:</i> let them implead one another.


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for we are in danger of being charged with sedition for <i>what has happened</i> this day, there being no cause by which we can give a reason for this concourse.


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And after the tumult was over, Paul sent for the disciples to <i>him,</i> and having embraced them, departed to go into Macedonia.


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And when he had spent three months <i>there,</i> the Jews having laid wait for him as he was going to embark for Syria, he determined to return by Macedonia.


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And there accompanied him to Asia, Sopater the Berean, and of the Thessalonians Aristarchus and Secundus, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy: and the Asiatics,


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And after the days of unleavened bread we sailed from Philippi, and came to them at Troas in five days, where we spent seven days.


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And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples were assembled together to break bread, Paul being about to depart on the morrow, preached unto them, and continued his discourse till midnight.


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And a young man named Eutychus, who sat in a window, falling into a deep sleep, as Paul was discoursing for a long time, sunk down and fell from the third story, and was taken up dead.


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And Paul went down and leaned over him, and took him up and said, Be not disturbed; for his life is in him.


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Then he went up again, and having broken bread and eaten, and conversed <i>with them</i> a considerable time, <i>even</i> till break of day, he departed.


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But we went before to the ship, and sailed to Assos, being there to take in Paul: for so he had appointed, designing himself to go on foot.


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And sailing from thence we came the next <i>day</i> over against Chios; and the <i>day</i> following we arrived at Samos, and stopping at Trogyllium, we came the <i>day</i> after to Miletus.


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For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, that he might not spend time in Asia: for he endeavoured, if it were possible, to be at Jerusalem <i>on</i> the day of Pentecost.


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And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know in what manner I behaved among you all the time, from the first day that I came into Asia.


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Serving the Lord with all humility, and many tears, and trials which befel me by the ambushes of the Jews.


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<i>And</i> how I with-held nothing <i>that was</i> useful, but have declared <i>it</i> to you, and have taught you publicly and from house to house:


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And now, being constrained by the spirit, behold I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will befal me there:


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But none of these things move me, nor do I account my life dear, so that I may finish my course with joy, and the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.


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And now behold I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.


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Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, in which the holy Spirit hath appointed you bishops, to feed the church of God, which He purchased with his own blood.


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For I know this, that after my departure grievous wolves will enter in among you, not sparing the flock.


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And from among yourselves shall men arise, speaking perverse <i>things</i> to draw away disciples after them.


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Watch therefore, remembering that for the space of three years I ceased not <i>by</i> night and <i>by</i> day to warn every one with tears.


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And now, <i>my</i> brethren, I recommend you to God, and to the word of his grace: who is able to edify <i>you,</i> and to give you an inheritance among all that are sanctified.


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and ye yourselves know that these hands have ministred to my necessities, and to those that were with me.


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I have shewed you <i>in</i> all <i>things,</i> that <i>by</i> labouring thus ye ought to support the infirm; and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, <J>It is more blessed to give than to receive.</J>


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And they were all much grieved, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him: sorrowing most <i>of all</i> at the word which he spake,


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Now as soon as we had parted from them, and set sail, we came in a strait course to Coos, and the <i>day</i> following to Rhodes, and from thence to Patara.


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And finding a ship <i>there, which was</i> passing over to Phenicia, we went aboard <i>it,</i> and set sail.


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And coming in fight of Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed to Syria, and came down to Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade.


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And we stayed there seven days; having met with <i>some</i> disciples: who told Paul by the Spirit, not to go up to Jerusalem.


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But when we had completed <i>these</i> days, we departed and went our way, all <i>of them</i> attending us with <i>their</i> wives and children, till <i>we were</i> out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore and prayed.


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And we finishing our voyage, came down from Tyre to Ptolemais, and saluting the brethren stayed with them one day.


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On the morrow Paul and those that were with him departed <i>from Ptolemais,</i> and came to Cesarea; and entering into the house of Philip the evangelist, who was <i>one</i> of the seven <i>deacons,</i> we stayed with him.


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And as we abode <i>there</i> several days, there came down from Judea a certain prophet named Agabus:


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and he came to us, and taking up Paul's girdle, and binding his own hands and feet, he said, Thus saith the holy Spirit, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man whose girdle this is, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.


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And when we heard these things, both we and those of the place intreated him not to go up to Jerusalem.


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But Paul answered, What do ye <i>mean,</i> weeping and breaking my heart? for I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.


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And there went also with us from Cesarea <i>some</i> of the disciples, who brought us to one Mnason a Cyprian, an old disciple, with whom we were to lodge.


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And when he had saluted them, he gave a particular narrative of the things which God had done among the Gentiles by his ministry.


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And when they heard <i>it,</i> they glorified the Lord, and said to him, Thou seest, brother, how many myriads there are of the believing Jews, and they are all zealous for the law.


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And they have heard of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews, who are among the Gentiles, to forsake <i>the law of</i> Moses, telling them not to circumcise <i>their</i> children, nor to walk after <i>our</i> customs.


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What then is <i>to be done?</i> The people must necessarily meet together; for they will hear that thou art come.


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Do this therefore, which we advise thee. <i>Here</i> are four men with us, that have a vow upon them: take these and be purified with them,


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and join in their expences, that they may shave their head: and <i>that</i> all may know, that there is nothing in what they have heard of thee; but thou thyself walkest according to the law.


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But as to the believing Gentiles, we have written and determined, that they <i>need</i> observe no such thing; only to keep themselves from what is offered to idols, and from blood, and from <i>any thing</i> strangled, and from fornication.


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Then Paul took the men, and the next day being purified with them entered into the temple to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification till an offering should be offered for every one of them.


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But when the seven days were near ended, the Jews <i>that came</i> from Asia seeing him in the temple, raised a tumult among the people, and laid hands on him, crying out, Men of Israel, help:


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this is the man that teaches all <i>men</i> every where against the people <i>of the Jews,</i> and the law, and this <i>sacred</i> place? and besides, hath brought Greeks too into the temple, and polluted this holy place.


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(For they had before seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, whom they thought Paul had brought into the temple.)


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And the whole city was moved, and there was a concourse of the people: and they laid hold on Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the gates were shut.


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And as they were going to kill him, a report came to the tribune of the cohort, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar:


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who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down to them. And when they saw the chiliarch and the soldiers, they left off beating Paul.


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Then the commanding officer came near and took him, and ordered <i>him</i> to be bound with two chains; and inquired, who he was, and what he had done.


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But some in the croud bawled out one thing and some another: and as he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle.


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And when he was upon the stairs, he was <i>even</i> borne by the soldiers, because of the violence of the people.


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And as Paul was going to be led into the castle, he said to the tribune, May I be allowed to speak <i>a word</i> to thee? And he said, Canst thou speak Greek?


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Art not thou that Egyptian, who before this madest a sedition, and didst lead out into the wilderness four thousand murtherers?


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But Paul said, I am indeed a Jew, a man of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and I beg thou wouldest permit me to speak to the people.


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And when he gave him leave, Paul standing on the stairs made a sign with the hand to the people: and there being a great silence made, He spake to them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,


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---(and when they heard that he spake to them in the Hebrew dialect, they the more <i>readily</i> kept silence, and he said,)


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---I am indeed a Jew, born at Tarsus in Cilicia, but educated in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, accurately instructed in the law of our fathers, being zealous for God, as ye all are this day.


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And I persecuted <i>those of</i> this persuasion even unto death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.


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As the high priest is my witness, and all the elders: from whom I received letters to <i>our</i> brethren, and went to Damascus to bring those also, that were there, bound to Jerusalem, to be punished.


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And it came to pass that as I was on my journey and drew nigh to Damascus, about mid-day, on a sudden a great light from heaven shone round about me:


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and I fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, <J>Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?</J>


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And I answered, Who art <i>thou,</i> Lord? And He said unto me, <J>I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.</J>


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And they that were with me saw the light indeed, and were affrighted; but they did not hear the voice of Him that spake to me.


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And I said, Lord, what shall I do? And the Lord said unto me, <J>Arise, and go </J><i>on</i><J> to Damascus, and there it shall be told thee concerning all things which are appointed for thee to do.</J>


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And as I could not see by reason of the glory of that light, being led by the hand by those that were with me, I came to Damascus.


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And one Ananias, a devout observer of the law, who had a good character from all the Jews that dwelt <i>there,</i>


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came to me, and stood by <i>me,</i> and said, Brother Saul, look up: and I immediately looked up upon him.


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And he said, The God of our Fathers hath before appointed thee to know his will, and to see the just <i>One,</i> and to hear a voice from his mouth.


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And now why shouldst thou delay? Arise and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling upon the name of the Lord.


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And <i>I</i> saw Him saying unto me, <J>Make haste and go quickly out of Jerusalem; for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.</J>


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And I said, Lord, they themselves know that I imprisoned and scourged in the synagogues them that believed on Thee.


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And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also stood by and consented to his death, and kept the clothes of them that slew him.


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And they heard him to this word, and <i>then</i> they exalted their voice, saying, Away with such <i>a fellow</i> from the earth; for it is not fit that he should live.


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And as they were bawling out, and throwing <i>off</i> their clothes, and casting <i>up</i> dust into the air,


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the tribune commanded him to be brought into the castle, and ordered him to be put to the question by scourging; that he might know for what reason they so cried out against him.


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And as they were binding him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man <i>who is</i> a Roman, uncondemned?


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And the centurion hearing <i>this,</i> went and told the tribune, saying, Consider what thou art about to do; for this man is a Roman.


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And the tribune replied, I obtained this freedom with a large sum of money. And Paul said, But I was <i>free</i>-born.


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Immediately therefore those who were going to put him to the question quitted him: and the tribune also was afraid, when he knew that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.


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And on the morrow, desiring to know for certain what he was accused of by the Jews, he loosed him from his bonds, and ordered the chief priests and all their council to attend; and he brought down Paul, and set him before them:


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and Paul looking earnestly at the sanhedrim, said, "Brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God even to this day:"


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Then said Paul to him, "God will smite thee, thou whited wall: dost thou sit to judge me according to the law, and contrary to the law commandest me to be smitten?"


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And Paul said, I was not aware, brethren, that it was the high-priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.


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But Paul, knowing that the one part were sadducees, and the other pharisees, cried out in the sanhedrim, "Brethren, I am a pharisee, the son of a pharisee: for the hope of a resurrection of the dead I am <i>now</i> prosecuted."


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Upon his saying this, there rose a contention between the pharisees and the sadducees; and the people were divided.


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For the sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit; but the pharisees acknowledge both.


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So there was a great clamor: and the scribes <i>that were</i> of the party of the pharisees rose up and contended, saying, We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.


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But as there arose much contention, the tribune fearing least Paul should be torn in pieces by them, ordered <i>a party of</i> soldiers to go down, and take him by force out of the midst of them, and to bring him into the castle.


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And the following night, the Lord standing by him said, <J>Paul, be of good courage; for as thou hast testified concerning me at Jerusalem, so must thou also bear testimony at Rome.</J>


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And when it was day, some of the Jews, having formed a conspiracy, bound themselves with a curse, saying, that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.


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who came to the chief priests and the elders, and said, "We have bound ourselves by a curse to eat nothing till we have killed Paul.


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Now therefore do ye with <i>the rest of</i> the sanhedrim signify to the tribune, that he would bring him down to you to-morrow, as if you would examine more accurately some <i>things</i> concerning him: and we are ready to dispatch him before he come near <i>you.</i>"


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Then Paul called one of the centurions to <i>him,</i> and said, Introduce this young man to the tribune; for he hath something to tell him.


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So he took him and brought him to the tribune, and said, Paul the prisoner called me to <i>him,</i> and desired me to introduce this young man unto thee, <i>as</i> having something to say to thee.


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And the tribune took him by the hand, and retiring into a private <i>apartment</i> asked <i>him,</i> What is <i>it</i> which thou hast to tell me?


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And he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee, that thou wouldest bring down Paul to-morrow to the council, as if they would inquire something more strictly concerning him.


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<i>But</i> do not thou comply with them: for there lie in wait for him more than forty men of them, who have bound themselves with a curse neither to eat nor drink till they have killed him: and they are now ready, waiting for an order from thee.


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Then the tribune dismissed the young man, charging <i>him,</i> Tell no one that thou hast discovered these <i>things</i> to me.


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And he called two of the centurions to <i>him,</i> and said, Get ready two hundred soldiers to go to Cesarea, and seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen, by the third hour of the night.


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This man being seized by the Jews, and about to be killed by them, I came upon them with <i>some</i> soldiers and rescued him: for I understand that he is a Roman.


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and I found he was accused about questions of their law, but had no charge <i>against him</i> deserving death or bonds.


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But an ambush, <i>which was</i> going to be laid for the man by the Jews, being discovered to me, immediately I sent <i>him</i> to thee, telling his accusers also to say before thee what <i>they had</i> against him. Farewell.


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The soldiers therefore, according to the orders given them, took up Paul, and brought him by night to Antipatris.


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who, when they came into Cesarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor, presented Paul also before him.


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And when the governor had read <i>the letter,</i> and asked of what province he was; being informed that <i>he was</i> of Cilicia, he said,


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I will hear thee, when thine accusers are also come. And he ordered him to be kept in Herod's palace.


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And after five days, the high-priest Ananias came down with the elders, and one Tertulius an orator, who appeared before the governor against Paul.


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And when he was called, Tertullus began to accuse <i>him,</i> saying, "As by thee we enjoy much peace, and glorious things are done to this nation by thy prudent administration,


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we acknowledge <i>it</i> upon all occasions and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.


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But that I may not trespass upon thee too far, I beg thou wouldst hear us a few words with thy <i>wonted</i> goodness.


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For having found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ring-leader of the sect of the Nazarenes,


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and attempting to profane the temple, we apprehended him, and would have judged <i>him</i> according to our law.


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But Lysias the tribune came upon us, and with great violence took <i>him</i> away out of our hands, commanding his accusers to come unto thee:


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from whom thou mayst thyself <i>by</i> examining <i>him</i> come to the knowledge of all these <i>things</i> of which we accuse him."


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Then Paul, when the governor permitted him to speak, answered <i>in this manner,</i> "As I know that thou hast been many years a judge to this nation, I do the more chearfully answer for myself:


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because thou mayst know, that there are not more than twelve days since I went up to worship at Jerusalem:


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and they neither found me disputing with any one in the temple, or making sedition among the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:


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But this I confess unto thee, that after the way, which they call heresy, so do I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things <i>which are</i> written in the law, and the prophets:


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having hope in God, (which they themselves also expect) that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.


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And on this account do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence <i>both</i> towards God and <i>towards</i> men.


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Upon which some Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude nor with tumult:


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who ought to have been here before thee, and make good their charge, if they had any thing against me.


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unless for this one expression, that I cried out when I stood among them, For the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day."


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And when Felix heard these <i>things</i> he put them off, (for he had been more particularly informed concerning this way <i>of religion,</i>) and said, When Lysias the tribune comes down, I will thoroughly examine your matters.


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And he commanded the centurion to keep Paul <i>secure,</i> and to let him have <i>some</i> liberty, and to hinder none of his friends from assisting him or coming to him.


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Some days after Felix coming with his wife Drusilla, a Jewess, sent for Paul, and heard him concerning faith in Christ.


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And as he was reasoning of justice, temperance, and a future judgement, Felix trembled, and said, Go thy way for this time, and I will take a proper opportunity to call for thee <i>again.</i>


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And hoping also that money would be given him by Paul, that he might discharge him; he sent for him the more frequently, and conversed with him.


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But after two years Felix received a successor, Porcius Festus; and being willing to gain favor with the Jews lest Paul confined.


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And the high-priest and principal <i>men</i> among the Jews, appeared before him against Paul, and made application to him,


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begging the favor of him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem; <i>for they were</i> preparing an ambush to kill him by the way.


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But Festus answered, that Paul was in custody at Cesarea, and that <i>he</i> himself should go <i>thither</i> soon.


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Therefore, said he, let those of you who are able, go down with <i>me,</i> and if there be any thing <i>bad</i> in this man, let them accuse him.


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And when he had staid among them more than ten days, he went down to Cesarea, and the next day sitting on the tribunal, he commanded Paul to be brought <i>before him.</i>


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And when he was come, the Jews that came down from Jerusalem, stood <i>round</i> about, bringing many heavy charges against Paul, which they were not able to prove:


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he answering in his <i>own</i> defence, Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Cesar have I committed any offence.


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But Festus, being desirous to gain favor with the Jews, answered Paul and said, Art thou willing to go up to Jerusalem, and there to be tried concerning these things before me?


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Then said Paul, I stand at Cesar's tribunal, where I ought to be tried: I have done no wrong to the Jews, as thou very well knowest.


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For if I am indeed doing <i>them</i> wrong, and have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be nothing <i>in</i> what these <i>men</i> accuse me of, no one can give me up to them.


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I appeal to Cesar. Then Festus, conferring with <i>his</i> council, answered, Hast thou appealed to Cesar? to Cesar thou shalt go.


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And as they spent several days there, Festus related Paul's <i>case</i> to the king, saying, There is a man left in custody by Felix: concerning whom,


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when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews appeared <i>in court,</i> desiring judgement against him.


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To whom I answered, it is not the custom of the Romans to give up any man to destruction, till he that is accused have the accusers face to face, and have an opportunity of <i>making his</i> defence concerning the accusation.


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Therefore when they were come hither, making no delay, I sat on the tribunal the next day, and ordered the man to be brought <i>before me.</i>


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Against whom, when the accusers stood up, they brought no charge of such things as I supposed <i>they would:</i>


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but had certain questions against him concerning their own religion; and of one Jesus that was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.


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But I being in doubt as to the dispute concerning these <i>matters,</i> asked <i>him,</i> if he would go to Jerusalem, and there be tried concerning these <i>things.</i>


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But when Paul appealed, to be reserved to the hearing of <i>our</i> sovereign, I ordered him to be kept till I could send him to Cesar.


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Then Agrippa said to Festus, I should be willing to hear the man myself. And he said, thou shalt hear him to-morrow.


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The next day therefore, Agrippa and Bernice coming with much pomp, and entering into the court, together with the chief officers, and men of <i>greatest</i> eminence in the city, at the command of Festus Paul was brought <i>in.</i>


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And Festus said, "King Agrippa and all that are here present with us, ye see this <i>man,</i> concerning whom all the Jews have applied to me, both at Jerusalem and here, crying out, that he ought not to live.


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But when I found that he had done nothing worthy of death, and as he himself has appealed to the emperor, I have determined to send him.


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Concerning whom I have nothing certain to write to <i>our</i> sovereign: wherefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before thee, O king Agrippa, that after examination <i>is</i> made I may have somewhat to write.


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For it seems to me absurd, to send a prisoner and not to signify the crimes <i>laid</i> against him."


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Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretching forth <i>his</i> hand, <i>thus</i> made his defence,


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"O king Agrippa, I think myself happy, that I am this day to make my defence before thee, concerning all <i>the things</i> which I am accused of by the Jews:


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especially as thou art acquainted with all the customs and questions <i>which are</i> among the Jews; wherefore I intreat thee to hear me patiently.


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My manner of life then from <i>my</i> youth, as it has been from the beginning among my own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews are acquainted with,


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knowing me before, (if they would testify <i>it,</i>) that according to the strictest sect of our religion I lived a pharisee.


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to which <i>promise</i> our twelve tribes, worshipping continually night and day, hope to attain: concerning which hope, O king Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews.


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I indeed <i>once</i> thought with myself, that I ought to do many <i>things</i> contrary to the name of Jesus the Nazarene:


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which I also did in Jerusalem; and I shut up many of the saints in prison, having received authority <i>for it</i> from the chief priests; and when they were put to death I gave my voice against <i>them.</i>


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And often punishing them in all the synagogues, I compelled <i>them</i> to blaspheme, and being excessively enraged against them, I persecuted them even to foreign cities.


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On which <i>accounts</i> as I was going to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests---at mid-day,


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O king, <i>as I was</i> on the way <i>thither</i> I saw a light from heaven exceeding the splendor of the sun, shining <i>round</i> about me and those that were going with me.


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And when we were all fallen down to the earth, I heard a voice speaking to me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, <J>Saul, Saul, why dost thou persecute me? </J><i>It is</i><J> hard for thee to kick against the goads.</J>


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<J>But rise, and stand on thy feet: for to this </J><i>end</i><J> have I appeared unto thee, to appoint thee a minister and a witness both of the things which thou hast seen, and </J><i>of those for</i><J> which I shall </J><i>hereafter</i><J> appear unto thee:</J>


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<J>delivering thee from the people and </J><i>from</i><J> the Gentiles, to whom I now send thee,</J>


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<J>to open their eyes, </J><i>and</i><J> to turn </J><i>them</i><J> from darkness to light, and </J><i>from</i><J> the power of satan unto God; that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and an inheritance among them that are sanctified by faith in me.</J>


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but declared first to those in Damascus and Jerusalem, and through all the country of Judea, and <i>then</i> to the Gentiles, that they should repent, and turn unto God, performing works suitable to repentance.


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But having obtained help of God, I continue until this day, testifying both to small and great, <i>and</i> saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses declared should come to pass; <i>even</i> that the Messiah should suffer,


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<i>and</i> being the first of the resurrection from the dead should bring light to the people and to the Gentiles."


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And as he was saying these things in his defence, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself: much learning turns thy brain.


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But he replied, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but <i>I</i> speak the words of truth and of a sound mind.


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For the king knoweth of these <i>things,</i> to whom also I speak with freedom; because I am persuaded that none of them are unknown to him; for this was not done in a corner.


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I know that thou believest <i>them.</i> Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou almost persuadest me to be a Christian.


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And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.


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And when he had said this, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and those that sat with them.


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And when they were retired, they spake to each other, saying, this man hath done nothing worthy of death or of bonds.


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And Agrippa said to Festus, This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed to Cesar.


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Now as it was determined that we should sail to Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to a centurion named Julius, of the Augustan cohort.


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And going on board a ship of Adramyttium, we went off, intending to sail by the coasts of Asia; Aristarchus a Macedonian of Thessalonica being with us.


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And the next <i>day</i> we touched at Sidon. And Julius treating Paul with <i>great</i> humanity, permitted him to go to his friends to get <i>proper</i> supplies.


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And as we sailed slowly for many days, and were hardly got on to Cnidus, the wind not permitting us, we sailed under Crete by Salmone.


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And passing it with difficulty, we came to a place called the Fair-havens, near to which was the city <i>of</i> Lasea.


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And as much time was spent, and sailing was now dangerous, (for the fast was now past,) Paul exhorted <i>them,</i>


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saying, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage is like to be prejudicial and <i>with</i> much damage, not only of the lading and of the ship, but also of our lives.


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But the centurion regarded the pilot and the master of the vessel, more than the <i>things</i> that were said by Paul.


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And the haven not being commodious to winter in, the greater part advised to sail from thence, if they could possibly reach to Phenice to winter <i>at that</i> haven of Crete, which looks <i>both</i> to the south-west and north-west.


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And as the south wind blew gently, thinking they were secure of <i>their</i> purpose, they weighed anchor and sailed close by Crete.


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And the ship being hurried on, and not able to face the wind, we gave it up and <i>so</i> were carried <i>along.</i>


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And running under a certain island called Clauda, we were hardly able to become masters of the boat.


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Which when they had hoisted up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and fearing least they should fall into the quick-sands, they struck fail, and so were driven.


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And as neither sun nor stars appeared for several days, and no small tempest lay on <i>us,</i> all hope of our being saved was now taken away.


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But after long abstinence from food, Paul stood <i>up</i> in the midst of them and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not loosed from Crete, and so have saved this damage and loss.


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However, I now exhort you to be of good courage: for there shall be no loss of <i>any</i> life among you, but only of the ship:


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Fear not, Paul, thou must be brought before Cesar, and behold God hath given thee all <i>that are</i> sailing with thee.


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Wherefore, Sirs, be of good courage; for I trust in God, that it shall be so, according as it was told me.


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And when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in the Adriatic sea, about the middle of the night the mariners thought they drew near to some land:


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and sounding they found <i>it</i> twenty fathoms; and when they had gone a little farther, and sounded again, they found <i>it</i> fifteen fathoms.


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Then fearing least they should fall upon <i>some</i> rocky places, they cast four anchors out of the stern and wished for day.


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But the mariners endeavouring to flee out of the ship, and having let down the boat into the sea, under pretence that they were going to stretch out anchors from the head of the ship,


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Paul said to the centurion, and to the soldiers, Unless these <i>men</i> stay in the ship ye cannot be saved.


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And while the day was coming on, Paul exhorted <i>them</i> all to take <i>some</i> food, saying, Fourteen days this day ye continue waiting without <i>proper</i> food, having taken nothing:


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wherefore I exhort you to take <i>some</i> nourishment, for this is <i>necessary</i> for your safety: for there shall not a hair fall from the head of any of you.


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And having spoken thus, he took bread and gave thanks to God in presence of <i>them</i> all, and when he had broken <i>it</i> he began to eat.


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And when it was day, they did not know the land <i>near them:</i> but they perceived a certain creek with a shore, into which they were desirous, if they could, to have thrust the ship.


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And when they had taken up the anchors, they trusted <i>the ship</i> to the sea, at the same time, loosing the rudder-bands; and hoisting up the main-sail to the wind, they made to the shore.


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But falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship a-ground; and the fore-part stuck fast, and remained immoveable, but the hinder part was dashed in pieces by the violence of the waves.


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And the counsel of the soldiers was to kill the prisoners, least any <i>of them</i> should swim out and escape.


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But the centurion, desirous to save Paul, hindered them from <i>their</i> purpose, and ordered those that could swim to throw <i>themselves</i> out first, and get off to land:


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and the rest, some on planks, and others on some <i>other things</i> out of the ship. And so it came to pass that <i>they</i> all got safe to land.


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And the barbarians shewed us uncommon humanity: for they kindled a fire and took us all in, because of the present rain, and of the cold.


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And Paul having gathered together a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came out a viper from the heat, and fastened on his hand.


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And when the barbarians saw the <i>venomous</i> creature hanging on his hand, they said to one another, This man is certainly a murderer, whom, though he hath been saved from the sea, yet justice suffereth not to live.


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They however were expecting that he would swell, or suddenly fall down dead: but when they had waited a good while, and saw no hurt come to him, they changed <i>their opinion</i> and said that he was a god.


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Now in the parts adjacent to <i>this</i> place was the seat of the chief <i>man</i> of the island, whose name was Publius, who took us into <i>his house,</i> and entertained us three days courteously.


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And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery: to whom Paul went in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.


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who also honoured us with many honors, and furnished <i>us,</i> when we departed, with such things as were necessary.


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And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, that had wintered in the island, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.


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From whence coasting round we came to Rhegium, and after one day a south-wind rising, we came the second day to Puteoli:


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where finding <i>some</i> brethren, we were desired to stay with them seven days: and so we went <i>on</i> to Rome.


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And when the brethren heard of us, they came from thence to meet us, <i>some</i> as far as Appii-forum, and <i>others to</i> the Three-taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God and took courage.


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And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was permitted to live by himself with the soldier that had him in custody.


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And after three days Paul called together the chief of the Jews. And when they were come together, he said unto them, Brethren, though I have done nothing against the people <i>of the Jews,</i> or the customs of <i>our</i> fathers, <i>yet</i> was I delivered a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans:


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who when they had examined me, would have set <i>me</i> at liberty, because there was no crime <i>worthy</i> of death <i>found</i> in me:


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but the Jews opposing <i>it,</i> I was obliged to appeal to Cesar; <i>though</i> not as having any thing to accuse my nation of.


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For this reason therefore I desired to see and to speak to you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.


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And they said to him, We have neither received letters concerning thee from Judea, nor has any of the brethren, that is come hither, related or spoken any ill of thee.


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But we would willingly hear from thee what thou thinkest: for as to this sect, we know that it is every where spoken against.


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And having appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging; to whom he discoursed and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them of the things concerning Jesus, both from the law of Moses, and <i>from</i> the prophets, from morning till evening.


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And <i>so</i> disagreeing one with another they separated, when Paul had said one word, <i>to wit,</i> that the holy Spirit spake rightly by Esaias the prophet to our fathers,


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saying, Go to this people and say, Ye shall hear by <i>the</i> hearing <i>of the ear,</i> and not understand; and <i>in</i> seeing ye shall see, and not perceive: for the heart of this people is stupified,


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and they hear heavily with <i>their</i> ears, and have closed their eyes; least they should see at all with <i>their</i> eyes, and hear with <i>their</i> ears, and understand with <i>their</i> heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.


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Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent to the Gentiles, and they will hear <i>it.</i>


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preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ, with all freedom, none forbidding him.


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separated unto the gospel of God, (which He had promised before by his prophets in the holy scriptures) concerning his Son,


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<i>but</i> powerfully declared <i>to be</i> the Son of God, according to the spirit of holiness, by <i>his</i> resurrection from the dead, even Jesus Christ our Lord;


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by whom we have received grace and apostleship to <i>preach</i> the obedience of faith for his name's sake, to all nations;


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to all that are in Rome beloved of God, called <i>and</i> holy: grace <i>be</i> to you, and peace from God our Father, and <i>from</i> the Lord Jesus Christ.


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And first I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is celebrated through the whole world:


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for God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, how incessantly I make mention of you always in my prayers,


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that is <i>to say,</i> that <i>being</i> among you we may be comforted together by the faith of each, both yours and mine.


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And I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that I often purposed to come unto you, (but have been hindered hitherto) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among the other Gentiles.


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<i>For</i> I am a debtor both to Greeks and barbarians, both to <i>the</i> learned and <i>the</i> unlearned:


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therefore am I ready, as much as in me <i>lies,</i> to preach the gospel to you also that are at Rome.


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For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth, both Jew and Greek:


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for the righteousness of God is therein revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "The just shall live by faith."


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For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who withhold the truth in unrighteousness;


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<i>Inasmuch</i> as from the <i>first</i> creation of the world, the invisible things of Him, <i>even</i> his eternal power and Godhead, are, if attended to, clearly seen in <i>his</i> works:


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so that they are inexcusable; because having <i>thus</i> known God they glorified Him not as God, neither were they thankful; but were infatuated by their <i>own</i> reasonings, and their heart <i>being</i> void of understanding was darkened.


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and changed the glory of the incorruptible God for an image like to corruptible man, and birds, and <i>beasts,</i> and reptiles.


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Wherefore God also gave them up to impurity, in the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies among themselves;


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who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature instead of the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.


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Therefore God gave them up to infamous passions: for even their women changed the natural use into that which is unnatural,


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and the men likewise, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust to one another, men with men committing shame, and receiving in themselves the recompence of their error which they deserved.


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And as they were not careful to acknowledge God, God gave them up to an undiscerning mind to do things <i>that were</i> not fit <i>to be done:</i>


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being filled with all injustice, lewdness, wickedness, covetousness, malignity; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, <i>and every</i> evil habit; whisperers,


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slanderers, haters of God, injurious, haughty, proud, inventers of mischief, undutiful to parents, void of understanding,


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who though they knew the just judgement of God, (that they who commit such practises are worthy of death) <i>yet</i> not only do these very things, but also countenance <i>and encourage others</i> in the practice <i>of them.</i>


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Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whoever thou art, that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest dost the same <i>things.</i>


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But we know that the judgement of God is according to truth against those that do such <i>things.</i>


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And thinkest thou, O man, who judgest those that do such <i>things,</i> and dost the same, that thou shalt escape the judgement of God?


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Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness, and forbearance, and long-suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?


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But by thy hardness and impenitence of heart thou art treasuring up to thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the just judgement of God,


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to them, who by perseverance in well-doing seek for glory, and honor, and immortality, eternal life:


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but to those who are contentious, and obey not the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath.


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Tribulation and anguish <i>shall be</i> upon every soul of man that worketh evil, both of the Jew, and of the Gentile:


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but glory, and honor, and peace to every <i>one</i> that worketh good, both to the Jew, and to the Greek:


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For as many as have sinned without the law shall also perish without the law; and as many as have sinned under the law shall be judged by the law;


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for when the Gentiles, who have not the law, do by nature <i>the</i> <i>duties</i> of the law, these though they have not the law, are a law to themselves,


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and shew the work of the law written on their hearts, their conscience witnessing together with <i>it,</i> and their <i>own</i> thoughts either accusing, or excusing <i>them,</i>)


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and knowest <i>his</i> will, and approvest things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law,


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a light to them that are in the darkness, an instructor of the simple, a teacher of babes, having the form of the knowledge and of the truth <i>which is</i> in the law.


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Thou then, who teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? <i>Thou,</i> that preachest <i>a man should</i> not steal, dost thou steal?


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<i>Thou,</i> that sayest <i>a man should</i> not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? <i>Thou,</i> that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?


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For circumcision indeed is profitable, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a transgressor of the law, thy circumcision is become uncircumcision.


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Therefore if the uncircumcised keep the righteous precepts of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be accounted to him for circumcision?


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and shall not the uncircumcision that is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision art a transgressor of the law? for he is not a Jew, who is <i>only</i> so in appearance;


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but he <i>is</i> a Jew who is one inwardly, and circumcision <i>is that</i> of the heart in the spirit, not in the letter: whose praise is not from men, but from God.


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For what if some did not believe? shall their incredulity make the faithfulness of God of no effect?


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God forbid: yea, let God be <i>acknowledged</i> true, though every man <i>be</i> a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy words, and mightest overcome, when thou judgest.


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"But if our unrighteousness confirm the righteousness of God, what shall we say? <i>Is</i> not God unrighteous, who inflicteth <i>his</i> wrath?" (I speak as a man) God forbid:


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"But, <i>say you,</i> if the truth of God hath abounded unto his glory through my falshood, why yet am I also judged as a sinner?


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and <i>why</i> may we not do evil that good may come?"---as we are injuriously charged, and as some affirm that we say; whose condemnation is just.


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"What then are we the better?" Not at all, <i>in point of justification;</i> for we have before proved that both Jews and Gentiles are all under sin: as it is written,


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They are all gone out of the way, they are become unprofitable, there is none that practiseth goodness, no not one.


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Their throat <i>is</i> an open sepulchre: with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:


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it saith to those under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world obnoxious to the justice of God.


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Wherefore by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified before Him: for by the law <i>is</i> the knowledge of sin.


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But now, without <i>the</i> law, righteousness before God is manifested, being attested by the law and the prophets;


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and <i>this</i> righteousness of God <i>is</i> by faith in Jesus Christ unto all and upon all believers; for there is no difference;


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whom God hath appointed <i>to be</i> a propitiation, through faith in his blood, for a demonstration of his righteousness, in the remission of past sins, according to the forbearance of God;


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for a demonstration, <i>I say,</i> of his righteousness at this time: that He might be just, and the justifier of him, that believeth in Jesus.


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surely of the Gentiles also: seeing <i>it is</i> one God who will justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision <i>also</i> through faith.


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for if Abraham were justified by works, he hath something to boast of; but <i>this he hath</i> not before God:


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but to him that worketh not, but believeth on Him who justifieth the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.


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As David also describeth the blessedness of the man to whom: God imputeth righteousness without works, <i>saying,</i>


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Now <i>is</i> this blessedness upon the circumcised <i>only,</i> or upon the uncircumcised also? for we say that faith was accounted to Abraham for righteousness.


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How then was it accounted <i>to him?</i> when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.


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And he received the sign of circumcision <i>as</i> a seal of the righteousness of the faith <i>which he had</i> in uncircumcision: that he might be the father of all that believe though not circumcised, that righteousness may be imputed to them also:


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and the father of circumcision to those, who not only are of the circumcision, but also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had in uncircumcision.


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For the promise <i>made</i> to Abraham, or to his seed, that he should be heir of the world, <i>was</i> not by the law, but by the righteousness of faith:


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for if they <i>only</i> that are of the law be heirs, faith is made useless, and the promise is become of no effect.


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<i>And</i> therefore <i>it is</i> of faith, that <i>it might be</i> by grace, that <i>so</i> the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only <i>which is</i> of the law, but also to that <i>which is</i> of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all,


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(as it is written, "I have made thee a father of many nations,") in the sight of <i>Him</i> whom he believed, <i>even</i> God, who giveth life to the dead, and calleth the things that are not as if they were:


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who against hope believed, with hope, that he should be the father of many nations, according to that which was said <i>unto him,</i> "So shall thy seed be."


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And not being weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, being about an hundred years old; nor the deadness of Sarah's womb.


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He hesitated not at the promise of God through unbelief: but was strong in faith, giving glory to God,


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but for our sakes also, to him it will be imputed, as we believe on Him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead:


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through whom also we have admission by faith into this grace in which we stand, and boast in hope of the glory of God.


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And not only <i>so,</i> but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation worketh patience,


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and experience hope, and <i>this</i> hope maketh <i>us</i> not ashamed; because the love of God is diffused in our hearts by the holy Spirit that is given to us.


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Whereas one would hardly die for a just <i>man,</i> though perhaps for a good <i>man</i> one might dare even to die.


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For if when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son; much more being reconciled shall we be saved by his life.


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And not only <i>so,</i> but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received reconciliation.


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Wherefore as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, so death passed upon all men, for to that all have sinned:


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<i>and</i> yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned after the likeness of Adam's transgression, who is the type of Him that was to come.


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But not as the offence, so also <i>is</i> the free gift: for if through the offence of one many died, much more hath the grace of God, and the gift <i>bestowed</i> by the grace of one man, Jesus Christ, abounded to many.


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For the gift is not as <i>the sentence was</i> by one that sinned; for the sentence <i>is passed</i> from one <i>offence</i> to condemnation, but the free gift <i>is</i> of many offences to justification.


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For if, by the offence of one, death reigned through one, much more they who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness, shall reign in life through one, <i>even</i> Jesus Christ.


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Therefore as by the offence of one <i>the effect of it was</i> upon all men to condemnation: so also by the righteousness of one, <i>the effect was</i> upon all men to justification of life.


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For as by the disobedience of one man many were made sinners; so by the obedience of One shall many be made righteous.


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Now the law made some entrance, that the offence might <i>appear to</i> abound; but where sin abounded, grace hath superabounded; that as sin had reigned in death,


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Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we also should walk in newness of life:


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for if we have been planted together in the resemblance of his death, so shall we be also of <i>his</i> resurrection.


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Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with <i>Him,</i> that the body of sin might be destroyed, that we might no longer be inslaved to sin:


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knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more power over Him: for as He died, He died once for all on account of sin;


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So also do ye reckon yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God in Christ Jesus our Lord.


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Neither yield your bodies <i>as</i> instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but present yourselves to God as alive from the dead, and your bodies as instruments of righteousness to God.


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God forbid! Know ye not, that to whom ye present yourselves servants to obedience, <i>his</i> servants ye are whom ye obey? either of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?


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But thanks <i>be</i> to God, that ye <i>who</i> were servants of sin, have obeyed from the heart <i>that</i> form of doctrine which was delivered to you:


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I speak after the manner of men, because of the infirmity of your flesh: as ye have yielded your bodies servants to impurity and iniquity to <i>work</i> iniquity; so now present your bodies servants to righteousness, unto holiness.


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What fruit therefore had ye then <i>in the things,</i> which ye are now ashamed of? for the end of those things <i>is</i> death.


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But now being set free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.


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For the wages of sin <i>is</i> death: but the gift of God <i>is</i> eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.


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Are ye ignorant, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law) that the law hath power over a man, <i>only</i> so long as it liveth?


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For a married woman is bound by the law to <i>her</i> husband <i>while he is</i> living; but if <i>her</i> husband die, she is discharged from the law of <i>her</i> husband.


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Therefore while <i>her</i> husband is living, she shall be called an adulteress if she become another man's: but if <i>her</i> husband be dead, she is free from the law; so that she is not an adulteress, though she become another man's.


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And thus, my brethren, ye also are dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye might become another's, <i>even his</i> who is raised from the dead, that we might bring forth fruit unto God.


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For when we were in the flesh, the sinful passions <i>while we were</i> under the law operated in our bodies <i>so</i> as to bring forth fruit unto death.


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But now we are delivered from the law, <i>that</i> being dead by which we were bound, that we might serve <i>God</i> in newness of spirit, and not <i>in the</i> oldness of <i>the</i> letter.


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What shall we say then? <i>is</i> the law sin? God forbid! Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust <i>to be sinful,</i> if the law had not said, "Thou shalt not covet."


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But sin taking occasion by the commandment wrought in me all manner of concupiscence: for without the law sin <i>was</i> dead.


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Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid! But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good: that sin might be <i>shewn</i> by the commandment <i>to be</i> exceeding sinful.


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For I know that in me (that is in my flesh) dwelleth no good: for to will is present with me, but <i>how</i> to perform <i>that which is</i> good, I find not.


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but I perceive another law in my body warring against the law of my mind, and captivating me to the law of sin, which is in my body.


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The grace of God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with my mind I serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin.


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<i>There is</i> therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh but after the spirit.


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For that which was impossible for the law <i>to do, and</i> in which it was weak through <i>the corruption of</i> the flesh, God <i>by</i> sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh <i>to be a sacrifice</i> for sin, hath <i>done; that is,</i> hath condemned sin in the flesh:


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that the righteousness of the law may be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh but after the spirit.


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For they who are after the flesh, mind the things of the flesh; but they who are led by the Spirit, <i>do mind</i> spiritual <i>things.</i>


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because the carnal mind is an enemy to God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be:


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But ye are not in the flesh, but in the spirit, if the Spirit of God dwelleth in you: but if any <i>one</i> hath not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.


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And if Christ <i>be</i> in you, the body indeed <i>is</i> dead because of sin, but the spirit <i>is</i> alive because of righteousness.


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And if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead, dwelleth in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead, will also restore your mortal bodies to life, by his Spirit that <i>now</i> dwelleth in you.


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for if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die; but if by the Spirit ye mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.


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For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.


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And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and co-heirs with Christ: if so be we suffer with <i>Him,</i> that we may be also glorified with <i>Him.</i>


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And I account the sufferings of this present time not worthy <i>to be set</i> against the glory that shall be revealed to us.


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in hope that they also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.


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For we know that the whole world groaneth, and doth <i>as it were</i> travail in pain together even to this day.


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And not only <i>others,</i> but those also who have the first-fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, <i>to wit</i> the redemption of our body.


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For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen, is not hope; for what any <i>one</i> sees, how doth he yet hope for?


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And the Spirit likewise helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for, as we ought: but the Spirit itself intercedes for us with unutterable groans.


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And He that searcheth the hearts, knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit; for he intercedeth for the saints according to <i>the will of</i> God.


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And we know that all <i>things</i> co-operate for good to them that love God, to them that are called according to his purpose;


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for those whom he foreknew, He also predetermined <i>to be</i> conformed to the image of his Son, that He might be <i>as</i> the first-born among many brethren: and whom He before ordained, these He also called;


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What shall we say then to these <i>things?</i> if God <i>be</i> for us, who <i>can be</i> against us?


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He that spared not his own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him freely give us all <i>things?</i>


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Who shall lay <i>any</i> accusation against the elect of God? <i>will</i> God, who justifieth <i>us?</i>


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Who <i>is</i> he that condemneth? <i>Is it</i> Christ, that died <i>for us?</i> yea rather, that is risen again, who is also at the right <i>hand</i> of God, and who maketh intercession for us?


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Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? <i>shall</i> affliction, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?


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(as it is written, "for thy sake we are killed all the day long, we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter:")


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For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor <i>things</i> present, nor <i>things</i> future,


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nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God which <i>is</i> in Christ Jesus our Lord.


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for I could wish that I myself were made a curse after the manner of Christ, for my brethren, my kindred according to the flesh;


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who are Israelites, whose <i>is</i> the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the <i>form of</i> divine worship, and the promises:


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whose <i>are</i> the fathers, and of whom, as to the flesh, Christ <i>came,</i> who is over all God blessed for ever. Amen.


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Not that the word of God hath failed. For they <i>are</i> not all Israel, who are <i>descended</i> from Israel.


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Nor because they are the seed of Abraham, <i>are they</i> all children <i>of promise:</i> but "in Isaac shall thy seed be called."


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That is, not the children of the flesh <i>are</i> the children of God, but the children of the promise are accounted for the seed.


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For this <i>is</i> the word of <i>the</i> promise, "According to this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son:"


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(when <i>the children</i> were not yet born, nor had done either good or evil, that the purpose of God according to <i>his</i> choice might abide, not <i>on account</i> of works, but of Him that calleth,) it was said to her, the elder shall serve the younger:


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God forbid! For He saith to Moses, "I will have mercy on whom I <i>will</i> have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I <i>will</i> have compassion."


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So then <i>it is</i> not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.


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And the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, for this very purpose have I raised thee up, that I may shew forth my power in thee, and that my name may be declared through all the earth.


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Nay but, O man, who art thou, that disputest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed <i>it,</i> Why didst thou make me thus?


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Hath not the potter power over the clay, out of the same mass to make one vessel to honor and another to dishonor?


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And <i>what</i> if God, <i>though</i> resolved to shew his displeasure <i>at last,</i> and to make known his power, <i>yet</i> bore with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction?


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and that He might make known the riches of his glory in the vessels of mercy, which He hath prepared for glory?


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As He saith also in Hosea, I will call <i>them</i> my people, who were not my people, and <i>her</i> beloved, who was not beloved.


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And in the place where it was said to them, Ye are not my people, there shall they be called the children of the living God.


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And Esaias crieth out concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, <i>only</i> a remnant shall be saved.


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For <i>in</i> finishing the account and cutting <i>it</i> short in righteousness, the Lord will make a short work upon the earth.


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And as Esaias said before, "Except the Lord of hosts had left us a seed, we had been as Sodom, and we had been made like unto Gomorrah."


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What shall we say then? that the Gentiles, who sought not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is by faith;


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but Israel, who followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness: why?


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because <i>they sought it</i> not by faith, but by the works of the law, for they stumbled at that stumbling-stone;


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as it is written, "Behold I lay in Sion a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence:" and <i>again,</i> "Whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed."


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For being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, they have not submitted themselves to the righteousness <i>which is</i> of God.


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For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, "That the man who doth those <i>things</i> shall live by them."


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But the righteousness <i>which is</i> of faith speaketh thus, "Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven, (that is, to bring Christ down) or,


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bring up Christ from the dead)" but what saith <i>it?</i> "The word is nigh thee, in thy mouth and in thy heart." This is the word of faith which we preach: that if thou confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus,


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For with the heart <i>man</i> believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.


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For there is no difference of Jew and Greek: for He <i>being</i> Lord of all is bountiful to all that call upon Him.


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But how shall they call upon <i>him</i> in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe <i>on him</i> of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?


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and how shall they preach unless they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good tidings of peace, who bring the good tidings of good <i>things?</i>


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But I say, Have they not heard? Verily their sound is gone out into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.


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But I say <i>again,</i> Did not Israel know <i>this? when</i> first Moses saith, "I will move you to jealousy by <i>those who are</i> not a people, I will provoke you to anger by a foolish nation:"


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and Esaias positively affirms, "I was found of them that sought me not, I was made manifest to them that asked not after me:"


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and saith to Israel, "All the day long have I stretched out my hands to a disobedient and gainsaying people."


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I say then, Hath God cast off his people? God forbid! for I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.


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God hath not cast off his people, whom He foreknew. Do ye not know what the scripture saith of Elias? how he complains to God against Israel,


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saying, "Lord, they have slain thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life."


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But what saith the oracle of God to him? "I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to Baal."


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And if by grace, <i>it is</i> no more of works: for <i>then</i> grace is no longer grace. But if of works, it is no more grace: for <i>then</i> work is no longer work.


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What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he sought: but the elect have obtained <i>it,</i> and the rest were blinded,


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(according as it is written, God hath given them a spirit of slumber, that their eyes could not see and their ears could not hear,) <i>even</i> unto this day.


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And David saith, Let their table become a snare, and a trap, and a stumbling-block, and a recompence unto them.


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Say I then, Have they stumbled, that they should fall <i>irrecoverably?</i> God forbid! but <i>this I say, that</i> by their fall salvation <i>is come</i> to the Gentiles to excite them to emulation.


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Now if their fall <i>be</i> the riches of the world, and their diminution <i>be</i> the riches of the Gentiles, how much more <i>will</i> their fulness <i>be?</i>


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I extol my office, that if possible I may excite to emulation my <i>brethren according to the</i> flesh, and may save some of them:


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for if the rejecting of them <i>be</i> the reconciling of the world, what <i>will</i> the receiving <i>them again be</i> but life from the dead?


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Now if the first-fruits <i>be</i> holy, so <i>is</i> the <i>whole</i> heap: and if the root <i>be</i> holy, so <i>are</i> the branches.


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But if some of the branches were broken off, and thou a wild-olive wert grafted in among them, and art made a partaker together <i>with them</i> of the root and fatness of the olive; boast not against the branches:


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Well; they were broken off for <i>their</i> infidelity, and thou standest by faith: <i>therefore</i> be not high-minded but fear.


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Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: towards them that fell, severity; but towards thee, goodness; if thou continue in <i>his</i> goodness: for <i>else</i> thou also shalt be cut off.


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And they, if they do not continue in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able again to graft them in.


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For if thou wert cut out of the wild olive, which was natural <i>to thee,</i> and contrary to nature were grafted into a good olive; how much more shall these <i>who are</i> the natural <i>branches,</i> be grafted into their own olive-tree?


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For I would not have you, brethren, to be ignorant of this mystery, (least ye should be wise in your own eyes) that blindness in part is befallen Israel, till the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.


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And so all Israel shall be saved, as it is written, "The deliverer shall come out of Sion, and shall turn away impiety from Jacob:


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As to the gospel indeed they are enemies on your account, but as to the election they are beloved on account of the fathers.


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so these also in your mercy have now been disobedient, that they themselves might be the objects of mercy.


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For God hath included them all in <i>the charge of</i> disobedience, that He might have mercy upon all.


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O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable <i>are</i> his judgements, and his ways not to be traced out!


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For of Him, and through Him, and for Him, <i>are</i> all <i>things.</i> To Him be glory for ever. Amen.


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I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, <i>and</i> well-pleasing to God, <i>as</i> your rational service.


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And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may experience what is the good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.


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For by the grace conferred on me I charge every one among you, not to think <i>of himself</i> above what he ought to think: but to think with sobriety, according as God hath divided to every man the measure of faith.


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But having different gifts, according to the grace conferred upon us, whether prophecy, <i>let us prophesy</i> according to the proportion of <i>our</i> faith:


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or ministry, <i>let us attend</i> to the ministry: or he that teacheth, on teaching: or he that exhorteth, on exhortation:


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he that distributeth, let him do it with integrity: he that presideth, with diligence: he that sheweth mercy, with chearfulness.


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<i>Be</i> alike affected to each other: not aiming at high things, but accommodating <i>yourselves</i> to persons of low rank. Be not wise in your own conceit.


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Avenge not yourselves, <i>my</i> beloved; but <i>rather</i> give place to the wrath <i>of others:</i> for it is written, "Vengeance <i>belongeth</i> to me, I will recompence, saith the Lord."


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Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for <i>in</i> so doing, thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.


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Let every soul be subject to the powers <i>that are</i> over <i>them:</i> for there is no <i>such</i> power but from God: the powers that are <i>over men,</i> are appointed by God.


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So that he who resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive condemnation.


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For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wouldest thou then not be afraid of the <i>civil</i> power? do <i>what is</i> good, and thou shalt have praise from it:


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for he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou dost evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is <i>also</i> the minister of God, <i>as</i> an avenger to <i>execute his</i> wrath upon the malefactor.


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For you pay <i>them</i> tribute also for this <i>reason;</i> because they are God's ministers, continually attending hereunto.


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Render therefore to all <i>what is</i> their due: tribute to whom tribute <i>is due,</i> custom to whom custom, reverence to whom reverence, honor to whom honor.


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for this <i>command,</i> Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet, and every other <i>social</i> precept, is summed up in this, namely, "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."


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And this <i>let us observe,</i> knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now is our salvation nearer than when we <i>first</i> believed.


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The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.


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Let us behave decently as <i>being</i> in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lasciviousness, not in strife and envying.


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But put on the Lord Jesus, and make not provision for the flesh to <i>gratify its irregular</i> desires.


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Let not him, that eateth, despise him that eateth not; and let not him, that eateth not, censure him that eateth: for God hath received him.


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Who art thou that judgest the servant of another? To his own master he standeth or falleth: yea, he shall be established; for God is able to establish him.


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One preferreth some days to others; another esteemeth every day <i>alike.</i> Let every <i>one</i> be fully satisfied in his own mind.


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He that regardeth a day regardeth <i>it</i> to the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, <i>in deference</i> to the Lord he doth not regard <i>it</i>. <i>So</i> he, that eateth <i>all sorts of food,</i> eateth to the Lord; for he giveth God thanks <i>for it;</i> and he that eateth not <i>of some kinds of food, in deference</i> to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks <i>for the rest.</i>


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but if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.


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For to this <i>end</i> Christ both died, and rose, and lives again, that He might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.


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But why dost thou censure thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? since we shall all stand before the tribunal of Christ;


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for it is written, <i>As</i> I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.


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Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, not to lay a stumbling-block or scandal before a brother.


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I know and have been taught by the Lord Jesus, that nothing <i>is</i> unclean of itself: only to him that thinketh any <i>thing</i> unclean, to him <i>it is</i> unclean.


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But if thy brother be grieved by <i>thy</i> food, thou dost not herein walk in love. Do not by thy food destroy him, for whom Christ died.


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Do not for the sake of meat destroy <i>thy brother who is</i> the work of God: all <i>things</i> indeed <i>are</i> pure; but to the man that eateth with offence <i>it is</i> evil.


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<i>It is</i> good not to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor <i>to do any thing</i> at which thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or weakened.


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Thou <i>who</i> hast faith, have <i>it</i> to thyself before God: <i>and</i> happy <i>is</i> he that condemneth not himself in what he alloweth <i>himself to do.</i>


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But he that hath <i>any</i> scruple, is condemned if he eat; because <i>he doth it</i> not with faith: and whatsoever <i>is</i> not of faith, is sin.


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For Christ also pleased not himself; but as it is written, "The reproaches of them that reproached thee, fell upon me."


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For whatever <i>things</i> were written heretofore, were written for our instruction; that we through patience and the consolation of the scriptures might have hope.


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And may the God of patience and consolation grant you the like <i>mutual</i> affection to each other, according to <i>the example of</i> Christ Jesus:


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Now Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for <i>the manifestation of</i> the truth of God, to confirm the promises <i>made</i> to the fathers:


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and that the Gentiles might glorify God for <i>his</i> mercy, as it is written, "For this <i>cause</i> will I celebrate Thee among the Gentiles, and sing <i>praises</i> unto thy name."


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And again Esaias saith, "There shall be a root of Jesse, and one that shall rise to rule over the Gentiles: in Him shall the Gentiles trust."


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Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope through the power of the holy Spirit.


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And I myself am indeed persuaded concerning you, my brethren, that ye are full of goodness, being filled with all knowledge, and able to admonish one another.


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However, I have written to you, brethren, somewhat the more freely, in reminding you <i>of your duty;</i> because of the favor bestowed upon me by God,


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that I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, administring the gospel of God, that the offering of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the holy Spirit.


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For I shall not go about to speak of any <i>thing,</i> but what Christ hath wrought by me, (to <i>gain</i> the obedience of the Gentiles,) <i>both</i> in word and deed:


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through the efficacy of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round as far as to Illyricum, I have fully declared the gospel of Christ:


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being studious however so to preach the gospel, not where Christ had been named, least I should build upon another <i>man's</i> foundation;


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but as it is written, They, to whom nothing was said concerning Him, shall see, and they who have not heard, shall understand.


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but now having no more to detain me in these parts, and having <i>had</i> a great desire for many years to come to you, when I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you:


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for I hope to see you as I pass by, and to be brought forward by you <i>on my way</i> thither, after I have first had some enjoyment of you.


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For the Macedonians and Achaians have been pleased to make a contribution for the poor saints at Jerusalem.


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It pleased them, <i>I say,</i> and they are <i>indeed</i> their debtors; for if the Gentiles have partook of their spiritual <i>things,</i> they ought also to be helpful to them in carnal <i>ones.</i>


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Therefore when I have dispatched this, and sealed this fruit <i>of love</i> to them, I will come by you into Spain.


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And I know that when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.


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Now I beseech you, brethren, by our Lord Jesus Christ, and by the love of the Spirit, that ye earnestly strive together with me in prayers to God for me;


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that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea; and that this my service at Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints:


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that ye receive her in the Lord as becometh saints, and assist her in whatever affair she may have need of you; for <i>she</i> also hath been a helper of many <i>others,</i> as well as of myself.


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(who for my life exposed their own; to whom not I only give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles:)


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and the church in their house. Salute my beloved Epenetus, who is the first-fruits of Achaia unto Christ.


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Salute Andronicus and Junias my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are <i>men</i> of note among the apostles, and who were in Christ before me.


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Salute those <i>of the family</i> of Aristobulus. Salute Herodion my kinsman. Salute those <i>of the family</i> of Narcissus, who are in the Lord.


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Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who are labouring in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, who hath laboured much in the Lord.


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Salute Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints <i>that are</i> with them.


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Now I exhort you, brethren, to mark those who cause divisions and offences, contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned:


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and avoid them; for such <i>people</i> serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by a soothing address and good words deceive the hearts of the innocent.


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For your obedience is come to <i>the knowledge of</i> all: <i>and</i> therefore I rejoice on your account; but <i>yet</i> I would have you wise to that which is good, and simple as to that which is evil.


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And the God of peace will soon bruise Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ <i>be</i> with you. Amen.


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Gaius my host, and <i>that</i> of the whole church saluteth you. Erastus, the chamberlain of the city, and <i>our</i> brother Quartus saluteth you.


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Now to Him that is able to establish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, (conformable to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret in former times,


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but is now manifested, and made known to all nations by the writings of the prophets, according to the appointment of the eternal God,


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for the obedience of faith) to the only wise God <i>be</i> glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.


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Paul, called <i>to be</i> an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes <i>our</i> brother, to the church of God which is in Corinth,


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<i>even</i> to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, <i>and</i> called <i>to be</i> saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, <i>who is</i> both their <i>Lord</i> and ours;


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I always give thanks unto my God, on your account, for the grace of God bestowed on you in Christ Jesus; that ye are enriched by Him with every <i>gift,</i>


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who will also confirm you unto the end, <i>that ye may be</i> blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ;


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<i>for</i> God is faithful by whom ye were called into the communion of his son Jesus Christ our Lord.


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Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye would all say alike, and <i>that</i> there may be no schisms among you, but <i>that</i> ye be perfectly united in the same mind and in the same judgement.


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For I have been informed concerning you, my brethren, by some of Chloe's <i>family,</i> that there are contentions among you.


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I mean, that each of you saith, <i>as if of different parties,</i> I am of Paul, and I of Apollos, I of Cephas, and I of Christ.


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For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not in fine speech, least the cross of Christ should be made of no effect.


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For the doctrine of the cross is to them, that perish, foolishness: but to us, who are saved, it is the power of God.


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For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent."


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Where <i>is</i> the wise? where <i>is</i> the scribe? where is the disputant of the age? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?


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For, since in the wisdom of God the world by <i>it's</i> wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by <i>what they called</i> the folly of preaching to save those that believe.


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Because the foolishness of God, <i>as they call it,</i> is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.


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For ye see <i>by</i> your calling, brethren, that not many wise <i>men</i> according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble <i>are called:</i>


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but God hath chosen <i>things that are</i> foolish <i>in the eye</i> of the world to put <i>it's</i> wise men to confusion; and God hath chosen the weak <i>things</i> of the world to confound the mighty;


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and <i>things in the opinion</i> of the world ignoble, and despicable, and <i>accounted as</i> nothing, hath God chosen, to abolish <i>things</i> that are <i>in esteem among men;</i>


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But ye are of Him in Christ Jesus, who from God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:


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And I, when I came among you, brethren, came not with excellency of language, or of <i>human</i> wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God:


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for I did not think <i>it meet</i> to know any thing among you, but Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.


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And my discourse, and my preaching <i>was</i> not with the persuasive words of human wisdom, but in the demonstration of the Spirit and of power;


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Yet we speak <i>true</i> wisdom among the perfect: though not the wisdom of this world, nor of the rulers of this world, who come to nought.


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But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, <i>that</i> hidden <i>wisdom</i> which God ordained before the worlds for our glory:


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which none of the rulers of this age knew; for if they had known <i>it,</i> they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.


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But as it is written, "Eye hath not seen, and ear hath not heard, nor have entered into the heart of man, what <i>things</i> God hath prepared for those that love Him."


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But God hath revealed <i>them</i> to us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all <i>things,</i> even the deep <i>things</i> of God.


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For who among men knoweth the <i>things</i> of a man, but the spirit of a man which <i>is</i> in him? so also the things of God no one knoweth, but the Spirit of God.


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Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit of God; that we might know the things that are graciously bestowed upon us by God:


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which we also speak <i>of,</i> not in words dictated by human wisdom, but in those <i>which are</i> dictated by the holy Spirit; explaining spiritual <i>things</i> by spiritual <i>words.</i>


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But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.


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And I, <i>my</i> brethren, could not speak to you, as to spiritual <i>persons,</i> but as to carnal <i>ones, even</i> as to babes in Christ.


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I have fed you with milk, and not with meat; for ye were not hitherto able <i>to bear it,</i> nor yet are ye even now able.


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Because ye are still carnal: for while there is among you envy and strife and divisions, are ye not carnal, and do ye <i>not</i> walk as men?


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Who then is Paul, and who <i>is</i> Apollos, but ministers by whose means ye embraced the faith, even as the Lord gave <i>success</i> to each <i>of them?</i>


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So that neither he that planteth is any thing, nor he that watereth, but God that giveth the increase.


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And he that planteth, and he that watereth, are <i>as</i> one: but each shall receive his own reward according to his own labor.


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For we are fellow-laborers, <i>the servants</i> of God: and ye are the husbandry of God, <i>ye are</i> the building of God.


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According to the grace of God given to me, as a wise architect I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon: but let every one see <i>to it</i> how he buildeth thereon.


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For no one can lay <i>any</i> other foundation, but that <i>which is</i> laid, which is Jesus Christ: and if any build upon this foundation gold,


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every man's work shall be made manifest. For the <i>great</i> day will shew <i>it;</i> because it will be discovered by fire, and the fire will prove every man's work of what sort it is.


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<i>but</i> if any man's work be burnt, he will be damaged; though he himself shall be saved, but, as <i>it were</i> out of fire.


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If any one destroy the temple of God, him will God destroy: for the temple of God is holy, and this temple are ye.


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Let no one deceive himself: if any among you seem to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be <i>truly</i> wise.


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For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God; for it is written, "He taketh the wise in their own craftiness:"


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whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or <i>things</i> present, or future, all are yours;


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Let a man so account of us, as <i>the</i> ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.


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But to me it is of very small <i>moment</i> to be judged by you, or by <i>any</i> man's judgement; nor indeed do I judge myself:


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(for I am conscious to myself of nothing; though I am not hereby justified;) but He that judgeth me is the Lord.


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Wherefore judge nothing before the time; <i>even</i> until the Lord come, who will bring to light the hidden <i>things</i> of darkness, and manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every one have praise from God.


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These things, <i>my</i> brethren, I have by a figure transferred to myself, and Apollos, for your sakes, that ye may learn in us not to be wise above what is written, that ye may not be puffed up for one against another.


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For who maketh thee to differ? and what hast thou, which thou didst not receive? And if thou didst receive <i>it,</i> why dost thou glory as if thou hadst not received <i>it?</i>


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Ye are now full, ye are now rich, ye have reigned as kings without us: and I wish ye did reign, that we also might reign with you.


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For it seems to me that God hath <i>as it were</i> exhibited us the apostles last <i>upon the stage</i> as appointed to death; for we are made a spectacle to the world, and to angels and to men.


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We <i>are</i> fools for Christ's sake, but ye <i>are</i> wise in Christ: we <i>are</i> weak, but ye <i>are</i> strong: ye <i>are</i> honoured, but we <i>are</i> despised.


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Even to this present time we suffer both hunger, and thirst, and nakedness, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwelling:


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and we labour working with our own hands. When <i>we are</i> reviled, we bless: when persecuted, we bear <i>it:</i> when defamed, we intreat.


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for if ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet <i>ye have</i> not many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you by the gospel.


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For this <i>end</i> have I sent unto you Timothy, who is my beloved son and faithful in the Lord, who will bring to your remembrance my ways in Christ, how I teach every where in every church.


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But I will come to you soon, if the Lord please, and will know, not the speech of them that are puffed up, but the power:


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What do ye chuse? that I should come to you with a rod? or in love, and <i>in</i> the spirit of meekness?


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It is commonly reported <i>that there is</i> lewdness among you, and such lewdness as is not named even amongst the heathens, that one should have his father's wife.


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And are ye puffed up, and have not rather grieved? that he who hath committed this fact might be expelled from among you?


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For I indeed, absent in body, but present in spirit, have already, as if I were present, judged him who hath wrought this <i>wickedness:</i> in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,


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of our Lord Jesus Christ, to deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. Your boasting is not good.


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Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new mass, without leaven. For our paschal lamb, even Christ, was slain for us.


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Wherefore let us keep the feast, not with <i>the</i> old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavening of sincerity and truth.


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but <i>I did not mean</i> not at all with the whoremongers of this world, or the covetous, or rapacious, or idolaters: since ye must then go out of the world.


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But now I have written to you, not to associate with <i>him,</i> if any <i>one, that is</i> called a brother, be a whoremonger, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or rapacious; with such a one no not to eat.


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For what have I to do to judge those <i>that are</i> without? <i>and</i> do not ye judge those <i>that are</i> within?


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But those <i>who are</i> without, God judgeth: and <i>therefore</i> put away the wicked <i>one</i> from among you.


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Dare any of you, having a matter <i>of complaint</i> against another, try <i>it</i> before the unjust, and not before the saints?


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Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? And if the world <i>shall</i> be judged by you, are ye unworthy of <i>judging</i> the smallest controversies?


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Know ye not that we shall judge angels? what! and not <i>worthy of judging</i> the affairs of <i>this</i> life?


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Therefore if ye have controversies about the things of <i>this</i> life, do ye set them to judge, who are despised by the church?


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I speak <i>it</i> to your shame. What! is there not one wise <i>man</i> among you, that is able to judge between his bretheren?


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Now there is certainly a fault among you, that ye have law-suits with one another: why do ye not rather endure wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?


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What! know ye not that the unjust shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor <i>the</i> effeminate, nor sodomites, nor thieves,


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nor <i>the</i> covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor rapacious <i>persons,</i> shall inherit the kingdom of God.


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And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the spirit of our God.


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All <i>things</i> are lawful for me, but all <i>things</i> are not expedient: all <i>things</i> are lawful for me, but I will not be under the power of any:


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meats <i>are</i> for the belly, and the belly for meats, but God will destroy both it and them. But the body <i>is</i> not for fornication, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.


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Know ye not that your bodies are members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make <i>them</i> members of an harlot?


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God forbid! What! know ye not that he who is joined to an harlot is one body <i>with her?</i> for the<i>se</i> two, saith he, shall be one flesh.


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Flee from whoredom. Every <i>other</i> sin, that a man committeth, is without the body; but he, that committeth whoredom, sinneth against his own body.


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What! know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost, <i>which is</i> in you, which ye have from God?


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and ye are not your own, for ye are bought with a price. Glorify God therefore in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.


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Now <i>as to the things</i> concerning which ye wrote to me: <i>it were</i> good for a man not to touch a woman.


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Nevertheless <i>to prevent</i> whoredoms, let every <i>one</i> have his own wife, and let every <i>woman</i> have her own husband.


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Let the husband render to the wife due benevolence; and in like manner also the wife to the husband.


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The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband; and in like manner also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.


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Do not withdraw from one another, unless by consent for a season, that ye may attend to fasting and prayer: and come together again, least Satan tempt you through your incontinency.


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for I could wish that all men were as I myself <i>am;</i> but every <i>man</i> hath his proper gift from God, one of one kind and another of another?


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But if they have not the gift of continence, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn <i>with lust.</i>


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But those that are married, not I command, but the Lord, that the wife be not separated from <i>her</i> husband;


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(but if she separate, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to <i>her</i> husband;) and that the husband put not away his wife.


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But to the rest say I, not the Lord, If any brother has an unbelieving wife, and she like to dwell with him, let him not put her away.


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For the unbelieving husband is sanctified in the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified in the husband: else were your children unclean; but they are holy.


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But if the unbeliever depart, let them depart; a brother or a sister is not bound in such <i>cases.</i>


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But God hath called us to peace; for how knowest thou, O wife, but thou shalt save <i>thy</i> husband; or how knowest thou, O husband, but thou shalt save <i>thy</i> wife?


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However, as God hath distributed to every <i>man, and</i> as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk: and thus I order in all the churches.


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Is any <i>one</i> called <i>that is</i> circumcised? let him not become uncircumcised: is any <i>one</i> called in uncircumcision? let him not be circumcised: <i>for</i> circumcision is nothing,


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Wast thou called <i>being</i> a slave, be not anxious about it; but if thou canst be <i>made</i> free, prefer it.


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For he that is called in the Lord <i>being</i> a slave, is the Lord's freed-man: and he likewise that is called <i>being</i> free is the servant of Christ.


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Brethren, in what<i>ever condition</i> every one was <i>when</i> called, let him abide therein with God.


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But concerning single persons I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgement as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.


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I think then, that it is---better on account of the present distress,---that it is better, <i>I say,</i>


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for a <i>single</i> man to be so. Art thou bound to a wife <i>indeed?</i> seek not to be loosed: <i>but</i> art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife.


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Though, if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned: such however will <i>probably</i> have <i>more</i> trouble in life: but I spare you.


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But this I say, brethren, that the time is short: it remains therefore, that even those, who have wives, be as though they had none;


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and they, that weep, as if they wept not; and they, that rejoice, as if they rejoiced not; and they, that buy, as if they possessed not;


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And I would have you without anxiety. <i>Now</i> he, that is unmarried, careth for the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but he,


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that is married, is in care about the things of the world, <i>and</i> how he may please <i>his</i> wife.


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There is a difference also between a wife and a virgin: she, that is unmarried, careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and spirit; but she, that is married, is in care about the things of the world, <i>and</i> how she may please <i>her</i> husband.


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And this I say for your own benefit, not that I may cast a snare upon you, but in order to <i>recommend</i> that which is fit and becoming before the Lord without distraction.


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But if any <i>one</i> think that he acts unbecomingly towards his virgin, if she pass the flower of <i>her</i> age, and <i>that</i> it ought to be so, let him do what he will; he doth not sin: let them marry.


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But he, that is stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath determined in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doth well.


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So that he, who giveth <i>her</i> in marriage, doth well; but he, that giveth <i>her</i> not in marriage, doth better.


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The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth: but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will, only in the Lord:


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Now as to things offered to idols, we know that we all have knowledge <i>about them.</i> Knowledge <i>however</i> puffeth up, but charity edifieth.


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As to the eating therefore of things sacrificed to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that <i>there is</i> no other God but one.


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For though there be <i>some</i> that are called Gods, whether in heaven or on earth, (as there are <i>among the heathen</i> gods many,


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and lords many,) yet to us <i>there is but</i> one God the Father, from whom <i>are</i> all things, and we in Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom <i>are</i> all things, and we by Him.


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But <i>there is</i> not in all <i>men</i> this knowledge: and some with a consciousness of the idol unto this day, eat <i>it</i> as a thing sacrificed to an idol, and <i>so</i> their conscience being weak is defiled.


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But meat does not recommend us to God; for neither, if we eat, are we the better; nor the worse, if we eat not.


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For if any one see thee, who hast knowledge, at table in an idol's temple, will not the conscience of him that is weak be encouraged to eat of the things sacrificed to idols?


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But <i>in</i> thus sinning against <i>your</i> brethren, and wounding their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ:


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wherefore if meat make my brother to offend, I will never eat flesh <i>while I breathe,</i> least I make my brother to offend.


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Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? <i>and</i> are not ye my work in the Lord?


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If I am not an apostle to others, yet doubtless I am to you: for ye are in the Lord the seal of my apostleship.


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<i>And</i> this is my answer to them that call me to account: have we not power to eat and to drink?


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we not power to lead about <i>with us</i> a sister a wife as well as other apostles, and the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?


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Who ever goes a warfare at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and doth not eat of the fruit of it? or who feedeth a flock, and doth not eat of the milk of the flock?


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or saith not the law the same also? for it is written in the law of Moses, "Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn." <i>Now</i> doth God take care for oxen,


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or doth He say <i>this</i> indeed for our sakes? For it is <i>certainly</i> written for our sakes, that he, who ploweth, might plow in hope; and that he, who thresheth in hope, should partake of his hope.


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If we <i>then</i> have sown unto you spiritual <i>things, is it</i> a great <i>matter</i> if we reap your carnal <i>things?</i>


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If others partake of <i>this</i> power over you, <i>may</i> not we rather? though we have not used this power; but we bear all <i>things,</i> least we should cause any hindrance to the gospel of Christ.


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Do ye not know, that they who are employed about the sacrifices have their food from the temple? <i>and</i> they, who attend at the altar, are partakers with the altar?


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But I have availed myself of none of these <i>things.</i> Nor have I written these <i>things,</i> that it might be so done as to me: for <i>it were</i> better for me to die, than that any <i>one</i> should make <i>this</i> my glorying void.


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For if I preach the gospel, <i>yet</i> I have no <i>ground for</i> boasting; because I am under necessity <i>to do it:</i> and wo is me if I do not preach the Gospel.


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Now if I do this willingly, I have a reward; and if unwillingly, <i>yet</i> I am intrusted with the commission, <i>and I must execute it.</i>


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What is my reward then <i>but this?</i> that when I preach I may make the gospel of Christ not expensive, that <i>so</i> I may not abuse my power in the gospel.


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For though I am free from all, <i>yet</i> I have made myself a servant to all, that I might gain the more.


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And to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; <i>that is,</i> to those, <i>who are</i> under the law, as under the law, that I might gain those <i>who are</i> under the law:


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<i>and</i> to those without the law as without the law, (not being without law to God, but under the law to Christ) that I might gain those <i>who are</i> without the law.


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To the weak I became as the weak, that I might gain the weak: I became all things to all men, that I might by every means save some.


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Know ye not, that those, who run in a race, do all indeed run, but one <i>only</i> receiveth the prize? So run that ye may obtain.


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And every one that enters the lists is temperate in all things: they indeed <i>do it</i> that they may receive a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible <i>one.</i>


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but I mortify my body and bring it into subjection, least after having preached to others, I myself should be rejected.


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Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;


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and did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of the spiritual rock that followed them: and that rock was <i>an emblem of</i> Christ.


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Now these <i>things</i> were examples for us, that we might not lust after evil <i>things,</i> as they also lusted.


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And be ye not idolaters, as some of them <i>were;</i> as it is written, "The people sat down to eat and to drink, and rose up to play."


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Neither let us commit whoredom, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.


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Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted <i>Him,</i> and were destroyed by serpents: nor murmur,


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Now all these <i>things</i> happened to them as examples: and are written for our admonition, on whom the last ages are come.


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No temptation has <i>yet</i> taken you but <i>what is</i> common to man: and God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above what ye are able <i>to sustain;</i> but will with the temptation also make a way of escape, that ye may be able to bear <i>it.</i>


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---The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? the bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?


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For the bread <i>is</i> one, <i>and</i> we <i>though</i> many are one body; for we all partake of <i>that</i> one bread.


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Consider Israel according to the flesh, Are not they, that eat of the sacrifices, partakers of the altar?


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What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that what is sacrificed to an idol is <i>in itself</i> any thing <i>to stumble at?</i>


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<i>No:</i> but <i>this I say,</i> that what the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to demons, and not to God.


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And I would not have you partakers with demons. Ye cannot drink of the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons: ye cannot be partakers of the table of the Lord, and of the table of demons.


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<i>If</i> all things be lawful for me, yet all things are not expedient: all things <i>may</i> be lawful for me, but all things do not edify.


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and if any of the unbelievers invite you <i>to an entertainment,</i> and ye have a mind to go, whatever is set before you, eat, asking no questions for conscience-sake.


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But if any one say to you, This hath been sacrificed to an idol,---eat <i>it</i> not; for his sake who informed thee, and for conscience-sake: for, <i>as I said,</i> the earth <i>is</i> the Lord's, and the fulness thereof, <i>so that thou mayst have food enough without it.</i>


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Conscience I say, not thy own, but the other's; for why is my liberty <i>to be</i> judged by another <i>man's</i> conscience?


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Even as I also <i>endeavour to</i> please all <i>men</i> in all <i>things,</i> not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.


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Now I commend you, brethren, that ye remember me in all <i>things,</i> and keep the ordinances, as I delivered <i>them</i> to you.


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But I would have you know that Christ is the head of every man; and the head of the woman <i>is</i> the man; and the head of Christ <i>is</i> God.


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Every man praying or prophesying, having <i>a veil</i> on his head, dishonoureth <i>Him who is</i> his head.


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But every woman praying or prophesying with her head unveiled dishonoureth <i>man</i> her head; for it is even all one as if she were shaved.


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For if a woman be not covered, she may as well be shorn: but if it be shameful to a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered.


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For a man indeed ought not to have his head covered, <i>he</i> being the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.


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Nevertheless, neither <i>is</i> the man without the woman, nor the woman without the man, in the Lord.


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For as the woman <i>was originally</i> from the man, so also <i>is</i> the man by the woman: but all <i>things are</i> from God.


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but if a woman have long hair it is a glory to her; because the hair was given her <i>as</i> for a veil.


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But if any <i>one</i> is pleased to contend <i>for the contrary, I answer,</i> We have no such custom, nor <i>any of</i> the churches of God.


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But whilst I am declaring this, I do not commend <i>you,</i> that ye assemble together not for the better, but for the worse.


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For first when ye come together in the church, I hear there are divisions among you, and I partly believe it.


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For there must be even heresies among you, that they who are approved may be made manifest among you.


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What! have ye not houses to eat and to drink <i>in?</i> or do ye despise the church of God, and shame those that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise <i>you</i> not.


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For I received from the Lord, that which I also delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the <i>same</i> night in which He was betrayed took bread:


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and gave thanks, and brake <i>it,</i> and said, <J>"Take </J><i>and</i><J> eat; this is my body, </J><i>which is going to be</i><J> broken for you: this do in remembrance of me."</J>


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And in the same manner <i>He took</i> the cup, after supper, saying, <J>"This cup is the new covenant </J><i>ratified</i><J> in my blood: this do, as often as ye drink </J><i>of it,</i><J> in remembrance of me."</J>


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As often then as ye eat <i>of</i> this bread, and drink <i>of</i> this cup, ye commemorate the Lord's death till he come.


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So that whosoever eateth this bread, or drinketh <i>of</i> the cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of <i>profaning</i> the body and blood of the Lord.


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But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of <i>this</i> bread and drink of <i>this</i> cup:


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for he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh judgement against himself, not distinguishing the Lord's body.


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and if any <i>one</i> be hungry, let him eat at home, that ye may not come together to <i>your</i> condemnation. And <i>as to</i> other <i>things,</i> I will set <i>them</i> in order when I come.


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I <i>must</i> acquaint you, that no one speaking by the Spirit of God, calleth Jesus a curse: and no one can say <i>that</i> Jesus <i>is the</i> Lord, but by the holy Ghost.


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Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit: and there are different offices, but the same Lord:


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For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;


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to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another the discerning of spirits; to another <i>various</i> kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:


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but all these worketh that one and the same Spirit distributing to every <i>one</i> in particular as He sees fit.


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For as the body is one, and hath many members; but all the parts of this one body, though many, are <i>but</i> one body:


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so also is <i>the mystical body of</i> Christ; for by one Spirit we are all baptized into one body, (whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free) and are all made to drink into one Spirit:


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If the foot should say, "Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body," is it therefore not of the body?


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And if the ear should say, "Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body," is it therefore not of the body?


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If the whole body <i>were an</i> eye, where <i>were</i> the hearing? <i>and</i> if the whole <i>were</i> hearing, where <i>were</i> the smelling?


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And the eye cannot say to the hand, I have no need of thee: or again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.


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and <i>those</i> which we judge the less honorable <i>parts</i> we clothe with more abundant honor; and <i>so</i> our less comely <i>parts</i> have more comeliness <i>added to them,</i> of which our comely <i>ones</i> have no need.


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But God hath <i>so</i> blended <i>the several parts of</i> the body, giving greater honor to that which was deficient,


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that there might be no schism in the body; but that <i>all</i> the members might have the same care one for another.


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And so if one member suffer all the members suffer with <i>it;</i> and if one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with <i>it.</i>


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And God hath placed <i>you</i> accordingly in the church, first apostles, secondly prophets, thirdly teachers, after that <i>miraculous</i> powers, then gifts of healing, helps, governments, <i>and various</i> kinds of tongues.


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<i>have</i> all <i>miraculous</i> powers? have all the gifts of healing? do all speak <i>many</i> languages? do all interpret? but ye are <i>all</i> zealous for the best gifts.


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<i>For</i> if I speak with the tongues of men and angels, and have not charity, I am but as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.


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And though I have <i>the gift of</i> prophecy, and am acquainted with all mysteries, and all knowledge: yea if I have faith, <i>even.</i> to remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.


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And though I give all my substance to feed the poor, and my body to be burnt, and have not charity, I am nothing profited.


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Charity beareth long, <i>and</i> is kind; charity envieth not; charity is not insolent, is not puffed up,


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covereth all <i>faults,</i> believeth all <i>things,</i> hopeth all <i>things,</i> endureth all <i>things.</i>


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Charity never faileth: but <i>as to</i> prophecies, <i>they</i> shall be abolished; or tongues, <i>they</i> shall cease; or knowledge, <i>it</i> shall be laid aside.


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When I was a child, I spake as a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned as a child: but when I became a man, I laid aside childish <i>things.</i>


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For we see now <i>as</i> through a mirror obscurely: but then <i>we shall see</i> face to face. Now I know <i>but</i> in part, but then I shall know even as I am known.


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Labour after charity, and be desirous of spiritual <i>gifts:</i> but especially that ye may prophesy.


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For he, that speaketh in an <i>unknown</i> tongue, speaketh not to men, but to God: for no one understandeth, though in spirit he speaketh mysteries.


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He, that speaketh in an <i>unknown</i> tongue, edifieth himself: but he, that prophesieth, edifieth the church.


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I <i>could</i> wish that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater <i>is</i> he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edification.


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Now, <i>my</i> brethren, if I come to you speaking with <i>many</i> tongues, what shall I profit you, unless I speak <i>intelligibly</i> to you of revelation, or knowledge, or prophecy, or doctrine?


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As inanimate <i>things</i> which give a found, whether pipe or harp, unless they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall what is piped or harped be understood?


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So also unless ye utter by the tongue intelligible words, how shall what is spoken be understood? for <i>thus</i> ye will be <i>only</i> talking to the wind.


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There are, it may be, as many kinds of voices in the world <i>as people,</i> and none of them insignificant.


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But if I know not the force of the words, I shall be to him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh <i>will be</i> a barbarian to me.


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So ye also, since ye are <i>so</i> desirous of spiritual gifts, seek to abound <i>in them</i> to the edification of the church.


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For if I pray in an <i>unknown</i> tongue, my spirit <i>indeed</i> prayeth, but my meaning is fruitless.


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What is then <i>to be done?</i> I will pray with the Spirit, but I will pray to be understood: I will sing with the spirit, but I will sing to be understood.


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For if thou bless in the spirit, how shall the unlearned say Amen to thy thanksgiving, when he knoweth not what thou sayst?


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But in a <i>public</i> assembly I had rather speak five words to be understood, that I may instruct others also, than ten thousand words in an <i>unknown</i> tongue.


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<i>My</i> brethren, be not children in sense: but in malice be infants, and in <i>your</i> judgements <i>shew yourselves to</i> be <i>men.</i>


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It is written in the law, "By men of another language, and by other lips, will I speak to this people, and even so they will not listen to me, saith the Lord."


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So that tongues are for a sign, not to believers but to unbelievers: but prophecy not to unbelievers but to those that believe.


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If then the whole church be come together and all speak in <i>unknown</i> tongues, and there come in illiterate <i>persons,</i> or infidels, will they not say that ye are mad?


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But if all prophesy, and there come in an unbeliever, or <i>one</i> unlearned, he is convinced by all, he is judged by all.


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And thus the secrets of his heart are made manifest; so that falling down upon <i>his</i> face he will worship God, declaring that God is indeed among you.


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What is then <i>to be done, my</i> brethren? when ye come together, <i>if</i> any of you hath a psalm, a doctrine, a tongue, a revelation, an interpretation,---let all be done for edification.


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And if any <i>one</i> speak in an <i>unknown</i> tongue, <i>let it be</i> by two, or at most <i>by</i> three, and <i>that</i> by turns; and let one interpret.


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But if there be no interpreter, let him be silent in the assembly; and let him speak to himself and to God.


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And if any thing be revealed to another sitting by, let the first have done speaking <i>before the other begins.</i>


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for God is not <i>the author</i> of confusion, but of peace, <i>as we see</i> in all the assemblies of the saints.


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Let your women be silent in <i>your</i> assemblies: for it is not permitted to them to speak, but <i>they are</i> to be in subjection, as the law saith.


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And if they would learn any <i>thing,</i> let them ask their own husbands at home; for it does not become women to speak in a <i>public</i> assembly.


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If any one seem to be a prophet, or acted by the Spirit, let him acknowlege that what I write to you are the commandments of the Lord.


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Wherefore, <i>my</i> brethren, be <i>most</i> desirous to prophesy, and <i>yet</i> forbid not to speak with tongues:


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Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached to you <i>at first,</i> which ye received, and wherein ye stand.


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By which also ye are saved, if ye retain <i>it</i> as I preached <i>it</i> to you: unless indeed ye have believed in vain.


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For in the first <i>place</i> I delivered to you, that which I also received, <i>to wit,</i> that Christ died for our sins, according to the scriptures:


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after that He appeared to above five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain yet <i>alive,</i> but some are fallen asleep.


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And last of all He appeared to me also, as one born out of due time: for I am the lest of the apostles,


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But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his favor to me was not <i>in</i> vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all; yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.


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Now if it be preached that Christ is risen from the dead, how say some among you, that there is no resurrection of the dead?


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Yea, and we are found false witnesses concerning God, for we have testified of God, that He raised up Christ; whom He did not raise up, if indeed the dead do not rise.


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But each in <i>their</i> proper order: the first-fruits, Christ; afterwards they that are Christ's, at his coming.


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Then <i>will be</i> the end, when He shall have delivered up the kingdom to God even the Father; when He shall have abolished all rule, and all authority, and power.


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for <i>He</i> hath put all <i>things</i> under his feet. But when He saith that all <i>things</i> are put under <i>Him, it is</i> plain that <i>we are to</i> except Him who put all <i>things</i> under Him.


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And when all <i>things</i> shall be subjected to Him, then shall the Son also himself be subject to Him, that put all <i>things</i> under Him, that God may be all in all.


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Besides, what shall they do who are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why then are they baptized for the dead?


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I protest by your rejoicing, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, <i>that</i> I am <i>even</i> dying daily.


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If, to speak as a man, I fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantage have I, if the dead rise not? Let us eat and drink, for to-morrow we die. ---


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Behave soberly, as ye ought to do, and sin not: for some <i>of you</i> have not the knowledge of God; to your shame I speak <i>it.</i>


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And <i>as to</i> what thou sowest, thou sowest not the <i>very</i> body that shall be <i>produced,</i> but a bare grain, it may be, of wheat, or any other <i>corn:</i>


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All flesh <i>is</i> not the same <i>kind of</i> flesh: but <i>there is</i> one flesh of men, and another of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds.


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<i>There are</i> also celestial bodies, and terrestrial bodies: but there <i>is</i> one glory of the celestial, and another of the terrestrial.


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<i>There is</i> one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: and <i>one</i> star differeth from <i>another</i> star in glory.


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So also <i>will be</i> the resurrection of the dead. <i>Our body</i> is sown in corruption, it is raised incorruptible: it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory:


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it is sown an animal body, it is raised a spiritual body: <i>for</i> there is an animal body, and there is a spiritual body.


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And so it is written, "The first man Adam was made a living soul." <i>But</i> the last Adam <i>is</i> an enlivening spirit.


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The first man <i>being made</i> out of the earth, <i>was</i> earthy: the second man <i>is</i> the Lord from heaven.


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<i>Such</i> as the earthy <i>was,</i> such <i>are</i> they also that are earthy: and such, as <i>is</i> the heavenly, <i>are</i> they also that are heavenly.


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But this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor doth what is corruptible inherit incorruption.


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in the twinkling of an eye, at <i>the sound of</i> the last trumpet (for the trumpet shall sound) and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed:


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for this corruptible <i>body</i> must put on incorruption, and this mortal <i>body</i> must be clothed with immortality.


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And when this corruptible shall be clothed with incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall come to pass the word <i>that is</i> written, "Death is swallowed up in victory."


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Wherefore, my beloved brethren, be stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, since ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.


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Upon the first <i>day</i> of the week let every one of you set apart <i>something,</i> putting <i>it</i> into the treasury, according as he is prospered: that there may be no <i>need of</i> collections, when I come.


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And when I am with <i>you,</i> whomsoever ye shall approve, I will send, with <i>your</i> letters, to carry your bounty to Jerusalem.


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And perhaps I shall stay <i>a while,</i> or even pass the winter with you; that ye may forward me on my journey, whithersoever I go.


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For I do not intend to see you now in <i>my</i> way, as I hope to stay some time with you, if the Lord permit.


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If Timothy should come, see that he be with you without fear: for he is employed in the work of the Lord, as I also <i>am.</i>


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Let no one therefore despise him: but forward him <i>on his journey</i> in peace, that he may come to me; for I expect him with the brethren. As to <i>our</i> brother Apollos,


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I much importuned him to come to you with the brethren: but he was not at all willing to come now; though he will come when he has a favorable opportunity.


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I beseech you, brethren, (<i>for</i> ye know the family of Stephanas, that they are the first-fruits of Achaia, and


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have <i>set</i> themselves to minister to the saints) that you also would be subservient to such, and to every one that worketh and laboureth with <i>us.</i>


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I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus: for what was wanting in you, they have made up.


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For they have refreshed my spirit as well as yours: have a <i>due</i> regard therefore to such <i>worthy persons.</i>


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The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla, with the church in their house, salute you in the Lord <i>with</i> much <i>affection:</i>


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Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy <i>our</i> brother, to the church of God which is at Corinth, and all the saints that are in Achaia:


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Blessed <i>be</i> the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and God of all consolation; who comforteth us in all our affliction,


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that we may be able to comfort those, <i>that are</i> in any trouble, by the consolation wherewith we ourselves are comforted by God.


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For as the sufferings <i>for the sake</i> of Christ abound on us, so our consolation by Christ doth also abound.


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And whether we be afflicted, <i>it is</i> for your consolation and salvation, which is wrought out by the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or if we be comforted, <i>it is</i> for your consolation and salvation.


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And our hope <i>is</i> firm concerning you, knowing that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so also of the consolation.


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For we would not have you ignorant, brethren, concerning our affliction which befel us in Asia, that we were exceedingly pressed above <i>our</i> strength, so that we despaired even of life:


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but we had the sentence of death within ourselves, that we might not trust in ourselves, but in God who raiseth the dead:


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who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver, in whom we trust that He will yet deliver <i>us:</i>


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you also assisting by prayer for us, that the favor <i>obtained</i> for us by <i>the prayers of</i> many might be thankfully acknowledged by many on our account.


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For this is our rejoicing, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and pious sincerity, not with carnal wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and especially towards you.


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For we write no other <i>things</i> to you, but what ye own and acknowledge, and I hope ye will always acknowledge.


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As ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your boasting, as ye also <i>are</i> ours, in the day of the Lord Jesus.


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And in this confidence I had a mind to come to you first, (that ye might have a second benefit,) and to pass by you into Macedonia;


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and <i>then</i> to come to you again from Macedonia, and by you to be forwarded <i>on my way</i> to Judea.


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Now when I intended this, was I chargeable with levity? or what I purpose, do I purpose from carnal motives, that with me there should be yea, yea, and <i>then</i> no, no?


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For Jesus Christ the Son of God, who was preached among you by us, <i>even</i> by me, and Silvanus, and Timothy, was not yea and nay,


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but was yea in Him, (for all the promises of God are in Him yea, and in Him amen,) to the glory of God by us:


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but He that establisheth us as well as you in Christ, and hath anointed us, <i>is</i> God; who hath also sealed us,


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And I wrote this to you, that when I come I may not have grief from those of whom I ought to receive joy, being persuaded concerning all <i>of</i> you, that my joy is <i>the joy</i> of you all.


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For through much affliction and distress of heart I wrote to you with many tears; not that ye might be grieved, but that ye might know the love with which I abound towards you.


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And if any <i>one</i> hath caused grief, it hath grieved me only as to part <i>of you,</i> (that I may not overcharge you


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So that on the contrary, ye <i>ought</i> rather to forgive and comfort <i>him,</i> least such a one should be swallowed up with excessive sorrow.


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For to this <i>end</i> also did I write, that I might have proof of you, whether ye are obedient in all <i>things.</i>


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And to whom ye forgive any thing, I also <i>forgive it:</i> for if I have forgiven any thing, <i>I forgave it him,</i> to whom I did forgive <i>it,</i> for your sakes, in the person of Christ; that we might not be foiled by Satan:


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So that when I came to Troas on account of the gospel of Christ, and a door was opened to me in the Lord,


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<i>yet</i> I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother <i>there;</i> but taking my leave of them, I went away into Macedonia.


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But thanks <i>be</i> to God, who always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and spreadeth the odor of his knowledge by us in every place.


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For we are the sweet odor of Christ unto God, in them that are saved, <i>yea</i> and in them that perish:


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to these indeed <i>we are</i> an odor of death to death; to those an odor of life unto life. And who <i>is</i> sufficient for these <i>things?</i>


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For we are not like many who adulterate the word of God: but as with sincerity, but as from God, <i>and</i> in the sight of God, we speak concerning Christ.


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Do we begin again to recommend ourselves? or do we need, as some <i>do,</i> recommendatory epistles to you, or <i>letters of</i> recommendation from you?


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being manifest that ye are the epistle of Christ, through our ministration, written not with ink, but by the Spirit of the living God; not on tables of stone, but on tables of the heart of flesh.


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not that we can of ourselves reckon upon any <i>thing</i> as from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God.


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Who hath also fitted us <i>to be</i> ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter, but of the Spirit: for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life.


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Now if the ministration of death <i>which was</i> in writing, <i>and</i> engraven on stones, was so glorious that the children of Israel could not look stedfastly on the face of Moses, because of the lustre of his countenance, which was to be taken away:


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For if the ministration of condemnation <i>was</i> <i>so</i> glorious, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory:


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since what was <i>then</i> made glorious was not in comparison glorious, because of the glory that surpasseth <i>it.</i>


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For if that, which was <i>to be</i> taken away, <i>came</i> with glory, much more that which abideth <i>is</i> glorious.


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and <i>do</i> not as Moses, <i>who</i> put a veil upon his face, <i>intimating</i> that the children of Israel could not look to the end of that which was to be abolished; but their minds were blinded:


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for unto this day the same veil remaineth unremoved in the reading of the old testament, which <i>veil</i> is taken away in Christ.


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But we all with unveiled face beholding, as in a glass, the glory of the Lord, are transformed <i>according to</i> the same image from glory to glory, as <i>proceeding</i> from the Spirit of the Lord.


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but have rejected shameful disguises, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by the manifestation of the truth, recommending ourselves to every man's conscience, in the sight of God.


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among whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of the unbelieving, so that the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, doth not shine unto them:


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for we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus <i>the</i> Lord, and ourselves your servants for the sake of Jesus.


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For God, who commanded light to shine out of darkness, hath shined into our hearts, to <i>reflect</i> the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.


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But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power might be <i>evidently</i> of God, and not of us:


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cast down, but not destroyed; always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be manifested in our body.


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For we, who are <i>yet</i> living, are always exposed to death for the sake of Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh.


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But having the same Spirit of faith, according to what is written, "I believed, and therefore have I spoken," we also believe, and therefore speak:


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knowing that He, who raised up the Lord Jesus, will raise up us also by Jesus, and present <i>us</i> with you.


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For all <i>these things are</i> for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the gratitude of many redound to the glory of God.


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For which cause we are not disheartened: but though our outward man decayeth, yet the inward man is renewed daily.


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For our short <i>and</i> light affliction is working out for us an infinite <i>and</i> eternal weight of glory, as we aim not at the things <i>which are</i> visible, but invisible:


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For we know that if our earthly house, <i>which is but as</i> a tent, were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.


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And therefore <i>whilst we are</i> in this <i>tabernacle</i> we groan, being very desirous to be covered with our house <i>which is</i> from heaven: since though unclothed <i>of this body,</i>


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For we who are in <i>this</i> tabernacle do groan, being burthened; wherefore we desire, not to be <i>wholly</i> unclothed, but to put on <i>immortality,</i> that the mortal <i>part</i> may be swallowed up in life.


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Now He, that hath wrought us hereunto, <i>is</i> God; who hath also given us the earnest of the Spirit.


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Therefore <i>we are</i> always confident, knowing that while we dwell in the body, we are absent from the Lord,


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Wherefore we are also ambitious, whether dwelling in <i>the body,</i> or out <i>of it,</i> to be well-pleasing to Him.


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For we must all appear before the tribunal of Christ, that every <i>one</i> may receive <i>for</i> the things <i>done</i> in the body, according to what he hath done, whether <i>it were</i> good or bad.


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Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men: but <i>if not,</i> we are manifest unto God, and I hope we are also manifested to your consciences:


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for we are not again recommending ourselves to you, but giving you an occasion of glorying on our account; that ye may have <i>somewhat to answer</i> those who glory in appearance, and not in heart.


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For the love of Christ constraineth us, being <i>fully</i> persuaded of this, that if One died for all, then were all dead.


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And He died for all, that those who live might no longer live to themselves, but to Him who died for them and rose again.


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Wherefore we henceforth know no one according to the flesh: and if we have known even Christ after the flesh, yet now we <i>thus</i> know Him no more.


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And therefore if any <i>one be</i> in Christ, <i>he is</i> created anew: old things are passed away, behold all things are become new.


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But all <i>these</i> things <i>are</i> from God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and made us ministers of the reconciliation;


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<i>to declare,</i> that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing to them their trespasses, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.


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We are therefore ambassadors for Christ, <i>and</i> as God exhorteth <i>you</i> by us, we intreat you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.


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For He hath made Him, who knew no sin, <i>to be</i> a sin-<i>offering</i> for us, that in Him we might be made righteous before God.


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And we co-operating <i>with Him</i> do also exhort you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain:


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for He saith, "I have heard thee in an acceptable time, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee." Behold now <i>is</i> the acceptable time; behold now <i>is</i> the day of salvation.


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but in every thing approving ourselves as the ministers of God; by much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in straits,


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by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, with the armour of righteousness <i>on the</i> right and <i>on the</i> left; through honor and dishonor,


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as deceivers, and <i>yet</i> true; as unknown, and <i>yet</i> well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, but not put to death;


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as sorrowing, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing all <i>things.</i>


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Now as a return of <i>our love</i> (I speak as to <i>my</i> children) be ye also enlarged <i>towards us.</i>


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Be not unsuitably connected with infidels: for what fellowship <i>hath</i> righteousness with unrighteousness? or what communion <i>hath</i> light with darkness?


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and what agreement <i>hath</i> the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God: as God hath said, "I will dwell in them, and I will walk among <i>them,</i> and I will be their God, and they shall be my people."


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Wherefore, "come out from the midst of them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch no unclean thing," and I will receive you:


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and I will be a father unto you, and ye shall be to me for sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.


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Having therefore, <i>my</i> beloved, these promises, let us purify ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.


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I speak not <i>this</i> to condemn <i>you:</i> for I said before that ye are <i>so much</i> in our hearts that we could live and die with <i>you.</i>


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I <i>use</i> much freedom of speech to you, <i>and</i> I boast much of you: I am filled with comfort, <i>and</i> superabound in joy above all our affliction.


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For when we came into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but <i>we were</i> afflicted on every <i>side;</i> without <i>were</i> fightings, within <i>were</i> fears.


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and not only by his coming, but especially by the consolation wherewith he was comforted on your account, acquainting us with your earnest desire <i>towards us,</i> your grief, <i>and</i> your zeal for me; so that I rejoiced greatly.


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For though I grieved you by <i>my</i> letter, I do not repent, though I did repent; for I perceive that that epistle grieved you, though <i>it was</i> but for a <i>little</i> while.


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<i>However,</i> now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance; for ye were grieved after a godly manner, so that ye received no damage from us.


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For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.


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For behold this very <i>thing,</i> that ye sorrowed after a godly manner, what diligence it wrought in you! yea, <i>what</i> apology, <i>what</i> indignation, <i>what</i> fear, <i>what</i> earnest desire, <i>what</i> zeal, <i>what</i> revenge! by all <i>which</i> ye have shewn yourselves to be clear in the affair.


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Wherefore if I wrote <i>in such a manner</i> to you, <i>it was</i> not <i>merely</i> on his account who had done the wrong, nor for his sake who had been injured; but that our care for you in the sight of God might be manifested among you.


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We were therefore comforted by your consolation; and rejoiced the more at the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all;


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<i>and</i> because if I boasted of any thing to him concerning you, I was not ashamed; but as we have spoken all <i>things</i> to you in truth, so likewise our boasting <i>of you</i> to Titus was truth.


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And his bowels are exceedingly <i>moved</i> towards you, when he calls to mind the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.


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how in a great trial of affliction, their abundant chearfulness and their deep poverty, hath munificently shewn the riches of their bounty.


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For to <i>their</i> power, I bear <i>them</i> witness, yea and beyond <i>their</i> power, <i>they contributed</i> of their own accord:


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intreating us with much importunity, that we would convey the gift, and <i>so take upon us</i> a part of the ministration to the saints.


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And <i>this they did</i> not <i>merely</i> as we hoped, but first gave themselves unto the Lord, and to us by the will of God.


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Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had already begun, so he would also complete this grace among you.


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And as ye abound in every <i>other grace, in</i> faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and <i>in</i> all diligence, and <i>in</i> your love to us, that ye may abound in this grace also.


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I speak not by way of command, but to prove the sincerity of your love also, by <i>means of</i> the forwardness of others.


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For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, <i>yet</i> for your sakes He became poor, that ye by his poverty might be rich.


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And herein I give my opinion: for this is to your advantage, who not only began to act, but also to be forward <i>to it</i> above a year ago.


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Now therefore perfect also the doing it; that as <i>there was</i> a readiness of will, so <i>there may be</i> also a performance according to your ability.


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For if there be first a willing mind, any <i>me</i> is accepted according to what he hath, not according to what he hath not.


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but by an equality, that your abundance <i>may</i> at this time <i>be a supply</i> to their want; and their abundance may be <i>the like</i> to your want, <i>if need be:</i> that there may be an equality:


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as it is written, "He that <i>gathered</i> much had nothing over, and he that <i>gathered</i> little had no lack."


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for he not only complied with the exhortation, but being more forward he went to you of his own accord.


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And we have sent along with him the brother, whose praise in the gospel <i>is spread</i> through all the churches:


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(and not only <i>so,</i> but he was also chosen by the churches to accompany us with this grace, <i>which is</i> administered by us for the glory of the same Lord, and <i>to shew</i> your readiness of mind:)


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<i>hereby</i> taking care that no one might blame us in <i>the disposal of</i> this large sum which is administered by us:


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looking to things <i>that are</i> right not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.


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And we have sent with them <i>another</i> brother of ours, whom we have often proved diligent in many things, and now <i>I doubt not</i> much more on account of <i>his</i> great confidence in you.


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If then <i>there be any inquiry</i> about Titus, <i>he is</i> my collegue and fellow-laborer among you: and if our brethren <i>be inquired after, they are</i> the messengers of the churches, <i>and</i> the glory of Christ.


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Therefore shew to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and <i>the justness</i> of our boasting concerning you.


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for I know your readiness of mind, which I boast of concerning you to the Macedonians, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath excited many.


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But I have sent the brethren, that our boasting of you might not become vain in this respect, <i>but</i> that ye might be ready, as I <i>had</i> said:


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least if the Macedonians should come with me, and find you unprepared, we should be ashamed (not to say you <i>also</i>) in this confident boasting.


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Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren to go first to you, and before <i>our coming to</i> collect your bounty beforementioned, that it may be ready, as <i>of</i> munificence, and not <i>of</i> force.


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But this <i>I say,</i> He that soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he that soweth bountifully shall also reap bountifully.


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<i>Let</i> every one <i>give</i> as he chuses in <i>his own</i> heart; not with reluctance, or constraint: for God loveth a chearful giver.


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And God <i>is</i> able to make all grace abound towards you; that having always all sufficiency in every thing, ye may abound in every good work:


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(as it is written, "He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor, his righteousness continueth for ever."


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And may He, who supplieth seed to the sower, and <i>giveth</i> bread for food, furnish and multiply your sowing, and increase the fruits of your bounty:)


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being in every <i>thing</i> enriched to all liberality, which produceth through us thanksgiving to God.


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For the ministration of this service not only supplieth the wants of the saints, but aboundeth also, through many thanksgivings, to <i>the glory of</i> God.


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(While from the experience of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection to the gospel of Christ, and the liberality of your communication to them, and to all <i>men.</i>)


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And in their prayer for you, who long after you because of the transcendent grace of God towards you.


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Now I Paul myself exhort you, by the meekness and lenity of Christ, who in presence am lowly among you,


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but being absent am bold towards you, yea I intreat you, that I may not be bold, when I am present, with <i>that</i> confidence, wherewith I think to proceed against some, who censure us as walking after the flesh.


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(for the weapons of our warfare <i>are</i> not carnal, but mighty through God to the demolishing of bulwarks:)


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destroying <i>false</i> reasonings, and every height that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and captivating every thought to the obedience of Christ.


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Do ye look at things according to the outward appearance? If any <i>one</i> is confident in himself that he is Christ's, let him consider this again of himself, that as he <i>is</i> Christ's, so we also <i>are</i> Christ's.


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For though I should boast yet more of our authority, (which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction) I should not be ashamed:


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for <i>his</i> letters, say they, <i>are</i> weighty and powerful, but <i>his</i> bodily presence <i>is</i> weak, and <i>his</i> speech contemptible.


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<i>But</i> let such a one know this, that as we are in word by letters, when absent, such also <i>shall we be</i> in fact when present.


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For we presume not to number, or compare ourselves with some who recommend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are void of understanding.


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But we will not glory of things beyond <i>our</i> bounds, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath given to us, a measure to come even unto you.


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For we do not stretch ourselves beyond <i>measure,</i> as though we were not <i>commissioned</i> to come unto you; for we have reached even to you also in <i>preaching</i> the gospel of Christ.


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Not boasting of things beyond <i>our</i> limits in other men's labors; but having hope that, when your faith is increased, we shall be abundantly enlarged by you according to our line,


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to preach the gospel in <i>places</i> beyond you; <i>and</i> not to boast in another's province of things ready <i>prepared for us.</i>


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For I am jealous over you with a godly jealousy, having espoused you to one husband, that I may present <i>you as</i> a chaste virgin to Christ.


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But I fear least as the serpent seduced Eve by his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the purity that is in Christ.


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For if he, that cometh <i>to you,</i> preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached; or <i>if</i> ye receive another Spirit which ye have not received, or another gospel which ye have not embraced, ye might indeed bear with <i>him.</i>


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For I think I was not inferior to the <i>very</i> chiefest apostles: and if <i>I am</i> unskilled in speech,


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Have I committed an offence <i>in</i> humbling myself that ye might be exalted? <i>and in</i> that I have preached the gospel of God to you gratis?


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And when I was present among you, and in want, I was chargeable to no one. For the brethren that came from Macedonia supplied my want: and in every <i>thing</i> I have kept myself from being burdensome to you, and <i>so</i> I will keep <i>myself.</i>


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<i>As</i> the truth of Christ is in me, this boast shall not be taken from me in the regions of Achaia.


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God knoweth. But what I do, I will do, that I may cut off occasion from those that desire an occasion <i>of boasting or censure,</i> that in what they boast of they may be found <i>to do</i> even as we <i>do.</i>


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<i>It is</i> therefore no great <i>thing,</i> if his ministers also be transformed into ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.


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I say again, let no one think me foolish <i>herein;</i> but if they do, yet bear with my weakness, that I also may boast a little.


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What I speak I speak not <i>as</i> from the Lord, but as in weakness, in this confidence of boasting.


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ye bear <i>it, even</i> if any <i>one</i> enslave you, if any devour <i>you,</i> if any take <i>your substance,</i> if any be lifted up, <i>yea</i> if any one smite you on the face.


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I speak of <i>their</i> reproach<i>es,</i> as if we were weak: but whereinsoever any one may be confident (<i>though</i> I speak foolishly) I may be confident too.


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Are they Hebrews? so <i>am</i> I: are they Israelites? so <i>am</i> I: are they the seed of Abraham?


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so <i>am</i> I: are they ministers of Christ? (<i>if</i> I <i>may</i> speak as a fool) I <i>am</i> more: in labors more abundant, in stripes far exceeding, in prisons more frequently, <i>and</i> often <i>even</i> in deaths.


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Thrice I have been beaten with rods, once I was stoned, thrice I have been shipwrecked, <i>and</i> was a night and a day on the deep:


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in journies often, in perils from rivers, in perils from robbers, in perils from <i>my own</i> nation, in perils from the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the desert, in perils on the sea, in perils among false brethren:


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in labor and toil, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness: <i>and</i> beside <i>these</i> outward <i>troubles,</i>


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<i>And</i> the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for ever, knoweth that I lye not.


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I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago (whether in the body, or out of the body, I know not, God knoweth) such a one caught up to the third heaven.


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I know not, God knoweth) that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unutterable words, which it is not permitted unto man to speak.


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For though I should incline to boast, I shall not be a fool; for I should speak truth. But I forbear least any <i>one</i> should think of me above what he seeth me <i>to be,</i> or heareth from me.


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And least I should be too much lifted up with the abundance of the revelations, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, least I should be too much elevated.


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And He said unto me, <J>"My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is manifested in </J><i>thy</i><J> weakness."</J> With the greatest pleasure therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.


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And therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, <i>and</i> in straits for the sake of Christ: for when I am <i>thus</i> weak, then am I <i>made</i> strong.


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Am I become vain <i>in</i> boasting? ye have forced me <i>to it:</i> for I ought to have been recommended by you, as I have in nothing fallen short of the very chiefest <i>of the</i> apostles, though <i>in myself</i> I am nothing.


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The marks indeed of an apostle have been shewn among you with all patience, by signs, and wonders, and miracles.


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For what is it that ye were inferior <i>in</i> to the rest of the churches, unless <i>it be</i> that I myself was not burdensome to you?--- Forgive me this injury.


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Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you, and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not your <i>substance,</i> but your <i>selves.</i> For children are not <i>expected</i> to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.


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And I will with the greatest pleasure spend and be spent for your souls; even though the more I love you, the less I <i>should</i> be loved.


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Be it <i>so, that</i> I did not burden you <i>myself,</i> yet, <i>may some say,</i> being crafty I over-reached you by subtilty.


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I desired Titus <i>to come to you,</i> and with <i>him</i> I sent a brother: did Titus make a gain of you? did we not walk in the same spirit? <i>did we</i> not <i>tread</i> in the same steps?


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Do ye then think that we are making apologies to you? <i>No,</i> we speak before God in Christ: and all, <i>my</i> beloved, for your edification.


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For I am afraid least when I come, I should not find you such as I <i>could</i> wish, and I should be found to you such as ye would not: least <i>there should be</i> contentions, emulations, animosities, strifes, thwartings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: <i>and</i> least,


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when I come again, my God should humble me among you, and I should be grieved for many of those who have sinned heretofore, and have not repented of the impurity, and fornication, and lewdness which they have practised.


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This, <i>I say, is the</i> third <i>time</i> I am coming to you: <i>and</i> at the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.


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I said before, and I <i>again</i> tell you beforehand, as if I were present the second <i>time;</i> and being absent I now write to those who have sinned heretofore, and to all the rest, that if I come again I will not spare:


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since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, who is not weak toward you, but is powerful among you.


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For if He was crucified <i>as</i> from weakness, yet He <i>now</i> liveth by the power of God: for we also are weak in Him, but shall live with Him by the power of God <i>manifested</i> to you.


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Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove yourselves: do ye not know yourselves <i>to be such</i> that Jesus Christ is in you? unless ye are reprovable.


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I pray to God that ye may do no evil: <i>and</i> not that we may appear <i>to be</i> approved <i>by your punishment,</i> but that ye may do that which is good, though we should seem to be disapproved.


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For we rejoice when we exert not our power, and <i>when</i> ye are strong: as this <i>is what</i> we wish, <i>even</i> your perfection.


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Therefore I write these <i>things</i> while absent, that when present I may not use severity, according to the power which the Lord hath given me for edification, and not for destruction.


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Finally, <i>my</i> brethren, farewel: be reformed, be exhorted, be of one mind, live in peace: and the God of love and peace will be with you.


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Paul an apostle (not from men, nor by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead),


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who gave himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from the present evil world, according to the will of our God and Father:


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I wonder that ye are so soon removed from him who called you by the grace of Christ to another gospel: which is not another;


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But tho' we or an angel from heaven should preach to you <i>any</i> other <i>gospel</i> than what we have preached to you; let him be accursed.


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I say <i>it</i> again, if any <i>one</i> preach to you <i>any</i> other <i>gospel</i> than what ye have received, let him be accursed.


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For do I now persuade <i>you to obey</i> men or God? Or do I seek to please men? if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.


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For ye have heard of my conversation formerly in Judaism, that I outragiously persecuted the church of God, and laid it waste:


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and I made a proficiency in Judaism above many of the same age <i>with me</i> in my own nation, being excessively zealous for the traditions of my fathers.


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But when it pleased God, (who separated me from my mother's womb, and called <i>me</i> by his grace,)


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to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach Him among the gentiles; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood,


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nor went I up to Jerusalem to those that were apostles before me, but I departed into Arabia, and <i>afterwards</i> returned again to Damascus.


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But only they had heard that he who persecuted us before, now preacheth the faith which he formerly <i>would have</i> destroyed.


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Fourteen years after, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus also with <i>me.</i>


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But I went up according to <i>a divine</i> revelation, and laid before them the gospel which I preach among the gentiles: though privately to those of note, least I should run, or had run in vain.


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and <i>that</i> because of the false brethren clandestinely introduced, who had crept in as spies upon our liberty, which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:


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to whom we yielded no submission, <i>not</i> even for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.


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And as to those who seemed to be <i>men</i> of note, whatever they were, it is all one to me, (God accepteth no man's person) for <i>even</i> these eminent <i>persons</i> added nothing more to me.


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But on the contrary, seeing that I was intrusted with the gospel of uncircumcision, as Peter <i>was with that</i> of the circumcision;


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(for He who wrought effectually in Peter as to the apostleship of the circumcision, wrought effectually also in me as to the gentiles:)


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and knowing the grace <i>which was</i> given to me; James, and Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars <i>of the church,</i> gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we <i>should go</i> to the gentiles, and they to the circumcision.


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But when Peter came to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was <i>indeed</i> to be blamed.


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For before certain <i>men</i> came from James, he did eat with the gentiles; but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those of the circumcision.


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And the rest of the Jews dissembled also with him; so that Barnabas too was carried away with their dissimulation.


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But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before <i>them</i> all,---If thou, who art a Jew, livest <i>sometimes</i> after the manner of the gentiles, and not like the Jews, why dost thou <i>now in a manner</i> compel the gentiles to judaize?


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knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ, and not by <i>the</i> works of <i>the</i> law: for by <i>the</i> works of <i>the</i> law shall no flesh be justified.


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But if while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, <i>is</i> Christ therefore the minister of sin?


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God forbid. And if I build again the same <i>things</i> which I demolished, I shew myself a transgressor: for I through the law am dead to the law,


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I am crucified with Christ; yet I live, <i>though</i> no longer I, but Christ liveth in me: and <i>the life</i> which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave up himself for me.


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I do not frustate the grace of God: for if righteousness <i>be</i> by the law, then Christ died in vain.


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O senseless Galatians, who hath <i>so</i> bewitched you, that <i>ye</i> should not obey the truth? <i>you,</i> before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth <i>as</i> crucified.


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This only would I learn of you, Did ye receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?


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He therefore that imparteth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, <i>doth he it</i> by the works of the law, or by the doctrine of faith?


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And the scripture foreseeing that God would justify the gentiles through faith, preached the gospel to Abraham long ago, <i>saying,</i> "In thee shall all nations be blessed."


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For as many as are of the works of the law, are under the curse; for it is written, Cursed <i>be</i> every one that continueth not in all <i>things which are</i> written in the book of the law, to do them.


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And that by the law no one is justified before God <i>is</i> evident; for <i>it is</i> <i>written</i> "The just shall live by faith:"


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Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, having been made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed <i>is</i> every one that hangeth on a tree:"


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that the blessing of Abraham might come on the gentiles by Christ Jesus; that we through faith might receive the promise of the Spirit.


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Brethren, (I speak after the manner of men,) no one cancelleth or addeth to a covenant <i>which hath been</i> ratified, though <i>it be but the covenant</i> of a man.


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Now the promises were made to Abraham, and to his seed. He doth not say, "and to seeds," as of many; but as of one, "and to thy seed," which is Christ.


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This then I say, <i>that</i> the law, which was <i>given</i> four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul the covenant, which was <i>so long</i> before confirmed by God unto Christ, to make void the promise.


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For if the inheritance be from the law, <i>it is</i> no more from <i>the</i> promise: whereas God gave <i>it</i> to Abraham by promise.


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What then <i>availeth</i> the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come, to whom the promise was made; <i>and it was</i> delivered by angels in the hand of a mediator.


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<i>Is</i> the law then contrary to the promises of God? not at all: for if a law had been given, which could have confered life, certainly righteousness would have been by the law.


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But the scripture hath shut up all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.


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But before faith came, we were kept shut up under the law, till the faith <i>appeared</i> which was to be revealed.


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<i>and</i> there is neither Jew nor Greek, those is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.


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Now as long as the heir is a child, he differeth nothing from a servant, though he <i>is to</i> be lord of all:


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that He might redeem those <i>that were</i> under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.


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And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.


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But now that ye know God, or rather are known by God, how <i>is it that</i> ye turn again to the poor weak elements, to which ye desire again to be in bondage as before?


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Brethren, I beseech you, be as I <i>am;</i> for I also <i>was</i> as ye <i>are: and</i> ye have not injured me at all.


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and my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected <i>me for it;</i> but received me as an angel of God, <i>even</i> as Christ Jesus.


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What then was your blessedness? for I bear you witness that, if <i>it had been</i> possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.


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They are zealous for you, <i>but</i> not as they ought: for they would exclude us, that ye may be zealous for them:


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But <i>it is</i> good to be zealously affected always in that which is good, and not only when I am present with you.


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till Christ be formed in you, I should be glad to be present with you <i>even</i> now, and to change my voice; for I am in doubt about you.


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But he <i>who was</i> of the servant, was born according to the course of nature; whereas the <i>son</i> of the free-<i>woman was</i> by <i>virtue of</i> the promise.


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Which <i>things</i> are figurative; for these <i>persons</i> are <i>emblems of</i> the two covenants, <i>the</i> one from mount Sinai, bringing forth <i>children</i> unto bondage, which is Hagar: for this <i>name</i> Hagar,


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<i>a rock,</i> is <i>expressive of</i> mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to the present Jerusalem, which is in bondage with her children.


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But the Jerusalem above is <i>represented by the</i> free-<i>woman,</i> which is the mother of us all.


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For it is written, Rejoice thou barren, that <i>for a while</i> didst not bear, break <i>forth</i> and cry aloud <i>for joy,</i> thou that didst not travail with child; for many more <i>are</i> the children of the desolate than of her that hath an husband."


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But as then he that was born after the flesh, persecuted him <i>who was born</i> after the Spirit, even so <i>it is</i> now.


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But what saith the scripture? "Cast out the servant and her son: for the son of the servant shall not inherit with the son of the free-<i>woman.</i>"


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Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again in the yoke of bondage.


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Christ is become nothing to you, whosoever <i>of you</i> are <i>seeking to be</i> justified by the law: ye are fallen from the grace <i>of the gospel.</i>


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For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but faith which worketh by love.


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This persuasion <i>came</i> not from him that called you: <i>but</i> a little leaven leaveneth the whole mass.


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that ye will not think other<i>wise:</i> but he that troubleth you shall bear <i>his</i> judgement, whosoever he be.


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And I, brethren, if I still preach circumcision, why am I still persecuted <i>by the Jews? for</i> then the offence of the cross is ceased.


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I wish they were even cut off <i>from your communion,</i> that make <i>such</i> disturbance amongst you.


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For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only <i>abuse</i> not this liberty for an occasion to <i>indulge</i> the flesh, but by <i>mutual</i> love serve one another.


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For all the law is fulfilled in one precept, <i>even</i> in this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.


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for the flesh desireth <i>things</i> contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit <i>things</i> contrary to the flesh: and these are opposite to each other; so that ye do not those <i>things</i> which ye would.


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lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, enmities, strifes, emulations, animosities, contentions, divisions,


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heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and the like: of which I forewarn you, as I have also told you before, that they who practise such <i>things</i> shall not inherit the kingdom of God.


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Brethren, if a man be overtaken in any fault, do ye, who are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, least thou also shouldst be tempted.


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But let every one try his own work, and then he will have <i>matter of</i> glorying in himself alone, and not in another.


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And let him, that is instructed in the word, communicate in all good things to him that instructeth.


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Be not deceived, God is not <i>to be</i> mocked: for whatever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.


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He then, who soweth to his flesh, shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he, that soweth to the Spirit, shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.


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And therefore as we have opportunity, let us do good to all <i>men,</i> but especially to those who are of the houshold of faith.


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They, who want to make a fair appearance in the flesh, <i>would</i> constrain you to be circumcised; only that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.


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For they, who are circumcised, do not themselves keep the law: but they would have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.


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But God forbid that I should glory, unless in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world.


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For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but being created anew.


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And as many as shall walk according to this rule, peace and mercy be on them, even upon <i>all</i> the Israel of God.


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Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, to the saints, who are at Ephesus, even the faithful in Christ Jesus;


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Blessed <i>be</i> the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly things by Christ;


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according as he hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and unblameable before Him in love:


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having before appointed us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ unto Himself, according to the good pleasure of his will;


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in whom we have redemption through his blood, <i>even</i> the remission of sins, according to the riches of his grace;


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having made known to us the secret of his will, according to his good pleasure, which He had before purposed in Himself:


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that in the dispensation of the fulness of times, He might reduce all <i>things,</i> both in heaven and on earth, under one head in Christ:


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<i>even</i> in Him, in whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated <i>to it</i> according to the purpose of Him who effecteth all <i>things</i> after the counsel of His own will:


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In whom ye also <i>trusted,</i> when ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also when ye believed, ye were sealed with the holy Spirit of promise,


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who is the pledge of our inheritance, till the redemption of his purchased possession, to the praise of his glory.


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and <i>your</i> love to all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;


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that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, would give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation to the knowledge of Him,


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<i>and</i> enlighten the eyes of your understanding; that ye may know, what is the hope of his calling, and how rich the glory of his inheritance in the saints;


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and what the exceeding greatness of his power towards us who believe, according to the energy of his mighty strength;


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which He exerted in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at his own right hand in heavenly <i>places,</i>


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far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that <i>which is</i> to come:


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and hath put all <i>things</i> under his feet, and given Him <i>to be</i> head over all <i>things</i> to the church;


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in which ye formerly walked after the manner of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that still operates in the children of disobedience:


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among whom also we were all conversant heretofore in our carnal desires, indulging the appetites of the flesh and of <i>our</i> imaginations; and were by nature children of wrath, even as others.


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hath made us alive in Christ, even when we were dead in trespasses, (<i>for</i> by grace ye are saved) and hath raised <i>us</i> up together,


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That in the ages to come He might shew the superabundant riches of his grace, in <i>his</i> kindness towards us through Christ Jesus.


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For by grace ye are saved, through faith: and this not of yourselves; <i>it is</i> the gift of God: not by works, that no one may boast:


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created in Christ Jesus unto good works, for which God before prepared <i>us,</i> that we might walk in them.


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Wherefore remember that ye <i>were</i> formerly Gentiles in the flesh, called uncircumcision by that which is called circumcision made by hands in the flesh;


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<i>and</i> ye were at that time without Christ, aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: but now in Christ Jesus,


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For He is our peace, who hath made both one, and removed the wall of partition <i>from</i> between <i>us;</i>


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having abolished in his flesh the enmity, <i>even</i> the law of commandments <i>contained</i> in ordinances, that He might form the two into one new man, in Himself, <i>so</i> making peace;


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and that He might reconcile both in one body unto God, by the cross, having thereby slain the enmity:


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Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the houshold of God;


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being built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner-<i>stone:</i>


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as ye have heard the dispensation of the grace of God, which was given me <i>to preach</i> unto you:


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that by <i>immediate</i> revelation He made known to me the mystery, (as I wrote before in brief, by which,


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which in other generations was not made known to men, as it is now revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; that the Gentiles should be co-heirs,


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of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God conferred on me by the effectual operation of his power.


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On me, who am less than the least of all saints, was this grace bestowed, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,


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and make all <i>men</i> to see the communication of the mystery, which from the ages <i>past</i> hath been hid in God, who created all <i>things</i> by Jesus Christ;


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that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly <i>regions;</i>


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Wherefore I desire that ye would not be discouraged at my afflictions on your account, which is your glory.


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that He would grant you, according to his glorious riches, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit, as to the inner man;


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that ye may be able, with all the saints, to comprehend what <i>is</i> the breadth, and length, and depth,


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and height, and to know the love of Christ, which surpasseth knowledge; that ye may be filled according to the abundant fulness of God.


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Now to Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we <i>can</i> ask or think, according to the power operating in us,


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to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus, throughout all the generations of eternal ages. Amen.


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I therefore, a prisoner for <i>the sake of</i> the Lord, exhort you to walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all humility and meekness;


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endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace: <i>for there is but</i> one body and one Spirit,


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Now this <i>expression</i> "He ascended" what does it mean, but that He descended first into the lower parts of the earth?


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He that descended is the same also that ascended far above all heavens, that he might fill all <i>things.</i>


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And <i>therefore</i> He gave some <i>to be</i> apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, <i>and</i> some pastors and teachers; to qualify holy <i>men</i> for the work of the ministry,


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till we all arrive in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, at perfect maturity, <i>even</i> to the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.


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That we may be no longer children fluctuating and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the artful insinuations of men, <i>and their</i> crafty methods of deceiving;


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but holding the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him, who is the head, <i>even</i> Christ:


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from whom the whole body being fitly joined together and compacted by the aid of every joint, according to the operation proportioned to every part, maketh an increase to the edification of itself in love.


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This I say therefore, and charge <i>you</i> in <i>the name of</i> the Lord, that ye no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk,


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in the vanity of their mind, darkened in the<i>ir</i> understanding, <i>and</i> alienated from the life of God, through the ignorance that is in them, by reason of the hardness of their heart:


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who, being past feeling, have given themselves up to lasciviousness, to commit all uncleanness with greediness.


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if ye have indeed hearkened to Him, and been instructed in Him, as the truth is in Jesus; to put off the old man,


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<i>which</i> according to <i>your</i> former conversation <i>was</i> corrupted with deceitful lusts,


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and to put on the new man, which according to <i>the image of</i> God is created in righteousness, and true holiness.


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Wherefore putting away lying, speak <i>ye</i> every one truth to his neighbor; for we are <i>all</i> members of one society.


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Let him that stole steal no more; but rather let him labour, doing <i>some</i> good with <i>his</i> hands, that he may have <i>something</i> to bestow on him that hath need <i>of it.</i>


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Let no corrupt word come out of your mouth; but what <i>is</i> good to useful edification, that it may benefit the hearers.


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Let all bitterness, and wrath, and fury, and clamor, and calumny, be put away from you, with all malice: and be kind one to another,


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even as Christ hath loved us, and given Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of sweet perfume.


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But fornication, and all uncleanness, or inordinate desire, let it not be even named among you; for so it becometh saints:


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nor ribaldry, nor buffoonery, nor <i>wanton</i> jesting, which are not meet: but rather giving of thanks.


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For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean <i>person,</i> nor covetous <i>man,</i> (who is an idolater,) hath <i>any</i> inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.


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Let no one deceive you with vain words: for because of these <i>things</i> cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.


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walk <i>therefore</i> as children of light, (for the fruit of the Spirit <i>is</i> in all goodness and righteousness and truth,)


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But all <i>things to be</i> reproved: are made manifest by the light: for whatever doth make manifest, is light.


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Wherefore He saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.


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speaking to yourselves in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord:


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for the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and the saviour of <i>that</i> body.


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As the church then is subject to Christ, so also <i>should</i> wives <i>be</i> to their own husbands in every thing.


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that He might prepare it for Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and unblameable.


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For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord also <i>doth</i> the church:


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for we are members of his body, <i>as if taken</i> out of his flesh, and of his bones, <i>as Eve was out of Adam's.</i>


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For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined to his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.


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Nevertheless, let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and let the wife reverence <i>her</i> husband.


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And ye fathers, do not exasperate your children: but educate them in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.


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Servants, obey <i>them that are your</i> masters according to the flesh, with reverential fear, in the simplicity of your heart, as unto Christ:


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not with eye-service as men-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;


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knowing that whatever good any one doth, he shall receive <i>the reward of</i> it from the Lord, whether He be a slave or free.


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And <i>ye</i> masters, do the same to them, forbearing threatening: knowing that ye yourselves also have a Master in heaven, and there is no respect of persons with Him.


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For our conflict is not with flesh and blood <i>only,</i> but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the world <i>and</i> of the darkness of this age, against wicked spirits in heavenly <i>places.</i>


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Take therefore the complete armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand.


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Stand therefore having your loins girt about with truth, and putting on the breast-plate of righteousness:


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over all taking the shield of faith, whereby ye will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked <i>one:</i>


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praying at all seasons with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance, and intercession for all the saints;


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and for me <i>particularly,</i> that utterance may be given me, that I may open my mouth with freedom, to make known the mystery of the gospel:


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for which I am an ambassador <i>though</i> in chains: that I may speak boldly in <i>behalf of</i> it, as I ought to speak.


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But that ye also may know my <i>affairs, and</i> what I am doing <i>here,</i> Tychicus a beloved brother, and a faithful minister in the Lord, shall make all known to you: whom I have sent to you,


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for this very <i>end,</i> that ye might know our <i>concerns,</i> and that he may comfort your hearts.


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Peace <i>be</i> to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.


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Paul and Timothy, servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus, which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:


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being confident of this, that He who hath begun a good work in you will <i>continue to</i> perfect <i>it</i> till the day of Jesus Christ.


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As it is just for me to think this of you all, because ye have me in <i>your</i> heart, both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, being all of you partakers of the <i>same</i> grace with me.


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And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and <i>in</i> all discernment;


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that ye may try things that differ, that ye may be sincere and without offence until the day of Christ;


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being full of the fruits of righteousness <i>which are</i> through Jesus Christ unto the glory and praise of God.


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But I would have you know, <i>my</i> brethren, that the things, which have befallen me, have proved rather to the advancement of the gospel:


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so that my bonds are manifest in all the palace, and all other <i>places, to be</i> for the sake of Christ;


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and many of the brethren in the Lord, encouraged by my bonds, are much more bold to publish the word without fear.


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What then? yet every way, whether in pretence or in truth, Christ is preached: and in this I rejoice, yea and I will rejoice;


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for I know that this shall turn to my safety through your prayer, and the aid of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.


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According to my earnest expectation and hope, that I shall be put to shame in nothing; but <i>that</i> with all freedom of speech, as always, <i>so</i> now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.


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For to me to live <i>is</i> Christ, and to die <i>is</i> gain: and if I live in the flesh, this <i>is</i> the fruit of my labor:


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for I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which <i>is</i> much preferable:


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And as I am confident of this, I know that I shall abide and shall continue with you all, for your improvement and the joy of <i>your</i> faith:


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Only behave worthy of the gospel of Christ, that whether I come and see you, or be absent, I may hear of you, that ye stand firm in one Spirit, striving together <i>as</i> with one soul for the saith of the gospel;


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and <i>are</i> in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is a demonstration of ruin to them, but to you of salvation, and this from God.


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For to you it is granted as a favor from Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for his sake:


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If therefore there be any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any participation of the Spirit,


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if any bowels of compassion, compleat ye my joy, be like-minded, maintaining the same love, with your souls united, <i>in</i> attending to the one <i>thing needful.</i>


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<i>Do</i> nothing through strife or vain-glory, but in lowliness of mind each esteeming others better than themselves.


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Look not every one to his own <i>interests only,</i> but every one also to <i>the concerns</i> of others.


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and being in the human state, He humbled himself, and was obedient even unto death, and <i>that</i> the death of the cross.


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that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of celestial <i>beings,</i> as well as of those on earth, and of those under the earth;


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Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed <i>the gospel,</i> not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence; be <i>still</i> working out your own salvation <i>though</i> with fear and trembling:


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that ye may be blameless and inoffensive, the children of God without reproof, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation; among whom ye shine as lights in the world,


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exhibiting the word of life; to my rejoicing in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, nor laboured in vain.


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But if I be even poured forth as a libation on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and congratulate with you all.


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But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be refreshed, <i>by</i> knowing <i>the state of</i> your affairs.


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For I have no one of a like spirit, who will with a <i>kind of</i> natural affection take care of your affairs.


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But ye know the proof <i>I have had</i> of him, that as son with a father he served with me in the gospel.


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However, I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother, and fellow-laborer, and fellow-soldier, but your messenger, who ministred to my wants:


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For indeed he was sick <i>and</i> nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him, and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow.


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I have sent him therefore the more desirously, that when ye see him again ye may rejoice, and I may be the less sorrowful.


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because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding <i>his own</i> life, <i>so</i> that he might fill up what was wanting in your kind offices towards me.


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Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you <i>is</i> not irksome to me, and for you <i>it is</i> safe.


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For we are <i>of</i> the <i>true</i> circumcision, who worship God in spirit, rejoicing in Christ Jesus, and having no confidence in the flesh.


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Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other thinks <i>he hath whereof</i> to trust in the flesh, I more:


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having been circumcised on the eighth day, of the race of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of Hebrews, with respect to the law a pharisee,


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as to zeal persecuting the church, as to the righteousness of the law blameless: but those <i>things,</i>


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Yea doubtless and I count all but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all, and I account them but dung, that I may gain Christ, and be found in Him,


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not having my own righteousness <i>which is</i> of the law, but that <i>which is</i> by the faith of Christ, the righteousness <i>which is</i> of God by faith: that I may know Him,


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and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable to his death;


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not that I have yet won <i>the prize,</i> or am already perfect: but I press forward to acquire that <i>perfection,</i> for which also I have been apprehended by Christ Jesus.


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Brethren, I count not myself to have attained <i>it:</i> but one thing <i>I do,</i> forgetting the things <i>which are</i> behind, and stretching forward to those before,


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Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, attend to this: and if in any thing ye think differently, God will reveal this also unto you.


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(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, <i>that they are</i> the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end <i>is</i> destruction,


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whose God <i>is their</i> belly, and <i>whose</i> glory <i>is</i> in their shame; who mind earthly <i>things</i>) For our conversation is in heaven,


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from whence also we expect <i>the</i> Saviour, <i>our</i> Lord Jesus Christ: who will change our vile body,


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that it may be made like his glorious body, according to the energy of his ability to subdue all <i>things</i> to Himself.


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Wherefore, my brethren, beloved and much desired, my joy and crown, so stand ye fast in the Lord, <i>my</i> beloved.


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And I entreat thee likewise, my faithful collegue, to assist them, for they laboured with me in the gospel, and Clement also, and my other fellow-laborers, whose names are in the book of life.


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Be anxious in nothing: but in every <i>thing</i> by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known before God.


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And the peace of God, which surpasseth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.


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Finally <i>my</i> brethren, whatever <i>things</i> are true, whatever <i>things are</i> venerable, whatever things <i>are</i> just, whatever things <i>are</i> pure, whatever things <i>are</i> friendly, whatever things <i>are</i> reputable, if <i>there be</i> any virtue, and if <i>there be</i> any praise, think of these <i>things:</i>


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<i>and</i> what ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, these practise; and the God of peace will be with you.


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I rejoiced greatly in the Lord, that your care for me has now flourished again; for whom ye were indeed careful <i>before,</i> but ye wanted opportunity.


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Not that I speak on account of want; for I have learnt in whatever <i>circumstances</i> I am, to be contented.


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I know both <i>how</i> to be abased, and <i>how</i> to abound: in every <i>place,</i> and in all <i>conditions</i> I am instructed, both to be full and to be hungry, to abound and to be in want.


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And ye Philippians know, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I was departing from Macedonia, no church communicated to me on the score of giving and receiving, but you only.


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And <i>indeed</i> I have <i>it</i> all, and <i>now</i> abound: I am fully <i>supplied,</i> having received of Epaphroditus the things <i>sent</i> by you, a fragrant odor, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.


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and Timothy <i>our</i> brother, to the holy and faithful brethren in Christ at Colosse: grace <i>be</i> to you and peace from God our Father, and <i>from</i> the Lord Jesus Christ.


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We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, always in <i>our</i> prayers for you:


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for the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which ye have heard before in the word of truth, <i>that is</i> the gospel;


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which is come unto you, even as in all the world, and is fruitful; as <i>it hath been</i> also among you, from the day in which ye heard and knew the grace of God in truth.


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As ye also learned of Epaphras our beloved fellow-servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ for you;


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For this <i>cause</i> we also, from the day that we heard <i>it,</i> cease not to pray for you, and to request that ye may be filled with the knowledge of his will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding:


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that ye may walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;


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strengthened with all might according to his glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joy;


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giving thanks unto the Father, who hath made us meet for a portion of the inheritance of the saints in light:


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who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath transferred <i>us</i> into the kingdom of his beloved Son:


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for by Him were all <i>things</i> created, <i>that are</i> in heaven, and that <i>are</i> on the earth, the visible and the invisible, whether <i>they be</i> thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all were created by Him, and for Him.


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And He is the head of the body, <i>which is</i> the church: who is the beginning, the first-born from the dead, that in all <i>things</i> He might have the pre-eminence.


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and by Him to reconcile all <i>things</i> to Himself, having made peace by the blood of his cross; by Him <i>only,</i> whether <i>they be things</i> on earth, or <i>things</i> in heaven.


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yet now hath He reconciled in the body of his flesh, through death, to present you holy, and unblameable, and unreproveable in his sight:


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if so be ye continue grounded and settled in the faith, and be not moved from the gospel, which ye have heard, <i>and</i> which hath been preached throughout the whole creation, of which I Paul am a minister.


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Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up what is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh, for the sake of his body, which is the church.


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Of which I was made a minister according to the dispensation of God, which is given me towards you, that I might fully declare the word of God:


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<i>even</i> that mystery which was hid from <i>former</i> ages and generations, but is now manifested to his saints:


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to whom God would make known the rich glory of this mystery, among the gentiles; which is <i>this, that</i> Christ <i>is</i> in you the hope of glory:


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whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:


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<i>in order</i> to which I also labour, striving earnestly according to his energy which operates in me with power.


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For I would have you know what a great conflict I have for you, and for those in Laodicea, and as many as have not seen me in person:


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that their hearts may be comforted, being knit together in love, and to all the riches of a full assurance of understanding <i>in these things,</i> to the acknowledgment of the mystery of <i>our</i> God and Father, and of Christ:


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For though I be absent in body, yet am I with you in spirit, rejoicing and beholding your regularity, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.


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rooted and built up in Him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught <i>it,</i> abounding therein with thanksgiving.


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Take heed least any one make a prey of you by philosophy and vain deceit, according to the tradition of men, after the elements of the world, and not after Christ:


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In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision not performed by hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision <i>which is</i> of Christ:


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being buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are raised together with <i>Him,</i> through faith in the power of God, who raised Him from the dead.


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And when ye were dead in trespasses, and <i>in</i> the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses,


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and cancelled the obligation we were under by <i>ritual</i> decrees, which was grievous to us, and hath taken it quite away, <i>even</i> nailing it to <i>his</i> cross.


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And having spoiled principalities and powers, He made them an open spectacle, triumphing over them by it.


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Let no one therefore judge you on account of meat, or drink, or in respect of a feast, or a new-moon, or sabbaths;


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Let no one deprive you of your reward by an affected humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into what he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his carnal mind;


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and not adhering to the head, from which all the body, being supplied and held together <i>as</i> by joints and bands, increaseth with the increase of God.


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If therefore ye be dead with Christ from the elements of the world; why, as if living in the world, are ye subject to <i>ceremonial</i> ordinances,


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handle not," which all tend to corruption in the using,) according to the commandments and doctrines of men?


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which <i>things</i> indeed have a pretence to wisdom in voluntary worship, and humiliation, and bodily penance, <i>as</i> having no regard to the satisfying of the flesh.


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If ye then be risen with Christ, seek the things <i>that are</i> above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God.


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Mortify therefore your members <i>that are</i> upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, <i>disorderly</i> passion, evil concupiscence, and insatiable desire, which is <i>indeed</i> idolatry:


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But now put away all <i>these</i> also, wrath, animosity, malice, calumny, <i>and</i> filthy discourse out of your mouth.


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and have put on the new <i>man,</i> which is renewed in knowledge, after the image of Him that created him.


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Wherein there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, <i>or</i> free: but Christ <i>is</i> all and in all.


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Put on therefore, as the elect of God holy and beloved, bowels of mercy, benignity, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering;


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bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if any <i>one</i> has a complaint against any: even as Christ hath forgiven you, so also <i>do</i> ye.


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And let the peace of God preside in your hearts, to which ye are also called <i>as united</i> in one body: and be thankful <i>for it.</i>


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Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another by psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs, with gratitude singing in your hearts to the Lord.


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And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, <i>do</i> all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to <i>our</i> God and Father by Him.


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Servants, be obedient in all <i>things</i> to <i>your</i> lawful masters, not with eye-service as men-pleasers, but in uprightness of heart, fearing God; and whatever <i>service</i> ye do,


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knowing that from the Lord ye shall receive the recompense of the inheritance; for ye serve the Lord Christ;


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but he that doth unjustly, shall receive for what wrong he hath done; and there is no respect of persons <i>with God:</i>


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<i>and ye</i> masters, render to <i>your</i> servants justice and equity, knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.


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Praying at the same time for us also, that God would open to us a door of utterance, to declare the mystery of Christ, for which also I am in bonds: that I may make it manifest, as I ought.


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<i>Let</i> your speech <i>be</i> always with grace, seasoned with discretion to know how ye ought to answer every one.


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All <i>things</i> concerning me will Tychicus make known to you, <i>who is</i> a beloved brother, and faithful minister, and fellow-servant in the Lord:


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whom I have sent to you for this <i>purpose also</i> that he may know your affairs, and comfort your hearts;


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<i>together</i> with Onesimus a faithful and beloved brother, who is <i>one</i> of you. They will inform you of all <i>things</i> here.


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Aristarchus my fellow-prisoner saluteth you, and Marcus nephew to Barnabas, concerning whom ye have received orders; (if he come to you, receive him;) and Jesus <i>who is</i> called Justus:


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these are the only <i>persons,</i> who, of the circumcision, <i>have been my</i> fellow-laborers in the kingdom of God, <i>and</i> who were a comfort to me.


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Epaphras, who is <i>one</i> of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you; who always strives earnestly for you in <i>his</i> prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God:


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And when this letter has been read amongst you, cause it to be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; that ye may also read that from Laodicea.


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And say ye to Archippus, Look <i>well</i> to the ministry, which thou hast received of the Lord, that thou fulfil it.


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The salutation of <i>me</i> Paul, with my own hand. Remember my bonds. Grace <i>be</i> with you. Amen.


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Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father, and <i>in</i> the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace <i>be</i> to you, and peace from God our Father, and <i>from</i> the Lord Jesus Christ.


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Incessantly remembering your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, before our God and Father:


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For our gospel came not to you in word only, but also in power, and in the holy Ghost, and in much certainty; as ye know what sort of persons we were among you for your sakes.


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And ye became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word <i>tho'</i> in much affliction, <i>yet</i> with joy of the holy Ghost.


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For the word of the Lord sounded forth from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia; but also in every place your faith towards God is spread abroad, so that we have no need to say any <i>thing of it.</i>


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For they themselves declare concerning us what kind of entrance we had among you, and how ye turned to God from idols, to serve the living and true God;


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and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, <i>even</i> Jesus who delivereth us from the wrath to come.


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But though we had suffered before and been injuriously treated, as ye know, at Philippi, we spake boldly in <i>the name of</i> our God to declare unto you the gospel of God with much conflict.


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but as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who trieth our hearts.


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For neither at any time used we flattering speech, as ye know, nor covetous pretence, God <i>is</i> witness:


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nor sought we glory of men, neither of you, nor of others: though we might have expected maintenance, as the apostles of Christ.


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so we, being affectionately desirous of you, were willing to impart to you, not only the gospel of God, but even our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.


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For ye remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for working night and day, that we might not be burthensome to any of you, we preached among you the gospel of God.


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Ye <i>are</i> witnesses, and God <i>also,</i> how holily, and justly, and unblameably we behaved towards you that believe:


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as ye know <i>likewise,</i> how we exhorted and comforted every one of you, as a father his children;


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and charged <i>you,</i> that ye should walk worthy of God, who hath called you to his kingdom and glory.


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For this also we thank God continually, that when ye received the word of God, which ye heard from us, ye received <i>it</i> not <i>as</i> the word of men, but (as it is in truth) the word of God, which also worketh effectually in you that believe.


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For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God, which are in Judea, in Christ Jesus, <i>in</i> that ye also have suffered the same <i>things</i> from your own countrymen, as they <i>have</i> from the Jews:


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who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; who are displeasing to God, and contrary to all men:


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forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, <i>thus going on</i> to fill up their sins perpetually: but wrath is coming upon them to extremity.


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But we, brethren, being separated from you for a season, in person not in heart, endeavoured the more earnestly to see you again with much desire.


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For what <i>is</i> our hope, or joy, or crown of boasting? <i>are</i> not ye also <i>among others</i> in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?


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and sent Timothy our brother, and a minister of God, and our fellow-labourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you concerning your faith;


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that no one might be shaken by these afflictions: for ye yourselves know that we are appointed hereunto.


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For when we were with you, we told you before that we should be afflicted, as it came to pass, and ye know.


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For this <i>cause</i> being able to wait no longer, I sent to know <i>the state of</i> your faith, least the tempter should have tempted you, and our labor have been in vain.


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But now Timothy being come back to us from you, and having brought us good tidings concerning your faith and love, and that ye have always a good remembrance of us, greatly desiring to see us, as we indeed <i>do to see</i> you;


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by this we were comforted in you, <i>my</i> brethren, under all our affliction and distress, because of your faith:


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For what thanks can we render to God concerning you, for all the joy wherewith we rejoice on your account before our God,


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night and day most ardently praying, that we may see your face, and perfect whatever is wanting in your faith?


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and the Lord make you to increase and abound in love to one another, and to all <i>men,</i> as we <i>do</i> towards you:


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that your hearts may be established unblameable in holiness, before God even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, with all his saints.


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As to what remains therefore, <i>my</i> brethren, we intreat and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received <i>instructions</i> from us, how ye ought to walk and to please God, ye would abound <i>therein</i> more <i>and more.</i>


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For this is the will of God, <i>even</i> your sanctification: that ye should abstain from fornication,


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That no <i>one</i> over-reach, or wrong his brother in <i>any</i> thing: because the Lord <i>is</i> an avenger of all such <i>crimes,</i> as we also told you before, and testified <i>to you.</i>


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He therefore who rejecteth <i>us,</i> rejecteth not man, but God; who hath given us his holy Spirit.


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But as to brotherly love, ye need not that I write unto you; for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.


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And indeed ye do it to all the brethren, that are in all Macedonia; but we exhort you, brethren, to abound <i>in it</i> more <i>and more:</i>


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as we gave you in charge, that ye may walk decently toward those <i>that are</i> without, and may have need of no one's <i>assistance.</i>


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But I would not have you ignorant, <i>my</i> brethren, concerning those that are fallen asleep, that ye may not be grieved like others who have no hope:


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for if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, so also those, that sleep in Jesus, will God bring with Him.


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For this we tell you in the word of the Lord, that we who <i>shall be</i> living <i>and</i> remain to the coming of the Lord, shall not be before those that are asleep.


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For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with acclamation, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first;


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then we who <i>are</i> living <i>and</i> remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we for ever be with the Lord.


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And when they shall say, Peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.


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but let us, who are of the day, be sober; putting on the breast-plate of faith and love, and <i>for</i> an helmet the hope of salvation.


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And we entreat you, brethren, to respect those that labour among you, and preside over you in the Lord, and instruct you;


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And admonish the disorderly, comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak, be of a patient spirit towards all.


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See that no one render evil for evil to any <i>man;</i> but always pursue <i>that which is</i> good, both to each other and to all <i>men.</i>


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In every <i>circumstance</i> be thankful; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.


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And may the God of peace Himself sanctify you wholly: and <i>grant that</i> your whole <i>frame,</i> spirit, soul, and body may be kept blameless to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.


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Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father, and <i>in</i> the Lord Jesus Christ;


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We ought always to give thanks to God on your account, <i>my</i> brethren, as it is fit; because your faith increaseth greatly, and the love of every one of you towards each other aboundeth:


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so that we ourselves boast of you among the churches of God, for your patience and faith under all your persecutions and afflictions which ye endure.


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<i>Which are</i> a demonstration of the just judgement of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:


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seeing <i>it is</i> a righteous <i>thing</i> with God to render affliction to those that afflict you;


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with his mighty angels, in flaming fire, taking vengeance on those who know not God, and who obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:


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who shall be punished with everlasting destruction, by the presence of the Lord and by his glorious power:


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in that day, when He shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe; because our testimony among you was believed.


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Wherefore we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of <i>this</i> calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of <i>his</i> goodness, and the work of faith with power:


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that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in Him, according to the grace of our God, and <i>of</i> the Lord Jesus Christ.


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we beseech you, brethren, that ye be not soon moved from your <i>steadiness of</i> mind, or troubled, neither by Spirit, nor by word, nor by letter, as from us, that the day of Christ is at hand.


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Let not any <i>one</i> deceive you by any means; for <i>it shall not come</i> till there come an apostasy first, and the man of sin be revealed,


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the son of perdition, who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or the object of worship; so that he sits as God in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.


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For the mystery of iniquity is already working, only there is one that hindreth till he be taken out of the way.


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And then the wicked <i>one</i> shall be detected, whom the Lord will destroy by the breath of his mouth, and abolish by the brightness of his coming:


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and wonders, and with all iniquitous fraud, among those that <i>shall</i> perish; because they received not the love of the truth, by which they might be saved.


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And for this <i>cause</i> God will send <i>upon</i> them the efficacy of error, so that they shall <i>themselves</i> believe the lie:


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But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord; because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth:


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Therefore, brethren, be steady, and hold fast the traditions, which ye have been taught, whether by word or by our letter.


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And may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and our God and Father, who hath loved us, and hath given <i>us</i> everlasting consolation, and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts,


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As for the rest, <i>my</i> brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run, and be glorified, as <i>it is</i> among you:


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And we trust in the Lord concerning you, that ye both do and will do <i>the things</i> which we give you in charge.


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Now we charge you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to withdraw yourselves from every brother who walketh disorderly, and not according to the instruction which he received from us.


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neither did we eat any one's bread for nothing; but with labor and toil, working night and day, that we might not be burthensome to any of you.


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Not that we have not power, but that we might give ourselves <i>as</i> an example to you to imitate us.


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For we hear that there are some among you that walk disorderly, doing no work <i>themselves,</i> but very busy <i>in the affairs of others.</i>


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Such we charge and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that they work quietly and earn their own bread.


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by <i>this</i> epistle, mark such <i>a one,</i> and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed.


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Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all <i>times and</i> in all places. The Lord <i>be</i> with you all.


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The salutation of <i>me</i> Paul by my own hand, which is the token in every epistle; <i>for</i> so I write,


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Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ by the appointment of God our Saviour, and the Lord Jesus Christ our hope,


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to Timothy <i>my</i> true son in the faith, <i>be</i> grace, mercy, <i>and</i> peace from God our Father, and Christ Jesus our Lord.


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As I exhorted thee to stay at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge certain <i>persons</i> not to teach other doctrine,


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nor attend to fables and endless genealogies, which occasion debates, rather than pious edification in the faith:


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<i>so do,</i> and <i>acquaint them that</i> the end of <i>that</i> charge is charity, out of a pure heart, and a good conscience, and faith unfeigned:


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desiring to be teachers of the law, though they neither understand what they say, nor what <i>things</i> they assert.


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knowing this, that a law does not lie against a righteous <i>person,</i> but <i>against</i> the lawless and unruly, the impious and wicked, the unholy and profane,


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parricides, murderers, whoremongers, sodomites, kidnappers, liars, false-swearers, and if there be any thing else contrary to <i>that</i> sound doctrine,


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And I give thanks to Christ Jesus our Lord, who gave me ability <i>for the work,</i> that He accounted me faithful, having put <i>me</i> into the ministry,


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who before was a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and an oppressor. But I obtained mercy, because I did <i>it</i> ignorantly in unbelief: and the grace of our Lord superabounded,


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<i>It</i> is a truth <i>highly</i> to be believed, and worthy to be received by all, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners:---of whom I am <i>one of the</i> chief.


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But for this <i>end</i> I obtained mercy, that in me a chief <i>sinner</i> Jesus Christ might display <i>his</i> long-suffering, for an example to those who should afterwards believe on Him to eternal life.


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Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, <i>be</i> honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.


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This charge I commit to thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which before came on thee, that by them thou mightest war a good warfare,


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having faith and a good conscience, which some putting away have made shipwreck concerning the faith:


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of whom is Hymeneus and Alexander, whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.


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<i>This</i> then I exhort <i>thee</i> first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, <i>and</i> thanksgivings he made for all men;


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<i>particularly</i> for kings, and all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all piety and virtue.


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who is willing that all men should be saved, and <i>therefore</i> come to the knowledge of the truth.


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for which I was appointed a herald and an apostle. I speak the truth in Christ, I lie not; <i>I am</i> a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.


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likewise that women dress themselves in decent apparel with modesty and prudence, not in braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly garments;


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And Adam was not seduced <i>by the serpent,</i> but the woman being led astray was <i>first</i> in the transgression.


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Yet shall <i>she</i> be saved through childbirth, if they continue in faith and love, <i>in</i> holiness and modesty.


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hospitable, able to teach, not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of sordid gain, moderate, not quarrelsome,


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(for if any <i>one</i> know not how to govern his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)


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He ought also to have an honorable testimony from those that are without, least he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.


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The deacons <i>should</i> likewise <i>be</i> grave, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of base gain,


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(And let these also first be proved, then let them take the office of deacons, if they be <i>found</i> blameless.)


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<i>And their</i> wives likewise grave, not slanderers, sober, <i>and</i> faithful in all <i>things.</i>


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Let the deacons <i>too</i> be husbands of one wife <i>only,</i> governing their children and their own houses well.


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For they, that discharge the office of a deacon well, gain to themselves a good degree <i>of honor,</i> and much freedom in <i>promoting</i> the faith that is in Christ Jesus.


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But if I <i>should</i> be retarded, that thou mayst know how thou oughtest to behave in the house of God, the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.


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And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in <i>the</i> flesh, justified in <i>the</i> Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, <i>and</i> received up into glory.


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Now the Spirit expressly saith, that in latter times some shall apostatize from the faith, attending to seducing spirits,


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and doctrines of demons <i>founded</i> in the hypocrisy of liars, <i>who are</i> seared <i>in</i> their own conscience, forbidding to marry,


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<i>and enjoining</i> abstinence from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving by those that believe and know the truth.


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For every creature of God <i>is</i> good, and nothing to be rejected, if <i>it be</i> received with thanksgiving:


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If thou lay these things before the brethren, thou wilt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, <i>as one</i> brought up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, to which thou hast attained.


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For bodily exercise profiteth little, but piety is profitable unto all <i>things,</i> having <i>the</i> promise of the life <i>that</i> now <i>is,</i> and of that <i>which is</i> to come:


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For to this <i>end</i> we both labour and suffer reproach, because we have hope in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, especially of the faithful.


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Let no one <i>have cause to</i> despise thy youth; but he <i>thou</i> an example to believers in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.


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Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.


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Meditate on these <i>things,</i> be <i>wholly</i> in them, that thy proficiency may be manifest in all.


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Take heed to thyself, and to <i>thy</i> doctrine; continue in them: for <i>in</i> doing this, thou wilt both save thyself and those that hear thee.


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But if any widow have children or grandchildren, let <i>these</i> learn first to shew piety at home, and to make suitable returns to <i>their</i> parents: for this is becoming, and acceptable in the sight of God.


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Now she, that is really a widow and desolate, hopeth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.


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But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own family, he hath renounced the faith, and is worse than an infidel.


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having been the wife of one man: in repute for good actions, if she have educated children, if she have entertained strangers, if she have washed the feet of saints, if she have relieved the afflicted, and diligently followed every good work.


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But the younger widows refuse: for when they grow wanton against Christ, they will <i>needs</i> marry:


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And withal being idle they learn to go about from house to house: and <i>are</i> not only idle, but tatlers also and busy-bodies, talking of <i>things</i> unbecoming <i>them.</i>


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I would therefore have the younger <i>widows</i> marry, bear children, manage houshold affairs, <i>and</i> give no occasion to the adversary for reproach.


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<i>And</i> if any believer have <i>relations</i> widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be burdened; that it may relieve those that are indeed widows <i>and desolate.</i>


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Let the elders, who preside well, be counted worthy of double honor, especially those that labour in preaching and teaching.


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For the scripture saith, "Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn:" and, <J>"The workman </J><i>is</i><J> worthy of his hire."</J>


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I charge <i>thee</i> before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou keep to these <i>things</i> without preference <i>of persons,</i> doing nothing with partiality.


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Lay hands on no <i>man</i> precipitately, and be not <i>hereby</i> a partaker in the sins of others. Keep thyself pure.


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Drink no longer water <i>only,</i> but use a little wine <i>with it,</i> for the sake of thy stomach and thy frequent infirmities.


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The sins of some men are notorious, leading <i>as it were</i> to <i>their</i> condemnation; and some <i>more artful</i> they follow after.


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Let as many as are servants under the yoke account their own masters worthy of all honor; that the name of God and <i>his</i> doctrine may not be blasphemed:


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and let not those who have believing masters, despise <i>them,</i> because they are brethren; but serve <i>them</i> more <i>readily,</i> because they are faithful and beloved <i>by God,</i> partakers of <i>his</i> grace.


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These <i>things</i> teach and exhort. If any one teach otherwise, and adhere not to the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the doctrine which is according to godliness;


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he is proud, knowing nothing, but <i>is</i> delirious about questions and strifes of words: from which cometh envy, contention, calumnies, wicked suspicions, perverse debates of men corrupted in mind,


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But they, that will be rich, fall into temptation and a snare, and <i>into</i> many foolish and hurtful lusts, which plunge men into ruin and perdition.


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For the love of money is the root of all evils, which some coveting after have been led astray from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.


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But do thou, O man of God, flee these <i>things,</i> and follow after righteousness, piety, fidelity, love, patience, meekness.


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Maintain the glorious combat of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which thou hast been called, and hast made a good profession before many witnesses.


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I charge thee before God, who giveth life to all, and <i>before</i> Christ Jesus who witnessed a good confession before Pontius Pilate,


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that thou keep <i>this</i> commandment, unspotted and blameless, till the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ;


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which He will manifest in his own times, <i>who</i> is the blessed and only potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords,


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who alone hath immortality, dwelling in light inaccessible, whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom <i>be</i> honor and power everlasting. Amen.


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Charge them, that are rich in this world, not to be high-minded nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who richly affords us all <i>things</i> for enjoyment: <i>charge them</i> to do good,


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O Timothy, keep that with which thou art entrusted, avoiding profane empty babblings, and the oppositions of science falsely so called:


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Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life in Christ Jesus,


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to Timothy <i>my</i> beloved son, grace, mercy, <i>and</i> peace from God the Father, and <i>from</i> Christ Jesus our Lord.


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I give thanks to God, whom I serve as <i>my</i> forefathers <i>did,</i> with a pure conscience, having remembrance of thee continually in my prayers night and day;


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keeping in memory the unfeigned faith, <i>that is</i> in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice: and I am persuaded that <i>it dwells</i> in thee also;


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for which cause I remind thee to stir up the gift of God which is in thee through the imposition of my hands.


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Be not therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but bear <i>thy</i> part in the afflictions of the gospel, according to the power of God;


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who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose, and grace bestowed upon us through Christ Jesus, before the world was,


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but now made manifest by the appearance of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and brought life and immortality to light by the gospel: for which I was appointed an herald,


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for which cause also I suffer these <i>things;</i> but I am not ashamed: for I know <i>in</i> whom I have trusted, and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him against that day.


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Hold <i>fast</i> the form of sound words, which thou hast heard from me, in faith and love <i>which is</i> in Christ Jesus.


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The Lord shew mercy to the family of Onesiphorus; for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: but when he was at Rome,


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(The Lord grant that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day!) And how much he ministered <i>to me</i> at Ephesus <i>too,</i> thou knowest full well.


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and <i>the things</i> which thou hast heard from me, before many witnesses, these commit to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.


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No one, that enters into military service, embarrasseth himself with the affairs of <i>this</i> life, that he may please him who enlisted <i>him.</i>


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Remember Jesus Christ of the seed of David, <i>who was</i> raised from the dead, according to my gospel:


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for whose sake I suffer trouble <i>even</i> unto bonds, as <i>if I were</i> a malefactor; but the word of God is not bound.


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Therefore I submit to every <i>thing</i> for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is by Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.


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<i>It is</i> an undoubted truth, if we are dead with <i>Him,</i> we shall also live with <i>Him:</i>


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These <i>things</i> remind <i>them</i> of, charging <i>them</i> before the Lord not to contend about words, <i>which is</i> profitable for nothing, <i>and tends</i> to the subversion of the hearers.


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Endeavour to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.


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and their discourse will eat like a gangrene. Of whom is Hymeneus and Philetus; who have erred from the truth,


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However, the foundation of God standeth firm, having this inscription, The Lord knoweth them that are his; and, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.


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In a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honor, some for meaner uses.


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If therefore any one purify himself from these <i>corruptions,</i> he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified and fitted for the Master's use, being prepared for every good work.


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Flee youthful passions: and follow righteousness, fidelity, love, <i>and</i> peace, with <i>all</i> those that call upon the Lord out of a pure heart:


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but foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they produce quarrels; for the servant of the Lord ought not to wrangle,


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with meekness instructing those of different sentiments, not <i>knowing</i> but God may give them repentance to the acknowledgement of the truth;


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for men will be selfish, covetous, arrogant, proud, blasphemers, undutiful to parents, ungrateful, unholy,


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without natural affection, perfidious, false accusers, intemperate, savage, enemies to the good, traitors,


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For of these are they who insinuate themselves into families, and captivate weak women, that are laden with sins,


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<i>and</i> led <i>away</i> by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.


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And as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also withstand the truth; <i>being</i> men of corrupt minds, and of no judgement in the faith.


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But thou art well acquainted with my doctrine, conduct, purpose, faith, long-suffering, charity, patience, persecutions,


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sufferings, which befel me at Antioch, in Iconium, in Lystra; what persecutions I endured, and <i>how</i> the Lord delivered me out of them all.


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But continue thou in <i>the things</i> which thou hast learnt, and been assured of, knowing from whom thou hast learned <i>them;</i>


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and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation, through faith in Christ Jesus: <i>for</i> all scripture <i>is</i> by inspiration from God,


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and <i>is</i> profitable for doctrine, for conviction, for correction, for instruction in righteousness;


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I charge <i>thee</i> therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at his appearing, <i>in</i> his kingdom;


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preach the word, be instant <i>both</i> in season <i>and</i> out of season; convince, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and instruction.


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For the time will come, when they will not bear sound doctrine; but having itching ears, will heap up to themselves teachers after their own hearts:


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But be thou watchful in all <i>things,</i> endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, give full proof of thy ministry.


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<i>As to</i> what remains, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me in that day: and not to me only, but also to all <i>those</i> who have longed for his appearance.


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through love of this world, and is gone to Thessalonica; <i>as is</i> Crescens to Galatia, <i>and</i> Titus to Dalmatia: Luke only is with me.


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When thou comest, bring <i>with thee</i> the cloke, that I left at Troas with Carpus; and the books, <i>but</i> especially the parchments.


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Alexander the brazier did me many ill <i>turns:</i> the Lord <i>will</i> reward him according to his deeds.


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In my first defence no one stood by me, but all <i>men</i> forsook me: <i>God grant</i> it may not be laid to their charge!


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But the Lord stood by me, and strengthened me; that by me the <i>gospel</i> might be fully spread, and <i>that</i> all the nations might hear: and <i>so</i> I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.


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And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve <i>me</i> to his heavenly kingdom: to whom <i>be</i> glory throughout all ages. Amen.


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Endeavour <i>therefore</i> to come <i>to me</i> before winter. Eubulus saluteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and <i>indeed</i> all the brethren.


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Paul a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for <i>promoting</i> the faith of God's chosen <i>people,</i> and the knowledge of the truth which <i>is</i> according to godliness:


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and hath in his own times manifested his word, by the preaching, with which I was intrusted according to the commandment of God our Saviour:


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to Titus <i>my</i> son in the common faith, grace, mercy, <i>and</i> peace from God the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.


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For this cause I left thee in Crete, that thou mightest set in order what remained, and ordain elders in every city as I directed thee:


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<i>to wit,</i> if any <i>one</i> be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children, not accused of debauchery, or unruly.


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For a bishop must be blameless as the steward of God, not self-willed, not passionate, not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of sordid gain:


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holding fast the faithful word, according as he hath been taught, that he may be able both to instruct in sound doctrine, and to convince gainsayers.


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For there are many disorderly <i>persons,</i> vain-talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision; whose mouths must be stopped:


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<i>as</i> said one of themselves, a prophet of their own, "The Cretans <i>are</i> always liars, mischievous beasts, sluggish gluttons."


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To the pure indeed all things <i>are</i> pure; but to the polluted and unbelieving nothing <i>is</i> pure; even their mind and conscience is polluted.


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They profess to know God, but in works deny <i>Him,</i> being abominable and disobedient, and to every thing <i>that is</i> good void of understanding.


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the aged women likewise in behaviour as becometh saints, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of that which is good;


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that they may instruct the young women to be temperate, to love their husbands, to love their children, <i>to be</i> prudent,


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chaste, keepers at home, good, submissive to their husbands, that the word of God may not be evil spoken of.


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in all <i>things</i> shewing thyself a pattern of good works, <i>with</i> uncorruptness in teaching, gravity, sound doctrine that cannot be condemned;


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not answering frowardly, not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all <i>things.</i>


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teaching us that denying ungodliness, and worldly desires, we should live soberly, and righteously, and piously in this present world;


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looking for the blessed hope, and glorious appearance of the great God, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ:


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who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify to Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.


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These <i>things</i> speak, and exhort; and reprove <i>offenders</i> with all authority: that none <i>may</i> despise thee.


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Admonish them to be submissive to governors and magistrates, to obey <i>their</i> orders, <i>and</i> to be ready to every good work;


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to slander no <i>man,</i> to avoid contention, <i>to be</i> gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.


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For we also were formerly foolish, disobedient, going astray, enslaved to various <i>disorderly</i> appetites and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, <i>and</i> hating one another.


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not for works of righteousness which we had done, but according to his <i>own</i> mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the holy Spirit;


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<i>This is</i> a word <i>which ought</i> to believed <i>and observed,</i> and concerning these things I would have thee stedfastly affirm, that they who have believed in God be careful to excel in good works: <i>for</i> these <i>things</i> are good and profitable to men.


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But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and strifes and contentions about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain:


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reject <i>therefore such</i> an heretical man, after the first and second admonition; knowing that such a one is perverted,


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When I shall send Artemas to thee, or Tychicus, endeavour to come to me to Nicopolis: for there I have determined to winter.


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Forward Zenas the lawyer, and Apollos, on their journey carefully, that nothing may be wanting to them.


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And let our <i>brethren</i>-also learn to excel in good works for necessary exigencies, that they may not be unfruitful.


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All <i>that are</i> with me salute thee. Salute them that love us in <i>the</i> faith. Grace <i>be</i> with you all. Amen.


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Paul a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy a brother, to Philemon our beloved <i>brother</i> and fellow-laborer, and to the beloved Apphia,


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that the communication of thy faith may become effectual in the acknowledgement of all the good that is in you towards Christ Jesus:


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for we have much joy and comfort in thy love, because by thee, <i>dear</i> brother, the bowels of the saints are refreshed.


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I <i>would</i> rather intreat <i>thee</i> out of love <i>to me,</i> being such a one as Paul the aged, and now a prisoner too <i>for the sake</i> of Jesus Christ.


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who was formerly unprofitable to thee, but now profitable both to thee and to me; whom I have sent back <i>to thee:</i>


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Whom I would <i>gladly</i> have kept with me, that he might have ministered unto me as thou <i>wouldst have done,</i> in the bonds of the gospel.


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But I would do nothing without thy knowledge, that thy kindness might not be as it were forced, but voluntary.


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For perhaps he was therefore parted <i>from thee</i> for a season, that thou mightest receive him for ever:


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not now as a servant, but above a servant, a dear brother, especially to me, and how much more to thee both in the flesh and in the Lord.


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I Paul have written it with my own hand, I will pay <i>it:</i> not to say that thou indeed owest even thy own self to me.


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Yea, <i>my</i> brother, let me enjoy <i>this</i> satisfaction from thee in the Lord: <i>and thus</i> refresh my bowels in the Lord.


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Being <i>fully</i> persuaded of thy compliance, I have written to thee; knowing that thou wilt indeed do more than I ask.


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But I must add, prepare me also a lodging; for I hope that through your prayers I shall be restored to you.


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God, who at sundry times, and various ways, spake of old unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken to us by <i>his</i> Son,


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Who being the refulgence of <i>his</i> glory and the imprest image of his person, and sustaining all <i>things</i> by his powerful word, having by Himself performed the purging away of our sins, sat down at the right hand of the majesty on high.


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For to which of the angels did He ever say, "Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee?" and again, "I will be to Him a Father, and He shall be to me a Son?"


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and when He again introduceth the First-born into the world, he saith, "And let all the angels of God worship Him."


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And <i>as</i> to the angels He saith, "Who maketh his angels spirits and his ministers a flame of fire:"


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but to the Son, "Thy throne, O God, <i>is</i> for ever and ever; the sceptre of thy kingdom <i>is</i> a sceptre of righteousness:


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thou lovest righteousness and hatest iniquity; therefore God, <i>even</i> thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thine associates."


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And <i>in another place,</i> "Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast founded the earth, and the heavens are the works of thy hands:


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and as a mantle wilt thou fold them <i>up,</i> and they shall be changed; but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail."


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But to which of the angels hath He ever said, "Sit <i>thou</i> at my right hand, till I make thine enemies <i>thy</i> footstool?"


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For this <i>reason</i> we ought the more earnestly to attend to what we have heard, least by any means we should be <i>found</i> deficient.


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For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received <i>it's</i> just recompence;


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how shall we escape, if we neglect so great a salvation? which began to be declared by the Lord, <i>and</i> was confirmed to us by them that heard <i>Him;</i>


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God also testifying together with <i>them</i> by signs, and wonders, and divers miracles, and gifts of the holy Spirit, according to his own will.


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But one in a certain place hath testified, saying, "What is man that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man that thou visitest Him?


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Thou madest Him <i>for</i> a little <i>while</i> inferior to <i>the</i> angels; with glory and honor hast thou crowned Him, and hast set Him over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all <i>things</i> under his feet,"


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For in putting all things under Him, He left nothing <i>which was</i> not <i>to be</i> in subjection to Him: though we do not yet see all things subjected to Him.


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But we see Jesus, who was made <i>for</i> a little <i>while</i> lower than the angels, in order to suffer death, that by the grace of God He might taste death for every man, crowned with glory and honor.


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For it became Him for whom are all <i>things,</i> and by whom <i>are</i> all things, <i>in</i> bringing many sons to glory, to make the author of their salvation perfect by sufferings:


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since He that sanctifieth, and they that are sanctified, <i>are</i> all of one. For which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren,


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saying, "I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the congregation will I praise Thee."


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Seeing then the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also himself in like manner partook of them; that by death He might destroy him that had the empire of death, that is, the devil:


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Whence it behoved Him to be made in all things like unto <i>his</i> brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high-priest in the <i>things</i> concerning God, to make atonement for the sins of the people:


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for as He himself hath suffered, <i>in</i> being tempted, He is able to succour those that are tempted.


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Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the apostle and high-priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;


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For He was accounted worthy of more honor than Moses, as he who hath built it, hath more honor than the house.


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Now Moses <i>was</i> indeed faithful in all his house as a servant, for a testimony of the things which were to be spoken:


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but Christ as a Son over his own house; whose house we are, if we maintain the free profession and exultation of hope firm unto the end.


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harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness, when your fathers tempted me,


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wherefore I was provoked with that generation, and said, They are always erring in <i>their</i> heart, and they have not known my ways:


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Take heed, <i>my</i> brethren, least there be in any of you a wicked heart of unbelief in departing from the living God:


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but exhort one another daily, while it is called to-day; that none of you may be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin:


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for we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold fast our first confidence firm unto the end; inasmuch as it is said,


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harden not your hearts, as in the provocation." For some that heard did provoke; but not all that came out of Egypt with Moses.


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But with whom was He provoked forty years? <i>was it</i> not with those that sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?


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and to whom did He swear that they should not enter into his rest, but to those that were disobedient?


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Let us therefore fear least a promise being left <i>us</i> of entering into his rest, any of us should seem to fall short of it:


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for we are graciously offered <i>it,</i> as they also were. But the word, which they heard, did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard <i>it.</i>


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For we who believe shall enter into rest, as He said <i>above,</i> "So I sware in my wrath, they shall not enter into my rest:" though the works <i>of creation</i> were finished from the foundation of the world:


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for it is thus said concerning the seventh <i>day,</i> "And God rested the seventh day from all his works."


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Seeing therefore it remaineth that some <i>are to</i> enter into it, and they to whom it was at first offered did not enter because of <i>their</i> unbelief,


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He appoints a certain day, <i>called</i> To-day, saying by David so long after, (as it is recorded) "To-day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts."


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for he that is entered into his rest, hath also himself ceased from his works, as God <i>did</i> from his.


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Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, least any one fall after the same example of unbelief.


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For the word of God is lively and efficacious, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of the <i>very</i> joints and marrow, and judging the thoughts and intentions of the heart.


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And there is no creature concealed from his sight: but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him, to whom we are to <i>give an</i> account.


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Having therefore a great high-priest, that is passed <i>into</i> the heavens, <i>even</i> Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast <i>our</i> profession:


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for we have not an high-priest who cannot sympathize with our infirmities, but was in all <i>respects</i> tempted in like manner <i>with us, yet</i> without sin.


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Let us therefore come with freedom to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace for <i>our</i> seasonable help.


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For every high-priest taken from among men, is appointed for <i>the sake of</i> men in things relating to God, that he may offer gifts and sacrifices for sins:


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who can have due compassion on the ignorant and those that are going astray; seeing he himself also is surrounded with infirmity:


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and for this <i>reason</i> he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer <i>sacrifice</i> for sins.


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So also Christ did not glorify himself to be made an high-priest; but He that said unto Him, "Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee."


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As He saith also in another <i>place,</i> "Thou <i>art</i> a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec."


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Who in the days of his flesh, offered prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears, to Him that was able to save Him from death, and was heard in what He feared;


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<i>but</i> though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered: and being <i>thus</i> perfected,


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Concerning whom we have much to say and difficult to be explained, since ye are become dull of hearing.


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For whereas ye ought for the time to be teachers <i>of others,</i> ye have need again of some <i>one</i> to teach you the first rudiments of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk and not of solid food.


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For every one that wanteth milk, is unacquainted with the doctrine of justification; for he is an infant:


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but firm food is for persons come to age, who by habit have <i>their</i> senses exercised to a discernment both of good and evil.


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Wherefore omitting the discourse about the first principles <i>of the doctrine</i> of Christ, let us proceed to perfection: not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works,


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and of faith in God, of the doctrine of baptisms, and laying on of hands, and of <i>the</i> resurrection from the dead, and of eternal judgement: (<i>tho'</i> we will do this also, if God permit:)


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who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the holy Spirit,


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and the powers of the gospel-age, and <i>yet</i> fall away, should be renewed again to repentance: since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God, and make an <i>open</i> example <i>of Him.</i>


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For <i>as</i> the earth, which imbibeth the rain that is frequently coming upon it, and produceth herbs fit for those by whom it is cultivated, receiveth a blessing from God:


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but that which bringeth forth thorns and briars, <i>is</i> rejected and near to a curse, (whose end <i>is</i> burning) <i>so are they.</i>


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But, beloved, we are persuaded better <i>things</i> of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak <i>for your caution.</i>


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For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have shewn to his name, <i>by</i> having ministred to the saints, and <i>yet</i> ministring.


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And we desire that every one of you would shew the same diligence to <i>acquire</i> the full assurance of hope <i>even</i> unto the end:


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that ye would not be sluggish, but imitators of them who through faith and patience are inheriting the promises.


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For when God made the promise to Abraham, because He could swear by no greater, He sware by Himself, saying,


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For men swear by a greater <i>Being,</i> and an oath for confirmation <i>is</i> to them an end of all controversy.


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Wherefore God being willing more abundantly to manifest unto the heirs of the promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed <i>it</i> with an oath:


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that by two immutable things, in which <i>it is</i> impossible for God to fail, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold on the hope set before us;


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Whither Jesus <i>our</i> fore-runner is entered for us, being made an high-priest for ever, after the order of Melchisedec.


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For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings,


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and blessed him, to whom also Abraham divided the tenth of all <i>his spoils;</i> being in the first place, by interpretation <i>of his name,</i> king of righteousness, and moreover king of Salem, which is king of peace;


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without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days <i>recorded,</i> nor end of life, but resembling the Son of God, remaineth a priest continually.


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Now consider how great a man this <i>was,</i> to whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils.


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And those indeed of the sons of Levi, who receive the priesthood, have a commandment according to the law to take tithes of the people, that is, of their brethren, though they came out of the loins of Abraham:


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but he, whose pedigree is not reckoned among them, took tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.


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Now if perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law) what farther need <i>was there</i> that another priest should arise after the order of Melchisedec, and not after the order of Aaron?


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Now He, of whom these things are said, is of another tribe, of which none <i>ever</i> attended at the altar..


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For <i>it is</i> evident that our Lord sprang from Judah, as to which tribe Moses spake nothing about <i>the</i> priesthood.


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And it is yet more abundantly evident, that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,


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who is made not according to the law of a temporary command, but according to the power of an endless life.


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For there is indeed a disannulling of the preceding command, on account of it's weakness and unprofitableness;


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for the law made nothing perfect, but the introducing of a better hope <i>did,</i> by which we draw near to God.


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(for they indeed are become priests without <i>the solemnity of</i> an oath; but He with an oath, by Him who said unto Him, "The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou <i>art</i> a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:")


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And they were many priests, because they were by death hindered from continuing <i>in their office;</i>


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wherefore also He is able to save to the uttermost, those that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.


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For such an high-priest was meet for us, <i>who was</i> holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and higher than the heavens;


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who hath no need, as the <i>Levitical</i> high-priests <i>had,</i> daily to offer sacrifices first for his own sins, <i>and</i> then for those of the people: for this He did once <i>for all,</i> in offering up Himself.


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For the law appointeth men high-priests, who have infirmity; but the oath, <i>recorded</i> since the law, <i>appointeth</i> the Son <i>to be priest</i> for ever, being <i>fully</i> perfected <i>for it.</i>


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Now the sum of the things that have been said <i>is this, that</i> we have such an high-priest, who is sat down at the right hand of the throne of the majesty in the heavens;


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For every high-priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices; wherefore <i>it was</i> necessary that He also should have something to offer.


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For if He were on earth, He could not be a priest, seeing there are priests <i>already</i> that offer gifts according to the law:


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who worship <i>under</i> the representation and shadow of heavenly things; as Moses was ordered by God, when he was about to finish the tabernacle. For see, saith He, <i>that</i> thou make all according to the model shewn thee in the mount.


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But now He hath obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which is established upon better promises.


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<i>as we see there was,</i> for <i>after</i> complaining of them, He adds, "Behold the days come, saith the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:


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not according to the covenant which I made with their fathers, in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; for they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.


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But this <i>is</i> the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their mind, and I will inscribe them on their hearts; and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people.


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And they shall not teach every one his neighbour, and every one his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the lest even to the greatest of them.


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<i>Now</i> by saying, a new <i>covenant,</i> He hath antiquated the first: and what is antiquated, and groweth old, <i>is</i> near <i>it's</i> exit.


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For there was a tabernacle prepared; the first <i>part,</i> wherein <i>was</i> the candlestick, and the table, and the loaves set on <i>it,</i> which is called the sanctuary.


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And beyond the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holy of holies, having the golden censer,


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and the ark of the covenant <i>which was</i> overlaid all round with gold, <i>and</i> in which <i>was</i> the golden pot with the manna in it, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;


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and over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat: of which it is not <i>necessary</i> now to speak particularly.


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Now these things being thus disposed, the priests always went into the first <i>part of the</i> tabernacle to perform their <i>daily</i> services:


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but into the second only the high-priest <i>went</i> once a year; <i>and that</i> not without blood, which he offered for himself, and <i>for</i> the sins of the people <i>committed</i> through ignorance.


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The Holy Ghost shewing <i>by</i> this, that the way into the <i>Holy</i> of holies was not yet manifested, the first tabernacle being yet standing.


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Which figure <i>remains</i> to the present time, wherein gifts and sacrifices are offered, that cannot perfect the worshipper as to <i>his</i> conscience,


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<i>relating</i> only to meats and drinks, and different washings, and <i>such</i> carnal ordinances <i>as were</i> required till the time of reformation.


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But Christ being come an high-priest of the good things to come, hath entered once for all into the holy <i>places,</i> through a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is, not of this building,


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nor by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption <i>for us.</i>


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For if the blood of bulls and goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purification of the flesh;


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how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself spotless to God, purify your conscience from dead works, that ye may serve the living God?


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And on this account He is the mediator of a new covenant, that undergoing death for the redemption of transgressions against the first covenant, they that are called might receive the promise of an eternal inheritance.


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for when every command was spoken according to the law, by Moses to all the people, he took the blood of calves and goats, with water and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled the book and all the people,


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And according to the law almost all things are purified with blood; and without shedding of blood there is no remission.


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<i>It was</i> therefore necessary that the representations of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with more excellent sacrifices than these.


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For Christ is not entered into holy <i>places</i> made with hands, <i>which were but</i> types of the true <i>ones;</i> but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:


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nor to offer Himself often, as the high-priest entereth into the <i>holy of</i> holies every year with the blood of others;


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(for then He must <i>indeed</i> have suffered often since the foundation of the world) but now once at the conclusion of the ages He hath been made manifest for the abolishing of sin by the sacrifice of himself.


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so Christ, having been once offered to bear the sins of many, shall appear the second time without sin, to those who are waiting for Him, unto salvation.


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For the law having <i>but</i> a <i>faint</i> shadow of good <i>things</i> to come, <i>and</i> not the full image of the things, can never, even by the <i>great</i> annual sacrifices which they offer statedly, make the comers thereunto perfect.


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For then they would have ceased to be offered, because the sacrificers, being once purified, would no longer retain any consciousness of sins.


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Wherefore upon his coming into the world He saith, "Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire, but a body hast thou prepared me:


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then said I, Lo I come, <i>as</i> in the volume of the book it is written of me, to do thy will, O God."


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Having said before, "Thou didst not desire, nor hadst pleasure in, sacrifice and offering, and whole burnt-offerings, and <i>sacrifices</i> for sin," (which are offered by the law) then He adds,


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And indeed every priest <i>under the law</i> standeth daily ministring, and frequently offering the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:


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for after He had said, "This <i>is</i> the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and on their minds will I inscribe them;


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let us draw near with sincerity, in the full assurance of faith, having our hearts cleansed from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.


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(for He is faithful who hath promised) and let us observe each other to the incitement of love and good works:


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not forsaking our assemblies, as the custom of some <i>is,</i> but exhorting <i>one another;</i> and so much the more as ye see the day approaching.


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For if we sin wilfully after having received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins;


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but a dreadful expectation of judgement, and a fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.


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<i>If</i> any <i>one</i> that violateth the law of Moses, dieth without mercy under two or three witnesses,


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of how much greater punishment, think ye, shall he be counted worthy, who hath trampled under foot the Son of God, and accounted the blood of the covenant, by which he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and abused the Spirit of grace?


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For we know who hath said, "To me <i>belongeth</i> vengeance, I will recompense, saith the Lord:" and again, "The Lord will judge his people."


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But call to remembrance the former days, in which <i>after</i> being enlightened, ye sustained a great conflict of sufferings;


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partly, being made a public spectacle by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, as ye became associates of those who were so treated:


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for ye sympathized with <i>me in</i> my bonds, and ye took joyfully the plundering of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.


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and the just shall live by faith, but if <i>any</i> draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.


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But we are not of those who withdraw to perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.


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Now faith is the confident expectation of <i>things</i> hoped for, and a conviction of things not seen:


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By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, for the things which are seen were not made of things which appear.


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By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained the testimony that he was righteous, God bearing witness to his gifts: and by it, though dead, he yet speaketh.


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By faith Enoch was translated, that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him; for before his translation he had <i>this</i> testimony that he pleased God:


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whereas without faith <i>it is</i> impossible to please <i>Him;</i> for he that cometh to God must believe, that He is, and is the rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.


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By faith Noah being warned by God of things <i>which were</i> not yet seen, moved with <i>pious</i> fear, prepared an ark for the safety of his family; whereby he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness <i>which is</i> by faith.


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By faith Abraham <i>when</i> called to go out to a place which he was afterwards to receive for an inheritance obeyed: and went out, though he knew not whither he was going.


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By faith he sojourned in the land promised <i>him,</i> as <i>in</i> a foreign <i>country,</i> dwelling in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob the heirs with <i>him</i> of the same promise.


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By faith also Sarah received strength to conceive seed, and brought forth <i>a son</i> when she was past age, because she accounted Him faithful who had promised.


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So that there descended even from one, and him <i>in a manner</i> dead, <i>a posterity</i> like the stars of heaven for multitude, and as the sand on the sea shore, innumerable.


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These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but seen them from afar, and been persuaded <i>of them,</i> and embraced <i>them,</i> and confessed that they were strangers and sojourners on the earth.


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and if they had been mindful of that from which they came, they might have had opportunity to have returned.


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But they desire a better, that is, an heavenly <i>one;</i> wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He hath prepared for them a city.


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By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he who had received the promises, offered up his only son;


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concluding that God was able to raise <i>him</i> even from the dead; from whence indeed he had in a manner received him.


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By faith Jacob, <i>when he was</i> dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph; and worshipped <i>leaning</i> on the top of his staff.


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By faith Joseph when he died, mentioned the departure of the children of Israel and gave a charge concerning his bones.


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By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months by his parents, because they saw <i>he was</i> a fine child, and they were not afraid of the king's edict.


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chusing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to have the temporary enjoyment of sin:


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esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt, for he looked to the recompence of reward.


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By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he continued firm as seeing Him who is invisible.


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By faith he observed the passover and sprinkling of the blood, that he, who destroyed the first-born <i>of the Egyptians,</i> might not touch them.


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By faith they passed through the Red-sea, as by dry <i>land,</i> which the Egyptians attempting <i>to do</i> were drowned.


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And what need I say more? for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and Barak, and Sampson, and Jephthah, and David, and Samuel, and of the prophets:


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who by faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,


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quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made powerful, became strong in battle, <i>and</i> turned to flight the armies of <i>their</i> enemies.


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Women received their dead raised to life again; and others were tortured <i>to death,</i> not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection.


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They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain by the sword: they went about in sheep-skins, and goat-skins, being destitute, afflicted,


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distressed, (of whom the world was not worthy) wandering in deserts, and mountains, and dens, and caves of the earth.


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And these all, though they obtained an <i>honorable</i> testimony by faith, <i>yet</i> received not the promise;


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Having therefore so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every incumbrance, and the sin that easily besets <i>us,</i> and run with patience the race <i>that is</i> set before us,


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looking unto Jesus the leader and finisher of <i>our</i> faith; who for the joy <i>that was</i> set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.


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Wherefore consider Him who endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, that ye may not give out, fainting in your minds:


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Have ye forgotten the exhortation, which speaketh to you as to sons, <i>saying,</i> "My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord, nor saint when rebuked by Him?


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If ye endure chastening, God treateth you as sons; for what son is there, whom the father doth not chastise?


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Now if we had fathers of our flesh, who corrected <i>us,</i> and we gave them reverence; shall we not much more be in subjection to the Father of spirits, and live?


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For they indeed corrected <i>us</i> for a while, as seemed good to them; but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness.


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Now no chastening seems for the present to be <i>matter</i> of joy but of grief: and yet afterwards it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those that are exercised thereby.


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And make strait paths for your feet, that <i>what is</i> lame may not be turned out of the way, but rather be healed.


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looking to it, least <i>there be</i> any one falling short of the grace of God, least any root of bitterness springing up should be troublesome, and by it many be defiled:


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least <i>there be</i> any fornicator, or profane <i>person,</i> as Esau, who for one repast gave away his birthright.


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For ye know that, when he would afterwards have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no room for repentance, though he sought it earnestly <i>even</i> with tears.


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Ye are not come to a tangible mountain, and burning fire, and a thick cloud, and darkness, and tempest,


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and the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words, which they that heard, intreated that the word might not any more be <i>thus</i> delivered to them:


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(for they could not bear the <i>strict</i> command, if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or shot through with a dart;


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but ye are come to mount Sion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels,


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to the general assembly and church of the first-born who are written in heaven, and to God the judge of all, and to the spirits of the just made perfect,


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and to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better <i>things</i> than Abel.


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See that ye reject not Him that speaketh; for if they escaped not, who rejected him that gave forth divine oracles on earth, much less <i>shall</i> we, if we turn away from Him that <i>speaketh</i> from heaven:


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whose voice then shook the earth; but now He hath promised, saying, "Yet once <i>more</i> I shake not only the earth, but also the heaven."


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Now this <i>expression</i> "yet once more" signifieth the removing of the things that are shaken, as of things which had been appointed <i>only for a season,</i> that those <i>which cannot be</i> shaken may remain.


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Wherefore since we receive a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us have grace whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and holy fear:


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Remember those that are in bonds, as <i>if</i> bound with them: <i>and</i> those that suffer evil as being yourselves also in the body.


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Marriage <i>is</i> honorable in all, and the bed <i>is</i> not defiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.


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<i>Let your</i> conversation <i>be</i> free from covetousness, <i>and be</i> contented with what ye have: for He hath said, I will not leave thee; I will never, never forsake thee.


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So that we may say with courage, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.


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Remember your guides, who spake the word of God to you; whose faith imitate, considering the <i>happy</i> end of <i>their</i> conversation.


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be not <i>then</i> carried about by various and strange doctrines; for it is good that the heart be established by grace, <i>and</i> not in meats, in which those that have been <i>most</i> exact, have not profited <i>by them.</i>


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As the bodies of those animals, whose blood <i>being offered</i> for sin is brought into the holy place by the high-priest, are <i>not eaten, but</i> are burnt without the camp.


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Wherefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people by his own blood, suffered without the gate.


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Let us then go out unto Him without the camp, bearing his reproach: for we have here no continuing city,


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By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of <i>our</i> lips giving thanks to his name.


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Be ruled by those that are your guides, and submit <i>to them:</i> for they watch for your souls; (as those that must give an account) that they may do it with joy and not with uneasiness: for this <i>were</i> unprofitable for you.


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Pray for us; for we are confident that we have a good conscience, desiring in all things to behave well.


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Now the God of peace, who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the everlasting covenant,


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make you perfect in every good work, to do his will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom <i>be</i> glory for ever and ever. Amen.


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I beseech you, brethren, bear with <i>this</i> word of exhortation: as I have written to you in brief.


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James a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes in dispersion <i>sendeth</i> greeting.


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but let patience have <i>it's</i> perfect work, that ye may be entirely perfect, failing in nothing.


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And if any of you lack wisdom, let him ask <i>it</i> of God, who giveth to all <i>men</i> liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.


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But let him ask in faith, nothing doubting; for he that doubteth is like a wave of the sea blown about and tossed by the wind.


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For when the sun is risen with <i>it's</i> sultry heat, it drieth up the grass, and the flower of, it falleth, and the beauty of it's appearance is lost: so shall the rich man fade away in his projects.


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Happy <i>is</i> the man who sustaineth temptation; for being approved he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him.


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Let no one that is tempted say, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted by evils, and He tempteth no one.


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But every <i>man</i> is tempted, <i>when</i> drawn aside and insnared by his own <i>vehement</i> desire.


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and every perfect gift, <i>but no evil one,</i> is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation, nor shadow of turning:


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who hath of his own will begotten us by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first-fruits of his creatures.


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Laying aside therefore all filthiness, and excess of malice, receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.


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For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like a man beholding his natural face in a mirror,


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But he that looketh well into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth <i>therein,</i> being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this <i>man</i> shall be blessed in his deed.


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If any among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his heart, this man's devotion <i>is</i> vain.


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Pure and uncorrupt religion before God and <i>our</i> Father is this, to take care of orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.


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My brethren, hold not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, <i>the Lord</i> of glory, in a <i>partial</i> respect of persons.


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For if there come into your synagogue a man with a gold ring in fine clothes, and there come in also a poor <i>man</i> in a mean habit;


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and ye turn your eyes toward him that weareth the fine clothes, and say to him, Sit thou here in an honorable place; and say to the poor <i>man,</i> Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:


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do ye not make a <i>partial</i> difference within yourselves, and become judges that reason wickedly?


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Hear, my beloved brethren; hath not God chosen the poor of this world <i>who are</i> rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom, which He hath promised to them that love Him? but ye have slighted the poor.


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If ye fulfil the royal law, according to the scripture, <i>which saith,</i> Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well.


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But if ye <i>partially</i> respect persons, ye commit sin, being convicted by the law as transgressors.


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For whosoever shall keep the whole law <i>besides,</i> but offend in one <i>point,</i> he is under the penalty of all:


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for He that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou do not commit adultery, but committest murder, thou art a transgressor of the law.


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For he shall have judgement without mercy, that hath not shewn mercy: but mercy triumpheth over judgement.


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What <i>is</i> the advantage, my brethren, if any <i>one</i> say that he has faith, and he hath not works, can faith <i>alone</i> save him?


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and one of you say to them, Go in peace, be ye warmed and be ye filled: but ye give them not the necessaries of life, what profit <i>is it to them?</i>


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But one may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith by thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.


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<i>consider,</i> Was not our father Abraham justified by works, when he offered his son Isaac upon the altar?


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Thou seest that faith co-operated with his works, and <i>that</i> by <i>his</i> works <i>his</i> faith was perfected.


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And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him for righteousness; and he was called the friend of God.


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And in like manner also was not the harlot Rahab justified by works, when she entertained the spies, and let them out another way?


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My brethren, be not many teachers, knowing that we <i>who are such</i> shall pass a stricter trial <i>than others:</i> for in many things we all offend;


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Behold we put bridles into the mouths of horses, that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body <i>as we please.</i>


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Behold also the ships which are of so great bulk, <i>and</i> even when <i>they are</i> driven by hard winds, <i>yet</i> are turned about by a very small helm which way soever the pilot pleaseth.


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So the tongue is a small part <i>of the body,</i> yet boasteth great things. Behold how much fuel a little fire kindleth!


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And the tongue <i>is</i> a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our <i>several</i> parts, defiling the whole body, inflaming the course of nature, and <i>is</i> set on fire by hell.


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For every kind of wild beasts, and birds, and reptiles, and fishes, is tamed and hath been tamed by mankind:


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With it we bless God even the Father; and with it we curse men, who are made after the likeness of God:


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out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. These things, my brethren, ought not so to be.


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Can a fig-tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine figs? so <i>can</i> no fountain produce salt water and sweet.


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<i>Is there</i> any wise and understanding <i>man</i> among you? let him shew his works by a good conversation in the meekness of wisdom:


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this is not the wisdom, that cometh down from above, but <i>is</i> earthly, sensual, <i>and</i> diabolical:


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But the wisdom <i>that is</i> from above first is pure, then peaceable, mild, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.


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Whence <i>come</i> wars and fightings among you? <i>Come they</i> not hence? <i>even</i> of your <i>carnal</i> appetites making war in your bodies?


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Ye desire, and ye have not: ye are envious, and jealous, and cannot obtain: ye fight and contend; but ye have not, because ye ask not.


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Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world <i>is</i> enmity to God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.


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Do ye think the scripture speaks in vain? <i>or</i> does the Spirit that dwelleth in us, excite to envy?


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No, He giveth more grace: wherefore it is said, God resisteth the proud, but sheweth favor to the humble.


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Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you: cleanse your hands, O sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double minded.


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Be grieved, and mourn, and weep: let your mirth be turned into mourning, and <i>your</i> joy to sadness.


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Speak not against one another, <i>my</i> brethren; he that speaketh against <i>his</i> brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh against the law, and judgeth the law; but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.


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<i>Now</i> there is <i>but</i> one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou <i>then</i> that judgest another?


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Come now, ye that say, To-day or to-morrow we will go to such a city, and spend a year there, and trade and get gain;


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(though ye know not what <i>will be</i> on the morrow; for what is your life? a vapor, which appeareth for a little while, and then vanisheth away:) whereas ye <i>ought to</i> say,


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your gold and silver is cankered, and their rust shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh like fire: ye have been treasuring <i>them</i> up for the<i>se</i> last days.


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Behold the hire of the laborers, that reaped your fields, of which they are defrauded by you, crieth out <i>against you:</i> and the complaints of the reapers are come into the ears of the Lord of hosts.


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Ye have lived upon earth delicately and luxuriously; ye fattened your hearts as in a day of slaughter.


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Wait patiently therefore, <i>my</i> brethren, till the coming of the Lord: behold the husbandman expecteth the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it, till he receive the former and the latter rain.


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Repine not, <i>my</i> brethren, against each other, that ye be not condemned: behold, the judge is at the door.


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Take for an example of enduring evil and of long-suffering the prophets, who spake in the name of the Lord.


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Behold, we account those happy, that are patient. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord, that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.


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But above all, my brethren, swear not; neither by heaven, nor by the earth, nor any other oath: but let your yea be yea, and your nay nay; that ye may not fall under condemnation.


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Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:


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and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.


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Confess <i>your</i> faults one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed: the fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.


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Elias was a man of like passions with us, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain, and it rained not upon the land for three years and six months:


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let him know that he, who turneth back a sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and shall cover a multitude of sins.


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Peter an apostle of Jesus Christ to the strangers <i>who</i> <i>are</i> dispersed through Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia,


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Asia, and Bithynia, chosen according to the fore-knowledge of God, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience, and <i>to</i> the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ,---may grace and peace be multiplied unto you.


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Blessed <i>be</i> the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy hath regenerated us to a lively hope, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,


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who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.


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In which ye rejoice, tho' now for a little while, if need be, ye are grieved through various trials.


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That the proof of your faith, <i>which is</i> much more precious than of gold, (that perisheth, though tried by fire) may be found unto praise, and honor, and glory, when Jesus Christ shall be revealed:


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whom having not seen ye love; in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing ye rejoice with joy ineffable and full of glory; receiving the end of your faith,


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concerning which salvation the prophets, who prophesied of the grace <i>to be conferred</i> on you, enquired and diligently sought after <i>it:</i>


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searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ in them did declare <i>in</i> testifying beforehand the sufferings <i>that were to come</i> upon Christ, and the glories following them:


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to whom it was revealed, that <i>it was</i> not to themselves, but to us they ministered these <i>things,</i> which are now declared unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you, through the holy Spirit sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.


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Wherefore girding up the loins of your mind, be sober, and stedfastly hope for the grace to be conferred upon you at the appearing of Jesus Christ;


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but as He who hath called you is holy, be ye also holy in all <i>your</i> conversation: since it is written,


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And if ye call upon the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:


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knowing that ye were redeemed from your vain conversation <i>learned</i> by tradition from your fathers, not with corruptible things, <i>as</i> silver and gold;


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<i>who was</i> indeed appointed before the foundation of the world, but manifested in these last times, for your sakes,


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who through Him trust in God that raised Him from the dead, and gave Him glory, that your faith and hope might be <i>fixed</i> in God.


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Having <i>therefore</i> purified your souls by obedience to the truth, through the Spirit, to brotherly love unfeigned, love one another with a pure heart fervently:


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being regenerated not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God which liveth and abideth for ever.


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For all flesh <i>is</i> as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass: the grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away;


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but the word of the Lord abideth for ever. And this is the word which is preached to you in the gospel.


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and envies, and all evil-speakings, as new-born babes desire that rational milk <i>which is</i> without guile, that ye may grow thereby:


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<i>and</i> precious, ye also are built up as living stones, a spiritual house, an holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.


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Whence also it is said in scripture, Behold I lay in Sion a chief corner-stone, choice <i>and</i> precious: and he that confideth on it shall not be ashamed.


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To you therefore who believe <i>it is</i> precious: but to them that are disobedient, the stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner,


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and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence. These stumble at the word through unbelief, unto which also they were appointed.


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But ye <i>are</i> a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should declare the glories of Him, who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:


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who heretofore <i>were</i> not a people, but <i>are</i> now the people of God: who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.


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<i>Dearly</i> beloved, I exhort you as strangers and sojourners <i>here,</i> to abstain from carnal lusts, which war against the soul:


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having a good conversation among the Gentiles; that whereas they speak against you as evil-doers, they may glorify God in the day of <i>their</i> visitation, on account of the good works which they behold <i>in you.</i>


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Be subject therefore to every human form of government, for the Lord's sake: whether <i>it</i> be to a king as supreme;


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or to governors as <i>persons</i> sent by him for the punishment of evil-doers, and <i>the</i> praise of them that do well.


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For so is the will of God, that by <i>your</i> good behaviour ye may silence the ignorance of foolish <i>men:</i>


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as free, and <i>yet</i> not using <i>your</i> liberty as a cloke for wickedness, but as <i>the</i> servants of God.


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Ye <i>who are</i> servants, <i>be</i> subject to <i>your</i> masters with all fear, not only to the good and mild, but also to the morose:


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for this is <i>an evidence of</i> grace, if any one for conscience towards God endure griefs, suffering unjustly.


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For what glory <i>is it,</i> if when ye sin and are punished <i>for it,</i> ye bear it patiently? but if when ye do well and suffer <i>for it,</i> ye bear it patiently, this <i>will gain</i> favor with God.


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For unto this are ye called; because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that ye might follow his steps.


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who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed <i>Himself</i> to Him that judgeth righteously.


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Who Himself bare our sins in his own body on the cross, that we being dead to sins, might live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye are healed.


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Ye women likewise, be subject to your own husbands, that if any believe not the word, they may yet without the word be gained over by the deportment of the wives,


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Whose adorning, let it not be that without, of plaiting the hair, and putting on of gold, or wearing <i>fine</i> clothes;


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but the hidden man of the heart, in the incorruptible <i>ornament</i> of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.


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For so also formerly the holy women, who hoped in God, adorned themselves, being submissive to their husbands; as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him <i>her</i> lord:


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Ye husbands likewise, dwell with <i>them</i> according to knowledge, yielding due respect to the wife as the weaker vessel, and as joint-heirs of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.


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Finally, <i>my beloved, be</i> unanimous, <i>be</i> sympathizing, love as brethren, <i>be</i> compassionate, <i>be</i> courteous:


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not returning evil for evil, or reproach for reproach: but on the contrary blessing <i>even those that curse you:</i> knowing ye are called unto this, that ye may obtain a blessing.


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"For he that would desire life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile;


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let him seek peace, and pursue it: for the eyes of the Lord <i>are</i> upon the righteous, and his ears <i>are open</i> to their prayer: but the face of the Lord <i>is</i> against them that do evil."


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But if ye should even suffer for righteousness sake, happy <i>are ye:</i> and <i>therefore</i> be not afraid of their menaces, neither be troubled; but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts:


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and be always ready to answer every one that asketh you a reason of the hope <i>that is</i> in you, with meekness and reverence:


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having a good conscience, that whereas they speak against you as evil-doers, they may be ashamed who calumniate your good conversation in Christ.


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For <i>it is</i> better (if it be the will of God) to suffer <i>for</i> doing good than <i>for</i> doing evil.


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As Christ also once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust (that He might introduce us to God) being indeed put to death in the flesh, but raised to life by the Spirit:


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who of old were disobedient, when the long-suffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was preparing; wherein <i>a</i> few, that is eight souls, were saved by water.


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The resemblance of which, <i>even</i> baptism, doth also now save us, (not the <i>outward</i> cleansing of filth from the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience towards God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,


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who is gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers being made subject to Him.


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Seeing therefore Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same thought, that he, who hath mortified the flesh, hath ceased from sin;


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that he should no longer live the rest of <i>his</i> time in the flesh according to the lusts of men, but after the will of God.


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For the time past of <i>our</i> life <i>is</i> sufficient for us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, walking in lasciviousness, <i>inordinate</i> desires, excess of wine, revellings, drunkenness, and abominable idolatries:


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in which they think it strange that ye run not with <i>them</i> into the same excess of riot, and <i>therefore</i> speak evil <i>of you:</i>


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For to this <i>end</i> was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged indeed according to men in the flesh, but might live according to God in the spirit.


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as every one hath received a gift, imparting it to each other, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.


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If any one speak, <i>let it be</i> as <i>declaring</i> the oracles of God: if any one minister, <i>let it be</i> as from the power which God affordeth <i>him:</i> that in all <i>things</i> God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.


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Beloved, be not surprised at the fiery trial <i>coming</i> upon you, which is to try you, as if some strange <i>thing</i> befel you:


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but rejoice in that ye are partakers in the sufferings of Christ; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may also rejoice with exceeding joy.


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If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy <i>are ye;</i> for the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: <i>and</i> though as to them He is blasphemed, yet as to you He is glorified.


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But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or <i>as</i> a thief, or <i>as</i> a malefactor, or as an intermeddler with other people's affairs.


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For the time <i>is coming</i> when judgement is to begin at the house of God: and if at us first, what <i>will be</i> the end of those that obey not the gospel of God?


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Wherefore let them, that suffer according to the will of God, commit their souls in well-doing <i>to Him</i> as to a faithful Creator.


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The elders that are among you I exhort, who am also an elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker of the glory which shall be revealed; feed the flock of God that is among you,


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taking the episcopal charge <i>of it,</i> not by constraint, but willingly; not for shameful lucre, but with a ready mind:


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Likewise ye younger, be subject to the elder; and all <i>of you behaving</i> with <i>due</i> submission one to another, be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, but sheweth favor to the humble.


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Be sober, be vigilant; for your adversary the devil, like a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:


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whom resist, stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are endured by your brethren in the world.


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But may the God of all grace, who hath called us to his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, after ye have suffered a little while, make you perfect, confirm, strengthen, <i>and</i> establish <i>you.</i>


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<i>Thus</i> I have written briefly by Silvanus, a faithful brother to you (as I judge) exhorting and testifying, that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.


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The <i>church</i> in Babylon, chosen together <i>with you</i> saluteth you, and <i>so doth</i> Marcus my son.


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Salute one another with a kiss of charity. Peace <i>be</i> with you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.


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Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us, in the righteousness of our God, and <i>of our</i> saviour Jesus Christ:


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as his divine power hath given us all <i>things</i> that <i>pertain</i> to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who hath called us by <i>that</i> glory and virtue,


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by which are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that by these ye may become partakers of a divine nature, having escaped the corruption <i>that is</i> in the world through lust.


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and to fortitude knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience piety;


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For if these be in you and abound, they will not suffer <i>you</i> to be idle, nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.


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But he, that hath not these, is blind, <i>or</i> short-sighted, having forgot his <i>baptismal</i> purification from his former sins.


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Wherefore, <i>my</i> brethren, be the more diligent <i>thus</i> to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these <i>things</i> ye shall never fall.


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For so an entrance shall be administered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.


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Wherefore I will not neglect to put you always in mind of these <i>things,</i> though ye know them, and are established in the present truth.


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knowing that I must soon lay down <i>this</i> my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me.


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And I will endeavour that after my departure also ye may always be able to call these <i>things</i> to remembrance.


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For we did not follow artfully devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ; but were eye-witnesses of his majesty.


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For He received from God the Father honor and glory when a voice came to Him from the magnificent glory, <i>saying</i>, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."


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We have also the more sure word of the prophets, to which ye do well to attend, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, till the day dawn, and the morning-star rise in your hearts:


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for prophecy was not delivered of old at the will of man, but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the holy Spirit.


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But there were indeed false prophets among the people <i>of old,</i> as there will be also among you false teachers, who will privately introduce pernicious heresies, denying even the Lord that bought them, <i>and</i> bringing upon themselves swift destruction,


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and by artful speeches they will make sale of you for gain. Whose judgement is long since hastening, and their destruction doth not slumber.


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For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast <i>them</i> down to hell, and delivered <i>them</i> into chains of darkness, <i>to be</i> reserved unto judgement; and <i>if</i> He spared not the old world,


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(but preserved Noah an eighth <i>person,</i> a preacher of righteousness,) bringing a deluge upon the world of the ungodly;


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and reducing the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha to ashes, condemned <i>them</i> to destruction, making <i>them</i> an example to those that should afterwards be impious;


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(for that good <i>man</i> by seeing and hearing <i>their crimes,</i> when he dwelt among them, tormented his righteous soul from day to day with <i>their</i>


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iniquitous deeds) <i>then</i> the Lord knoweth how to deliver the pious from temptation, and to reserve the wicked to the day of judgement <i>to be</i> punished:


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especially those who walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise authority; <i>who, being</i> audacious <i>and</i> self-willed, are not afraid to speak evil of dignities:


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whereas angels, who are greater in strength and power, bring not a reviling accusation against them before the Lord.


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But these <i>men,</i> like brute beasts naturally produced to be taken and destroyed, speaking evil of things which they do not understand, shall perish by their own corruption; receiving the reward of <i>their</i> unrighteousness:


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who account it a pleasure to riot <i>even</i> in the day; spots and disgraces; revelling in their frauds, while they partake of your feasts:


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having eyes full of adultery, and which cannot be restrained from sin: ensnaring unstable souls, <i>and</i> having a heart practised in rapine; cursed people:


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who have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, having followed the way of Balaam <i>the son</i> of Bosor, who loved the wages of iniquity;


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but was reproved for his transgression: <i>for</i> a dumb beast speaking with the voice of a man checked the madness of the prophet.


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These are wells without water, clouds driven by a storm, for whom thick darkness is reserved for ever.


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For when they speak swelling words of vanity, they ensnare in the lusts of the flesh, through <i>their</i> lasciviousness, those who had indeed withdrawn from such as deal in error;


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promising them liberty, while they themselves are the slaves of corruption: for by whom any one is vanquished, by him he is also enslaved.


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For if, after they had escaped the pollutions of the world, through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled and vanquished by them, their last state is worse than the first;


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for it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than when they knew <i>it,</i> to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them.


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But it is happened to them according to the true proverb, The dog <i>is</i> returned to his own vomit, and, The swine that was washed to <i>her</i> wallowing in the mire.


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This second epistle, <i>my</i> beloved, I now write unto you; in <i>both</i> which I stir up your sincere mind in remembrance,


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that ye may be mindful of the words formerly spoken by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: knowing this first,


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walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the declaration of his coming? for except that the fathers are fallen asleep, all things remain as <i>they were</i> from the beginning of the creation.


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For they are willingly ignorant of this, that by the Word of God the heavens were <i>made</i> of old, and the earth <i>too</i> from the water, and subsisting on the water.


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But the heavens and the earth, <i>that</i> now <i>are,</i> by the same Word are kept in store, reserved unto fire on the day of judgement and destruction of ungodly men.


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But, beloved; be not ignorant of this one <i>thing,</i> that one day <i>is</i> with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.


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The Lord is not slow as to his promise (as some count <i>it</i> slowness) but is long-suffering towards us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.


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But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements being set on fire shall be dissolved, and the earth and the works therein shall be burnt up.


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Seeing then that all these <i>things</i> shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in holy conversation and godliness,


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expecting and hastening on the coming of the day of God, whereby the heavens being set on fire shall be dissolved, and the burning elements shall be melted.


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But we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwelleth.


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Wherefore, beloved, seeing ye expect these <i>things,</i> give diligence to be found of Him in peace, spotless and blameless;


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and account the long-suffering of our Lord salvation, as our beloved brother Paul also, according to the wisdom given to him, hath written unto you;


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as also in all <i>his</i> epistles, speaking in them of these <i>things:</i> in which are some <i>things</i> hard to be understood, which the illiterate and unstable wrest, as <i>they do</i> also the other scriptures, to their own destruction.


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Do ye therefore, beloved, as ye know <i>these things</i> before, take heed least being seduced together <i>with them</i> by the error of the wicked, ye should fall from your own stedfastness.


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But grow in grace, and in <i>the</i> knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: to Him <i>be</i> glory both now and for ever. Amen.


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<i>That </i>&nbsp;which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have contemplated, and our <i>very</i> hands have felt concerning the Word of life,


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(for <i>this</i> Life was manifested, and we saw <i>it;</i> and we testify and declare unto you <i>that</i> eternal Life, which was with the Father,


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and was manifested unto us) what we have seen and heard we declare unto you, that ye also may have communion with us: and our communion is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.


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Now this we have heard from Him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all.


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If we say that we have communion with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practise the truth:


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but if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have communion with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.


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If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness:


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My little children, I write these <i>things</i> unto you, that ye may not sin. And if any <i>man</i> sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.


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And He is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for <i>the sins of</i> the whole world.


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He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.


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But whosoever keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: <i>and</i> by this we know that we are in Him.


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Brethren, I write not a new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning: the old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning:


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<i>though</i> I write <i>it</i> again <i>as</i> a new commandment, which is truth in Him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.


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But he, that hateth his brother, is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not where he goeth, because the darkness hath blinded his eyes.


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I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him <i>that is</i> from the beginning: <i>and</i> I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked <i>one</i>. <i>Yea</i> I have written to you, little children, because ye have known the Father:


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I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him <i>that is</i> from the beginning: <i>and</i> I have written to you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked <i>one</i>---


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Love not the world, nor the things <i>that are</i> in the world; <i>for</i> if any <i>one</i> love the world <i>to excess,</i> the love of the Father is not in him.


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For all that is in the world, the desire of the flesh, and the desire of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but of the world.


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And the world passeth away, and the desire of it: but he, that doth the will of God, abideth for ever.


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Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that an antichrist will come, there are even now many antichrists, whereby we know that it is the last time.


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They went out from us, but they were not of us: for if they had been <i>indeed</i> of us, they would have continued with us; but <i>this was done</i> that they might be made manifest, because all, <i>that are with us,</i> are not <i>indeed</i> of us.


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I have not <i>therefore</i> written to you, because ye know not the truth; but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.


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Who is a liar, if not he who denieth that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, that denieth the Father as well as the Son;


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<i>for</i> whosoever denieth the Son, hath not the Father: <i>but he that confesseth the Son acknowledgeth the Father also.</i>


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Let that therefore, which ye have heard from the beginning, abide in you: <i>for</i> if that, which ye heard from the beginning, remain in you, ye also will remain in the Son and in the Father.


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But the unction, which ye have received from Him, abideth in you; and <i>therefore</i> ye have no need that any should teach you: since this <i>very</i> unction teacheth you concerning all things, and is truth and not falshood; even as that hath taught you, abide in Him.


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And now, little children, abide, <i>I say,</i> in Him; that, when He shall appear, we may have confidence, and may not be ashamed before Him at his coming.


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If ye know that He is righteous, ye know that every one, who practiseth righteousness, is born of Him.


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Behold <i>then</i> what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the children of God: <i>though</i> for this <i>reason</i> the world knoweth us not, because it knew not Him.


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Beloved, we are now the children of God, but it doth not yet appear what we shall be: we know however, that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.


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Little children, let no one deceive you: he that practiseth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous:


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he, that makes a practise of sin, is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. <i>And</i> for this the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.


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Whosoever is born of God doth not practise sin, because his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.


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In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doth not practise righteousness, and he who loveth not his brother, is not of God:


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for this is the injunction which ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another: not as Cain <i>who</i> was of the evil <i>one,</i> and slew his brother;


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<i>since</i> we know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren: he, that loveth not his brother, remaineth in death.


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Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.


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In this we know his love, that He laid down his life for us: and we should <i>be ready to</i> lay down our lives for the brethren.


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But if any one, who hath the good things of the world, seeth his brother in want, and shutteth up his bowels from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?


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For, if our heart condemn us, God is <i>still</i> greater than our heart, and knoweth all <i>things.</i>


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and whatsoever we ask, we receive from Him, because we keep his commandments, and do the things that are pleasing in his sight.


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And this is his commandment, that we should believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as He hath given us a charge <i>to do.</i>


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And he, that keepeth his commandments, abideth in Him, and He in him: and hereby we know that He abideth in us, <i>even</i> by the Spirit which He hath given us.


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Beloved, believe not every Spirit, but try the spirits, whether they be of God: for many false prophets are gone out into the world.


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By this ye <i>may</i> know the Spirit of God: every Spirit that confesseth Jesus Christ, who is come in the flesh, is of God:


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and every spirit that doth not confess Jesus Christ, who is come in the flesh, is not of God: and this is that <i>spirit</i> of antichrist, which ye have heard was coming, and is already in the world.


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Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He, that is in you, than he that is in the world.


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We are of God: he, that knoweth God, heareth us; <i>but</i> he, who is not of God, heareth not us. By this we know the Spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.


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Beloved, let us love one another: for love is from God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.


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In this was the love of God manifested towards us, that God sent his only-begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.


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Herein is love; not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent his Son <i>to be</i> a propitiation for our sins.


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No one hath ever seen God: <i>but</i> if we love one another, God dwelleth in us and his love is perfected in us.


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And we have seen, and do testify, that the Father hath sent the Son <i>to be</i> the Saviour of the world.


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And we have known and believed the love which God hath towards us: <i>for</i> God is love; and he, that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him.


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Herein is love perfected with us, that we may have boldness in the day of judgement; for as He is, we also are in this world.


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There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear; because fear hath torment; but he that feareth is not perfected in love.


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I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for how can he, that loveth not his brother, whom he hath seen, love God whom he hath not seen?


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Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one, that loveth Him that begat, loveth Him also that is begotten of Him:


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<i>and</i> in this we know that we love the children of God, since we love God and keep his commandments.


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For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that vanquisheth the world, <i>even</i> our faith.


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This is He that came by water and <i>by</i> blood, <i>even</i> Jesus the Messiah; not with water only, but with water and blood: and <i>of this</i> the Spirit beareth witness, for the Spirit is truth.


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<i>Now</i> if we admit the testimony of men, <i>sure</i> the testimony of God is greater: and this is the testimony of God, which He hath testified concerning his Son.


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He, that believeth on the Son of God, hath the witness in himself: he, that believeth not God, hath <i>in effect</i> made Him a liar, because he believed not the testimony which God hath testified of his Son.


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These <i>things</i> have I written to you, who believe on the name of the son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may <i>the more firmly</i> believe on the name of the Son of God.


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And this is the confidence, which we have towards Him, that if we ask any <i>thing</i> according to his will, He heareth us:


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and if we know that He heareth us <i>in</i> whatsoever we ask; we know that we <i>shall</i> have the petitions, which we have requested of Him.


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If any <i>one</i> see his brother commit a sin <i>which is</i> not unto death, let him pray <i>for him,</i> and <i>God</i> will give him life, <i>that is</i> for them that do not sin unto death. There is a sin unto death: <i>and</i> for that I do not say that he should pray.


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We know that whosoever is born of God, doth not <i>practise</i> sin: but keepeth himself <i>from it,</i> and the wicked one doth not touch him.


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But we know that the son of God is come, and hath given us understanding, that we may know Him that is true, and we are in Him that is true, <i>and</i> in his son Jesus Christ: He is the true God, and eternal life.


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The elder unto the excellent Lady, and her children, whom I love in truth: and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth;


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grace, mercy, <i>and</i> peace be with you from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.


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I rejoiced greatly that I found among thy children such as walked in truth, as we received commandment from the Father.


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And now I beseech thee, Lady, not as writing to thee a new commandment, but <i>that</i> which we had from the beginning, that we may love one another.


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And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments. This is the commandment, as ye heard from the beginning, that ye should walk in it.


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For many deceivers are come out into the world, who disown that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. Such a one is a deceiver and an antichrist.


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Look to yourselves, that ye lose not the things which ye have wrought, but <i>that</i> <i>ye</i> may receive a full reward.


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Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God: <i>but</i> he, that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, hath both the Father and the Son.


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<i>Now</i> if any <i>one</i> come unto you, and bringeth not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, nor wish him success: for he,


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Having many things to write unto you, I would not with paper and ink: but I hope to come unto you, and speak mouth to mouth, that our joy may be full.


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For I greatly rejoiced, when the brethren came, and bore testimony to thy truth, even as thou walkest in truth.


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Beloved, thou actest faithfully <i>in</i> whatsoever service thou dost to the brethren, and to strangers <i>too;</i>


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who have borne witness to thy love before the church: whom thou wilt do well in forwarding, as is worthy of God.


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I wrote to the church: but Diotrephes, who affects the pre-eminence among them, doth not receive us.


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Therefore when I come, I will remember his deeds, prating against us with wicked words: and not content with these, he neither receiveth the brethren himself, nor suffers those that would; and casteth <i>them</i> out of the church.


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Beloved, do not thou follow that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doth good is of God: but he, that doth evil, hath not seen God.


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A <i>good</i> testimony is borne to Demetrius by all <i>men,</i> and by the truth itself: yea, and we also bear him <i>like</i> witness, and ye know that our testimony is true.


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Jude a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified in God the Father, and <i>who are</i> preserved and called in Jesus Christ;


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Beloved, having an earnest desire to write to you concerning the common salvation, I was under a necessity of writing to exhort <i>you</i> that ye would strive earnestly for the faith <i>which was</i> once delivered to the saints.


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For there have crept in some men, <i>who have been</i> of old described <i>as</i> under this condemnation, impious <i>people,</i> that turn the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and deny God the only Lord, and our Lord Jesus Christ.


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But I would remind you of this, which ye know already, that though the Lord saved the people out of the land of Egypt, <i>yet</i> He afterwards destroyed those that believed not:


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and the angels that kept not their primitive state, but left their proper abode, hath He reserved in everlasting chains, under darkness, to the judgement of the great day:


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as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them, in like manner with them committing lewdness, and going after strange flesh, are set forth <i>as</i> an example, suffering the vengeance of perpetual fire.


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So these <i>vile</i> dreamers also defile the flesh, despise authority, and speak evil of dignities.


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Whereas Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, did not presume to bring against him a railing accusation, but said, "The Lord rebuke thee."


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But these <i>men</i> speak evil of what they know not: and what they know naturally, as brute animals, in these <i>things</i> they are corrupt.


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Wo unto them; for they have gone in the way of Cain, and been carried away by Balaam's error, <i>the love</i> of lucre, and perished <i>as</i> in the contradiction of Korah.


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These are spots in your love-feasts, feeding themselves without fear, when they are feasting with you: clouds without water, carried about by the winds; trees withered <i>and</i> without fruit, twice dead <i>and</i> rooted up; raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame;


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And Enoch the seventh from Adam prophesied against these, saying, Behold the Lord cometh with his holy myriads,


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to pass judgement upon all, and to convict all the ungodly among them of all their wicked works, which they have impiously committed, and of all the hard <i>things</i> which impious sinners have spoken against Him.


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These are murmurers, complainers, who walk according to their own <i>irregular</i> desires; and their mouth speaketh great swelling <i>words,</i> with admiration of <i>certain</i> persons for <i>some</i> advantage <i>of their own.</i>


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But, beloved, remember the words which were formerly spoken by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; for they told you,


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But ye, beloved, edifying yourselves in your most holy faith, <i>and</i> praying in the holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God,


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Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you blameless before <i>the presence of</i> his glory with exceeding joy:


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to the only wise God our Saviour <i>be</i> glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and for ever. Amen.


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The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto Him, to shew to his servants <i>things</i> which must shortly come to pass; and He sent and signified <i>it</i> by his angel to his servant John,


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who bare witness to the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, and <i>to</i> whatever He saw.


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Happy <i>is</i> he that readeth, and those that hear the words of the prophecy, and keep the things <i>that are</i> written therein: for the time <i>is</i> near.


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John to the seven churches in Asia---Grace and peace <i>be</i> to you, from Him who is, and who was, and who is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne;


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and from Jesus Christ, <i>who is</i> the faithful witness, the first-born from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,


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and hath made us kings and priests to his God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.


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Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye shall see Him, even they that pierced Him: and all the tribes of the earth shall lament before Him. Even so, Amen!


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<J>I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end,</J> saith the Lord, <J>who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.</J>


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I John, who <i>am</i> also your brother, and companion in the affliction, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the island called Patmos, for the sake of the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.


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<i>Here</i> I was in the Spirit on the Lord's-day: and heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet,


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saying, <J>I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last; and, What thou seest write in a book, and send </J><i>it</i><J> to the </J><i>seven</i><J> churches in Asia, to Ephesus, and to Smyrna, and to Pergamos, and to Thyatira, and to Sardis, and to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea.</J>


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and in the midst of the seven candlesticks <i>one</i> like the Son of man, clothed with a long robe, and girded about the breasts with a golden girdle.


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His head and <i>his</i> hairs <i>were</i> white like white wool, <i>as white</i> as snow; and his eyes as a flame of fire;


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and his feet like fine brass, as <i>if they were</i> glowing in a furnace: and his voice as the sound of many waters:


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and He had in his right hand seven stars, and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and his countenance <i>was</i> as the sun <i>when he</i> shineth in his strength.


