# verses

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And finishing our course, we came from Tyre to Ptolemais, and embracing the brethren, we continued with them one day.


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And on the next day we departed, and came to Caesarea, and entering into the house of Philip, the evangelist, who was one of the seven, we lodged with him.


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And as we continued there many days, a certain prophet, whose name was Agabus, came down from Judea:


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


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And when we heard these things, both we, and the inhabitants of that place, entreated him, that he would not go up to Jerusalem.


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But Paul answered, What do you mean, thus 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 some of the disciples also from Caesarea, went along with us, and brought us to one Mnason, a Cyprian, and old disciple, with whom we should lodge.


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And having embraced them, he gave them a particular account of those things which God had done among the Gentiles by his ministry.


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And when they heard it, they glorified God, and said to him, Brother, you see how many myriads of believing Jews there are: and they are all zealous for the law.


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Now, they have been informed of you, that you teach all the Jews, which are among the Gentiles, to apostatize from Moses, saying, that they ought not to circumcise their children, nor to walk according to the customs.


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What is it then? The multitude must, by all means, come together; for they will hear that you are come.


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take them, and purify yourself with them, and be at charges for them, that they may shave their heads: and all will know that there is nothing in those things which they have heard of you; but that you yourself walk regularly, keeping the law.


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As for the believing Gentiles, we have written, determining that they should observe none of these things; except it be to keep themselves from what is offered to idols, and from blood, and from that which is 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, declaring the accomplishment of the days of purification, till an offering should be offered for every one of them.


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But as the seven days were about to be accomplished, the Jews that were from Asia, seeing him in the temple, threw all the populace into confusion, and laid hands upon him,


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crying out, Israelites, help! This is the man that everywhere teaches all men contrary to the people, and to the law, and to this place; and has even brought Greeks into the temple, and polluted this holy place.


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(For they had been seen Trophimus, the Ephesian, in the city with him, whom they imagined that 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 laying hold of Paul, they dragged him out of the temple: and immediately the gates were shut.


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And when they went about to kill him, word was brought to the commander of the cohort, that all Jerusalem was in confusion:


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who immediately took soldiers, and centurions, and ran in among them. And when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they ceased from beating Paul.


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Then the commander drew near, and took him; and ordered him to be bound with two chains, and inquired who he was, and what he had done.


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And some among the multitude cried out one thing, and some another: and as he could not know the certainty, by reason of the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle.


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But when he was upon the stairs, it came to pass that he was borne by the soldiers, because of the violence of the crowd.


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But as Paul was going to be brought into the castle, he said to the commander, May I be allowed to speak to you? And he said, Can you speak Greek?


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Are you not that Egyptian, who did, before these days, stir up a sedition, and led out into the wilderness four thousand murderers?


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But Paul said, I am indeed a Jew, of Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of no inconsiderable city; and I entreat you, permit me to speak to the people.


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And on his giving permission, Paul standing on the stairs, beckoned with his hand to the people; and when there was a great silence, he addressed them in the Hebrew dialect, saying:


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and he said, 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 you all are at this day:


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as also the high priest is my witness, and all the national senate: from whom also having received letters to the brethren, I went to Damascus; to bring those that were there bound, to Jerusalem, that they might be punished.


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And it came to pass, that as I was on my journey, and was come nigh to Damascus, about noon, on a sudden a great light from heaven shone about me;


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and I fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to me, <J>Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?</J>


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But I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said to me, <J>I am Jesus the Nazarene, whom you persecute.</J>


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And they that were with me saw the light, indeed, and were terrified; but they did not distinctly hear the voice of him that spoke to me.


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


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


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And one Ananias, a pious man according to the law, who had an honorable character amongst all the Jews at Damascus,


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coming to me, and standing by me, said to me, Brother Saul, look up. And in that very hour, I looked up on him.


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And he said, The God of our fathers, has chosen you to know his will, and to see that righteous person, and to hear a voice from his mouth:


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And it came to pass, that when I was returned to Jerusalem, and was praying in the temple, I was in a trance:


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and I saw him, saying to me, <J>Make haste, and depart quickly from Jerusalem; for they will not receive your testimony concerning me.</J>


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And I said, Lord, they know I was imprisoning, and scourging in the synagogues, them that believed in thee;


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and when the blood of Stephen thy martyr was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting, and kept the garments of those who slew him.


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And they heard him to this word, and they lifted up their voices, saying, Away with this fellow from the earth, for it is not fit that he should live.


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the commander ordered that he should be brought into the castle, saying, that he should be put to the question by scourging, that he might know for what cause, they raised such an outcry against him.


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And as they binding him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion, who stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man, who is Roman, and uncondemned.


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And the centurion hearing this, went and addressed the commander, saying, What are you about to do? for this man is a Roman.


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And the commander answered, I obtained this freedom with a considerable sum of money. And Paul replied, But I was free born.


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They, therefore, who were about to have put him to the question, immediately departed from him: and the commander was afraid, when he knew that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.


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And on the next day, desiring to know certainly of what he was accused by the Jews, he loosed him; and commanded the chief priests, and all the Sanhedrim, to come together; and bringing Paul down, he set him before them.


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And Paul, looking attentively on the Sanhedrim, said, Brethren, I have, even to this day, lived in all good conscience toward God-


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Then Paul said to him, God is about to strike you, you whited wall! For do you sit to judge me according to the law, and yet, in violation of the law, command me to be struck?


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«And Paul said, Brethren, I was not aware that it was the high priest; for it is written,» 'You shall not speak evil of the ruler of your people.'


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Then Paul, perceiving that the one part was Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, cried out, in the Sanhedrim, Brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; for the hope and resurrection of the dead, I am brought into judgment.


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And on speaking this, there was a contention between the Pharisees and the Sadducees; and the multitude was divided.


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For the Sadducees say there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit; but the Pharisees confess both.


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And there was a great clamor; and the scribes who were on the side of the Pharisees, arose and contended, saying, We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit, or an angel has spoken to him, let us not fight against God.


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And as a great disturbance arose, the commander, fearing lest Paul should be torn in pieces by them, ordered the soldiers to go down, and take him by force from the midst of them, and to bring him into the castle.


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And in the following night, the Lord, standing by him, said, <J>Be of good courage, Paul; for as you have testified the things concerning me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear testimony in Rome.</J>


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


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And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have bound ourselves m by a solemn anathema, not to taste anything till we have slain Paul:


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now, therefore, do you, with the Sanhedrim, signify to the commander, that he bring him down to you, as if you would more accurately discuss what relates to him; and we are ready to kill him, before he can come near you.


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And Paul, calling one of the centurions to him, said, Conduct this young man to the commander, for he has something to tell him.


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He, therefore, took and led him to the commander, and said, Paul, the prisoner, calling me to him, desired that I would bring to you this young man, who has something to tell you.


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And the commander, taking him by the hand, and leading him into a retired place, inquired of him, What is it that you have to tell me?


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And he said, The Jews have agreed together to ask you, that you bring down Paul to-morrow to the Sanhedrim, as if they would inquire something more accurately concerning him.


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But do not be prevailed on by them; for there are more than forty of them, that lie in ambush for him, who have bound themselves by a curse, neither to eat nor drink, till they have killed him; and they are now ready, expecting this promise from you.


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The commander, therefore, dismissed the young man, with a charge, Be sure you tell no man, that you have discovered these things to me.


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And he called too him two of the centurions, and said, Prepare two hundred soldiers, to go to Caesarea; and seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen; by the third hour of the night;


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This man was seized by the Jews, and had like to have been slain by them; when I came with a party of soldiers, and rescued him: and I have since learned, that he is a Roman.


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whom I found to be accused concerning questions of their law, but to have nothing charged upon him worthy of death, or of bonds.


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But when it was signified to me, that an ambush would be laid for the man, by the Jews, I immediately sent him to you, commanding his accusers also to declare before you, what they have against him. Farewell.


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The soldiers, therefore, as it was commanded them, taking up Paul, brought him by night to Antipatris.


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who, entering into Caesarea, and delivering the epistle to the governor, presented Paul also before him.


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And when he had read the letter, he asked of what province he was: and being informed that he was of Cilicia,


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I will hear you, said he, when your accusers are also come. And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's praetorium.


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And, after five days, the high, Ananias, came down, with the elders, and a certain orator, named Tertullus: and they made their appearance before the governor, against Paul.


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And he being called, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, As we enjoy great peace by your means, and as illustrious deeds are happily done to this nation, by your prudent administration;


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for we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world; and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:


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who has attempted to profane the temple; and whom we apprehended, and would have judged according to our law;


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commanding his accusers to come to you; by which means, you may yourself, on examination, know the certainty of all these things, of which we accuse him.


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Then Paul, after the governor had made a signal to him to speak, answered, Knowing that you, O Felix! have been for several years a judge to this nation, I answer for myself with the more cheerfulness;


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


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But this I confess to you, that after the way which they call a sect, so worship I the God of our fathers; believing all things which are written in the law, and in the prophets;


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


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And upon this account, I exercise myself to have always a conscience without offense toward God, and toward men.


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upon which some Asiatic Jews found me purified in the temple; neither with multitude nor with tumult;


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they found any crime in me; unless it be with relation to this one word, which I expressed, when I stood among them-that, for the resurrection of the dead, I am judged by you this day.


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And when Felix heard these things, he put them off, saying, After I have been more accurately informed concerning this way, when Lysias, the commander, comes down, I will take cognizance of the affair between you.


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


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And, after some days, Felix, coming the Drusilla his wife, who was a Jewess, sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.


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And he reasoned concerning righteousness and temperance, and judgment to come, Felix, trembling, answered, Go your way for this time, and I will take some future opportunity to call for you.


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And he hoped, also, that money would be given him by Paul, that he might be set at liberty: and, therefore, he sent the more frequently for him, and discoursed with him.


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Now, after two years were ended, Felix was succeeded by Portius Festus; and Felix, willing to ingratiate himself with the Jews, left Paul a prisoner.


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When Festus, therefore, was come into the province, after three days, he went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem;


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and the high priest, and the chief among the Jews, appeared before him against Paul, and entreated him


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But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would shortly set out for that place:


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therefore, said he, Let those of you who are able, go down with me; and if there be anything criminal in this man, let them accuse him.


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And, having continued among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea; and the next day, sitting down on the tribunal, he commanded Paul to be brought.


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And when he appeared, the Jews, who came down from Jerusalem, stood round about, bringing many heavy accusations against Paul, which they were not able to prove;


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while he answered for himself-Neither against the laws of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Cesar, have I committed any offense at all.


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But Festus, willing to ingratiate himself with the Jews, answered Paul, and said, Will you go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged before me, concerning these things?


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But Paul said, I am standing at Cesar's tribunal, where I ought to be judged. I have done no wrong to the Jews, as you know perfectly well.


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For, if, indeed, I have done wrong, or have committed anything worthy of death, I refuse not to die; but if there is no fact of which they accuse me, no man can give me up to gratify them! I appeal to Cesar.


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Then Festus, having spoken with the council, answered, Have you appealed to Cesar? To Cesar you shall go.


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And when some days were passed, King Agrippa, and Bernice, came to Caesarea, to pay their respects to Festus.


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And as they continued there many days, Festus laid before the king the case of Paul, saying, There is a certain man, left in bonds by Felix;


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concerning whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews, informed me, desiring judgment against him.


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To whom I answered, that it is not the custom of the Romans to give up any man, till he that is accused have the accusers face to face, and be allowed an opportunity of making his defense, as to the crime laid to his charge.


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When, therefore, they were come hither, I, without any delay, sat down on the tribunal next day, and commanded the man to be brought forth.


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


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But as I was dubious of the question relating to him, I said, that if he were willing, he should go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things.


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But Paul, appealing to be kept to the hearing of his majesty, I commanded him to be kept till I could send him to Cesar.


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Then Agrippa said to Festus, I also would willingly hear the man myself. And he said, To-morrow you shall hear him.


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The next day, therefore, Agrippa and Bernice, coming with great pomp, and entering into the place of audience, with the commanders and principal men of the city; at the command of Festus, Paul was brought forth.


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And Festus said, King Agrippa, and all you who are present with us! you see this man, concerning whom all the multitude of the Jews have pleaded with me, both at Jerusalem, and here, crying out that he ought not to live any longer.


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But I could not apprehend him to have done anything worthy of death; yet, as he himself has appealed to his majesty, I have determined to send him.


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Concerning whom I have nothing certain to write to my master: wherefore, I have brought him out before you all; and especially before you, King Agrippa! that, after examination taken, I may have something to write:


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Then Agrippa said to Paul, It is granted to you to speak for yourself. Then Paul, stretching forth his hand, made his defense.


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I esteem myself happy, King Agrippa, that I am this day to make my defense before you, concerning all those things of which I am accused by the Jews;


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especially as you are acquainted with all the customs and questions among the Jews: wherefore, I entreat you, that you will hear me with patience.


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The manner of my life, from my youth, which, from the beginning, was spent among my own nation, in Jerusalem, is known to all the Jews;


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who knew me from the first, (if they would testify,) that, according to the strictest sect of our religion, I lived a Pharisee.


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to which promise, our twelve tribes, worshiping continually, night and day, hope to attain: concerning which hope, King Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews.


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I, indeed, thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus, the Nazarene.


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Which, accordingly, I did in Jerusalem; and I shut up many of the saints in prison, having received authority from the chief priests. And when some of them were killed, I gave my vote against them:


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and frequently punishing them in all the synagogues, I compelled them to blaspheme: and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even to foreign cities.


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at mid-day, on the road, King Agrippa, I saw a light from heaven, exceeding the splendor of the sun, shining about me, and those who traveled 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 language, <J>Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.</J>


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<J>But arise, and stand upon your feet, for to this purpose I have appeared to you, to ordain you a minister and a witness, both of the things which you have seen, and of those which I will hereafter show you:</J>


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<J>to open their eyes, to turn them from darkness to light, and from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God; that they may receive forgiveness of sons, and an inheritance amongst the sanctified, through faith in me.</J>


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but declared, first to them at Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and through all the country of Judea; and then to the Gentiles, that they should reform, and return to God, performing deeds worthy of reformation.


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On account of these things, the Jews seizing me in the temple, attempted to have killed me with their own hands.


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Having, therefore, obtained help from God, I continue, till this day, testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses have declared would be;


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that the Messiah would be a sufferer-would be first of a resurrection from the dead-would give light to the people, and to the Gentiles.


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And as he was thus making his defense, Festus said, with a loud voice, Paul, you are distracted: much learning drives you to madness.


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For the king knows of these things; to whom, also, I speak with freedom: for I am persuaded none of these things are hid from him, for this was not done in a corner.


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


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And when they had retired, they spoke one with another, saying, This man has 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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And as it was determined that we should set sail into Italy, they delivered Paul, and some other prisoners, to a centurions of the Augustan Band, whose name was Julius.


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


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And the next day we reached Sidon: and Julius, treating Paul with great humanity, permitted him to go to his friends, and to enjoy the benefit of their care.


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And when we had sailed slowly for several days, and were hardly got over against Cnidus, the wind now permitting us; we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone:


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and passing it with difficulty, we came to a certain place called the Fair Havens, in the neighborhood of which, was the city of Lasea.


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And, as much time was spent, and sailing was now hazardous, because the fast was already over, Paul exhorted them,


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saying to them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be attended with injury and great damage, not only to the lading and to the ship, but also to our lives.


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But the centurion paid greater regard to the pilot, and the master of the vessel, than to those things which were spoken by Paul.


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And as the haven was not commodious to winter in, the greater part advised to set sail from thence, if they might possibly reach Phenice, to winter there;


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which is a haven of Crete, looking to the southwest and northwest: and as the south win blew gently, supposing they were secure of their purpose, they weighed anchor, and sailed on close to Crete.


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And as the ship was violently hurried away, and was not able to bear up against the wind, we gave her up, and were driven.


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which, when they had hoisted up, they used helps, undergirding the ship: and fearing, lest they should fall upon the quicksands, they struck sail, and so were driven.


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Now, as neither sun nor stars appeared for several days, and no small tempest pressed upon us, all remainder of hope that we might be delivered, was taken away.


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And when there was great want of food, then Paul, standing in the midst of them, said, Sirs, you ought to have hearkened to me, and not to have loosed from Crete, and incurred this injury and loss.


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Nevertheless, even now I exhort you to be of good courage: for there shall be no loss of any life among you; but only of the ship.


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saying, Fear not, Paul; you must be presented before Cesar; and, behold, God has given you all them that sail with you.


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And when the fourteenth night was come, as we were tossed up and down in the Adriatic sea, the mariners suspected, about midnight that they drew near to some land;


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and sounding, they found it twenty fathoms: and having gone a little way from thence, and sounding again, they found it fifteen fathoms.


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And fearing lest they should fall upon some rocky shore, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished that the day would break.


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But when the mariners endeavored to flee out of the ship, and had let down the boat into the sea, under pretense that they were about to carry out anchors from the ship-head;


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Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, Unless these continue in the ship, you can not be saved.


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And while the day was coming on, Paul exhorted them all to take some food, saying, Today, whilst waiting for this fourteenth day, you continue fasting, having taken nothing.


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I exhort you, therefore, to take a refreshment; for this is conducive to your safety: for not a hair shall fall from the head of any of you.


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And when he had spoke thus, and had taken bread, he gave thanks to God, before them all; and having broken it, he began to eat.


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And when it was day, they did not know the land: but they perceived a certain creek, with a shore, into which they determined, if they were able, to force the ship.


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And having cut off the anchors, leaving them in the sea, they, at the same time, loosing the rudder bands, and hoisting up the mainsail to the wind, pressed toward the shore.


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But falling on a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground, and the fore part stuck fast, and remained immovable, while the hinder part was broken by the force of the waves.


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And the counsel of the soldiers was, that they should kill the prisoners, lest any one should swim away, and escape.


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But the centurion, being desirous to save Paul, hindered them from their purpose, and commanded those that could swim, to throw themselves out first, into the sea, and get away to land:


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and the remainder, some upon planks, and others upon some of the things of the ship. And so it happened that they all got safe to land.


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And the barbarians treated us with uncommon humanity; for having kindled a fire, they brought us all to it, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.


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Now, as Paul was gathering up a bundle of sticks, and laying them on the fire, a viper coming out of the heat, fastened upon his hand.


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And as soon as the barbarians saw the fierce animal hanging on his hand, they said one to another, This man is certainly a murderer, whom justice has not permitted to live, though he be saved from the sea.


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However, they expected that he should have swollen, or suddenly have fallen down dead: and having waited a considerable time, and seeing no mischief befall him, changing their minds, they said he was a god.


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And in the neighborhood of that place, there was the estate of the chief of the island, whose name was Publius; who, having received us into his house, entertained us in a courteous manner for three days.


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And so it was, that the father of Publius, being seized with a fever and bloody flux, was confined to his bed: to whom Paul going in, and having prayed, laid his hands on him, and healed him.


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Now, therefore, when this miracle was wrought, the rest also, who had disorders, in the island, came, and were healed.


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Who also honored us with great honors; and when we departed, put on board 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 thence we coasted round, and came over against Rhegium. And after one day the south wind arising, we came, in two days, to Puteoli:


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And from thence, the brethren, having heard of our affairs, came out to meet us, as far as Appii Forum, and 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 band: but Paul was permitted to dwell apart, in a house of his own, with a soldier that guarded him.


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And it came to pass, that, after three days, Paul called together those that were the chief of the Jews. And when they were come together, he said to them, Brethren, though I have done nothing contrary to the people, nor to our paternal customs, yet I was delivered a prisoner, from Jerusalem, into the hands of the Romans;


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who, having examined me, were willing to have set me at liberty, as there was no cause of death in me.


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But when the Jews opposed, I was obliged to appeal to Cesar; not as having anything of which to accuse my own nation.


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For this reason, therefore, I entreated, that I might see and speak with you; for on account of the hope of Israel, I am bound with this chain.


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And they said to him, We have neither received letters from Judea concerning you; nor have any of the brethren, that have come hither, related, or said, any evil concerning you.


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But we desire to hear from you, what you think; for as concerning this sect, we know that it everywhere spoken against.


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And having appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging; to whom he expounded, testifying the kingdom of God, and persuading them of the things that relate to Jesus; both from the law of Moses and the prophets, from morning till evening.


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And disagreeing with each other, they broke up the assembly: Paul saying this one word, Surely, well did the Holy Spirit speak, by Isaiah the prophet, to our fathers,


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«when he said,» 'Go to this people and say, Hearing you will hear, and will not understand; and seeing you will see, and will not perceive:'


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«for the heart of this people is become gross, and with their ears they hear heavily; and they have drawn their eyes together, lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.»


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Therefore be it known to you, that the salvation of God is sent to the Gentiles, and they will hear it.


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announcing the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which relate to the Lord Jesus Christ, with all freedom of speech, and without any restraint.


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and constituted the Son of God, with power, as to his holy spiritual nature, after his resurrection from the dead:


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by whom we have received favor, even the apostolic office, for the obedience of faith among all nations, for his name's sake:


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To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called saints; favor be to you, and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.


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First of all, I thank my God, through the Lord Jesus Christ, for you all, that your faith is published in all the world.


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For God is my witness, whom I serve sincerely in the gospel of his Son, that continually I make mention of you;


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always in my prayers, requesting that, by some means, now at length, I may have a prosperous journey, (God willing,) to come to you.


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For I greatly desire to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, that you may be established;


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Now, brethren, I would not have you ignorant, that I often purposed to come to you, thought I have, as yet been hindered; that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among the other Gentiles.


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Therefore, I am willing, according to my ability, to declare the glad tidings, even to you who are in Rome.


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For I am not ashamed of the gospel; because it is the power of God for salvation, to every one who believes; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.


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«For in it the justification of God by faith is revealed, in order to faith; as it is written,» 'Now the just by faith, shall live.'


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Besides the wrath of God is revealed from heaven, against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth by unrighteousness.


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(for his invisible attributes, even his eternal power and divinity, since the creation of the world, are very evident; being known by his works:) so that they are inexcusable.


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Because, though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God, neither gave him thanks; but became foolish by their own reasonings, and their inconsiderate heart was darkened.


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for they changed the glory of the immortal God into the likeness of an image of mortal man, of fowls, or four-footed beasts, and of reptiles.


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Therefore, also, God, through the lusts of their own hearts, delivered them over to uncleanness, to dishonor their own bodies among themselves.


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Who changed the truth concerning God, into a lie, and worshiped and served the creature, rather than the Creator, who is forever blessed. Amen.


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For this, God delivered them over to shameful passions; for even their females changed the natural use unto what is contrary to nature.


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In like manner, also, the males, leaving the natural use of the female, burned in their lust toward one another, males with males, working out that which is shameful, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was due.


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And as they did not like to acknowledge God, God delivered them over to an undiscerning mind, to work those things which are not suitable;


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being filled with all injustice, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, bad habits, whisperers,


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revilers, haters of God, insolent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil pleasure, disobedient to parents,


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Some, who clearly understand the law of God, (that they who practice such things are worthy of death,) not only do these things, but even commend those who practice them.


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Wherefore, you are inexcusable, O man! whosoever you are, who condemn: for in condemning another, you pass sentence upon yourself; because you, who condemn, practice the same things.


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And do you think this, O man, who condemn those who practice such things, and yet do the same, that you shall escape the sentence of God?


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Or do you despise the riches of his goodness and forbearance and long-suffering; not acknowledging that the goodness of God invites you to a reformation?


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But according to your obdurate and impenitent heart, you treasure up to yourself wrath, against a day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;


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


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Affliction and great distress shall come upon every soul of man who works evil; first of the Jews, and also of the Greek.


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As many, therefore, as have sinned without law, shall also perish without law; and as many as have sinned under law, shall be condemned by law:


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When, therefore, the Gentiles, who have not a law, do by nature the things of the law, are a law to themselves:


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who show plainly the work of the law, written on their hearts; their conscience bearing witness, and also their reasonings between one another, when they accuse or excuse each other.


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and instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the representation of knowledge and of truth in the law:


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you, then, who teach another; do you not teach yourself? You who proclaim, Do not steal; do you steal?


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You who command, Do not commit adultery; do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols; do you rob temples?


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Now circumcision indeed profits, if you practice law; but if you be a transgressor of law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision.


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And if the uncircumcision keep the precepts of the law, will not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?


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And will not the uncircumcision which by nature fulfills the law, condemn you, a transgressor of law, though in possession of the scriptures and circumcision?


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For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly; neither is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh:


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but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is of the heart, in the spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men, but from God.


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«By no means. But let God be true, and every man a liar; as it is written,» 'That thou mayest be justified in thy sayings, and mayest overcome when thou judgest.'


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But if our unrighteousness display the justice of God, what shall we say? Is not God unjust, who inflicts vengeance? (I speak after the manner of men.)


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Still, if the truth of God has, through my lie, more abounded to his glory, why am I also yet condemned as a sinner-


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and not because we have done evil that good may come, as we are slandered, and as some affirm that we teach-whose condemnation is just?


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What then? Do we excel? Not at all. For we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles to be all under sin.


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They are all gone out of the way: they are together become unprofitable. There is none that does good; there is not so much as one.


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Their throat is an open sepulcher: with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:


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Now we know that whatever things the law says, it says to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and that all the world may be liable to punishment before God.


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Wherefore, by works of law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight; because through law is the knowledge of sin.


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But now, a justification which is of God, without law, is exhibited, attested by the law and the prophets:


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even a justification which is of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, for all, and upon all, who believe; for there is no difference.


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whom God has set forth a propitiatory, through faith in his blood, for a demonstration of his own justice, in passing by the sins which were before committed, through the forbearance of God:


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for a demonstration, also, of his justice in the present time, in order that he may be just, when justifying him, who is of the faith of Jesus.


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Seeing there is one God, he will justify the circumcision by faith, and the uncircumcision through the faith.


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«For what says the scripture?» 'And Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him for righteousness.'


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But to him who does not work, but believes on him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.


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In like manner, also, David describes the blessedness of the man to whom God counts righteousness without works: saying,


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Does this blessedness come, then, on the circumcision only, or on the uncircumcision, also? for we affirm that faith was counted to Abraham for righteousness.


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How, then, was it counted? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.


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And he received the mark of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness of the faith, which he had whilst uncircumcised; that he might be the father of all uncircumcised believers, that righteousness might be counted even to them.


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And a father to the circumcised, who are not only circumcised, but who also walk in the footsteps of the faith of our father Abraham, which he had whilst in uncircumcision.


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For the promise to Abraham, that he should be the heir of a world, was not to him, nor to his seed, through law; but through a righteousness of faith.


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For this reason, it is through faith that it might be by favor, that the promise might be sure to all the seed: not to that only which is of the law; but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all:


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«(as it is written,'Surely a father of many nations have I constituted you,') in the presence of him whom he believed, even of God, who makes alive the dead, and calls things which exist not, as though they existed.»


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«He, contrary to hope, believed with hope, that he should be a father of many nations, according to what was spoken,» 'So shall your seed be.'


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And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body now dead, being about a hundred years old; neither the deadness of Sarah's womb.


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Therefore, against the promise of God, through unbelief, he did not dispute; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God.


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through whom we have had introduction, also, by faith, into this favor in which we stand, and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God:


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And this hope makes not ashamed: because the love of God is diffused in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, that is given us.


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Now, scarcely for a just man will one die, though for a good man one would, perhaps, even dare to die.


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


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And not only so, but we even rejoice in God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, though whom we have now received reconciliation.


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Wherefore, as sin entered into the world by one man, in whom all sinned, and by sin, death: thus death came upon all men.


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Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them who had not sinned, in the manner of Adam's transgression, who is a type of him that was to come.


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But not as the offense, so also is the free gift: for if by the offense of the one, the many died; much more the favor of God, and the gift by favor, which is of the one man, Jesus Christ, has abounded to the many.


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And not as through one who sinner, is the free gift: for the sentence was from one to condemnation; but the free gift is from many offenses to justification.


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For if by the offense of the one, death reigned by the one; much more shall they who receive the abundance of favor, and of the gift of justification, reign in life, by the one-Jesus Christ.)


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Now, therefore, as through one offense, the sentence came upon all men to condemnation: so, also, by one act of obedience, the sentence came upon all men to justification of life.


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For, as through the disobedience of the one, the many were constituted sinners; so, by the obedience of the one, the many shall be constituted righteous.


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Moreover, the law supervened, that the offense might abound; but where sin abounded, favor superabounded-


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that as sin reigned by death, so, also, favor might reign by justification to eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord.


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Do you not know, that as many as have been immersed into Jesus Christ, have been immersed into his death?


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We have been buried, then, together with him, by the immersion into death: that like as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father; so we also shall walk in newness of life.


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For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death; we shall then, also, certainly be in the likeness of his resurrection.


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Knowing this, that our old man has been crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that we should not any longer serve sin:


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Knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies not again; death has no longer dominion over him:


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Neither present your members as instruments of unrighteousness, to sin; but present yourselves to God, as alive from the dead; and your members as instruments of righteousness, to God.


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Do you not know, that to whom you present yourselves servants, by obedience; his servants you are whom you thus obey; whether of sin into death, or of obedience into righteousness?


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But, thanks to God, that though you were the servants of sin; yet you have heartily obeyed that model of doctrine to which you have been given up.


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(I speak after the manner of men, because of the infirmity of your flesh.) Wherefore, as you have presented your members servants to uncleanness, and to iniquity, to work iniquity; so present now your members, servants to righteousness, to work holiness.


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And what fruit had you, then, from these things of which you are now ashamed? for the reward of these things is death.


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But now, being set free from sin, and having become servants of God, you have your fruit to holiness: and the end, everlasting life.


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For the wages of sin is death: but the gracious gift of God is everlasting life, by Christ Jesus our Lord.


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Do you not know, brethren, (for I speak to them who know law,) that the law has dominion over a man as long as he lives?


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For the married woman is bound, by law, to her husband as long as he lives; but if the husband be dead, she is released from the law of her husband.


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If, then, indeed, while her husband lives, she be married to another, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from the law; so that she is not an adulteress, though married to another husband.


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Thus, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law, by the body of Christ, that you may be married to another, who rose from the dead, that we may bring forth fruit to God.


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For when we were in the flesh, our sinful passions which were through the law, wrought effectually in our members, to bring forth fruit to death.


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But now, having died with Christ, we are released from the law, by which we were held in bondage; so that we may serve God in newness of spirit, and not in oldness of the letter.


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«What shall we say, then? Is the law sin? By no means. Indeed, I had not known sin, except by the law. For I had not known even inordinate desire, unless the law had said,» 'You shall not lust.'


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But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of inordinate desire: for without the law sin is dead.


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Has, then, that which is good become death to me? By no means. But sin becomes death, in order that it might manifest itself, causing death to me by that which is good: so that sin, (through the commandment,) might be an exceedingly great sinner.


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For that which I do, I do not approve; since it is not what I desire that I do: but I do that which I hate.


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For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, there dwells no good thing: for to desire what is good, is easy for me; but to do it, I find difficult.


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but I perceive another law, in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and making me a captive to the law of sin, which is in my members.


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I thank God, through Jesus Christ our Lord! Wherefore, then, indeed, I myself serve, with my mind, the law of God; but with the flesh, the law of sin.


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For what the law could not accomplish in that it was weak through the flesh; God sending his own Son, in the likeness of sinful flesh, accomplished; and by an offering for sin, condemned sin in the flesh.


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That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled by us, who walk not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.


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Now, they who live according to the flesh, mind the things of the flesh; and they who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.


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because the mind of the flesh is enmity toward God: for, to the law of God it is not subject; neither, indeed, can be.


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Now, you are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit; because the Spirit of God dwells in you. But, if any one have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.


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And if Christ be in you, the body, indeed, is dead, with respect to sin; but the Spirit is life, with respect to righteousness.


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For, if the Spirit of him, who raised up Jesus from the dead, dwell in you; he who raised up Christ from the dead, will make even your mortal bodies alive, through his Spirit, who dwells in you.


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Wherefore, if you live according to the flesh, you shall die; but if, through the Spirit, you put to death the deeds of the body, you shall live.


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For you have not received the spirit of bondage, again, to fear; but you have received the spirit of adoption, by which we cry, Abba, Father.


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And if children, then heirs; heirs, indeed, of God, and joint heirs with Christ; if, indeed, we suffer with him, that with him also we may be glorified.


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However, I esteem not the sufferings of the present time, as worthy of comparison with the glory, which is hereafter to be revealed in us.


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For the creature was subjected to frailty, (not of its own choice, but by him who has subjected it,) in hope,


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that it may be liberated, from the bondage of a perishing state, and brought into the glorious liberty of the sons of God.


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Besides, we know, that the whole creation sigh together, and travail in anguish till the present time.


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And not only they, but ourselves also, who have the first fruit of the Spirit; even we ourselves, groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption; namely, the redemption of our body.


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For even we are saved by hope. Now, hope that is attained, is not hope; for who can hope for that which he enjoys?


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In like manner, also, the Spirit helps our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for, as we ought; however, the Spirit himself intercedes for us, in sighs, which can not be uttered.


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But he who searches the hearts, knows the mind of the Spirit; that, according to the will of God, he makes intercession for the saints.


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Besides, we know, that all things work together for good, to them who love God; to them, who are called according to his purpose.


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For, whom he foreknew, he also predestinated to be conformed to the image of his Son; that he might be the first born among many brethren.


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Moreover, whom he predestinated, them he also called; and whom he called, them he also justified; and whom he justified, them he also glorified.


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He, certainly, who spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all; how will he not, with him, also, graciously give us all things?


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Who is he, who condemns them? It is Christ, who died; or rather, who has risen: who also, is at the right hand of God; and who makes intercession for us?


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Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will affliction, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?


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«As it is written,» 'Truly, for thy sake, we are put to death 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; neither angels, nor principalities; nor powers; neither things present, nor to come;


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neither height, nor depth; nor any created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.


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I speak the truth in Christ, I do not speak falsely, my conscience bearing me witness, in the Holy Spirit,


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for my brethren, -my kinsmen, according to the flesh; (for I also was, myself, wishing to be accursed from Christ:)


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who are Israelites; whose are the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the rites of service, and the promises;


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whose are the fathers; and from whom the Messiah descended, according to the flesh; who is over all, God blessed forever. Amen.


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Now, it is not to be supposed that the promise of God has failed; for all the descendants of Israel are not Israel.


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«Neither are they all children because they are the seed of Abraham; but» 'In Isaac shall your seed be called.'


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That is, the children of the flesh are not the children of God; but the children of the promise are counted for seed.


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«For the word of promise was this,» 'According to this time, I will come, and Sarah shall have a son.'


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(they, indeed, not being yet born; neither having done any good or evil; that the purpose of God might stand, by an election; not on account of works, but of him who calls:)


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«By no means. For he says to Moses,» 'I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy; and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.'


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«Besides, the scripture says to Pharaoh,» 'Even for this same purpose I have roused you up; that I might show, in you, my power; and that my name might be published through all the earth.'


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Nay, but, O man, who are you, who reply against God? Shall the thing formed, say to him who formed it, Why have you made me thus?


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Has not the potter a just power over the clay, to make of the same lump one vessel to honor, and another to dishonor?


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Yet God, willing to show his wrath, and make know his power, did bear, with much long-suffering, the vessels of wrath, fitted for destruction.


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And that he might make known the riches of his glory, on the vessels of mercy, which he had before prepared for glory:


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«Even as he says, by Hosea,» 'They shall be called my people, who were not my people; and she beloved, who was not beloved.'


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«And it shall come to pass, in the place where it was said to them, You are not my people; there they shall be called, Sons of the living God.»


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«Besides, Isaiah cries, concerning Israel,» 'Through the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, only a remnant shall be saved.'


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«For he was about to complete and hasten his work in righteousness; for a short work will the Lord make upon this land.»


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«And, as Isaiah has said before,» 'Unless the Lord of hosts had left us a seed, we should have become as Sodom, and been made like to Gomorrah.'


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What shall we say, then, that the Gentiles, who did not seek after justification, have attained justification, even a justification which is by faith?


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Why? Because they sought it not by faith; but, as it were, by works of law: for they stumbled, at the stone of stumbling.


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«As it is written,» 'Behold, I place in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whosoever believes on it, shall not be ashamed.'


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for being ignorant of God's justification, and seeking to establish their own, they have not submitted to the justification which is of God.


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«Now Moses describes the justification which is by the law, that» 'the man who does these things shall live by them.'


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But the justification which is by faith speaks thus: Say not in your heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? that is, to bring Christ down.


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But what does it say? (The word is near you-in your mouth, and in your heart; that is, the word of faith which we preach:)


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that if you will openly confess with your mouth, that Jesus is Lord, and believe with your heart that God raised him from the dead, you shall be saved.


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(For with your heart man believes to justification: and with your mouth confession is made to salvation.)


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Indeed, there is no distinction either of Jew or of Greek: for the same Lord of all, is right toward all who call upon him.


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But how shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him, of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear, without a proclaimer?


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«and how shall proclaim, unless they be sent? as it is written,» 'How beautiful are the feet of them, who bring the joyful message of peace-of them, who bring the joyful news of good things!'


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«Nevertheless, all have not obeyed the gospel; for Isaiah says,» 'Lord, who has believed our report?'


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«But I ask, have they not heard? Yes, indeed,» 'Their sound has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.'


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«I ask again, has not Israel known? First, Moses says,» 'I will provoke you to jealousy by that, which is no nation; -by a foolish nation I will enrage you.'


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«Besides, Isaiah is very bold when he says,» 'I am found by them, who did not seek me: I am shown to them, who did not ask for me.'


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«But concerning Israel he says,» 'All the day long, have I stretched forth my hand to a disobedient and rebelling people.'


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I say, then, has God cast off his people? By no means. For, even I am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.


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God has not cast off his people whom formerly he acknowledged. Do you not know, what the scripture says to Elijah; when he complains to God against Israel, saying,


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«Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and have digged down thy altars, and I am let alone, and they seek my life?»


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«But what says the answer to God to him?» 'I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to Baal.'


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What then? The thing Israel earnestly seeks, that he has not obtained. But the election has obtained it, and the rest are blinded.


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«As it is written,» 'God has given them a spirit of deep sleep; eyes not seeing, and ears not hearing, until this present day.'


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«And David says,» 'Let their table be for a snare, and a trap, and a stumbling block, and a recompense to them.'


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I ask, then, have they stumbled, that they may fall? By no means. But, through their fall, salvation is given to the Gentiles, to excite them to emulation.


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Now, if the fall of them be the riches of the world; and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fullness?


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Now, I speak to you, Gentiles, (and inasmuch as I am the Apostle to the Gentiles, I do honor to my ministry,)


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For, if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world; what will the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?


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Moreover, if the first fruit be holy, the mass is also holy; and if the root be holy, so are the branches.


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Now, if some of the branches were broken off, and you who are a wild olive, are engrafted among them, and are become a joint partaker of the root and fatness of the olive;


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Behold, then, the goodness and severity of God! Toward them who fell, severity: but toward you, goodness, if you continue in his goodness: otherwise, you also shall be cut off.


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And even they, if they continued not in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again.


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For if you were cut off from the olive, by nature wild, and were contrary to nature, grafted into the good olive; how much rather shall those who are the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive?


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For, brethren, that you may not be, wise in your own conceits, I would not have you ignorant of this secret, that blindness, in part, has happened to Israel, till the fullness of the Gentiles come in.


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«And so all Israel shall be saved; as it is written,» 'The deliverer shall come out of Zion, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob.'


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With respect to the gospel, indeed, they are enemies, on your account: but with respect to the election, they are beloved on account of the fathers.


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Besides, as you, in times past, have disobeyed God, yet now have obtained mercy through their disobedience;


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Oh that depth of the riches and of the wisdom and of the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!


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Wherefore, brethren, I beseech you, by the tender mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.


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And be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind; that you may approve the will of God, which is good, and acceptable, and perfect.


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Also, by the favor which is given to me, I charge every one of you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think modestly, as God has distributed to every one a portion of his faith.


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Having, then, gifts, differing according to the favor which is given to us-if prophecy act according to the measure of faith-


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and the exhorter, in exhortation. Let him who distributes act with disinterestedness-him that presides, with assiduity-him that shows mercy, with cheerfulness.


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Be of the same disposition toward one another. Do not care for high things; but accommodate yourselves to those which are humble. Be not wise in your own conceits.


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«Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but give place to the wrath of God; for it is written,» 'Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.'


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Therefore, if your enemy hunger, give him food: if he thirst, give him drink: for by doing this, you will heap coals of fire on his head.


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Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. For there is no power but from God; and those that exist are placed under God.


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Wherefore, he who sets himself in opposition to the power, resists the ordinance of God: and they who resist shall procure punishment to themselves.


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For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Would you, then, not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and you shall have praise of the same.


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For the ruler is a servant of God for good to you. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid; because he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is a servant of God, a revenger to inflict wrath on him who works evil.


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Wherefore, it is necessary for you to be subject, not only on account of punishment, but also on account of conscience.


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For this reason, therefore, you pay taxes also to them, because they are public ministers of God, attending continually to this very business.


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Render, therefore, to all their dues; to whom tax is due, tax; to whom custom, custom; to whom fear, fear; to whom honor, honor.


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«For this,'You shall not commit adultery, You shall not kill, You shall not covet'; and if there be any other commandment, it is summed up in this precept, namely,» 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'


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Further, knowing the season, that it is now the hour for us to awake out of sleep. (For now our salvation is nearer than when we believed:


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the night is far advanced, and the day is at hand.) Let us, therefore, put off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.


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Let us walk about decently, as in the day, not in revellings and drunkenness; not in chamberings and lasciviousness; not in strife and envy.


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Let not him who eats, despise him who eats not; and let not him who eats not, condemn him who eats: for God has received him.


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Who are you that condemn another man's servant? By his own master he stands or falls; and he shall be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand.


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One, indeed, thinks one day more holy than another: but another thinks every day alike. Let every one be convinced in his own mind.


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He who observes the day, observe it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day to the Lord, does not observe it: he who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks.


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But whether we live, we live to the Lord; and whether we die, we die to the Lord: whether we live, therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.


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For to this end, Christ both dies and rose, and lives again, that he might rule over both the dead and the living.


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But you, why do you condemn your brother? and you, also, why do you despise your brother? for we shall all be placed before the judgment seat of Christ.


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«For it is written,» 'As I live, says the Lord, surely every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.'


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Let us, therefore, no more judge one another; but let us decide, rather, not to lay an occasion of stumbling before a brother, or a cause of falling.


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I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself; yet, to him who accounts anything to be unclean, to that man it is unclean.


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Now, if your brother be hurt through your meat, you no longer walk as love requires. Do not destroy him with your meat for whom Christ died.


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For the Reign of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness and peace, and joy, in the Holy Spirit.


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Do not, for the sake of meat, destroy the work of God. All meats, indeed, are clean; but that meat is hurtful to the man who eats to occasion stumbling.


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It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor to do anything by which your brother is made to stumble, or to fall, or is weakened.


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You have faith: keep it to yourself, in the sight of God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves.


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For he who discerns a difference, between meats is condemned, if he eat; because he eats not from faith: for what is not from faith is sin.


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«For even Christ sought not his own pleasure: but, as it is written,» 'The reproaches of them who reproached you, have fallen on me.'


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Now whatever things were before written, were written for our instruction: that through the patience and admonition of the scriptures, we might have hope.


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Now, may the God who gives patience and admonition, give to you mutual unity of sentiment, according to Christ Jesus.


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That with one mind, and with one voice, you may glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.


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Now, I affirm that Jesus Christ became a minister of the circumcision on account of the truth of God, in order to confirm the promises made to the fathers;


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«and that the Gentiles might praise God on account of mercy: as it is written,» 'For this cause I will glorify thee among the Gentiles, and sing to thy name.'


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«And again, Isaiah says, to be a leader of the Gentiles; upon him shall the Gentiles place their hope.»


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Now, may the God of hope fill you with all joy, and peace, in believing; in order that you may abound in that hope, through the power of the Holy Spirit.


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However, my brethren, I myself am persuaded concerning you, that you also are full of goodness, being filled with all knowledge; able, also, to instruct one another.


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But, I have written the more boldly to you, brethren; partly, as calling things to your remembrance through the favor which is given me of God.


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In order to my being a minister of Jesus Christ, among the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that there might be an offering of the Gentiles most acceptable; being sanctified by the Holy Spirit.


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But, I will not dare to speak anything of what Christ has not wrought; but, of what he has wrought, by me, in order to the obedience of the Gentiles in word and deed;


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by the power of signs and wonders, and by the power of the Holy Spirit: so that from Jerusalem, and round about, as far as Illyricum, I have fully declared the gospel of Christ;


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and so, also, that I was strongly desirous to declare the gospel where Christ was not named, that I might not build on another's foundation.


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«But, as it is written,» 'They shall see, to whom nothing has been told concerning him; and they who have not heard, shall understand.'


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But now, having no more place in these parts, and having for many years a strong desire to come to you,


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whensoever I go toward Spain, I hope, as I pass on, to see you, and to be brought on my way thither by you, when I shall first, in some measure, be satisfied with your company.


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for Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor of the saints who are in Jerusalem.


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They have been pleased, indeed; and their debtors they are: for if the Gentiles have partaken of their spiritual things, they ought certainly to minister to them in temporal things.


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Wherefore, having finished this affair, and having sealed to them this fruit, I will go from thence by you into Spain.


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Now, I beseech you, brethren, by the Lord Jesus Christ, and by the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me, by prayers for me to God;


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that I may be delivered from the disobedient in Judea; and that my service, which I am performing for Jerusalem, may be acceptable to the saints:


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that you may receive her in the Lord, as becomes saints, and assist her, in whatever business she may have need of you: for, indeed, she has been a helper of many, and especially of me.


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These persons, for my life, laid down their own neck; to whom not only I give thanks, but even all the congregations of the Gentiles.


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Likewise, salute the congregation which is in their house. Salute Epenetus, my beloved, who is the first fruit of Asia to Christ.


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Salute Andronicus, and Junias, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the Apostles, and who were in Christ before me.


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Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labor in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord.


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Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them.


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Now, I beseech you, brethren, mark them who make separations and occasions of falling, contrary to the doctrine which you have learned; and avoid them.


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For they who are such, do not serve out Lord Jesus, but their own belly; and by flattery and fair speeches, deceive the hearts of the simple.


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Now your obedience is reported to all men. I therefore rejoice on your account; nevertheless, I wish you, indeed, to be wise with respect to good; and simple with respect to evil.


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May the God of peace bruise Satan under your feet soon! The favor of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.


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Gaius, my host, and of the whole congregation, salutes you. Erastus, the chamberlain of the city, salutes you, and Quartus, your brother.


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Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel, and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the secret, concealed in the times of the ages,


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(but is now made manifest by the prophetic writings, and by the commandment of the eternal God is made known to all the Gentiles, in order to the obedience of faith:)


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to the congregation of God which is in Corinth, sanctified by Christ Jesus, called saints; with all, in every place, who invoke the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours:


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I give thanks to my God always in respect of you; on account of the favor of God, which was given to you through Jesus Christ;


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Now, brethren, I beseech you by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no schisms among you; but that you be perfectly united in the same mind, and in the same judgment.


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For it has been declared to me concerning you, my brethren, by some of the family of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.


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And I mention this, that each of you says, I, indeed, am of Paul, and I of Apollos, and I of Cephas, and I of Christ.


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For Christ did not send me to immerse, but to proclaim the glad tidings; not, however, with wisdom of speech, that the cross of Christ might not be deprived of its efficacy.


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For this doctrine (the doctrine of the cross) is, indeed, foolishness to the destroyed; but to us, who are saved, it is the power of God.


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«Therefore, it is written,» 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will set aside the knowledge of the prudent.'


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Where is the wise man? where the scribe? where the disputers of this world? Has not God shown the wisdom of this world to be folly?


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For, when, in the wisdom of God, the world, through wisdom, knew not God, it pleased God, through the foolishness of this proclamation, to save them who believe.


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yet we proclaim a crucified Christ: to the Jews, indeed, a stumbling block, and to the Greeks foolishness:


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For you see the calling of you, brethren, that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble;


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but God has chosen the foolish of the world to put the wise to shame; and the weak God has chosen to put the strong to shame;


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the ignoble of the world, and the despised, God has chosen; nay, those that are nothing, to reduce to nothing those that are;


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Of him, therefore, you are in Christ Jesus, who is become to us wisdom from God, justification, also, and sanctification, and redemption.


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Now, when I cam to you, brethren, I came not with excellency of speech, and of wisdom, declaring to you the testimony of God.


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My discourse, also, and my proclamation, were not with persuasive words of human wisdom; but with the demonstration of the Spirit, and of power.


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However, we speak wisdom among the perfect: but not the wisdom of this world; neither of the rulers of this world, who are to be brought to nothing.


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But we speak the mysterious wisdom of God, which has been till now concealed; which God declared before the time of the ages, should be spoken to our glory.


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Which none of the rulers of this world knew: for if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.


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«For, as it is written,» 'Those things eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and into the heart of man have not entered, which God has prepared for them who love him.'


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But God has revealed them to us by his Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.


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For who, of men, knows the thoughts of a man, except the spirit of man which is in him: so, also, the thoughts of God no man knows, but the Spirit of God.


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Now, we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which comes from God, that we might know the things which are gifted to us by God.


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Which things, also, we speak, not in words, taught by human wisdom; but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual things in spiritual words.


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Now, an animal man receives not the thing of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness to him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually examined.


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For what animal man has known the mind of the Lord, who will instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.


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Now, I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual, but as to fleshly men, even as to babes in Christ.


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Milk I gave you-not meat; for you were not then able to receive it: nay, neither yet now are you able, because you are still fleshly.


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For, whereas, among you, envying, and strife, and divisions subsist; are you not fleshly, and walk after the manner of men?


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For who is Paul, and who is Apollos; but ministers, by whom you have believed, even as the Lord has given to each?


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However, the planter and the waterer are one, and each shall receive his proper reward, according to his proper labor.


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According to the favor of God, which is given to me as a skillful architect, I have laid the foundation, and another builds upon it. But let every one take heed how he builds on it.


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every one's work shall be made manifest: for the say will make it plain, because it is revealed by fire; and so the fire will try every one's work, of what sort it is.


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If the work of any one shall be burnt, he will suffer loss: himself, however, shall be saved, yet so as through a fire.


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If any one destroy the temple of God, him will God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.


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Let no one deceive himself. If any one among you think to be wise in this age, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.


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«For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God; for it is written,» 'He entangled the wise in their own craftiness.'


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whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come-all are yours;


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Therefore, to me it is a very small matter that I be condemned by you, or by human judgment, seeing I do not condemn myself.


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For I am conscious to myself of no fault. However, I am not by this justified; but he who judges me is the Lord.


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Wherefore, do not, before the time, pass any judgment, till the Lord come; who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and lay open the counsels of the hearts; and then praise shall be to every one from God.


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Now, these things, brethren, I have figuratively applied to myself, and Apollos, for your sakes, that by us you may learn not to esteem teachers above what has been written, that no one of you may, on account of one teacher, be puffed up against another.


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Besides, who makes you to differ? For what have you which you did not receive? And now, if you did receive it, why do you boast as not receiving it?


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Now you are filled! now you are become rich! you have reigned without it! and I wish, indeed, you had reigned, that we also might reign with you.


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For I think that God has set forth us, the Apostles, last, as persons appointed to death; because we are made a spectacle to the world, even to angels, and to men.


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We are fools on account of Christ; but you are wise in Christ: we are weak, but you are strong: you are honored, but we are despised.


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To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwelling place,


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when defamed, we beseech: when we are become as the purgations of the world, the filth of all things until now.


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For, though you have ten thousand teachers in Christ, yet you have not many fathers; for, to Christ Jesus, through the gospel, I have begotten you.


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For this purpose I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord: he will put you in mind of my ways, which are in Christ, even as I teach everywhere, in every congregation.


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But I will come to you soon, if the Lord will, and shall know, not the speech of them who are puffed up, but the power.


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It is generally reported that there is incest among you; and such incest as is not even among the heathens-that one has his father's wife.


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And you are puffed up, and have not rather bewailed, so that he who has done this work might be taken from among you.


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Wherefore, I, indeed, as absent in the body yet present in spirit, have already, as present, judged him who committed this act.


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My sentence is this: You being assembled, my spirit also being with you; in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, with the power of the Lord Jesus Christ,


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deliver this very person up to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.


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Cleanse out, therefore, the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, seeing you are without leaven; for even our passover, Christ is sacrificed for us.


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Therefore, let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness: but with unleavened sincerity and truth.


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but I did not mean in general the fornicators of this world, the avaricious, the rapacious, or the idolaters; seeing, then, indeed, you must go out of the world.


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But now I write to you, if any one, called a brother, be a fornicator, or a covetous person, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; not to associate, not even to eat, with such a person.


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For what have I to do to pronounce sentence on them also who are without? Do not you judge them who are within?


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Dare any of you, having a matter against another, be judged by the unrighteous, and not by the saints?


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Do you not know that the saints are to judge with world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you unworthy to decide your petty causes?


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If, then, you have the cognizance of such matters, why do you set those to judge who are of no account in the congregation?


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For shame to you I say it! So, then, there is not among you a wise man; not even one, who shall be able to decide between his brethren!


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Now, therefore, indeed, there is plainly a fault in you, that you have law-suits with one another. Why do you not rather bear the being defrauded?


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Do you not know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor catamites, nor sodomites,


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nor thieves, nor misers, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.


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And such were some of you; but you are washed, but you are sanctified, but you are justified, by the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.


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All meats are lawful for me to eat, but all are not proper: all meats are lawful for me to eat; but I will not be enslaved by any meat.


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Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats; however, God will destroy both it and them. Now, the body was not made for uncleanness, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body:


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Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall, I, then, take the members of Christ and make them the members of a harlot? By no means.


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«What! do you not know that he who is strongly attached to a harlot is one body? for he says,» 'The two shall be one flesh.'


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Flee uncleanness. Every sin which a man commits, is without the body: but he who commits uncleanness, sins against his own body.


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What! do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have from God?


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Besides, you are not your own; for you are bought with a price: therefore, with your body glorify God.


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Nevertheless, on account of uncleanness, let every man have a wife of his own, and let every woman have her own husband.


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Let the husband fulfill his obligations to his wife: and in like manner, also, the wife to the husband.


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The wife has not the command of her own person, but the husband: and in like manner, also, the husband has not the command of his own person, but the wife.


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Deprive not one another, unless, perhaps, by consent, for a time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; and do you come again together, that Satan may not tempt you through your incontinency.


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that I wish all men to be as I myself am. However, each has a proper gift from God; one, indeed, after this manner, and another after that.


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I say, to the unmarried men, and to the widows, it is good for them if they can remain even as I do.


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Yet, if they can not live continently, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to be in pain.


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Now, those who have married I charge, (yet not I, but the Lord;) let not a wife depart from her husband:


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but if she even depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband; and a husband must not put away his wife.


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But the rest I command, not the Lord; if any brother have an infidel wife, who herself is well pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away.


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And a woman who has an infidel husband, who himself is well pleased to dwell with her, let her not put him away.


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For the infidel husband is sanctified by the wife, and the infidel wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise, certainly, your children were unclean; whereas, indeed, they are holy.


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But if the infidel depart, let him depart: the brother or the sister is not in bondage with such; but God has called us to peace.


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For how do you know, O wife! whether you shall save your husband? And how do you know, O husband! whether you shall save your wife?


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But as God has distributed to every one, and as the Lord has called every one, so let him walk; and so, in all the congregations, I ordain.


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Has any circumcised one been called? Let him not be uncircumcised. Has any one been called in uncircumcision? Let him not be circumcised.


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Were you called, being a bondman? Be not careful to be made free. Yet, if you can be made free, prefer it.


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For a bondman, who is called by the Lord, is the Lord's freedman. In like manner, also, a freedman who is called, is Christ's bondman.


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Now, concerning virgins, I have not a commandment of the Lord: but, I give my judgment, as having obtained mercy of the Lord, to be faithful.


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I declare this, then, to be good, on account of the present distress; namely, that it is good for a man who is unmarried, to continue so.


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And yet, if you marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she has not sinned: nevertheless, affliction in the flesh such shall have; but I spare you.


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Now, this I say, brethren, the time being short, it remains that both they who have wives, should be as not having wives;


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and they who weep, as not weeping; and they who rejoice, as not rejoicing; and they who buy, as not possessing;


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Besides, I would have you without anxious care. The unmarried man anxiously cares for the things of the Lord; how he shall please the Lord.


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There is the like difference between the wife and the virgin. The unmarried woman anxiously cares for the things of the Lord; that she may be holy, both in body and spirit: but she who is married, anxiously cares for the things of the world; how she shall please her husband.


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Now, this I say, for your own benefit; not with a view to lay a snare for you, but for that which is becoming, and best adapted to a steady, uninterrupted adherence to the Lord.


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But if any one thinks he acts improperly toward his virgin, if she be above age, unmarried, and so needs to be married; let him do what she inclines, he does not sin: let such marry.


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But he who stands firm in his heart; not having necessity, and has power concerning his own will; and has determined this in his own heart, to keep his virgin, does well.


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So, then, even he who gives her in marriage, does well; but he who gives her not in marriage, does better.


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A wife is bound, as long as her husband lives; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she pleases; only in the Lord.


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But she is happier if she continue as she is. This is my opinion; and I think I have the Spirit of God.


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Now, concerning things sacrificed to idols, we know, (for we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.


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However, if any one is confident of knowing anything, he has known nothing, yet, as he ought to know.


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Concerning, then, the eating of things sacrificed to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world; and that there is no other God but one.


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For though, indeed, there are nominal gods, whether in heaven or on earth; (as, indeed, there are many gods, and many lords;)


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yet, to us, there is but one God, the Father; of whom all things are, and we for him: and one Lord Jesus Christ; by whom all things are, and we by him.


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However, this knowledge is not in all: for some, till this hour, in the conscience of the idol, eat it, as a thing sacrificed to the idol; and 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; neither, if we do not eat, are we the worse.


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For if any one see you, who have knowledge, at table in an idol's temple, will not the conscience of him that is weak, be encouraged to eat things sacrificed to idols?


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Am I not an Apostle? Am I not a freeman? Have I not seen Jesus Christ, our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord?


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If to others I am not an Apostle, yet, to you, at least, I am; for the seal of my apostleship, are you, in the Lord.


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Have we not liberty to lead about a sister wife, as the other Apostles, and the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?


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Who, at any time, serves in the wars, on his own charges? Who plants a vineyard, and does not eat the fruit of it? Or who feeds a flock, and does not eat of the milk of the flock?


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«For, in the law of Moses it is written,» 'You shall not muzzle the ox treading out the corn.' 'Does God take care of the oxen?'


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Or, does he command this chiefly for our sakes? For our sakes, certainly, it is written: because, he who plows, ought to plough in hope; and he who threshes in hope, ought to partake of his own hope.


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If we have sown for you spiritual things, is it a great matter, if we shall reap your carnal things?


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If others partake of this authority over you, ought not we, rather? Nevertheless, we have not used this power; but we bear all things, that we may not give any hindrance to the gospel of Christ.


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Do you not know that they who perform sacred offices, eat from the temple? Do not they who wait at the altar share with the altar?


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But I have used none of these privileges; neither have I written these things that it should be done to me: for it were good for me rather to die, than that any one should make my boasting void.


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For when I declared the gospel, I have nothing to boast of; because necessity is laud upon me: yes, woe awaits me if I declare not the gospel.


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Now, if I do this willingly, I have a reward; but, if against my will, still I am entrusted with the stewardship.


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What, then, is my reward? that, when declaring the gospel, I shall exhibit the gospel of Christ without charge, in order that I may not abuse my power in the gospel.


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For, though I be a freeman, with respect to all; I have made myself a servant to all, that I might gain the more.


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So, to the Jews, I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews: to those under the law, (though not under the law) as under the law, that I might gain those under the law:


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to those without law, as without law, (not being without law to God, but under law to Christ,) that I might gain those that are without law.


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To the weak, I became as weak, that I might gain the weak. To all, I have become all things, that, by all means, I might same some.


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Do you not know that they who run a race, all run, but one only receives the prize? So run, that you may lay hold of the prize?


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Now, every one who contends is temperate in all things: they, indeed, that they may receive a fading crown; but we, one that does not fade.


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but, I mortify my body, and keep it in subjection; lest, perhaps, having proclaimed to others, I myself should not be accepted.


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Now, I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea:


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and all did drink the same spiritual drink; (for they drank of the spiritual rock, which followed them, and that rock was Christ.)


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Nevertheless, with the greater part of them, God was not well pleased; for they were cast down in the wilderness.


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Now, these things have become types to us, in order that we should not be lusters after evil things, even as they lusted.


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«Neither be you idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written,» 'The people sat down to eat, and to drink, and rose up to dance.'


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Neither let us commit whoredom, as some of them committed whoredom, and fell, in one day, twenty-three thousand.


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Now, all these things happened to them as types; and are written for our admonition, on whom the ends of the ages are come.


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No trial has come upon you but such as belongs to man; and God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tried above what you are able, but will, with the trial, also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear.


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The cup of blessing, which we bless; is it not the joint participation of the blood of Christ? The loaf, which we break; is it not the joint participation of the body of Christ?


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Look at Israel after the flesh. Are not they, who eat of the sacrifices, joint partakers of the altar?


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No. But, that what the heathens sacrifice, they sacrifice to demons, and not to God. Now, I would not have you become joint partakers with the demons.


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You can not drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons: you can not partake of the table of the Lord, and of the table of demons.


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And if any of the unbelievers invite you, and you incline to go, whatever is set before you, eat; asking no question on account of conscience.


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But if any one say to you, This is a thing sacrificed to an idol; do not eat, on account of him who showed it, and of conscience.


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Now, I say conscience, not your own, but that of the other. But why is my liberty judged by another's conscience?


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Be no occasion of stumbling; neither to the Jews, nor to the Greeks, nor to the congregation of God.


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Even as I please all men in all things; not seeking my own advantage, but that of the many, that they may be saved.


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Now I praise you, brethren; because, in all things you remember me, and hold fast the traditions as I delivered them to you.


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But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.


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And every woman who prays, or prophesies, with her head uncovered, dishonors her head. Besides, it is one and the same, with being shaved.


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Wherefore, if a woman be not veiled, even let her be shorn: but, if it be shame for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be veiled.


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Now, man, indeed, ought not to cover the head, being the image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man.


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Does not even nature itself teach you that if, indeed, a man have long hair, it is a disgrace to him?


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However, if any one resolve to be contentious, we have no such custom; neither the congregations of God.


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Now, in declaring this, that you come together, not for the better, but for the worse, I do not praise you.


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For, first, indeed, I hear, that when you come together in the congregation, there are schisms among you; and I partly believe it.


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For, in eating it, every one takes first his own supper; and one, indeed, is hungry, and another is filled.


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What! have you not houses, to eat and to drink in? or, do you despise the congregation of God and put to shame those who have not? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you? In this, I praise you not.


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For I received from the Lord what, also, I delivered to you; that the Lord Jesus, in the night in which we was betrayed, took a loaf;


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and, having given thanks, he broke it; and said, <J>Take, eat; this is my body, which is broken for you: do this in remembrance of me.</J>


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In like manner, also, the cup, after he had supped; saying, <J>This cup is the new institution in my blood: do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.</J>


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For as often as you eat this loaf, and drink this cup, you openly publish the death of the Lord, until he come.


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So, then, whosoever shall eat this loaf, and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.


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For he who eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks judgment to himself, not distinguishing the body of the Lord.


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And if any one hunger, let him eat at home, that you may not come together for judgment. And the other things I will set in order when I come.


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Wherefore, I inform you, that no one, speaking by the Spirit of God, pronounces Jesus accursed; and, that no one can declare Jesus Lord, except by the Holy Spirit.


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For to one, indeed, is given, by the Spirit, the word of wisdom: and to another, the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit.


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and to another, the operations of powers: and to another, prophecy: and to another, diverse kinds of foreign tongues: and to another, the interpretation of foreign tongues.


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Now, all these does the one and the same Spirit effectively work; distributing to each, respectively, as he pleases.


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For, as the body is one, although it have many members; and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ.


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For, indeed, by one Spirit, we all have been immersed into one body; whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or freemen; and all have been made to drink of one Spirit.


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if the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it, for this, not of the body?


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And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it, for this, not of the body?


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If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?


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Therefore, the eye can not say to the hand, I have no need of you: nor, again, the head to the feet, I have no need of you.


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And those which we think are less honorable members of the body, around them we throw more abundant honor; and so our uncomely members have more abundant comeliness.


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But, our comely members have no need. However, God has tempered the body together; having given to the member which wants it, more abundant honor.


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That there may be no schism in the body; but, that the members may have the very same anxious care, one for another.


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So, whether one member suffer, all the members sympathize; or, one member be honored, all the members rejoice together.


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And these, indeed, God has placed in the congregation: first, Apostles; secondly, prophets; thirdly, teachers; next, powers; then, gifts of healing; helpers, directors, kinds of foreign languages.


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Though I could speak with the tongues of men, of angels, but have not love, I become as sounding brass, or a noisy cymbal.


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And though I have prophecy, and know all secrets, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.


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And though I spend all my goods in feeding the poor, and though I deliver my body to be burned, but have not love, I am nothing profited.


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does not behave itself unbecomingly; does not seek its own things; is not exasperated; does not imagine evil;


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Love never fails: but, whether prophecies, they will be out of use: or foreign languages, they shall cease: or science, it shall be abolished.


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When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I conceived as a child, I reasoned as a child. But when I became a man, I put away childish things.


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For now we seek through a glass obscurely; but then, face to face: now, I know in part; but then, I shall fully know, even as I am fully known.


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For he who speaks in a foreign language, speaks not to men, but to God; for no one understands him: nevertheless, by the Spirit he speaks secrets.


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He who speaks in a foreign language, edifies himself: but he who prophesies, edifies the congregation.


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I wish, indeed, that you all spoke in foreign languages; but rather that you prophesied: for greater is he who prophesies, than he who speaks in foreign languages, unless, indeed, he interpret, that the congregation may receive edification.


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For now, brethren, if I should come to you speaking in foreign languages, what shall I profit you, unless I shall speak to you intelligibly; either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophecy, or by doctrine?


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In like manner, things without life, giving sound; whether pipe, or harp; unless they give a difference to the notes, how shall it be known what is piped, or harped?


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So, also, you, unless with the tongue you give intelligible speech, how shall it be known what is spoken? Therefore, you will be speaking to the air.


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There are, perhaps, so many kinds of languages in the world, and none of them is without signification.


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Yet, if I do not know the meaning of the language, I shall be to him who speaks, a foreigner; and he who speaks, will be a foreigner to me.


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Wherefore, you, also, since you are earnestly desirous of spiritual gifts, seek them, that you may abound for the edification of the congregation.


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What, then, is to be done? I will pray with the Spirit, but I will pray also with understanding: I will sing with the Spirit; but I will sing also with understanding.


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Else, when you shall bless with the spirit, how shall he who fills up the place of the unlearned, say the Amen to your thanksgiving, since he knows not what you say?


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yet, in the congregation, I would rather speak five sentences with my meaning understood, that I may instruct others, also, than ten thousand sentences in a foreign language.


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Brethren, be not children in understanding; but in evil be children, and in understanding be full grown men.


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«In the law it is written,» 'Surely, with other tongues, and with other lips, I will speak to this people; yet not even then will they hearken to me, says the Lord.'


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So that foreign languages are for a sign; not to believers, but to unbelievers: but prophecy is for a sign; not to unbelievers, but to believers.


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If, then, the whole congregation be come together in one place, and all speak in foreign languages; and there come in unlearned persons, or unbelievers, will they not say that you are mad?


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But if all prophesy, and there come in an unbeliever, or an unlearned person, he is corrected by all, he is examined by all;


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the hidden things of his heart are made manifest: and so, falling on his face, he will worship God, publishing that God is actually among you.


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What is it, then, brethren? When you are come together, each of you has a psalm, has a discourse, has a foreign language, has a revelation, has an interpretation! Let all things be done to edification.


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And if any one speak in a foreign language, let it be by two, or at most by three sentences, and separately; and let one interpret.


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But if there be no interpreter, let him be silent in the congregation; yet let him speak to himself and to God.


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let your women be silent in the congregations: for it has not been permitted to them to speak, but they must be in subjection; as the law also commands.


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And if they wish to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands, at home: for it is an indecent thing for women to speak in the congregation.


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If any one be really a prophet, or spiritual person, let him acknowledge the things I write to you, that they are the commandments of the Lord.


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Now I declare to you, brethren, the glad tidings which I announced to; which, also, you have received, and in which you stand.


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By which, also, you are saved, if you retain those joyful tidings which I delivered to you; unless you believed to no purpose.


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For I delivered to you, among the first things, what also I received first-that Christ died for our sins, according to the scriptures;


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After that, he was seen by above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain to this present time, but some are fallen asleep.


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For I am the least of the Apostles; who am not worthy to be called an Apostle, because I persecuted the congregation of God.


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But, by the favor of God, I am what I am: and his favor which was bestowed on me, was not vain; for I have labored more abundantly than all of them; yet not I, but the favor of God, which is with me.


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Now, if it be proclaimed that Christ was raised from the dead, how is it that some among you say, that there is no resurrection of the dead?


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And if Christ has not been raised, vain, certainly, is our proclamation, and vain, also, is your faith.


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Besides, we are found even false witnesses concerning God; because we have witnessed, with respect to God, that he raised Christ; whom he raised not, if, indeed, the dead are not raised.


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But every one in his own rank: Christ the first fruit; they that are Christ's, afterward, at his coming.


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Then comes the end, when he shall resign the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have abolished all government, and all authority, and power.


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For he has subjected all things under his feet. Now when it says that all things are subjected, it is manifest that he is excepted, who has subjected all things to him.


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Now, when all things are subjected to him, then even the Son himself shall be subjected to him, who subjected all things to him, that God may be all in all.


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Otherwise, what shall they do, who are immersed for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why then are they immersed for them?


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I solemnly declare, by your rejoicing, what I also have in Christ Jesus our Lord, that every day I die.


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If, after the manner of men, I have fought with wild beasts at Ephesus, what is the advantage to me, if the dead rise not? Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.


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Awake up as you ought, and sin not; for some of you have not the knowledge of God. For shame to you, I say it.


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And as to what you sow, you do not show the body which shall be produced, but the naked grain; it may be of wheat, or of any other kind:


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All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is, indeed, one flesh of men, and another of beasts, and another of fishes, and another of fowls.


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And there are bodies celestial, and bodies terrestrial: but different, indeed, is the glory of the celestial, and that of the terrestrial.


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The glory of the sun is one, and the glory of the moon is another, and the glory of the stars another; moreover, star excels star in glory.


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it is sown an animal body-it is raised a spiritual body. There is an animal body, and there is a spiritual body.


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«For thus it is written,» 'The first man, Adam, was made a living soul-the last Adam, a vivifying spirit.'


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However, that was not first, which is spiritual; but that which is animal, and then that which is spiritual.


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And this I affirm, brethren, that flesh and blood can not inherit the kingdom of God; neither can corruption inherit incorruption.


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in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for it shall sound, and then the dead shall be raised incorruptible; and we shall be changed.


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«Now, when this corruptible body shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal body shall have put on immortality, then that saying of scripture shall be accomplished,» 'Death is swallowed up forever.'


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Wherefore, my beloved brethren, be stable, unmoved; abounding in the work of the Lord at all times, knowing that your labor is not vain in the Lord.


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Now, concerning the collection, which is for the saints; as I ordered the congregations of Galatia, so also so you.


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On the first say of the week, let each of you lay somewhat by itself, according as he may have prospered, putting it into the treasury; that when I come, there may be then no collection.


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And when I come, whomsoever you shall approve by letters, them I will send to carry your gift to Jerusalem.


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and, perhaps, I shall abide, and even winter with you, that you may send me forward, whithersoever I may go.


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Now, if Timothy be come, take care that he be among you without fear; for he works, even as I do, the work of the Lord.


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Wherefore, let no one despise him; but send him forward in peace, that he may come to me; for I expect him with the brethren.


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And with relation to our brother Apollos, I entreated him much to go to you with the brethren; but his inclination was not at all to go now, but he will go when he shall find a convenient season.


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You know the family of Stephanus, that it is the first fruit of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints.


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I entreat you, therefore, brethren, that you submit yourselves to such, and to every joint worker and laborer.


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I am glad of the coming of Stephanus, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus; for they have supplied your deficiency,


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The congregations of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the congregation which is in their house.


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Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, and Timothy, the brother, to the congregation of God which is in Corinth, together with all the saints who are in all Achaia:


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Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of tender mercies, and the God of all consolation!


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who comforts us in all out affliction, that we may be able to comfort them who are in any affliction, by the consolation with which they are comforted of God.


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Now, whether we are afflicted, it is for your comfort, and salvation; or whether we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is effected by enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer.


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And out hope of you is steadfast, knowing that, as you are partakers of the sufferings, so shall you be also of the comfort.


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Wherefore, brethren, we would not have you ignorant concerning our affliction, which happened to us in Asia; that we were exceedingly pressed above our strength, insomuch as we despaired even of life.


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Nay, more, we ourselves had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we might not trust in ourselves, but in God, who raises the dead;


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who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver; in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;


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you, also, laboring together in prayer for us, that the gift to us from many persons, may, by many, be acknowledged with thanksgiving for us.


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For this is our glorying-the testimony of our conscience, that with godly simplicity and sincerity, (not with fleshly wisdom, but by the favor of God,) we have behaved ourselves in the world, and more abundantly among you.


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For we write no other things to you than what you read, and also acknowledge; and I hope that you will acknowledge, even to the end;


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seeing, indeed, you have acknowledged us in part, that we are your boasting, even as you also are ours, in the day of the Lord Jesus.


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and from you to pass through into Macedonia, and from Macedonia to come again to you, and by you to be sent forward into Judea.


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Having, then, purposed this, did I, indeed, use levity? or the things which I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh; so that with me there should be yes, yes, and no, no?


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For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was proclaimed to you by us, even by me and Sylvanus, and Timothy, was not yes and no; but in him was yes.


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And whatever promises are of God, were through him yes, and through him amen, to the glory of God, by us.


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Moreover, I call on God as a witness against my soul, that to spare you, I have not as yet come to Corinth.


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Not that we lord it over your faith, but we are joint promoters of your joy: for by the faith you stand.


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For if I should make you sorry, who then is he that could make me glad, unless the same who is made sorry by me?


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Wherefore, I wrote to you this very thing, that, coming, I might not have sorrow from them in whom I ought to rejoice; being firmly persuaded concerning you all, that my joy is the joy of you all.


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For out of much affliction and distress of heart, I wrote to you with many tears; not that you might be made sorry, but that you might know the love which I have most abundantly toward you.


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Now, if a certain person has grieved me, he has not grieved me except by a part of you, that I may not lay a load on you all.


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So that, on the other hand, you ought more willingly to forgive and comfort him, lest such a one should be swallowed up by excessive grief.


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For to this end, also, I wrote, that I might know the proof of you, whether you be obedient in all things.


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Now, to whom you forgive anything, I also forgive: and even I, if I have now forgiven anything, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes I forgave it, in the person of Christ:


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Moreover, when I came to Troas, in order to declare the gospel of Christ, and a door was opened to me by the Lord;


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I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus, my brother: therefore, bidding them farewell, I went away into Macedonia.


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Now, thanks be to God, who at all times causes us to triumph in Christ; and who, by us, diffuses the odor of the knowledge of him in every place:


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To these, indeed, we are the odor of death, ending in death; but to the others, the odor of life, ending in life: and who is competent to these things?


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However, we are not like many who adulterate the word of God: but really from sincerity, yes, really from God, in the sight of God, we speak in Christ.


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Must we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some, letters of recommendation to you, or letters of recommendation from you?


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For you are plainly declared Christ's letter, ministered by us, written, not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not on tables of stone, but on fleshly tables of the heart.


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not that we are competent by ourselves to reckon anything as from ourselves: but our competency is from God,


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who has made us competent ministers of a new institution; not of letter, but of spirit: for the letter kills; but the spirit makes alive.


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For if the ministration of death in letters engraved on stone was with glory, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses, because of the glory of his face, which was to be abolished;


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For if the ministration of condemnation was glorious, much more does the ministration of justification abound in glory.


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For, indeed, that which was glorified, was not glorified, in this respect, by reason of the transcendent glory.


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and not as Moses, who put a vail upon his face, that the children of Israel might not steadfastly look to the end of that which is abolished.


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Indeed, their minds were blinded: for, till this day, the same vail remains in the reading of the Old Institution; it not being discovered that it is abolished in Christ.


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And we all, with unveiled face, beholding, as in a mirror, the glory of the Lord; are transformed into the same image, from glory to glory, as by the Lord, the Spirit.


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but have commanded away the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by the manifestation of the truth, commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.


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among whom the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, might shine into them.


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Now, we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants, for Jesus' sake.


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For God, who commanded light to shine out of darkness, has shined into our hearts, to give 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 excellency of the power might be of God, and not of us.


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At all times carrying about in the body, the putting to death of Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our body.


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For we who live 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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«Yet, having the same spirit of faith, according to what is written,'I believed, therefore I have spoken'; we, also, believe, and therefore speak;»


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knowing that he who raised up the Lord Jesus, will raise us up, also, by Jesus, and will present us with you.


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For all these things are for your sakes; that the favor which has abounded to many, may, through the thanksgiving of the greater number, redound to the glory of God.


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Wherefore, we do not faint; but, though, indeed, out outward man is impaired, yet the inward man is renewed, day by day.


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For our momentary light afflictions work out for us an eternal weight of glory, great beyond expression;


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while we are aiming, not at things seen, but at things unseen: for the things seen are temporal, but the things unseen are eternal.


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For we know that if the earthy house of this our tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, a house not made with hands, everlasting, in the heavens.


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For, indeed, we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not that we desire to be divested, but invested: that mortality may be swallowed up by life.


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Now he who has wrought us up to this very desire, is God, who has also given us the earnest of the Spirit.


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We are, therefore, always courageous; knowing that while at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:


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We are courageous, indeed, and desirous rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.


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For we must all appear before the tribunal of Christ, that every one may receive the things done in the body, according to what has been done, whether good or evil.


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Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; and are made manifest to God: and, I trust, are made manifest also to your consciences.


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However, we do not again commend ourselves to you, but only give you occasion of boasting concerning us, that you may have an answer to them who boast in appearance, not in heart.


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For the love of Christ constrains us, having judged thus- that if one has died, certainly all have died;


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and that he has died for all, that they who live should no longer live to themselves, but to him who has died and rose again for them.


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So that we, from this time forth, respect no man on account of the flesh: and even if we have esteemed Christ on account of the flesh, yet now we esteem him no more on that account.


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For, if any one be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new!


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And all these things of God, who has reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us to the ministry of the reconciliation-


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namely, that God was, by Christ, reconciling the world to himself, not counting to them their trespasses, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.


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We, therefore, execute the office of ambassadors for Christ, as of God beseeching you by us; we pray you, in behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.


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For he has made him, who knew no sin, a sin-offering for us; that we might become the justified of God, by him.


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«(for he says,» 'In an accepted season I have hearkened to you; and in a day of salvation I have helped you.' 'Behold, now is a highly accepted season; behold, now is a day of salvation:)'


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But by everything approving ourselves as ministers of God, by much patience, by oppressions, by necessities, by distresses,


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by the word of truth, by the power of God, through the armor of righteousness of the right hand and of the left;


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as sorrowing, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing all things.


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Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers; for what fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion has light with darkness?


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«And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? for you are the temple of the living God; as God has said,» 'Assuredly I will dwell among them, and walk among them; and I will be their God, and they shall be to me a people.'


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Wherefore, come out from among them, and be separated, says the Lord, and touch no unclean person; and I will receive you;


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Wherefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all pollution of flesh and spirit; perfecting holiness in the fear of God.


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I speak not this to condemn you; for I have said before, that you are in our hearts, to die and live with you.


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Great is my freedom of speech to you; great is my boasting concerning you: I am filled with consolation, I exceedingly abound in joy in all our affliction.


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For when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh has no rest, but we were distressed on every side; without were fightings- within were fears.


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(not, indeed, by his coming only; but more especially by the consolation with which he was comforted by you) -when he told us your earnest desire, your lamentation, your zeal for me; so that I rejoiced the more.


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Therefore, though I made you sorry by the letter, I do not repent, though I did repent; for I perceive that that letter, though suitable to the occasion, made you sorry.


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I now rejoice; not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow produced reformation: for you were made to sorrow in a godly manner, that you might be injured by us in nothing.


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For godly sorrow produces a reformation to salvation, never to be repented of; but the sorrow of the world produces death.


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Behold, now, this very thing-your being made sorry with a godly sorrow-what carefulness it wrought in you; yes, what clearing of yourselves; yes, what indignation; yes, what fear; yes, what earnest desire; yes, what zeal; yes, what revenge! Upon the whole, you have showed yourselves to be pure in this matter.


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And, indeed, though I wrote to you, it was not for his sake who did the wrong, nor for his sake who suffered it; but rather, that our care for you, in the presence of God might be manifested to you.


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For this reason, we were comforted in your comfort: yes, we rejoiced the more exceedingly for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.


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That if I have boasted anything to him concerning you, I am not ashamed: for, as we have spoken all things to you in truth, so, also, our boasting to Titus is verified.


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And his tender affection is more abundant toward you, while he remembers the obedience of you all, and how you received him with fear and trembling.


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Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the charity of God, which is given by the congregations of Macedonia;


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that in a great trial of affliction, the abundance of their joy, and their extreme poverty, superabounded to the riches of their liberality:


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that to their power, (I bear witness,) yes, beyond their power, they were willing of themselves; with much entreaty


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Yes, beyond our expectations; for they first gave themselves to the Lord, and to us through the will of God.


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This moved us to entreat Titus, that as he had formerly begun, so he would also finish the same charity among you likewise.


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Now as you abound in every gift, (in faith, and speech, and knowledge, and all diligence, and in your love to us,) I wish that you may abound in this gift also.


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I speak not this as an injunction, but on account of the diligence of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.


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(For you know the charity of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor; that you, through his poverty, might be rich.)


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At present, therefore, finish the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will; so also let there be to finish, according to your ability.


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For if there be a willing mind, according to what a person has, he is accepted; and not according to what he has not.


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that now your abundance may be a supply for their want; that again, their abundance may be a supply for your want; that there may be an equality.


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«As it is written,» 'He who gathered much, had nothing over; and he who gathered little, had no lack.'


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For he, indeed, received an exhortation; but from his great earnestness, was going to you of his own accord.


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And with him we have sent the brother, whose praise in the gospel is throughout all the congregations.


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And not only so, but who was also chosen by the congregations our fellow-traveler, with this charity, which is ministered by us, to the glory of the Lord himself, and of your readiness:


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And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes found diligent in many things; but now much more diligent, from the great confidence which he has in you.


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If any inquire concerning Titus, he is my partner and fellow-laborer for you; or if our brethren be inquired of, they are Apostles of congregations, and a glory of Christ.


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Wherefore, the proof of your love, and of our boasting concerning you, display before them, and before the face of the congregations.


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But, indeed, concerning the ministry which is for the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you.


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For I know your willingness: of which I boasted on your behalf, to the Macedonians, that Achaia was prepared since the last year; and your zeal has stirred up the multitude.


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Yet I have sent the brethren, that our boasting concerning you, may not be rendered false in this particular; but that as I said you may be prepared.


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Lest, perhaps, if the Macedonians come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not you) should be put to shame by this confidence.


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Therefore, I thought it necessary to entreat the brethren, that they would go before you, and complete beforehand your formerly announced bounty; that the same might be thus ready as a gift, and not as a thing extorted.


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Now this I say, he who sows sparingly, shall reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully, shall reap bountifully.


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Every one according as he has purposed in his heart, ought to give; not with regret, nor by constraint; for God loves a cheerful giver.


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And God is able to make every blessing abound to you; that in everything, always having all sufficiency, you may abound in every good work.


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«As it is written,» 'He has dispersed, he has given to the poor: his righteousness remains forever.'


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Now, may he who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply your seed sown, and increase the products of your righteousness.


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That you may be enriched in everything, for all liberality, which produces, through us, thanksgiving to God.


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For the ministry of this public service, not only fill us up completely the wants of the saints; but also abounds in many thanksgivings to God.


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They, through the proof of the ministry, glorifying God for you avowed subjection to the gospel of Christ; and for the liberality of your contribution for them, and for all;


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and for their prayer for you, who ardently love you, on account of the exceeding favor of God bestowed on you.


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Now, I (the same Paul who, when present, indeed, am humble among you; but when absent, am bold toward you,)


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beseech you, by the mildness and clemency of Christ. And I request that, when present I may not be bold with that confidence with which I conclude to be bold against some, who conclude us to be really persons who walk according to the flesh.


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(for the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly, but exceeding powerful for the overturning of strongholds;)


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overturning reasonings, and every high thing raised up against the knowledge of God; and leading captive every thought to the obedience of Christ;


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Do you look on things according to appearance? If any one is confident in himself that he is Christ's, let him, on the other hand, reason this from himself, that he is Christ's, so, also, are we.


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And, therefore, I should not be ashamed, if I should boast somewhat more of our power, which the Lord has given us for your edification, and not for your destruction.


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(for his letters, says one, are indeed weighty and strong; but his bodily presence weak, and his speech contemptible;)


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let such a one conclude this, that such as we are in speech by letters, when absent, the same, also, when present, we will be in deed.


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But we dare not rank and compare ourselves with some who commend themselves: however, they, among themselves, measuring themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, do not understand themselves.


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Further, we will not boast of things not measured according to the line of measure, which the God of measure has allotted to us, to reach even to you.


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For we do not stretch ourselves beyond our line, as not reaching to you; (but we are come as far as to you also, in the gospel of Christ.)


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We do not boast of things not measured, that is, of other men's labors; but we have hope when your faith is increased, to be by you abundantly enlarged with respect to our line;


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to declare the gospel in the regions beyond you; and not in another man's line, to boast of things already prepared.


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for I am jealous of you with a godly jealousy; because I have espoused you to one husband, that I might present you a chaste virgin to Christ.


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But I am afraid that, by some means, as the serpent beguiled Eve by his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity due to Christ.


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For, if, indeed, he who has come preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached; or, if you receive another Spirit which you have not received; or another gospel which you have not embraced; you might justly bear with him.


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And even though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge. But upon the whole, we have been made manifest to you in all things.


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Have I committed an offense in humbling myself that you might be exalted; because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?


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for being present with you, and in want, we were burdensome to no one; but what I wanted, the brethren from Macedonia supplied: and in everything I have kept, and will keep myself from being burdensome to you.


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But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off opportunity from them who desire opportunity; that in what they boast, they may be found even as we.


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Therefore, it is no great wonder if his ministers also transform themselves as ministers of righteousness: whose end shall be according to their works.


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Moreover, I say, let no one think me a fool; but, if otherwise, at least, as a fool, bear with me, that I also may boast a little.


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What I speak in this confident boasting, I do not speak according to the Lord; but as in foolishness.


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For if one enslave you, you bear it; if one devour you, if one take your goods, if one exalt himself, if one strike you on the face-


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I speak of reproach, as, that we are weak. But, in whatever any one is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.


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Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool,) I am above them: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often;


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thrice I was beaten with rods, once I was stone, thrice I was ship-wrecked: I have spent a night and a day in the deep.


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In journeys often, in dangers from rivers, in dangers from robbers, in dangers from my countrymen, in dangers from the heathens, in dangers in the city, in dangers in the wilderness, in dangers at sea, in dangers among false brethren.


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In labor and toil; in watching often; in hunger and thirst; in fastings often; in cold and nakedness.


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Besides these troubles from without, that which is my daily pressure, the anxious care of all the congregations.


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In Damascus, the governor under King Aretas, intending to apprehend me, guarded the city of the Damascenes;


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To boast, indeed, is not profitable to me; yet I will proceed to visions and revelations of the Lord.


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I knew a man in Christ fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I do not know; God knows:) such a one suddenly conveyed away to the third heaven.


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that he was suddenly conveyed away into paradise, and heard unspeakable things, which are not lawful for man to utter.


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Concerning such a one I will boast; but concerning myself I will not boast, except of my weaknesses.


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Yet if I should incline to boast, I shall not be a fool; for I will speak the truth: but I forbear, lest any one should think concerning me, above what he sees me to be, or what he hears from me.


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Indeed, that I might not be exalted above measure by the transcendency of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.


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But he said to me, <J>My favor is sufficient for you, besides, my power is perfected in weakness:</J> most gladly, therefore, I will boast rather of my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may dwell upon me.


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Wherefore, I am well pleased with weaknesses, with insults, with necessities, with persecutions, with distresses, for Christ's sake; because when I am weak, then I am strong.


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Have I become a fool-? You have constrained me to it; for I ought to have been commended by you, because I am in nothing behind the very greatest Apostles, though I am nothing.


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Truly the signs of an Apostle were fully wrought among you with all patience, by signs and wonders, and powers.


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For what is the thing in which you were inferior to other congregations, unless that I myself have not been burdensome to you? Forgive me this injury.


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Behold, a third time I am ready to come to you, and I will not be burdensome to you; because I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.


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Yes, I most gladly will spend and be spent for the sake of your souls; even though the more abundantly I love you, the less I am loved.


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I besought Titus to go to you; and with him I sent a brother: did Titus make any gain of you? Did we not walk in the same spirit? Did we not walk in the same steps?


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Again, do you think that we apologize to you? In the presence of God we speak in Christ, that all these things, beloved, are done for your edification.


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Yet I am afraid, lest, perhaps, when I come, I shall not find you such as I wish: and that I shall be found by you, such as you do not wish: -lest, perhaps, there be among you strifes, emulations, wraths, brawlings, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults.


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And lest, when I come again, my God may humble me among you; and I shall bewail many, who have formerly sinned, and have not reformed from the uncleanness, and fornication, and lasciviousness, which they have committed.


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I am coming this third time to you: by the mouth of two or three witnesses, every matter shall be established.


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I have told you before, and now forewarn the second time, (as if present, though still absent,) those who have formerly sinned, and all others, that when I come again I will not spare;


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since you seek a proof of Christ speaking by me: (who is not weak toward you, but who is mighty among you;


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for though we was crucified through weakness, yet he lives by the power of God; and though we also are weak with him, yet we shall live with him, by the power of God toward you.)


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Examine yourselves, whether you be in the faith; prove yourselves: know you not yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you, unless you are disapproved?


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However, I pray to God that you do no evil-not that we may appear approved; but that you may do what is good, though, indeed, we should be disapproved.


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Therefore we rejoice when we are weak, and you are strong: and this, also, we pray for, even your perfection.


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For this reason, being absent, I write these things, that, when present, I may not act sharply, according to the power which the Lord has give me for edification, and not for destruction.


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Finally, brethren, farewell: be perfect: comfort yourselves: mind the same thing: live in peace: and the God of love and peace will be with you.


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The favor of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all.


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Paul, an Apostle, not from men, neither 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 age, according to the will of our God and Father,


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I wonder that you are so soon removed from him who called you into the favor of Christ, to another gospel;


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But if even we, or an angel from heaven, declare a gospel to you, different from what we have declared to you, let him be accursed.


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As we said before, so now I say again, if any one declare a gospel to you, different from what you have received, let him be accursed.


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For do I now conciliate men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.


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Now I certify you, brethren, concerning the gospel which was declared by me, that it is not according to men.


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You have certainly heard of my behavior formerly in Judaism; that I exceedingly persecuted the congregation of God, and laid it waste;


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and made progress in Judaism above many of the same age with myself, in my own nation, being more exceedingly jealous of the traditions of my fathers.


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to reveal his Son to me, that I might declare the good news concerning him to the Gentiles; immediately I did not consult flesh and blood:


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neither did I go up to Jerusalem, to them who were Apostles before me; but I went away in Arabia, and again returned to Damascus.


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Then, after three years, I went up to Jerusalem, to become acquainted with Peter, and abode with him fifteen days.


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They had only heard that-he who formerly persecuted us, now announces, as glad tidings, the faith which he formerly destroyed.


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And I went up by revelation; and communicated to them the gospel which I proclaimed to the Gentiles; but privately to them who were of reputation; lest, perhaps, I should run, or had run in vain.


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even on account of the false brethren secretly introduced; (who came in privily to spy out our liberty, which we have by Jesus Christ, that they might bring us into bondage;)


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nor did we give place to them by submission, not even for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might remain with you.


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Besides, from them who were of reputation, I received nothing; (whatever they were formerly, is no matter to me: God respects not a man's appearance. For they who were of reputation, communicated nothing to me.)


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But, on the contrary, perceiving that I was entrusted with the gospel of the uncircumcision, just as Peter was with that of the circumcision;


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(for he who wrought effectually in Peter for the apostleship of the circumcision, also wrought effectually in me for the Gentiles):


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even James, and Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, having perceived the favor granted to me, gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we, indeed, should go to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcision;


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For, before certain persons came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles; but when they were come, he withdrew, and separated himself, being afraid of them of the circumcision.


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And the other Jews also dissembled with them, insomuch that even Barnabas was carried away with their dissimulation.


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But when I saw that they did not walk uprightly, according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter, before them all-If you, being a Jew, live after the manner of the Gentiles, and not after the manner of the Jews, why do you compel the Gentiles to Judaize?


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knowing that man is not justified by works of law, but only through the faith of Jesus Christ; even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we may be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by works of law; for by works of law no flesh shall be justified.


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But if seeking to be justified by Christ, even we ourselves are found sinners, is Christ, then, the minister of sin? By no means.


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I am crucified together with Christ. Nevertheless, I live; yet not longer I, but Christ lives in me: for the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith which is of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.


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I do not set aside the favor of God. For if righteousness is through law, then certainly Christ has died in vain.


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O inconsiderate Galatians! who has deceived you, before whose eyes Jesus Christ crucified, was evidently represented among you?


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This, only, I wish to learn from you, did you receive the Spirit by works of law, or by obedience of faith?


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He, then, who ministered to you the Spirit, and wrought miracles among you, did he these by works of law, or by a hearing of faith?


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«For the scripture, foreshowing that God would justify the nations by faith, formerly announced the gospel to Abraham, saying,» 'Surely in you shall all the nations be blessed.'


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«But as many as are of works of law, are under the curse: for it is written,» 'Accursed is every one who continues not in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.'


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«Besides, that by law no one is justified before God is manifest:» 'For the just by faith shall live.'


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«Christ has bought us off from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us: (for it is written,'Accursed is every one who is hanged on a tree':)»


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that the blessing of Abraham might come on the nations through Christ Jesus; and that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.


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Brethren, I speak after the manner of men: no one sets aside, or alters a man's Will, after it is ratified.


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«Now, to Abraham were the promises spoken, and to his seed. He does not say,» 'And in seeds,' 'as concerning many; but as concerning one person, '«And in your see,» 'who is Christ.'


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Wherefore, this I affirm, that the Will which was before ratified by God concerning Christ, the law, which was made four hundred and thirty years after can not annul, so as to abolish the promise.


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Besides, if the inheritance be by law, it is no longer by promise. But God bestowed it freely on Abraham by promise.


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Why, then, the law? It was added on account of transgression, till the seed should come to whom it was promised; being ordained by messengers, in the hand of a Mediator;


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Is the law, then, contrary to the promise of God? By no means. For if there had been a law given, which was able to make alive, certainly righteousness would have been by law.


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But the scripture has shut up together all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.


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Wherefore, before faith came, we were kept in durance under law, shut up together to the faith, which should afterward be revealed.


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There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bondman nor freeman, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.


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Now, I say, as long as the heir is a minor, he differs nothing from a bondman, though he be lord of all.


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But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman, born under the law,


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And because you are sons, God has sent forth the spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.


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But now, having acknowledged God, (or rather, being acknowledged by God,) why do you turn back again to the weak and beggarly elements, to which again, a second time, you incline to be in bondage?


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Yet that trial of mine, which was in my flesh, you did not despise; neither did you reject me, but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.


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What, then, was your happiness! for I bear you witness that, if possible, you would have plucked out your eyes, and given them to me.


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They love you ardently, not honorably. Yes, they wish to exclude us, that you may love them ardently.


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But it is honorable to be ardently in love with a good man at all times, and not merely when I am present with you.


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I could wish, indeed, to be present with you now, and to change my speech; for I am exceedingly in doubt concerning you.


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But he, indeed, who was of the bondmaid, was begotten according to the flesh; but he who was of the free woman, was through the promise.


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Which things are allegorized: for these women are two institutions; the one, indeed, from Mount Sinai, bringing forth children into bondage, which is Hagar,


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(for the name of Hagar denotes Mount Sinai, in Arabia,) and she answers to the present Jerusalem, and is in bondage with her children.


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«For it is written,» 'Rejoice, O barren woman, who didst not bring forth! Break out and cry, thou who travailest not in birth; for more are the children of the deserted, than of her who had the husband.'


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But even as then, he who was begotten according to the flesh, persecuted him who was begotten according to the Spirit: so also now.


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«But what says the scripture?» 'Cast out the bondmaid and her son; for the son of the bondmaid shall not inherit with the son of the free woman.'


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Stand fast, therefore, in the freedom with which Christ has freed us, and be not again held fast in the yoke of bondage.


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For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision avails anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith, which works by love.


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I am persuaded concerning you, by the Lord, that you will think nothing differently from me: but he who troubles you shall bear the punishment, whosoever he be.


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But I, brethren, if I now proclaim circumcision, why am I yet persecuted? Certainly the offense of the cross is abolished.


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For you, brethren, have been called into liberty; only use not this liberty for an occasion to the flesh; but through love, assiduously serve one another.


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«For the whole law is fulfilled by one precept, even by this,» 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'


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For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things you would.


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Now, the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these. Fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,


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envying, murders, intoxications, revellings, and such like: concerning which I foretell you now, as I also have foretold, that they who practice these things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.


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Also, brethren, if a man be surprised into any fault, you, the spiritual men, set such a one right again in the spirit of meekness; taking a view of yourself, lest even you be tempted.


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But let every one try his own work, and then he shall have boasting in himself alone, and not in another.


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Therefore, he who sows to his flesh, shall from the flesh reap corruption: but he who sows to his spirit, shall from the Spirit reap life everlasting.


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Well, then, while we have opportunity let us do good to all: but especially to them, who are of the household of faith.


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As many as wish to appear fair by the flesh, these constrain you to be circumcised, only that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.


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For not even do the circumcised themselves keep the law; but they wish you to be circumcised, that they may boast in your flesh.


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But far be it from me to boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world is crucified to me, and I to the world.


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Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, to the saints that are in Ephesus, even the believers in Christ Jesus:


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Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ;


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according as he has elected us in him, before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy, and unblameable in his sight; in love,


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having formerly marked us out for adoption through Jesus Christ, to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,


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in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his favor,


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having made known to us the secret of his will according to his benevolent purpose, which he had purposed in himself,


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for the administration of the fullness of the appointed times, to gather together all under Christ-all in the heavens, and all on the earth-under him:


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under whom even we have inherited, having been formerly marked out according to the purpose of him who effectually works all things according to the counsel of his will,


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In whom you, also, trusted, having heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom, also, having believed, you were sealed with the spirit of the promise-the Holy Spirit-


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who is an earnest of our inheritance, for the redemption of the purchase, to the praise of his glory.


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For this reason, I, also, having heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and of your love to all the saints,


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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 in the knowledge of him;


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that the eyes of your understanding being enlightened, you may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance among the saints;


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and what the exceeding greatness of his power, in relation to us who believe according to the working of his mighty power,


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which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places;


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far above all government, and power, and might, and lordship, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come;


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and subjected all things under his feet, and appointed him head over all things to the congregation,


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in which you formerly walked, according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air-of the spirit which now effectually works in the children of disobedience;


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amongst whom we, also, were all formerly conversant in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh, and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as others.


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even us, who were dead in trespasses, he has made alive together with Christ; (by favor you are saved;)


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that he might show, in the ages to come, the exceeding riches of his favor in his kindness toward us by Christ Jesus.


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For by favor you are saved through faith; and this salvation not by yourselves; it is the gift of God-


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For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to good works, for which God before prepared us, that we should walk in them.


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Wherefore, remember that you, formerly Gentiles in the flesh, (those called the uncircumcision, by them called the circumcision in the flesh, made by hands,)


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were in the world at that time, without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the institutions of promise; having no hope, and without God:


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having abolished, by his flesh, the enmity, (the law of the commandments concerning ordinances,) that he might make the two into one new man, under himself, making peace:


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Now, then, you are no longer strangers and sojourners; but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God:


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having been built upon the foundation of the Apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the foundation corner stone;


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which in former ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it is now revealed to his holy Apostles and prophets by the Spirit;


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that the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body, and joint partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel;


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of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of the favor of God which was given to me, according to the energy of his power;-


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to me, the least of saints, was this favor given, to publish among the Gentiles, the unsearchable riches of Christ;


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and to make all see what is the administration of the secret, which has been hid from the ages by God, who created all things.


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That now, to the government and powers in the heavenly regions, might be made known by the congregation the manifold wisdom of God;


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praying that, according to the riches of his glory, he would grant you to be mightily strengthened by his Spirit in the inward man:


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may be completely able to apprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height,-


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even to know the love of Christ; which surpasses knowledge; that you might be filled with all the fullness of God.


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Now, to him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power which works effectually in us,-


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to him be glory in the congregation by Christ Jesus, during all the endless successions of ages. Amen.


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I, then, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling, by which you are called,


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Now, this-Having ascended, what is it, unless, indeed, he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth!


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He who descended, is the same who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.)


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And he gave some, indeed, Apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;


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for the adapting of these saints to the work of the ministry, for the edification of the body of Christ:


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till we all come to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God; to a perfect man; to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:


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that we may be no longer children, tossed and carried about with every wind of doctrine by the sight of men, and by cunning craftiness for an artifice of seduction:


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from whom, the whole body, fitly joined together, and compacted by the service of every joint, according to the energy, in the proportion of each particular part, effects the increase of the body, for the edification of itself in love.


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This, therefore, I say, and testify in the Lord, that you walk no longer as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind;


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having their understandings darkened; being alienated from the life of God, through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart;


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who, being past feeling, have abandoned themselves to lasciviousness, to commit all uncleanness with greediness.


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that, with respect to your former conduct, you put away the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;


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Wherefore, putting away lying, speak the truth every one to his neighbor: for we are members one of another.


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Let him that stole, steal no more; but rather let him labor, working with his hands that which is good, that he may have to impart to him who has need.


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Let no corrupt discourse come out of your mouth; but if any speech be good for the use of edification, speak it, that it may impart a benefit to the hearers.


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Let all bitterness, and anger, and wrath, and clamor, and detraction, be taken away from among you, with all malice.


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But be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, even as God, for Christ's sake, has forgiven you.


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and walk in love, even as Christ has loved us, and has given himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God, for a sweet smelling savor.


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But whoredom, and all uncleanness, and inordinate desire- let them not even be named among you; (as it becomes saints;)


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nor obscenity, nor foolish talking, nor double meanings, nor things uncomely; but rather thanksgiving.


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For this you know, that no fornicator, nor unclean person, nor lascivious man, who is an idolater, has inheritance in the kingdom of Christ, and of God.


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Let no one deceive you with vain speeches; for on account of these things, the wrath of God comes upon the children of disobedience.


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But all these reprehensible things are made manifest by the light; for whatever makes manifest is light.


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speaking to one another in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs; singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord:


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giving thanks at all times for all things, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to God, even the Father.


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For the husband is head of the wife, even as Christ is head of the congregation; he is the saviour of the body.


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Therefore, as the congregation is subject to Christ; so, also, let the wives be to their own husbands, in everything.


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That he might present it to himself glorious, a congregation not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it might be holy, and without blemish.


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So ought husbands to love their own wives, as their own bodies: he who loves his own wife, loves himself.


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For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord the congregation:


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For this reason shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall adhere to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh.


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Therefore, also, let every one of you in particular, so love his own wife as himself; and let the wife reverence her husband.


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Also, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; but bring them up in the correction and instruction of the Lord.


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Servants, obey your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in the integrity of your heart, as to Christ.


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Not with eye-service, as men-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the soul;


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knowing that whatever good work any one does, for that he shall receive of the Lord, whether bond or free.


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And, masters, do the same things to them, moderating threatening; knowing, also, that your Master is in heaven, and there is no respect of persons with him.


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Put on the complete armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the crafty ways of the devil.


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For we wrestle not with flesh and blood, but with governments, with powers, with the rulers of this darkness: with spiritual wickedness in the heavenly regions.


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For this reason, take up the complete armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having fully wrought everything, to stand.


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Stand, then, having your loins girded about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;


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Over all, taking up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to extinguish all the fiery darts of the wicked one.


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With all supplication and deprecation, pray at all seasons in spirit; and for this very purpose, watch with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints:


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especially for me, that eloquence may be given me in opening my mouth with boldness, to make known the secret of the gospel;


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for which I execute the office of an ambassador in a chain; that I may speak boldly concerning it, as it becomes me to speak.


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Moreover, that you also may know the things relating to me, and what I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother, and faithful minister in the Lord, will make known to you all things;


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whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts.


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Paul, and Timothy, servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus, who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:


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having this very confidence, that he who has begun a good work among you, will continue to perfect it till the day of Jesus Christ.


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As it is just for me to think this concerning you all, because you have me at heart, both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. You are all partakers of my gratitude;


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for God is my witness how vehemently I long after you all, with the tender affections of Jesus Christ.


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And this I pray, that your love may yet abound more and more, with knowledge and with all discretion;


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that you may approve the things that are excellent; that you may be sincere and inoffensive till the day of Christ;


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filled with the fruit of righteousness, which is through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.


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Now I wish you to know, brethren that the things which have befallen me, have turned out rather to the advancement of the gospel.


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So that my bonds are manifested to be on account of Christ, through the whole palace, and in all the other places.


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And the greater number of the brethren in the Lord, made confident by my bonds, have become much more bold to speak the word without fear.


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What, then? Still in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; even in this I do rejoice; yes, and will rejoice:


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for I know that this will turn out to me for salvation, through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ-


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that agreeably to my earnest expectation and hope, in nothing I shall be ashamed; but that with all boldness, as at all times, so now, also, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.


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for I am in a strait between the two, having a strong desire to depart and be with Christ, which is by far the better.


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And being firmly persuaded of this, I know that I shall live and abide some time with you all, for the advancement of the joy of your faith;


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Only behave in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ; that whether I shall come and see you, or, being absent, shall hear of your affairs, that you are steadfast in one spirit, with one soul striving together for the faith of the gospel;


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and not terrified in anything by your adversaries; which is to them a demonstration of perdition; but to you of salvation, and that from God.


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For to you it is graciously given, on the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;


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Wherefore, if there be any consolation in Christ; if any comfort of love; if any fellowship of the Spirit; if any sympathies and tender mercies,


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complete this my joy, that you be likeminded; having the very same love, being unanimous, minding the one thing.


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Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but, in humbleness of mind esteem each other better that yourselves:


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and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient to death, even the death of the cross.


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And for this reason, God has exceedingly exalted him, and has bestowed on him a name which is above every name;


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that, at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow; of those in heaven, and upon the earth, and under the earth;


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Wherefore, my beloved, since you have always obeyed, not in my presence only, but now much more in my absence; effectually work out your own salvation, with fear and trembling;


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for it is God who works effectually in you, both to will and to perform, on account of his benevolence.


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that you may be blameless and harmless, the children of God, unblemished in the midst of a crooked and perverse race; among whom shine as lights in the world,


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holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, nor have labored in vain.


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Yes, and if I be made a drink-offering upon the sacrifice and ministry of your faith, I joy and rejoice with you all;


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Now I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be of good courage, that I also may be of good courage, when I know your affairs.


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But you know the proof of him, that, as a son with a father, so he has served with me in the gospel.


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Yet I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellowlabourer, and fellowsoldier; but your Apostle, and a minister to my want.


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For he longed after you all, and was exceedingly grieved, because you had heard that he had been sick.


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And, indeed, he was sick nigh to 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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Wherefore I have sent him the more speedily, that seeing him again, you may rejoice, and that I may be the more free from sorrow.


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because for the work of Christ, he drew nigh to death, not regarding his life, that he might fully supply the want of your service toward me.


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Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me, indeed, is not irksome, and for you it is safe.


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for we are the circumcision, who worship God in spirit, who glory in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh,


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Though indeed, I have a ground of confidence in the flesh, if any other thinks he has a ground of confidence-I have more.


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Circumcised the eighth day, of the race of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; with respect to the law, a Pharisee;


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with respect to zeal, persecuting the congregation; with respect to righteousness by law, I was blameless.


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Yes, indeed, on this account, also, I count all things loss, for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus, my Lord; (for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do account them mere refuse, that I may gain Christ,


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and be found in him, not having my righteousness by law, but that which is through the faith of Christ-the righteousness which is from God on account of this faith)-


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that I might know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being conformed to his death;


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Not that I have already laid hold, or have already become perfect; but I press on, that, indeed, I may lay hold on that, for which, also, I was laid hold on by Christ Jesus.


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Brethren, I count not myself to have laid hold of the prize; but one thing I do, forgetting the things behind, and stretching forth toward the things before,


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Let us, then, as many as would be perfect, be thus minded; and if in anything you think differently, God will reveal even this to you.


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Brethren, be imitators of men, and consider attentively those who walk so, as you have us for an example.


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(For I have often told you, and now tell you, even weeping, that many walk as the enemies of the cross of Christ;


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whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetites, whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)


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But we are citizens of heaven, whence, also, we earnestly expect the Saviour, our Lord Jesus Christ;


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who will transform our humbled body into a like form with his glorious body, according to the energy of his power, even to subject all things to himself.


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Wherefore, my brethren, beloved and much desired, my joy and crown, thus stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.


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Nay, I entreat you, also, my faithful colleague, assist those women who have labored with me in the gospel, with Clement; and my other fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.


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Be anxious about nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God;


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and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds, through Christ Jesus.


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Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are venerable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are benevolent, whatever things are of good fame; if there be any virtue, and if any praise be due, attentively consider these things;


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those, also, which you have learned, and received, and heard, and seen with me, practice; and the God of peace will be with you.


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But I rejoice greatly in the Lord, that now at length you have made your care of me to flourish again; for whom indeed, you were careful, but you had not an opportunity.


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I know what it is to be straitened; I know what it is to abound. Everywhere, and by all means, I am silently taught what it is to be full, and to be hungry; to abound, and to suffer want.


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Moreover, you Philippians also know, that, in the beginning of my labors in the gospel, when I departed for Macedonia, no congregation communicated with me, by giving and receiving, but you only;


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But I have received all, and abound; I have been fully supplied, having received by Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a fragrant odor, a sacrifice accepted; well pleasing to God.


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But my God will fully supply all your wants, according to his riches in glory, through Christ Jesus.


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to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ, who are at Colosse: Favor to you, and peace from God our Father.


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for the hope which is laid up for you in the heavens, of which you have formerly heard in the word of truth of the gospel,


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which is present among you, as it is also in the world, and is bringing forth fruit and prevailing, even as among you, from that day you heard and knew the favor of God in truth-


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even as you learned it of Epaphras, our beloved fellow-servant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ,


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For this reason, we also, from the day we heard these things, do not cease to pray for you, and to request that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding-


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that you may walk worthy of the Lord to all pleasing, bringing forth fruit by every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;


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being strengthened with all strength, according to his glorious power, to all patience and long-suffering with joy:


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giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us for a portion of the inheritance of the saints in the light;


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who has delivered us from the power of darkness, and has translated us into the kingdom of his beloved Son:


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Because, by him were created all things which are in the heavens, and which are upon the earth; things visible, and things invisible; whether thrones, or lordships, or governments, or powers; all things were created by him and for him.


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And he is the head of the body, even the congregation. He is the beginning, the first born from the dead, that in all respects he might be pre-eminent.


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and by him to reconcile all things to himself, having made peace by the blood of his cross; I say, by him, whether they be things on the earth, or things in the heavens.


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he has now, indeed, reconciled, by the body of his flesh, to present you holy and unblameable, and unreproveable, in his sight;


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if, indeed, you continue in the faith founded and stable, and not removed from the hope of the gospel which you have heard, which has been proclaimed to every creature which is under heaven; of which I, Paul, am made a minister.


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I now rejoice in sufferings for you, and fill up the remainder of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh, for his body, which is the congregation;


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of which I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God, which was given to me on your account, fully to declare the word of God-


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the secret which had been kept hid from the ages, and from the generations, but now has been made manifest to his saints;


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to whom God has pleased to make known what is the riches of the glory of this secret among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:


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whom we announce, admonishing every man, and teaching every man, with all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ.


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For which I also labor, combating vigorously, according to the effectual working of him who works effectually in me with power.


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Wherefore, I wish you to know how great a combat I have for you, and for them in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;


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that being compacted together in love, their hearts may be comforted, even by all the riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the secret of God,


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For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in the spirit, rejoicing and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.


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rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith, even as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.


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Beware lest any one make a prey of you through an empty and deceitful philosophy, -according to the tradition of men, according to the elements of the world, and not according to Christ.


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By whom, also, you have been circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in the putting off of the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ;


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having been buried with him in immersion, by which also you have been raised with him, through the belief of the strong working of God, who raised him from the dead.


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For you, who were dead on account of trespasses, and by the uncircumcision of your flesh, he had made alive together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses:-


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having blotted out the handwriting of the ordinances concerning us, which was contrary to us, he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross:-


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having spoiled governments and powers, he made a show of them openly, having triumphed over them by it.


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Let no one, therefore, judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of a festival, or of a new moon, or of sabbaths;


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Let no one beguile you of your reward, -delighting in humility, and the worship of messengers, intruding into things which he has not seen, being without cause, puffed up by his own carnal mind:


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and not holding firmly the head, by whom the whole body, through the joints and ligaments, being served and compacted, increases with the increase of God.


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Now, if you have died with Christ from the elements of the world, why, as living in the world, you are subject to ordinances,


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which things have, indeed, a show of wisdom in will-worship, and humility, and not sparing the body-without any respect to the gratification of the flesh.


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If, then, you have been raised with Christ seek the things which are above, where Christ sits at the right hand of God.


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Mortify, therefore, your members which are on the earth; fornication, impurity, passion, evil desire, and licentiousness, which is idolatry;


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But now also put away all these, anger, wrath, malice, defamation, obscene discourse, from your mouth.


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where there is neither Greek nor Jew; circumcision nor uncircumcision; barbarian, Scythian; bond nor free; but Christ is all, and in all.


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Put on, therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of compassion, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering.


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Bear with one another, and forgive each other, if any one have a complaint against any one: even as Christ forgave you, so also do you.


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And let the peace of God rule in your hearts; to which also you are called in one body, and be thankful.


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Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; and with all wisdom teach and admonish each other by psalms and hymns, and spiritual songs; singing with gratitude in your hearts to the Lord.


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And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God, even the Father, through him.


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Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eye-service, as men-pleasers, but with integrity of heart, as fearing God.


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knowing that from the Lord you shall receive the recompense for the inheritance; for you serve the Lord.


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But he who does unjustly, shall receive for the injustice, he has done: for there is no respect of persons.


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Masters, afford to your servants what is just and equal, knowing that you also have a Master in the heavens.


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at the same time, also, praying for us, that God would open to us a door of utterance, to speak the secret of Christ, for which, indeed, I am in bonds;


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Let your speech be always with gracefulness, seasoned with salt, knowing how you ought to answer every one.


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All things concerning me, Tychicus, a beloved brother, and faithful minister, and fellow-servant in the Lord, will make known to you;


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whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that he may know your affairs, and comfort your hearts:


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with Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is from you. They will make known to you all things which are done here.


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Aristarchus, my fellow-prisoner, salutes you; and Mark, the nephew of Barnabas, concerning whom you go orders: if he come to you, receive him-


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and Jesus, who is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These, alone, are laborers with me for the kingdom of God, who has been a consolation to me.


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Epaphras, who came from you, a servant of Christ, salutes you; at all times fervently striving for you by prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in the whole will of God.


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For I bear him witness, that he has much affection for you, and for them in Laodicea, and for them in Hierapolis.


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And when this epistle has been read to you, cause that it be read also in the congregation of the Laodiceans; and that you also read the one from Laodicea.


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And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry, which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.


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Paul, and Sylvanus, and Timothy, to the congregation of the Thessalonians, which is in God the Father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Favor to you, and peace from God our Father, and from our 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, in the sight of God, even our Father;


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for our gospel came not to you in word only, but also with power, and with the Holy Spirit, and with much assurance: as you know what sort of men we were among you.


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And you became imitators of us, and of the Lord, having embraced the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit.


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Besides, from you the word of the Lord has resounded, not only in Macedonia and Achaia; but also in every place your faith in God is spread abroad, so that we have no need to speak anything.


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For they themselves publish concerning us, what sort of entrance we had to you, and how you 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 has raised from the dead, even Jesus, who delivers us from the wrath which is to come.


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For although we had before suffered, and were shamefully handled, as you know, at Philippi, we were bold, through our God, to speak to you the gospel of God, amidst a great combat.


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But as we were approved of God, to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who tries our hearts.


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For neither did we, at any time, use flattering words, or a pretext for covetousness; God is witness.


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Neither sought we honor from men; neither from you, nor from others. We might have acted with authority, as Apostles of Christ;


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so, having a strong affection for you, we were well pleased to have imparted to you, not only the gospel of God, but our own souls, also; because you were become dear to us.


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For your remember, brethren, our labor and toil; that laboring night and day; that we might not be chargeable to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God.


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You were witnesses, and God, also, in what a holy, and just, and blameless manner, we acted toward you that believe.


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As, also, you know, how we addressed every one of you as a father his own children, exhorting and comforting you;


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On this account, also, we give thanks to God, without ceasing, that when you received from us this message of God, you embraced not the word of men; but, as it is in truth, the word of God, which, indeed, works effectually in you who believe.


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For you, brethren, became imitators of the congregations of God which are in Judea, in Christ Jesus; because you also have suffered like things from your own countrymen, even as they have from the Jews,


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who both killed the Lord, and the prophets, and have greatly persecuted us, and do not please God, and are contrary to all men;


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hindering us to speak to the Gentiles, that they may be saved; so that they fill up their iniquities always: but the wrath of God is coming upon them at length.


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Now, we, brethren, being separated from you for a short time, in presence, not in heart, the more abundantly endeavored, with great desire, to see your face.


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For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of glorying? Are not even you, 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-laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to exhort you concerning your faith:


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that no one should be moved by these afflictions; for yourselves know that we are appointed to them.


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For even when we were with you, we foretold you that we were to be afflicted; which also happened as you know.


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For this reason also, no longer concealing my anxiety, I sent to know your faith; lest by some means the tempter may have tempted you, and our labor have become in vain.


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But now, when Timothy came to us from you, and gave us the good news of your faith and love, and that you have good remembrance of us at all times, ardently desiring to see us, even as we also to see you;


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by this, brethren, we were comforted concerning you in all our affliction and necessity, even by your faith.


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But what thanksgiving can we return to God concerning you, for all the joy with which we rejoice, through you, in the presence of our God?


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Night and day, most earnestly requesting to see your face, and to supply the deficiencies of your faith.


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And may the Lord fill you, and make you overflow with love to one another, and to all, even as we also to you;


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that he may establish your hearts unblameable in holiness, before God, even our Father, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, with all his saints.


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As to what remains, then, brethren, we beseech and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as you have received from us, how you ought to walk, and please God, you would more abound in it.


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That no man should go beyond bounds, or defraud his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger of all such;


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But, concerning brotherly love, you have no need that I write to you, for you yourselves are taught of God to love one another.


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And, indeed, you do it toward all the brethren who are in all Macedonia: but we exhort you, brethren, still to abound,


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and earnestly study to be quiet; and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you:


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Now, I would not have you ignorant, brethren, concerning them who sleep; that you may not be grieved, even as the others, who have no hope.


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For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again; so, also, them who sleep, will God, through Jesus, bring with him.


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Besides, this we affirm to you, by the word of the Lord, that we, the living, who remain at the coming of the Lord, shall not anticipate them who are asleep:


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for the Lord himself will descend from heaven, with a shout, with the voice of the Arch Angel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ shall rise first;


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afterward we, the living, who remain, shall, at the same time with them, be instantly taken up in clouds, to join the Lord in the air; and so we shall be for ever with the Lord.


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When they shall say, Peace and safety, then sudden destruction comes 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 breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, the hope of salvation.


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For God has appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation, through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we may live together, with him.


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Now, we beseech you, brethren, to acknowledge them who labor among you, and who preside over you in the Lord, and instruct you;


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Moreover, we exhort you, brethren, admonish the disorderly, comfort the faint-hearted, support the weak, be of a long-suffering disposition toward all.


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Take care that no one return evil for evil to any one, but always pursue what is good, both toward one another and toward all.


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And may the God of peace himself sanctify you wholly; and may your whole person, the spirit, and the soul, and the body, be preserved unblameable, till the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.


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Paul, and Sylvanus, and Timothy, to the congregation of the Thessalonians, which is in God, our Father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ:


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We are bound to thank God always, concerning you, brethren, as it is fit, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all toward each other abounds;


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so that we ourselves boast of you to the congregations of God, on account of your patience and faith in all your persecutions and afflictions, which you endure;


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a proof of the righteous judgment of God, that you might be counted truly worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you thus suffer:


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and to you, the afflicted, (because our testimony was believed by you,) rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven, with his mighty angels, in flaming fire,


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inflicting a just retribution on those who know not God, and who obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ;


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who shall suffer a just punishment-an everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power-


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in that day when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired by all the believers.


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In relation to which, we are always praying concerning you, that our God may account you worthy of this calling, and fill you with all the benevolence of goodness, and the effect of faith with power;


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that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified by you, and you by him, according to the favor of our God, and of the Lord Jesus Christ.


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Now, we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together to him,


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that you be not suddenly shaken in mind, nor alarmed, neither by spirit, not by report, nor by letter, as from us, intimating that the day of the Lord is at hand.


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Let no one lead you into a mistake by any means; because the apostasy must first appear, and the man of sin, the son of perdition, must be first revealed,


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who opposes and exalts himself against every one called a god, or an object of worship; so that he places himself in the temple of God, openly exhibiting himself, that he is a god.


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For already the mystery of iniquity secretly works, only till he who now restrains, be taken out of the way;


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and then shall that lawless one be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will consume by the spirit of his mouth-with the brightness of his coming,


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he will, indeed, utterly destroy him, whose coming is according to the energy of Satan, with all the power, and signs, and wonders of falsehood;


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and with all the deceit of unrighteousness among the destroyed; because they did not embrace the love of the truth, that they might be saved.


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But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God has, from the beginning, chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of spirit, and belief of truth;


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Well, then, brethren, stand firm, and hold fast the traditions which you have been taught, whether by our word or letter.


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And may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, who has loved us, and given us everlasting consolation, and good hope through favor,


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Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may rapidly spread, and be glorified, even as among you.


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For we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you both do, and will do, the things which we command you.


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Now, we command you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw yourselves from every brother who walks disorderly, and not according to the tradition which he received from us.


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Not because we have not a right, but that we might give ourselves to you for a pattern, to imitate us.


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And, therefore, when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any one will not work, neither let him eat.


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For we hear that there are some who still walk among you disorderly, not working at all, but prying into other people's affairs.


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Now, them who are such, we command and beseech by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.


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Now, if one do not obey our command in this letter, point out that man, and keep no company with him, that he may be ashamed.


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Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God, our Saviour, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope;


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to Timothy, my own son in the faith: Favor, mercy, and peace from God our Father, and from Christ Jesus our Lord.


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As I entreated you to continue in Ephesus, when going into Macedonia, that you may charge some not to teach differently,


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nor to give heed to fables, and endless genealogies, which occasion disputes rather than godly edification, which is through faith;


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desiring to be teachers of the law, neither understanding what they say, nor the things about which they are so positive.


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knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disorderly, the ungodly and sinners, the unholy and profane; murderers of fathers, and murderers of mothers, manslayers,


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fornicators, sodomites, manstealers, liars, false swearers, and if any other thing be opposite to wholesome doctrine;


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Now, I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has qualified me, that he reckoned me faithful, appointing me to the ministry,


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who was formerly a defamer, and a persecutor, and an injurious person. But I received mercy, because I acted ignorantly in unbelief;


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This saying is true, and worthy of all reception, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.


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However, for this cause I received mercy, that in me, the chief of sinners, Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering, for a pattern to them who should believe on him, in order to everlasting life.


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Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God alone, be honor and glory, for ever and ever. Amen.


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This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before you, concerning you, that we may carry on, through them, the good warfare;


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holding fast faith and a good conscience; which some have put away, with respect to the faith, having made shipwreck:


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of whom are Hymeneus and Alexander, whom I have delivered to the adversary, that they might be taught by chastisement not to blaspheme.


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Now I exhort, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men;


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for kings, and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.


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for which I was appointed a herald and an Apostle, (I speak the truth, I do not falsify,) a teacher to the Gentiles in faith and truth.


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I will, therefore, that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and disputings.


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I like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in decent apparel, with modesty and sobriety, not with plaited hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly raiment:


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However, she shall be saved through child-bearing, if they live in faith, and love, and holiness, with sobriety.


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The bishop, then, must be unclaimed, the husband of one wife, vigilant, prudent, of comely behavior, hospitable, fit to teach;


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Moreover, he must even have a good report from those without, that he may not fall into reproach, and the snare of the devil.


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The deacons, in like manner, must be grave, not double-tongued, not giving themselves to much wine, not persons who earn money by base methods;


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But let those also be first proved: then let them exercise the office of the deacon, being without blame.


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For they who have performed the office of a deacon well, procure to themselves an excellent degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.


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But if I tarry long, that you may know you ought to behave yourselves in the house of God, which is the congregation of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.-


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And, confessedly, great is the secret of godliness; -he who has manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit; seen of messengers, proclaimed to the Gentiles, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.


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But the Spirit expressly says, that in future times some will apostatize from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits, and to doctrines concerning demons;


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who forbid to marry, and command to abstain from meats, which God has created to be received with thanksgiving by the faithful, who thoroughly know the truth;-


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that every creature of God is good, being received with thanksgiving, and nothing is to be rejected;


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Laying these things before the brethren, you will be a good servant of Jesus Christ, nourished by the words of the faith, and of good doctrine, to the knowledge of which you have attained.


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ford bodily exercise is profitable for little; but godliness is profitable for all things, having the promise of the present life, and of that to come.


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Besides, for this we both labor, and suffer reproach,- because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, especially of believers.


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Let no one despise your youth; but be a pattern to the believers in speech, in behavior, in love, in faith, in chastity.


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Neglect not the spiritual gift which is in you, which was given you through prophecy, with the imposition of the hands of the eldership.


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Make these things your care. Be wholly employed in them, that your proficiency might be evident to all.


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Take heed to yourself, and to your doctrine; continue in them; for in doing this, you will both save yourself, and them who hear you.


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but if any widow have children, or grandchildren, let these learn first piously to take care of their own family, and then to requite their parents: for this is acceptable in the sight of God.


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Now she who is really a widow, and desolate, trusts in God, and continues in supplications and prayers, night and day.


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For if any one provide not for his own, and especially those of his own family, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.


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Let not a widow be taken into the number under sixty years old, having been the wife of one husband,


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eminent for good works-that she has brought up children, that she has lodged strangers, that she has washed the saints' feet, that she has relieved the afflicted, that she has diligently followed every good work.


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But the younger widows reject; for when they become impatient of the restraint of Christ, they will wish to marry,


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And, at the same time, also, they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers, also, and meddlers, speaking things which they ought not.


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I would, therefore, have young widows to marry, to bear children, to govern the house, to give no occasion to the adversary for reproach;


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If any believing man or woman have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the congregation be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows.


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Let the seniors who preside well, be counted worthy of double honor; especially those who labor in word and teaching.


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«For the scripture says,'You shall not muzzle an ox treading out corn'; and, <J>The laborer is worthy of his wages.</J>»


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I charge you, in the presence of God, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, and of the elect angels, that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality.


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No longer drink water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake, and your frequent infirmities.


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The sins of some men are very manifest, going before to condemnation; but some, indeed, they follow after.


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In like manner, also, the good works of some are very manifest, and those that are otherwise, can not lie hid.


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Let as many servants as are under the yoke, esteem their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and his doctrine be not defamed.


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And let not those who have believing masters, not despise them, because they are brethren; but let them serve them more, because they are believers, and beloved, who receive the benefit. These things teach and exhort.


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If any one teach differently, and consent not to wholesome dictates of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;


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he is puffed up with pride, knowing nothing; but is doting about questions, and verbal contentions, from which come envy, strife, evil speakings, unjust suspicions,


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perverse disputings of men wholly corrupted in mind, and destitute of the truth; who reckon gain to be godliness: from such, stand aloof.


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But they who will be rich, fall into temptation, and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which plunge men into destruction and perdition.


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For the love of money is the root of all evil, which some, eagerly desiring, have wholly erred from the faith, and pierced themselves all around with many sorrows.


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Therefore, do you, O man of God! flee these things, and pursue righteousness, piety, faith, love, patience, meekness.


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Combat the good combat of faith: lay hold on eternal life; to which, also, you have been called, and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.


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I charge you, in the presence of God, who makes all alive- and of Christ Jesus, who witnessed to Pontius Pilate the good confession;


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that you keep this commandment without spot, unblameable, till the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ;


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which appearance, at the proper season, the blessed and only Potentate, the King of king, and Lord of lords will exhibit;


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who only has immortality-dwelling in light inaccessible; whom no man has seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and might everlasting. Amen.


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Charge the rich in the present world not to be elated in mind, nor to trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who confers on us richly all things for enjoyment-


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O Timothy, guard the things committed to you in trust, avoiding profane babblings, and oppositions of knowledge, falsely so named:


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Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, on account of the promise of life, which is by Christ Jesus;


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to Timothy, my beloved son: Favor, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from Christ Jesus our Lord.


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I give thanks to God, (whom from my forefathers I serve with a pure conscience,) that I have unceasing remembrance of you in my prayers night and day;


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calling to remembrance also the unfeigned faith which is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois, and in your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded that it dwells in you also.


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For which cause I put you in mind to stir up the spiritual gift of God, which is in you through the imposition of my hands.


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Wherefore, be not ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner; but jointly suffer evil for the gospel, according to the power of God;


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who has saved us, and called us with a holy calling, -not on account of our works; but on account of his own purpose and favor, which was given us through Christ Jesus, before the times of the ages,


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and is now manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ; who has, indeed, vanquished death, and brought life and incorruptibility to light by the gospel:


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for which cause I also suffer these things. Nevertheless, I am not ashamed; for I know in whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that he is able to preserve what I have committed in trust to him, till that day.


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The form of wholesome words, which you have heard from me, hold fast, with the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.


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You know this, that all they who are in Asia have turned me off; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.


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May the Lord grant mercy to the family of Onesiphorus; for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:


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May the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord in that day! And how many services he rendered to me in Ephesus, you well know.


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And what things you have heard from me by many witnesses, these commit in trust to faithful men, who shall be fit also to teach others.


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No man who wars entangles himself with the occupations of this life, that he may please him, who has chosen him to be a soldier.


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Remember, Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, has been raised from the dead, according to my gospel;


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For this cause I patiently bear all things on account of the elect; that they, indeed, may obtain the salvation which is by Christ Jesus with eternal glory.


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Put them in remembrance of these things; earnestly testifying to them in the presence of the Lord, not to fight about words for nothing useful, but to the subverting of the hearers.


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Strive to exhibit yourself to God an approved workman, irreproachable, rightly dividing the word of truth.


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who, concerning the truth, have erred, affirming that the resurrection has already happened, and do subvert the faith of some.


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Nevertheless, the foundation of God stands firm, having this inscription, The Lord has made known them who are his:- and, Let every one who names the name of Christ, depart from iniquity.


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But, in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earthenware; some to honor, and some to dishonor.


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If, then, a man will cleanse himself well from these, he will be a vessel appointed to honor, sanctified, and very profitable for the master's use, prepared for every good work.


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Flee, therefore, youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, with them who call on the Lord from a pure heart.


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and the servant of the Lord must not be contentious, but gentle toward all men, fit to teach, patiently bearing evil,


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in meekness instructing those who set themselves in opposition; if, by any means God will give them reformation to the acknowledgment of truth;


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For men will be self-lovers, money-lovers, boasters, proud, defamers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,


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Of these, indeed, are they who go into houses and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away by divers lusts;


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Now, in the manner that Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men wholly corrupted in mind, reprobate as to the faith.


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However, they shall not proceed further; for their foolishness shall be very plain to all, as theirs also was.


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persecutions, sufferings, such as befell me in Antioch, in Iconium, in Lystra: such persecutions I endured; but out of them all the Lord delivered me.


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In the meantime, do you continue in the things which you have learned, and with which you have been entrusted, knowing from whom you have learned them;


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and that, from a child, you have known the sacred scriptures, which are able to make you wise to salvation, by the faith which is in Christ Jesus.


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All scripture, given by divine inspiration, is indeed profitable for doctrine, for conviction, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:


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I charge you, in the presence of God, and of Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead, at his appearing in his kingdom:


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proclaim the word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching.


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For there will be a time when they will not endure wholesome doctrine; but, having itching ears, they will, according to their own lusts, heap up to themselves teachers:


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But do you watch at all times; bear evil treatment; do the work of an evangelist; fully perform your ministry.


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henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will deliver to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them who love his appearing.


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for Demas, having loved the present world, has forsaken me, and has gone to Thessalonica; Crescens into Galatia, and Titus into Dalmatia.


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Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me in the ministry.


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The cloak which I left at Troas with Carpus, bring when you come, and the books, especially the parchments.


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Alexander, the coppersmith, has done me many evil things; the Lord will reward him according to his works:


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At my first answer, no one appeared with me, but all forsook me. May it not be laid to their charge!


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However, the Lord stood by me, and strengthened me, that through me, the proclamation might be fully declared, and all the Gentiles might hear; and 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 preserve me to his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.


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Make haste to come before winter. Eubulus salutes you; and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.


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Paul, a servant of God, and an Apostle of Jesus Christ, (according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledgment of the truth, which is according to godliness;


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who has now manifested his word, at the proper season, by the proclamation with which I am entrusted, according to the appointment of God our Saviour;)


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to Titus, my genuine son, according to the common faith: Favor, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, our Saviour.


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For this purpose, I left you in Crete, that you might set in order the things left unfinished, and to ordain seniors in every city, as I commanded you.


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If any one be without blame, the husband of one wife, having believing children, not accused of riotous living, nor unruly.


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For a bishop should be blameless, as the steward of God; not self-willed, not prone to anger, not given to wine, not a striker, not one who makes gain by base methods;


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holding fast the true doctrine, as he has been taught; that he may be able, by wholesome teaching, both to exhort and to confute the gain-sayers.


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whose mouths must be stopped; who subvert whole families, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of sordid gain.


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«One of themselves, a prophet of their own, has said,» 'The Cretans are always liars, evil wild beasts, lazy bodies.'


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To the pure, all meats are pure; but to the polluted and unbelieving, nothing is pure; for both their understanding and conscience are polluted.


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They profess to know God; but by works they deny him, being abominable and disobedient, and to every good work reprobate.


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That aged women, in like manner, be in deportment as becomes sacred persons-not slanderers, not enslaved to much wine, good teachers;


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to be calm, chaste, careful of their families, good, subject to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be defamed.


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wholesome speech which can not be condemned; that he who is on the opposite side may be ashamed, having nothing bad to say concerning you.


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Exhort servants to be subject to their own masters, and in all things be careful to please, not answering again,


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not secretly stealing, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.


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teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world-


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expecting the blessed hope; namely, the appearing of the glory of the great God, and of 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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Put them in mind to be subject to governments, and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work;


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For even we ourselves were formerly foolish, disobedient, erring, slavishly serving diverse inordinate desires and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.


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he saved us-not on account of works of righteousness which we had done-but according to his own mercy, through the bath of regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Spirit;


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This doctrine is true: and concerning these, I charge you to affirm strongly, that those who have believed in God, be studious to stand foremost in good works. These are things that are honorable and profitable to men.


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But foolish questions, and genealogies, and strifes, and fightings about the law, resist; for they are unprofitable and vain.


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When I shall send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, make haste to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have determined to winter there.


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Diligently help forward on their journey, Zenas, the lawyer, and Apollos, that nothing may be wanting to them.


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And let ours also learn to stand foremost in good works, for necessary uses, that they may not be unfruitful.


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Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy, the brother, to Philemon, the beloved, and our fellow-laborer;


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and to Apphia, the beloved; and to Archippus, our fellow-soldier, and to the congregation in your house:


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(having heard of the faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus, and of your love to all the saints)-


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that the communication of your faith may become effectual by the acknowledgment of every good thing that is among us, toward Christ Jesus.


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For we have much joy and consolation in your love; because the souls of the saints are refreshed by you, brother.


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yet, for love's sake, I rather beseech, being such a one as Paul, an old man, and now, also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.


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who formerly was to you unprofitable, but now will be very profitable to you, even as he has been to me-


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whom I was desirous to have detained with myself, that, in your stead, he might have ministered to me, in these bonds, for the gospel:


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but without your mind I would do nothing, that the good derived might not be as if by constraint, but as voluntary.


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Perhaps, also, for this reason he was separated for a little while, that you might have him for ever:


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no longer as a slave only, but above a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me-and how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.


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I, Paul, have written with my own hand-I will repay. I forbear to urge upon you, that you owe to me even your own self.


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I beseech you brother, let me have joy of you in the Lord- gratify my tender affections for Christ's sake.


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Having confidence in your obedience, I have written to you, knowing that you will even do more than I ask.


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But at the same time, prepare me also a lodging; for I hope that through your prayers, I shall be granted to you.


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has, in these last days, spoken to us by a Son, whom he has constituted Lord of all things, by whom, also, he made the universe:


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who, being in effulgence of his glory, and an exact representation of his character, and controlling all things by his own powerful word, after he had, by himself, made expiation for 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 at any time say,'Thou art my Son: today I have begotten thee'? and again,'I will be his Father, and he shall be my Son'?»


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«But when he brings again the First-born into the world, he says,» 'Let all the angels of God worship him.'


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«Whereas, concerning angels, he says,» 'Who makes winds his angels, and flaming fire his ministers.'


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«But to the Son,» 'Thy throne, O God, endures for ever. The scepter of thy kingdom is a scepter of rectitude.'


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«Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore, God, thy God, has anointed thee with the oil of gladness, above thy associates.»


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«And,» 'Thou, Lord, in the beginning didst lay the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the works of thy hands.'


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«and, as a vesture, thou wilt fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same; and they shall be changed; but thou art the same; and thy years shall never fail.»


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«Moreover, to which of the angels did he say, at any time,» 'Sit thou at my right hand, till I make thy enemies thy footstool.'


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«Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall inherit salvation?»


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(On this account, we ought to attend the more earnestly to the things which were heard; lest at any time we should left them slip.


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For if the word spoken by angels was firm, and every transgression and disobedience received a just retribution;


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how shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation? which, beginning to be spoken by the Lord, was confirmed to us by them who heard him;


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God, also, bearing witness, both by signs and wonders, and divers miracles, and distributions of the Holy Spirit, according to his own pleasure.)


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«But one in a certain place has testified, saying,» 'What is man that thou art mindful of him-or the son of man, that thou dost regard him?'


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«thou hast put all things under his feet.» 'Now, by putting all things in subjection to him, he left nothing that is not subject to him; but now, we do not yet see all things subjected to him;'


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but we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, that he, by the favor of God, might taste death for all; for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor!


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For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, to make him, who leads many sons to glory-even the Captain of their Salvation-perfect through sufferings.


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For both he who sanctifies, and they who are sanctified, are all of one Father; for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren;


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«saying,» 'I will announce thy name to my brethren: in the midst of the congregation I will sing praises to thee.'


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«And, again,» 'I will put my trust in him.' 'And again, '«Behold I, and the children whom God has given me.»


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Since, then, the children partook of flesh and blood; he, also, in like manner, partook of these; that, through death, he might vanquish him who had the power of death, that is, the devil;


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For, indeed, he has not at all assumed the nature of angels; but he has assumed the seed of Abraham.


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Hence, it was necessary for him to be made like his brethren in all things; that he might be a merciful and faithful High Priest, in matters pertaining to God, in order to expiate the sins of the people;


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Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, attentively consider Jesus, the Apostle and High Priest whom we have confessed;


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Indeed, he has been accounted worthy of glory, as far superior to Moses, as that of the builder is superior to the house.


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And Moses, indeed, as a servant, was faithful in all his house, for a testimony of the things that were to be spoken by him;


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but Christ, as a Son, over his own house-whose house we are, if we hold fast our confidence, and the rejoicing of our hope, unshaken to the end.


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Wherefore, I was displeased with that generation, and said, They always err in heart, and they have not known my ways.


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Brethren, take heed, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, by departing from the living God.


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But, lest any of you be hardened, through the deceitfulness of sin, exhort one another every day, while it is called Today:


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(for we are all partakers of Christ, if, indeed, we hold fast this first confidence firm to the end;)


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«with this saying,» 'Today, if you will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the bitter provocation.'


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And to whom did he swear, that they should not enter into his rest, but to them who did not believe?


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Wherefore, let us be afraid, lest a promise of entrance into the rest, being left, any of you should seem to fall short of it.


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For glad tidings have been proclaimed to us, as well as to them: but the word which they heard did not profit them; not being mixed with faith in them who heard it.


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«For we, who have believed, do enter into the rest, as he said,'So, I swore, in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest'; namely, from the works that were finished at the formation of the world.»


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«For he has spoken somewhere concerning the seventh day, thus:» 'And God rested on the seventh day, from all his works.'


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Since, then, it remains for some to enter into it, and that they who first received the good tidings, did not enter in on account of unbelief:


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«again, he limits a certain day, saying, by David,» 'Today,' 'after so long a time; as it is said, '«Today, if you will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.»


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For he who has entered into his rest, has himself, also, rested from his own works, like as God, also, rested from his.


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Wherefore let us carefully strive to enter into THIS REST, lest any one should fall after the same example of unbelief.


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For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and purposes of the heart.


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And there is no creature concealed from his sight, for all things are naked and open to the eyes of him, to whom we must give an account.


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Now, having a great High Priest, who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.


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For we have not a High Priest who can not sympathize with our weaknesses; but one who was tried in all points, according to the likeness of his nature to our ours, without sin.


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Let us, therefore, approach, with boldness, to the throne of favor, that we may receive mercy, and obtain favor for the purpose of seasonable help.


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For every high priest taken from among men, is appointed to perform for men the things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:


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being able to have a right measure of compassion on the ignorant and erring: because he himself, also, is surrounded with infirmity.


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«so, also, Christ did not assume to himself the honor of being a High Priest: but he who said to him,'Thou art my Son, today I have begotten thee'-»


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He, (who, in the days of his flesh, having, with loud cries, and with tears, offered up prayers and supplications to him who was able to save him from death, and was delivered from his fear,)


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(concerning whom we have much to say, and of difficult interpretation, since you have become dull of apprehension.


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For, when, by this time, you ought to be teachers, you have need of some one to teach you again the first elements of the oracles of God; and have become such as need milk, rather than solid food.


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but solid food is for those of a mature age, whose faculties have been habituated by long practice to discriminate both good and evil.


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Wherefore, leaving the first principles of Christian doctrine, let us progress toward maturity, not laying again the foundation concerning reformation from dead works, and faith toward God-


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concerning the doctrine of immersions, and of imposition of hands, of a resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment;


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For it is impossible to renew again to reformation those who have been once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit,


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and yet have fallen away, crucifying again to themselves the Son of God and exposing him to contempt.


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For the land that drinks in the rain, which often comes upon it, and brings forth herbs, fit for them by whom it is cultivated, receives a blessing from God:


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but that which produces thorns and briers, is reprobated, and nigh to a curse; whose end is to be burned.


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But, beloved, we hope better things of you, even things which are connected with salvation, though we thus speak.


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For God is not unrighteous, to forget your work, and the love which you have showed toward his name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.


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Yet, we earnestly desire every one of you to show the same diligence, in order to the realizing of this hope, to the end-


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that you may not be slothful, but imitators of them who, through faith and patience, are inheriting the promises.


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For men, indeed, swear by the greater; and an oath for confirmation is, to them, an end of all contradiction.


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Therefore, God, willing more abundantly to show to their heirs of promise the immutability of his purpose, confirmed it with an oath;


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that, by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled away to lay hold on the hope set before us;


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which we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and entering into the place within the vail,


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where a forerunner has entered on our account; even Jesus, made a High Priest for ever, according to 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, and blessed him,


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to whom Abraham imparted even a tenth of all; being, indeed, by interpretation, first, king of righteousness, and next, also, king of Salem; which, by interpretation, is king of peace-


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was without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginnings of days, nor end of life: but, being made like the Son of God, he remains a priest continually.


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Now, consider how great this priest was, to whom even Abraham, the patriarch, gave a tenth of the spoils.


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For they, indeed, of the sons of Levi, who received the priesthood, have a commandment to tithe people according to the law; that is, their brethren, although they have come forth from the loins of Abraham:


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but he, who did not derive his pedigree from their progenitors, tithed Abraham, and blessed the holder of the promises.


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Besides, here, indeed, men, who die, take tithes; but there one, of whom it is testified that he lives.


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Moreover, if, indeed, perfection were through the Levitical priesthood, (for with it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should arise, according to the order of Melchisedec, and not be called according to the order of Aaron?


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For he to whom these things are said, was of a different tribe, of which no one gave attendance at the altar.


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For it is very plain that our Lord had sprung from Judah, in relation to which tribe Moses spoke nothing concerning priesthood.


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another priest arises, who is made, not according to the law of a carnal commandment, but according to the power of an endless life.


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Here then, there is a disannulling of the preceding commandment, because of its weakness and unprofitableness-


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(for the law made no one perfect) -and the superinduction of a better hope, by which we draw near to God.


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«(for they, indeed, were make priests without an oath, but he, with an oath, by him who said to him,'The Lord has sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever, according to the order of Melchisedec,')»


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Hence, also, he is for able to save them who come to God through him; always living to make intercession for them.


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Now such a High Priest became us; who, being holy, harmless, undefiled, separated from sinners, and made higher than the heavens,


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has not, like the high priests, need, from time to time, to offer sacrifices, first for his own sins, then for those of the people; for this latter he did once, when he offered himself up.


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For the law constitutes men high priests, who have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, constituted the Son, who is perfected for evermore.


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Now of the things which we have spoken, this is the sum: We have such a High Priest, who has taken his seat at the right hand of the Majesty in the heavens-


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For every high priest is constituted to offer both gifts and sacrifices. Hence, it was necessary that this High Priest, also, should have something he might offer.


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For, indeed, if he were on earth, he could not be a priest, there being priests who offer gifts according to the law.


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«(These perform divine service for an example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses, when about to construct the tabernacle, was admonished of God:'See, now (says he,) that you make all things according to the type that was showed you in the Mount.')»


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Besides, he has now obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as he is the mediator of a better institution, which has been established upon better promises.


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«But, finding fault, he says to them,» 'Behold, the days come, says the Lord, when I will make a new institution with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:'


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not according to the institution which I made with their fathers, at the time of my taking them by the hand, to lead them out of the land of Egypt-because they did not abide in my institution, I also neglected them, says the Lord.


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Now this is the institution which I will make with the house of Israel, after these days, says the Lord. I will put my laws into their mind, and 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 man his fellow-citizen, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord; for all shall know me, from the least of them to the greatest of them.


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«Because I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities I will remember no more.»


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«By saying,» 'a new institution,' 'he has made the former old: now, that which is decaying and growing old, is ready to vanish away.'


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For the first tabernacle, which is called holy, was set in order; in which were both the candlestick and the table, and the showbread;


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having the golden censer, and the ark of the institution, covered everywhere with gold, in which were the golden pot having the manna, and the rod of Aaron, which budded, and the tables of the institution;


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and above it, the cherubim of glory, overshadowing the mercy-seat; concerning which things we can not at present speak particularly.


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Now, these things being this set in order, the priests go at all times indeed into the first tabernacle, performing the services;


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but into the second tabernacle-the high priest alone-once every year, not without blood, which he offers for himself, and for the errors of the people.


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The Holy Spirit signifying this, that the way of the holy places was not yet laid open, while the first tabernacle was yet standing;


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which was a figurative representation for the time being, during which both gifts and sacrifices are offered which can not, with respect to the conscience, make him who does the service perfect-


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only with meats and drinks, and divers immersions- ordinances concerning the flesh, imposed till the time of reformation.


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But Christ being come-a High Priest of the good things to come-has, through a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, (that is to say, not of this building,)


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entered once into the holy places, having obtained eternal redemption; not indeed, by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood.


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For if the blood of bulls and goats, and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling the polluted, sanctified to the cleansing of the flesh,


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how much more shall the blood of Christ, who, through an Eternal Spirit, offered himself without fault, to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?


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And, for this reason, he is mediator of the new institution, that, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first institution, those who had been called might receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.


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Now, where there is such an institution, the death of the instituted sacrifice must necessarily intervene:


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for since the institution is ratified over the dead, it has no force while the instituted sacrifice lives.


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«for» 'when Moses had spoken every precept in the law to all the people, taking the blood of calves, and of goats, with water and scarlet wool, and hyssop, he sprinkled both the book itself, and the people:'


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Moreover, he in like manner sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry.


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And almost all thing, according to the law, were cleansed with blood; and without the shedding of blood, there is no remission.


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It was necessary, then, indeed, that the representations of the things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves, with better sacrifices than these.


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Therefore, Christ has not entered into the holy places made with hands, the antitypes of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God, on our account.


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Not, however, that he should offer himself often, as the high priest enters into the holy places every year with other blood;


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for then he must have often sufferance since the foundation of the world: but now, once, at the conclusion of the ages, he has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.


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even so Christ, being once offered, to bear away the sins of many, will, to them who look for him, appear a second time, without a sin-offering, in order to salvation.


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Moreover, the law, containing only a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of these things, never can, with the same sacrifices which they offer every year continually, make those who come to them, perfect.


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For then would they not have ceased to be offered: since the offerers being once purified, should not have had any more conscience of sins?


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«Wherefore, when coming into the world, he says,» 'Sacrifice and offering thou hast not willed; but a body hast thou prepared me.'


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«Then, said I, behold, I come to do thy will, O God! (In the volume of the book it is written concerning me.)»


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Having said above, the sacrifice, and offering; and whole burnt offerings, and sin offerings thou hast not willed, neither has pleasure in them, (which are offered according to the law,)


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«and then he said,» 'Behold, I come to do thy will.' 'He takes away the first will, that he may establish the second.'


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And, indeed, every priest stands, daily ministering, and offering often the same sacrifices, which never can take away sins:


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but he, having offered only one sacrifice for sins, through his whole life, sat down at the right hand of God;


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«This is the institution which I will make with them after these days, says the Lord: I will put my laws into their hearts, and inscribe them on their minds; he adds,»


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let us draw near, with a true heart, in full assurance of faith-having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water,


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not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more, as you see the day approaching.


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For if we sin willfully, after having received the knowledge of the truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sins;


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but a dreadful expectation of judgment, and of a fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.


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Of how much sorer punishment, think you, shall he be counted worthy, who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and reckoned the blood of the institution by which he was sanctified, a common thing, and has insulted the Spirit of Favor?


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«For we know him who has said,'Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord': and again,» 'The Lord will judge his people.'


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But to call to remembrance the former days, in which, after you were enlightened, you sustained a great combat of afflictions;


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partly, indeed, whilst you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst you became companions of them who were so treated.


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For you also suffered with me in my bonds, and with joy sustained the spoiling of your goods, knowing within yourselves, that you have in heaven a better and a permanent substance.


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We, however, are not of those who apostatize to perdition; but of those who persevere to the salvation of the soul.


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By faith, we understand that the worlds were formed by the word of God; so that the things which were seen, were not made of things which do appear.


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By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain, on account of which he was commended as righteous; God testifying in favor of his oblations: and so, by it, though dead he still speaks.


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By faith Enoch was translated, that he might not see death, and was not found, because God had translated him; for, before his translation, it was testified that he pleased God.


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But without faith it is impossible to please God. For he who comes to God, must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them who diligently seek him.


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By faith, Noah, when he received a revelation concerning things not yet seen, being seized with religious fear, prepared an ark for the salvation of his family; by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is by faith.


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By faith, Abraham, when called to go out into a place which he should afterward receive as an inheritance, obeyed, and went out, not knowing whither he was going.


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By faith, he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the joint heirs of the same promise:


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By faith, also, Sarah herself received strength for the conception of seed, and brought forth, when past the time of life; because she judged him faithful who had promised.


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And, therefore, there sprang from one who was dead, in this respect, a race, as the stars of heaven in multitude, and as the sand, which is on the sea-shore, innumerable.


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All these died in faith, not having received the promises. For, seeing the things promised, afar off, and embracing them, they confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims in the land.


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For truly, if they had remembered that from which they came out, they might have had an opportunity to return it.


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But, indeed, they strongly desired a better country; that is, a heavenly. Therefore, God is not ashamed of them-to be called their God; because he has prepared for them a city.


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By faith, Abraham, when tried, offered up Isaac; he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten,


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reasoning that God was able to raise him even from the dead; from whence, indeed, he received him in a figure.


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By faith, Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, bowing on the top of his staff.


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By faith, Joseph, when dying, made mention concerning the departing of the children of Israel, and gave commandment concerning his bones.


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By faith, Moses, when born, was hid three months by his parents, because they saw that he was a beautiful child, and were not afraid of the king's commandment.


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esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he looked forward to the retribution.


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By faith, he left Egypt, not being afraid of the wrath of the king. For he courageously persevered, as perceiving the invisible God.


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By faith, he appointed the passover, and the sprinkling of the blood; that he who destroyed the first-born, might not touch them.


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By faith, they passed through the Red Sea, as by dry land, which the Egyptians attempting to do, were drowned.


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By faith, Rahab, the harlot, was not destroyed with the unbelievers, having received the spies in peace.


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And what shall I say more? for the time would fail me, to speak of Gideon, and Barak, and Samson, and Jepthah, and David, also, and Samuel, and the prophets-


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who, through faith, subdued kingdom, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,


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quenched the strength of fire, escaped the edges of the sword, grew strong from sickness, became valiant in battle, overturned the camps of the aliens.


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Women received their dead by a resurrection, and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection.


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They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, they were tempted, they died by the slaughter of the sword, they went about in sheep skins, and in goat skins, being destitute, afflicted, maltreated;


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of these the world was not worthy: they wandered in deserts, and mountains, and in caves, and holes of the earth.


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Since, then, we have so great a cloud of witnesses placed before us, laying aside every encumbrance, and the sin which easily entangles us, let us run, with perseverance, the race set before us;


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looking to Jesus, the leader and perfecter of the faith; who, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.


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Consider him who, from sinners, endured such opposition against himself, lest, becoming discouraged in your minds, you grow weary;


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«Besides, have you forgotten the exhortation which reasons with you as with children,» 'My son, do not think lightly of the Lord's chastisement, neither faint when you are rebuked by him:'


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If you endure chastisement, God deals with you as his children. For what son is there whom his father does not chastise?


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But if you be without chastisement, of which all sons are partakers, certainly you are bastards, and not sons.


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Farther, we have had fathers of our flesh, who chastised us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection to the Father of our spirits, and live?


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For they, indeed, during a very few days, chastised us according to their pleasure; but he, for our advantage, that we might be partakers of his holiness.


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Now, no chastisement, indeed, for the present, seems to be matter of joy, but of sorrow. Nevertheless, afterward it returns the peaceful fruit of righteousness to them who are trained by it.


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And make smooth paths for your feet, that that which is lame, may not be put out of joint, but that it may rather be healed.


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carefully observing, lest any one come short of the favor of God; lest some bitter root springing up, trouble you, and by it many be polluted;


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lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau; who, for one meal, gave away his birthrights.


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And you know, that although afterward he wished to inherit the blessing, he was reprobated: for he found no scope for effecting a change, though he earnestly sought it with tears.


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Now you are not come to a tangible mountain, which burned with fire; and to blackness, and to darkness, and to tempest,


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and to the sound of a trumpet, and to the voice of words, the hearers of which earnestly entreated that a word more might not be addressed to them:


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But you are come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of messengers,


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to the general assembly and congregation of the first-born, who are enrolled in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,


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and to Jesus the mediator of the new institution, and to the blood of sprinkling, which speaks better things than that of Abel.


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Take care that you refuse not him who speaks: for if they did not escape, who refused him who spoke on earth, much more we shall not escape, who turn away from him that speaks from heaven:


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«whose voice then shook the earth; but now he has promised, saying,» 'Yet once I shake not the earth only, but also the heavens.'


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«Now this speech,» 'YET ONCE,' 'signifies the removing of the things shaken, as of things which were constituted, that the things not shaken may remain.'


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Wherefore, we having received a kingdom not shaken, let us have gratitude, by which we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and religious fear.


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Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for, by so doing, some have entertained angels, without knowing them.


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Remember them who are in bonds, as fellow-prisoners; and them who suffer evil, as being yourselves also in the body.


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Let marriage be honorable among all, and the bed unpolluted; for fornicators and adulterers God will judge.


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«Let your behavior be without the love of money, being contented with the things you have; for himself has said,» 'I will never leave you, not will I at all utterly forsake you.'


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«So that taking courage, we may say,» 'The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man can do to men.'


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Remember your rulers, who have spoken to you the word of God: observing carefully the issue of their conduct, imitate their faith.


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Be not tossed about with various and foreign doctrines; for it is good that the heart be established by grace, not by meats, by which they have not profited, who have been taken up with them.


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Moreover, the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought by the high priest into the most holy place, a sin-offering, are burnt without the camp:


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wherefore Jesus, also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.


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Through him, therefore, let us offer up continually, the sacrifice of praise to God; namely, the fruit of our lips, confessing to his name.


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Obey your rulers, and submit yourselves; for they watch for your souls, as those who must give account: -that they may do this with joy, and not with mourning; for that would be unprofitable for you.


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Pray for us; for we are confident that we have a good conscience, willing in all things to behave well.


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Now may the God of peace, who brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting institution,


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make you fit for every good work, to do his will, producing in you what is acceptable in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom we the glory for ever and ever. Amen.


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Now I beseech you, brethren, suffer this word of exhortation, for indeed I have sent it to you in brief.


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James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes who are in the dispersion: Health.


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Let patience, therefore, have a perfect effect, that you may be perfect and complete, deficient in nothing.


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If any of you be deficient in wisdom, let him ask it of God: who gives to all men liberally, and upbraids not, and it shall be given to him.


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But let him ask in faith, being not at all irresolute: for he who is irresolute, is like a wave of the sea, driven by the wind and tossed.


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For the sun rises with a burning heat, and withers the herb, and its flower falls down, and the beauty of its appearance perishes: so also shall the rich man fade in his ways.


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Blessed is the man who sustains trial, for becoming an approved person, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to them who love him.


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Let no one who is tempted say, Certainly I am tempted by God: for God is incapable of being tempted by evil things, and he tempts no one.


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every good gift, and every perfect gift, is from above, descended from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variableness, nor shadow of turning.


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Of his own will, he begot us by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of fruits of his creatures.


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Wherefore, putting away all filthiness, and overflowing of maliciousness, embrace with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.


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For if any one be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like a man who views his natural face in a mirror;


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But he who looks narrowly into the perfect law of liberty, and perseveres, not becoming a forgetful hearer, but a doer of its work, shall, in so doing, be happy.


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If any one among you think to be religious, who bridles not his tongue, but deceives his own heart, the religion of this person is vain.


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Pure religion, and undefiled, with God, even the Father, is this: To take care of orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep one's self unspotted from the world.


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My brethren, do not hold the faith of our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with partial regard for persons.


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For if there enter into your synagogue a man having gold rings on his fingers, and with splendid clothing, and there enter likewise a poor man, with sordid apparel;


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and you look on him who has the splendid clothing, and say, Sit you here honorably; and to the poor man, Stand you there; or, Sit here at my footstool:


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Hearken, beloved brethren: Has not God chosen the poor of the world-rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he has promised to them who love him?


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«If, now, indeed, you fulfill a royal law, according to the scripture,» 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself,' 'you do well.'


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«For he who said,» 'Do not commit adultery,' 'has also said, '«Do not kill.» 'Now if you do not commit adultery, yet if you kill, you have become a transgressor of the law.'


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What is the advantage, my brethren, if any one say he have faith, but have not works? Can faith save him?


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and any one of you say to him, Depart in peace: be warmed, and be filled; yet give him none of the things needful for the body, what is the advantage?


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Also, one may say, You have faith, and I have works: show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.


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Was not Abraham, our father, justified by works, when he had lifted up Isaac, his son, upon the altar?


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«And so that scripture was fulfilled, which says,» '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 Rahab, the harlot, justified by works, having secretly received the messengers, and having sent them away by another road.


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For in many things we all offend. If any one offend not in the word, he is a perfect man, able to rule, also, the whole body.


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Behold, we put bits into the mouths of horses, to make them obedient to us, and we turn about their whole body.


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Behold, also, the ships, which, though they be so great, and are driven by fierce winds, are turned about by a very small helm, whithersoever the power of the pilot determines:


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so, also, the tongue is a little member, yet it works mightily. Behold, how much wood a little fire kindles!


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Now the tongue is a fire-a world of iniquity; the tongue is so placed among our members, that it defiles the whole body, and sets the wheel of nature in a blaze, and is set on fire from hell.


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Now every species of wild beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of sea monsters, is subdued, and has been subdued by man:


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With it we bless God, even the Father; and with it we curse men, who are made in the likeness of God.


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Can a fig-tree, my brethren, produces olives; or a vine, figs? So, no fountain can yield salt water and fresh.


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Is any one wise and intelligent among you? let him show, by good behavior, his works, with meekness of wisdom.


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But the wisdom from above is, indeed, first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be persuaded, full of compassion and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.


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Whence wars and fightings among you? Do they not come hence, even from your lusts, which war in your members?


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You strongly desire, and have not; you kill, and are zealous, and can not obtain. You fight and war, but have not, because you ask not.


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Adulterers, and adulteresses, do you not know that the friendship of the world is enmity against God? Whosoever, therefore, will be a friend of the world, is counted an enemy of God.


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Do you think that the scripture speaks in vain? And does the spirit, who dwells in us, strongly incline to envy?


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Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you men of two minds.


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Be exceedingly afflicted, and mourn, and weep; and let your laughter be turned into mourning, and your joy into sadness.


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He who speaks against his brother, and condemns his brother, speaks against the law, and condemns the law. But if you condemn the law, you are not a doer of the law, but a judge.


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Come, now, you who say, Today, or to-morrow, we will go to such a city, and will abide there one year, and traffic in merchandise, and get gain;


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who do not know what shall be to-morrow. For what is your life? It is, indeed, a smoke, which appears for a little while, and then vanishes away.


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Your gold and silver are eaten with rust, and the rust of them will be a witness against you, and will eat your flesh as fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days.


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Hark! the hire of the laborers who have reaped your field, which is fraudulently kept back by you, cries; and the cries of the reapers have entered into the ears of the Lord of hosts.


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You have lived luxuriously on the earth, and been wanton; you have nourished your hearts as in a day of festivity.


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Behold the husbandman, who expects the valuable fruit of the earth, waits patiently for it, till it receive the early and later rain.


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Repine not against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned: behold, the Judge stands before the door.


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Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord: for an example of suffering evil, and of patience.


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Behold, we call them happy, who are patient. You have heard of the patience of Job, and you have seen the end of the Lord, that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.


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But, above all things, my brethren, swear not; neither by the heaven, or by the earth, nor by any other oath: but let your yes, be Yes, and your no, No; that you may not fall under condemnation.


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Is any one sick, among you? let him send for the seniors of the congregation, and let them pray over him, having anointed him with oil, in the name of the Lord.


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And the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and so the Lord will raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.


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Confess your faults, one to another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The inwrought prayer of the righteous man avails much.


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Elias was a man frail and mortal like us, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months.


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let him know what he who converts 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 elect sojourners of the dispersion, of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia-


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according to the predetermination of God the Father, by a sanctification of the Spirit, in order to obedience, and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Favor and peace be multiplied to you.


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Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, according to his great mercy, has regenerated us to a lively hope, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,


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who, by the power of God, are guarded through faith, to the salvation prepared to be revealed in the last time.


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On account of this, be exceeding glad, though now, for a little while, (since it is needful,) you are made sorry by divers trials;


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that the trying of your faith, (much more precious than of gold, which perishes, though proved by fire,) may be found to praise, and honor, and glory, at the revelation of Jesus Christ;


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whom, not having seen, you love; on whom, not now looking, but believing, you greatly rejoice, with joy unspeakable and full of glory-


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Concerning which salvation, the prophets inquired accurately, and searched diligently, who have prophesied concerning the favor bestowed on you;


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searching diligently of what things, and what kind of time, the Spirit of Christ, who was in them, did signify, when he testified before the sufferings of Christ, and the glories following these-


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to whom it was revealed, that, not for themselves, but for us, they ministered these things; which have now been reported to you, by them who have declared the glad tidings to you, with the Holy Spirit sent down from heaven: into which things, angels earnestly desire to look attentively.


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Wherefore, having the loins of your mind girded, being vigilant, constantly hope for the gift to be brought to you, at the revelation of Jesus Christ.


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And seeing you call on the Father, who, without respect of persons, judges according to every man's work-pass the time of your sojourning here, in fear;


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knowing that, not with corruptible things, as silver and gold, you were redeemed from your foolish behavior, delivered to you by your fathers;


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predetermined, indeed, before the foundation of the world, but manifested in these last times for you;


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who through him, believe in God, who raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory, that your faith and hope might be in God.


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Wherefore, having purified your souls by obeying the truth, through the Spirit, to unfeigned brotherly love, love one another, from a pure heart, fervently:


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having been regenerated, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, through the word of the living God, which remains.


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«For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower of it falls down; but the word of the Lord remains forever.»


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Wherefore, laying aside all malice, and all guile and hypocrisies, and envyings, and all evil speaking;


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you, also, as living stones, are built up a spiritual temple, a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices, most acceptable to God, through Jesus Christ.


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«Wherefore, it is contained in the scripture,» 'Behold I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: whoever trusts in it, shall not be ashamed.'


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To you, then, who trust, it is precious; but to unbelieving- a stone which the builders rejected, which has become the head of the corner-


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a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense. Those who stumble at the word, are disobedient unbelievers, to which, therefore, they were appointed:


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but you are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a purchased people; that you should declare the perfections of him who has called you from darkness into his marvelous light:


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who formerly were not a people, but now are a people of God; who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.


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Beloved, I beseech you, as sojourners and travelers, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.


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Have your behavior comely, among the Gentiles, that, whereas, they speak against you, as evil doers, having beheld your good works, they may glorify God, in the day of visitation.


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Be subject, therefore, to every human establishment for the Lord's sake; whether to the king, as supreme;


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or to governor, as those sent by him for the punishment, indeed, of evil doers; but for the praise of them who do good.


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Live as freemen, yet do not use your freedom as a covering of wickedness; but as the servants of God.


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Let household servants be subject to their masters, with all reverence; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.


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But what praise is due, if, when you commit faults and are buffeted, you bear it patiently? Yet if, when you do well, and suffer, you bear it patiently, this is acceptable with God.


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Besides, to this you were called; for even Christ suffered for us, leaving us a pattern, that you should follow his footsteps;


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who, when he was reviled, did not revile in return; when he suffered he did not threaten, but committed his cause to him who judges righteously-


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who himself bore away our sins in his own body, on the tree; that we, being freed from sins, should live to righteousness; by whose stripes you are healed.


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For you were as sheep going astray, but are now returned to the Shepherd, and Overseer of your souls.


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In like manner, let the wives be in subjection to their own husbands; that, indeed, if any obey not the word, they, without the word, may be won by the behavior of their wives,


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whose adorning, let it not be that which is external-the plaiting of hair, trinkets of gold, or finery of dress;


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but-the hidden man of the heart, with the incorruptible ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which, in the sight of God, is of great value.


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For thus, anciently, the holy women, also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection to their own husbands;


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even as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him Lord; whose daughters you are become, doing well, and not fearing any terror.


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In like manner, husbands, dwell with your wives according to knowledge, giving honor to the wife, as the weaker vessel, and as joint heirs of the favor of life, that your prayers be not hindered.


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not returning evil for evil, or railing for railing; but, on the contrary, bless: knowing that to this you were called, that you might inherit the blessing.


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«For he who is desirous to enjoy life, and to see good days, let him restrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit.»


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Let him turn away from evil, and do good; let him turn away from evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and pursue it.


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«For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open to their supplication; but the face of the Lord is against the workers of iniquity.»


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Nevertheless, although you even suffer for righteousness' sake, you are happy. Therefore, do not fear their fear, neither be troubled:


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but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts; and be always prepared for giving an answer, with meekness and reverence, to every one who asks of you a reason for the hope which is in you.


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Hold fast a good conscience, that, whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may be put to shame who arraign your good behavior in Christ.


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For even Christ once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God; being put to death, indeed, in the flesh, but made alive by the Spirit.


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who formerly were disobedient, when the patience of God once waited, in the days of Noah, while an ark was preparing, in which few, that is, eight souls, were effectually saved through water-


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the antitype, immersion, does, also, now save us, (not putting away the filth of the flesh; but seeking of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ;


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who, having gone into heaven, is at the right hand of God; angels, and authorities, and powers, being subjected to him.


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Christ, then, having suffered for us in the flesh, do you also warm yourselves with the same mind: for he who has suffered in the flesh, has ceased from sin;


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so that he no longer lives his remaining time in the flesh, to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.


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For the time which has passed of life, is sufficient to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, having walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excesses in wine, revellings, carousals, and abominable idolatries.


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On which account they wonder that you do not run with them, into the same sink of debauchery, reviling you,-


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For, to this end of the gospel was preached to the dead, that they might, indeed, be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.


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Let every one, according as he has received a gift, minister it to the others, as good stewards of the manifold favor of God.


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If any one speak, let him speak as the oracles of God: if any one minister, let him do it as from the strength which God supplies; that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.


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Beloved, wonder not at the fiery trial among you, which is come upon you for a trial, as if some strange thing happened to you;


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but, seeing you partake of the sufferings of Christ, rejoice: that, also, at the revelation of his glory you may rejoice, with exceeding great joy.


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If you be reproached for the name of Christ, you are happy; because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.


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By them, indeed, he is evil spoken of, but by you he is glorified. Wherefore, let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or a malefactor, or as a meddling person.


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However, if any one suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him even glorify God on that account.


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Indeed, the time is come that punishment must begin at the house of God; and if it begin first at us, what the end of them who do not obey the gospel of God?


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Wherefore, then, let those who suffer by the will of God, commit their own lives to him in well doing, as a faithful Creator.


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The seniors who are among you, I exhort, who am also a senior, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory which is to be revealed.


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Feed the flock of God, which is with you; exercising the overseer's office, not by constraint, but willingly; neither for the sake of sordid gain, but from good disposition;


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and when the Chief Shepherd shall appear, you shall receive the crown of glory which fades not away.


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For the like reason, you younger persons subject yourselves to the seniors. Yes, all be subject to one another, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud but gives favor to the humble.


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Be sober, be vigilant: your adversary, the devil, is walking about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour:


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whom resist, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the very same sufferings are accomplished in your brethren, who are in the world.


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And may the God of all favor, who has called us to his eternal glory, by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little, himself make you complete; support, strengthen, establish you:


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By Sylvanus, a faithful brother, (as I conclude,) I have written to you in few words, exhorting you, and strongly testifying that this is the true favor of God, in which you stand.


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Symeon Peter, a servant and Apostle of Jesus Christ, to them who have obtained like precious faith with us, through the righteousness of our God and Saviour Jesus Christ:


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As his divine power has gifted to us all things which are necessary to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who has called us to glory and virtue.


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On account of which, the greatest and most precious promises are freely given to us, that by these we might be made partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world, through lust.


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And for this very reason, indeed, giving all diligence, add to your faith, courage; and to courage, knowledge;


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for these things being in you, and abounding, make you to be neither slothful, nor unfruitful, in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.


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But he who has not these things, is blind, shutting his eyes, having become forgetful of the purification of his old sins.


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Wherefore, the rather, brethren, earnestly endeavor to make your calling and election sure; for doing these things, you shall never fall;


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and thus there shall be richly ministered to you, an entrance 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 remembrance of these things, although you know, and are established in the present truth.


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Yes, I think it fit, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up, by putting you in remembrance;


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knowing, that the putting off of this, my tabernacle, is soon to happen, even as our Lord Jesus Christ has showed me.


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Therefore, I will carefully endeavor that you may be able, after my decease, to have these things always in remembrance.


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For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of his grandeur;


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«for when he received from God the Father honor and glory, a vice to this effect came to him from the magnificent glory,» 'This is my Son, the beloved, in whom I delight.'


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so we have the prophetic word more firm; to which you do well to take heed, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, till the day dawn, and the morning star arise in your hearts.


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But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you; who will privately introduce destructive sects, denying even the Lord who bought them, bringing on themselves swift destruction.


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And many will follow their lewd practices, on account of whom, they way of truth will be evil spoken of.


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And through covetousness, they will make merchandise of you, by fictitious tales: to whom the punishment threatened of old lingers not, and their destruction slumbers not.


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For God, indeed, did not spare the angels who sinned, but with chains of darkness confining them in Tartarus, delivered them over to be kept for judgment;


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and did not spare the old world, but saved Noah, the eighth, a proclaimer of righteousness, when he brought the flood upon the world of the ungodly;


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and having reduced to ashes the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, punished them with an overthrow, making them an example to those who should afterward live ungodly:


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(for; -that righteous man, dwelling among them, by the sight and report of their unlawful deeds, tormented his righteous soul from day to day;)


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the Lord knows how to rescue the godly out of temptation, and to reserve the unrighteous to a day of judgment to be punished;


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but especially those who go after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and who despise government: being audacious, self-willed, who fear not to revile dignitaries;


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whereas, angels, who are greater in strength and power, do not bring a reviling accusation against them before the Lord.


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But these, as natural, irrational animals, made for capture and destruction, speaking evil of matters which they do not understand, shall be utterly destroyed by their own corruptions;


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receiving the due reward of unrighteousness. These delight to spend the day in luxurious festivity: they are spots and blemishes, reveling in their deceits when they feast with you;


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having eyes full of the adulteress, incessantly sinning, alluring unstable souls; having a heart exercised with insatiable desires; an accursed progeny:


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having forsaken the right path, they have wandered, following in the way of Balaam, the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of iniquity,


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and was convicted of his transgression; the dumb brute, speaking with man's voice, reprimanded the madness of the prophet.


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These are wells without water, clouds driven by a tempest; for whom the blackness of darkness is reserved forever:


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for, speaking great swelling words of falsehood, they allure by the lusts of the flesh, even by lasciviousness, those who have actually fled away from them who are living in error.


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They promise them liberty, whilst they themselves are slaves of corruption: for every one is enslaved by that which overcomes him.


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Now, if, having fled away from the pollutions of the world, through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and being again entangled, they are overcome by them; their last condition is worse than the first.


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Therefore, it has been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, turn away from the holy commandment delivered to them.


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«But the saying of the true proverb has happened to them:» 'The dog is returned to his own vomit; and the washed hog, to its wallowing in the mire.'


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Beloved, this second epistle I now write to you, in which epistles I stir up your sincere mind to remembrance:


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to be mindful of the words before spoken by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the Apostles of the Lord and Saviour.


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and saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for from the time the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as at the beginning of the creation.


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But this willfully escapes them, that, by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth subsisting from the water, and by water:


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But the present heavens and the earth, by the same word are treasured up, being kept for fire to a day of judgment, and destruction of ungodly men.


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But this one thing, let it not escape you, beloved, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.


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The Lord does not delay his promise in the manner some account delaying; but he exercises long-suffering toward us, not desiring that any should perish, but that all should come to reformation.


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However, as thief, the day of the Lord will come; in which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements burning shall be dissolved; and the earth, and the works that are upon it, shall be utterly burned.


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Seeing, then, all these things shall be dissolved; -what sort of persons ought you to be, in holy behavior and godliness,


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expecting and earnestly desiring, the coming of the day of God; in which the heavens being set on fire, shall be dissolved, and the elements burning, shall be melted?


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But we, according to his promise, expect new heavens, and a new earth, in which dwells righteousness.


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Wherefore, beloved, expecting these things, diligently endeavor to be found of him spotless, and irreproachable, in peace.


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And reckon the long-suffering of our Lord, to be for salvation; as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you.


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As, indeed, in all his epistles, speaking in them concerning these things: in which there are some things hard to be understood, which the untaught and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, to their own destruction.


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Therefore, beloved, foreknowing these things, be on your guard; lest being also carried away by the deceit of the lawless, you fall from your own steadfastness.


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But grow in favor, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.


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That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have contemplated, and our hands have handled, concerning the living Word-


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(for the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and declare to you that life which is eternal, which was with the Father, and was manifested to us;)


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that which we have seen and heard, we declare to you; that you also may have fellowship with us: and our fellowship truly is with the Father, and with his Son, Jesus Christ.


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Moreover, this is the message which we have heard from him, and declare to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.


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But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light; we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ the Son cleanses us from all sin.


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If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.


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My little children, these things I write to you, that you may not sin. Yet if any one has sinned, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Just One.


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He who says, I have known him, and does not keep his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in this man.


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But whoever keeps his word, truly in this man the love of God is perfected. By this we know that we are in him.


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Brethren, I do not write a new commandment to you; but an old commandment, which you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word, which you have heard from the beginning.


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On the other hand, I write to you a new commandment, which is true concerning him and concerning you. For the darkness is passing away, and the light, which is true, now shines.


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But he who hates his brother, is in the darkness, and walks in that darkness, and does not know whither he goes; because the darkness has blinded his eyes.


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Fathers, I write to you, because you have known him from the beginning. Young men, I write to you, because you have overcome the wicked one.


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Fathers, I have written to you, because you have known him from the beginning. Young men, I have written to you, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one.


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Love not the world, neither the things which are in the world. If any one love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.


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For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-is not of the Father, but is of the world.


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Young children, it is the last period. And as you have heard that the antichrist comes, so, now, there are many antichrists; whence you know that it is the last period.


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They went away from us, but they were not of us. For, if they had been of us, they would have abode with us; but they went away, that they might be made manifest that they were not of us.


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I have not written to you because you know not the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth.


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Who is a liar, if not he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is the antichrist who denies the Father and the Son.


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Therefore, let what you have heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you have heard from the beginning, abide in you; you also shall abide in the Son, and in the Father:


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but the unction which you have received from him abides in you; and you have no need that any one should teach you, unless the same unction teaches you concerning all things, and is truth, and is no lie: and as it has taught you, you will abide in him.


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And now, little children, abide in him, that when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and may not be put to shame by him, at his coming.


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If you know that he is righteous, you know that every one who works righteousness, has been begotten by him.


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Behold how great love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! For this reason, the world does not know us, because it did not know him.


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Beloved, now we are the children of God; but it does not yet appear what we shall be. However, we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him-that we shall see him as he is.


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Little children, let no one deceive you: he who works righteousness, is righteous, even as He is righteous.


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He who works sin, is of the devil; for the devil sins from the beginning. For this purpose, the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.


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Whoever has been begotten by God, does not work sin; because his seed abides in him; and he can not sin, because he has been begotten by God.


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By this the children of God are discovered, and the children of the devil: whoever works not righteousness, is not of God, neither he who loves not his brother.


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Not being of the wicked one, as Cain was, who slew his brother. And on account of what, did he slay him? Because his own works were wicked, and his brother's righteous.


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We know that we have passed away from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who loves not his brother, abides in death.


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Every one who hates his brother, is a manslayer; and you know that no manslayer has eternal life abiding in him.


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By this we have known the love of Christ, because he laid down his life for us; therefore we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.


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Whoever, therefore, has the goods of this world, and sees his brother in need, and yet shuts up his compassion from him, how abides the love of God in him?


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And whatever we ask, we receive from him; because we keep his commandments, and do the things which are pleasing in his sight.


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For this is his commandment, that we should believe on the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and should love one another as he gave us commandment.


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Now he who keeps His commandments, abides in him, and He in him; and by this we know that he abides in us, even by the Spirit, which he has given us.


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Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but try the spirits, whether they be from God; because many false prophets are gone forth into the world.


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By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses Jesus Christ has come in the flesh, is from God.


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And every spirit that does not confess Jesus, is not from God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, which you have heard that it comes, and now is in the world already.


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You are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because he is greater, who is with you, than he who is with the world.


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We are of God: he who know God, hearkens to us; he who is not of God, hearkens not to 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 who loves, has been begotten by God, and knows God.


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By this the love of God was manifested to us, that God sent forth his Son, the only begotten, into the world, that we might live through him.


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In this is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent forth his Son to be a propitiation for our sins.


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No one has seen God, at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and his love is made perfect in us.


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Now we have seen, and bear testimony, that the Father has sent forth his Son, to be the Saviour of the world.


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And we have known, and believed the love which God has in us. God is love; wherefore, he who abides in love, abides in God, and God in him.


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By this, the love has been perfected in us, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as he is, so are we in this world.


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There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has torment: therefore, he who fears is not made perfect in love.


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If any one say, Indeed I love God, and yet hate his brother, he is a liar: for he who loves not his brother, whom he has seen, how can he love God, whom he has not seen?


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Every one who believes that Jesus is the Christ, has been begotten by God; and every one who loves the begetter, loves also the begotten by him.


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For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not burdensome;


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because, every one that is begotten by God, overcomes the world. And this is the victory which overcomes the world, even our faith.


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This is her who came by water and blood, even Jesus the Christ; not by the water only, but by the water and the blood.


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Indeed, there are three who bear testimony: the Spirit, and the water, and the blood; and these three agree in one.


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If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater. Now, this is the testimony of God, which he has testified concerning his Son.


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(He who believes on the Son of God, has the testimony in himself. He who believes not God, has made him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony, which God has testified concerning his Son.)


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These things I have written to you, that you may know that you have eternal life-that you may continue to believe on the name of the Son of God.


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And this is the confidence which we have with him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hearkens to us.


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And if we know that he hearkens to us, concerning whatever we ask; we know that we shall obtain the petitions which we have asked from him.


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If any one see his brother sinning a sin, not to death, let him ask, and he will grant to him life, for those who sin not to death. There is a sin leading to death. I do not say concerning it, that you should ask.


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We know that whoever has been begotten by God, does not sin; but he who is begotten by God, guards himself, and the wicked on does not lay hold on him.


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Moreover, we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding, that we might know him that is true; and we are in him that is true-in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and the eternal life.


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The elder, to Electa Cyria, and her children, whom I love sincerely; and not I only, but also all who have known the truth;


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Favor, mercy, and peace, be with you, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, with truth and love.


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I rejoiced greatly, when I found some of your children walking in truth, as we received commandment from the Father.


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And now I beseech you, Cyria, not as writing to you a new commandment, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another.


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And this is the love that we walk according to his commandments. This is the commandment, even as you have heard from the beginning, that you may walk in it;


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for many deceivers are entered into the world, who do not confess Jesus Christ did come in the flesh. This is the deceiver, and the antichrist.


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Look to yourselves, that we may not lose the things which we have wrought, but may receive a full reward.


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Whoever transgresses, and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ, has not God: he who abides in the doctrine of Christ, has both the Father and the Son.


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If any one come to you, and bring not this doctrine; receive him not into your house, nor wish him success:


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Having many things to write to you, I did not incline to communicate them by paper and ink; because I hope to come to you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be complete.


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Beloved, I pray, that with respect to all things, you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers.


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For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came, and bore witness to your truth, even as you walk in truth.


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These have borne testimony to your love, in the presence of the congregation; whom, if you help forward on their journey, in a manner worthy of God, you will do well.


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I wrote to the congregation: but Diotrephes, who affects a pre-eminence among them, does not receive us.


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For this cause, when I come, I will bring his deeds to remembrance, which he practices-prating against us with malicious words; and, not content with this, he does not himself receive the brethren, and forbids them who would, and casts them out of the congregation.


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Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good, is of God; but he who does evil, has not seen God.


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Testimony is borne to Demetrius, by all, and by the truth itself; and we also bear testimony; and you know that our testimony is true.


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Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them who are sanctified by God the Father, and to the preserved by Jesus Christ, to the called:


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Beloved, making all haste to write to you, concerning the common salvation, I thought it necessary to write to you, exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith formerly delivered to the saints.


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For certain men have come in privily, who long ago were before written to this very condemnation; ungodly men, perverting the favor of our God to lasciviousness, and denying the only sovereign Lord, even our Lord Jesus Christ.


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I will therefore put you in remembrance, though you formerly knew this, that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them who did not believe.


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Also, the angels who kept not their first estate, but left their proper habitation, he has reserved in everlasting chains, under darkness, to the judgment of the great day.


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Likewise Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them, which, after their example, had habitually committed uncleanness, and gone after other flesh, are set forth an example, suffering the punishment of an eternal fire.


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Truly, in like manner, also, shall these dreamers be punished-who, indeed, defile the flesh, despise authority, and blaspheme dignities.


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«Whereas, Michael, the Arch Angel, when contending with the devil, (he disputed about the body of Moses,) did not attempt to bring against him a reviling accusation, but said,'The Lord rebuke':»


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but these, indeed, revile those things which they do not know; but what things they do know, naturally, as animals void of reason, by these things they destroy themselves.


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Alas for them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and have run evidently in the error of Balaam's hire, and have perished in the rebellion of Korah.


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These men are spots in love feasts, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear. They are clouds without water, carried about of winds: withered autumnal trees without fruit; twice dead; rooted out;


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raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the blackness of darkness for ever is reserved.


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«Now, Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, indeed, concerning these men; saying,» 'Behold, the Lord comes with his myriads of holy angels,'


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«to pass sentence on all, and to convict all the ungodly among them, of all their deeds of ungodliness; which they have impiously committed; and of all the hard things which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.»


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These are murmurers, and complainers, who walk according to their own lusts; and their mouths speak great swelling words. They admire persons for the sake of gain.


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that they said to you, that in the last time there would be scoffers walking according to their own ungodly lusts.


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but others, save by fear, snatching them out of the fire, hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.


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Now to him who is able to guard you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory, with exceeding joy;


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to God, alone our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now, and throughout all ages. Amen.


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A revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave to him, to show to his servants the things which must shortly be; and sending by his messenger, he signified them to his servant John,


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Happy is he that reads, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep the things that are written in it; for the time is at hand.


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John, to the seven congregation which are in Asia; favor and peace be with 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, the faithful witness, the first born of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth; to him who has loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,


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and has 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 in the clouds; and every eye shall see him, even they who pierced him: and all the tribes of the earth shall mourn because of him. Yes: so let it be.


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<J>I am the Alpha and the Omega,</J> says the Lord, <J>who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.</J>


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I, John, who am also your brother and companion in tribulation, 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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saying, <J>What you see, write in a book, and send it to the seven congregations; 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 lamps, one like a Son of Man, clothed in a long robe, and girded about the breasts with a golden girdle.


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His head, even his hairs, were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire;


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and he had in his right hand seven stars, and out of his mouth there went a sharp two-edged sword; and his countenance was as the sun, when he shines in his strength.


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And when I saw him, I fell down at his feet, as dead; and he laid his right hand upon me, and said, <J>Fear not; I am the First and the Last;</J>


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<J>I am he who lives and was dead; and behold, I am living for ever and ever; and I have the keys of the unseen world, and of death.</J>


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<J>Write the things which you see, even those which are, and the things which shall be hereafter.</J>


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<J>As to the hidden meaning of the seven stars, which you see in my right hand, and of the seven lamps of gold: the seven stars are messengers of the seven congregations; and the seven lamps which you see, are seven congregations.</J>


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<J>By the messenger of the congregation in Ephesus, write: These things, says he who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lamps:</J>


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<J>I know your works, and your labor, and your patience; and that you can not bear those who are evil: and you have tried those who say they are Apostles, and are not, and have found them liars;</J>


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<J>Remember, therefore, from what you are fallen, and reform, and do the first works, otherwise I will come to you quickly, and take away your lamp out of its place, unless you reform.</J>


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<J>Whoever has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the congregations. To him who conquers, I will give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.</J>


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<J>And by the messenger of the congregation in Smyrna, write: These things, says the First and the Last, who was dead, and is alive:</J>


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<J>I know your works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but you are rich,) and I know the slander of those who say they are Jews, and are not; but are the assembly of Satan.</J>


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<J>Fear none of the things which you shall suffer; behold, the devil will cast some of you into prison, that you may be tried; and you shall have tribulation ten days: be you faithful until death, and I will give you a crown of life.</J>


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<J>Whoever has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the congregations. The conqueror shall not be injured by the second death.</J>


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<J>And by the messenger of the congregation which is in Pergamos, write: These things says he who has the sharp two-edged sword:</J>


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<J>I know your works, and where you dwell; even where the throne of Satan is: and you hold fast my name, and have not denied my faith, even in those days in which Antipas was my faithful witness, who was slain among you, where Satan dwells.</J>


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<J>Nevertheless, I have a few things against you, that you have there, them who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit fornication.</J>


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<J>Reform, or otherwise, I will come to you quickly, and I will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.</J>


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<J>Whoever has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the congregations: To the conqueror I will give of the hidden manna; and I will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knows except he who receives it.</J>


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<J>And by the messenger of the congregation in Thyatira, write: These things says the Son of God, who has his eyes as a flame of fire, and his feet like fine brass:</J>


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<J>I know your works, and love, and service, and faith, and your patience, and that your last works are more than the first.</J>


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<J>Nevertheless, I have against you, that you permit that woman Jezebel, who says that she is a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed to idols.</J>


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<J>Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and those who commit adultery with her, into great tribulation, unless they reform from their works;</J>


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<J>and I will say her children with death; and all the congregations shall know that I am he who search the reins and the heart; and I will give to every one of you according to your works.</J>


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<J>But I say to you, even to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not hold this doctrine, and who have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will lay upon you no other burden.</J>


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<J>And as for him that conquers, and keeps my works to the end, I will give him power over the nations:</J>


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<J>and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, they shall be dashed in pieces like a potter's vessel: as I have also received of my Father.</J>


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<J>And by the messenger of the congregation in Sardis, write: These things says he who has the seven spirits of God, and the seven stars: I know your works, that you have a name that you live, but are dead.</J>


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<J>Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, which are ready to die: for I have not found your works filled up in the sight of God.</J>


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<J>Remember, therefore, how you have received and heard, and hold fast, and reform: therefore, unless you are watchful, I will come upon you as thief, and you shall not know what hour I will come upon you.</J>


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<J>But you have a few names in Sardis, who have not polluted their garments: and they shall walk with me in white, for they are worthy.</J>


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<J>As for the conqueror, he shall be clothed in white apparel; and I will not blot out his name from the book of life; but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.</J>


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<J>And by the messenger of the congregation in Philadelphia, write: These things says the Holy One, the True One; who has the key, the Son of David; he who opens and no man shuts; and shuts, and no man opens:</J>


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<J>I know your works: behold, I have set before you an open door, and no man can shut it; because you have little strength, and have kept my word, and have not denied my name.</J>


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<J>Behold, I will give of those-who are of the assembly of Satan; who say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold-I will make them to come and worship before your feet; and they shall know that I have loved you.</J>


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<J>Because you have kept the word of my patience, I will also keep you from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try the inhabitants of the earth.</J>


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<J>As for the conqueror, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go out no more: and I will inscribe upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the New Jerusalem, which is to come down from heaven, from my God; and my new name.</J>


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<J>And by the messenger of the congregation in Laodicea, write: These things says the AMEN, the Faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God:</J>


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<J>Therefore, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of my mouth.</J>


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<J>Because you say, I am wealthy, and have enriched myself, and have need of nothing; and do not know that you are wretched and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.</J>


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<J>I counsel you to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that you may be rich; and white apparel, that you may be clothed, and that the shame of your nakedness may not appear; and anoint your eyes with eye-salve, that you may see.</J>


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<J>Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any one hear my voice, and open the door, I will enter into his house, and will sup with him, and he with me.</J>


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<J>As for the conqueror, I will give him to sit down with me upon my throne; as I also have conquered, and sat down with my Father upon his throne.</J>


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After these things, I saw, and behold, a door opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as of a trumpet speaking to me; and it said, Come up hither, and I will show you what shall be hereafter.


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And immediately I was in the Spirit: and behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sitting upon it;


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and he who sat on it, was in appearance like a jasper and sardine stone; and a rainbow, in appearance like an emerald, was round about the throne.


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And round about the throne there were twenty-four thrones; and on the thrones, twenty-four elders sitting, clothed with white apparel; and upon their heads golden crowns.


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And out of the throne there came lightnings, and thunders, and voices. And seven lamps of fire were burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.


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And before the throne there was a sea of glass, like crystal. And in the middle of the throne, in the circle about the throne, there were four living creatures, full of eyes, before and behind.


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And the first creature was like a lion; and the second creature was like a calf; and the third creature had a face like a man; and the fourth creature was like a flying eagle.


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And the four living creatures had, each of them, six wings round about; and within they were full of eyes: and they rest not, day or night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, who wast, and art, and art to come.


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And while the living creatures are giving glory, and honor, and thanks to him who sits upon the throne, who lives for ever and ever,


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the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits upon the throne, who lives for ever and ever; and they cast down their crowns before the throne, saying,


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Worthy art thou, O Lord, to receive glory, and honor, and power; for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are, and were created.


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And I saw in the right hand of him who sat on the throne, a scroll written within and without, sealed with seven seals.


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And I saw a mighty messenger proclaiming with a great voice, Who is worthy to open the scroll, and to loose its seals?


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And one in heaven, nor upon the earth, nor under the earth, was able to open the scroll, or to look into it.


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And one of the elders said to me, Weep not; behold the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and its seven seals.


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And I beheld, in the middle space, between the throne and the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, there stood a Lamb, which seemed to have been slain, having seven horns, and seven eyes; these are the seven Spirits of God, sent forth into all the earth.


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And when he received the scroll, the four living creatures, and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one harps, and golden vials full of perfumes, which are the prayers of the saints.


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And they sung a new song, saying, Worthy art thou to take the scroll, and to open the seals of it; for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood, out of every tribe, and language, and people, and nation;


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And I beheld, and heard the voice of many angels round about the throne, and of the living creatures, and of the elders: and the number of them was myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands;


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saying, with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive power and riches, and wisdom, and might, and honor, and glory, and blessing!


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And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, even all things that are in them, I heard saying, To him who sits upon the throne, and to the Lamb be blessing, and honor, and glory, and strength, for ever and ever!


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And I saw, when the Lamb opened one of the seals; and I heard one of the four living creatures, which said, as with a voice of thunder, Come and see.


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And I saw, and behold, a white horse; and he who sat upon it, had a bow, and there was given him a crown; and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.


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And another horse came out, which was red; and it was given to him who sat upon it, to take peace from the earth, and that they should slay each other; and there was given to him a great sword.


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And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature, saying, Come and see. And I saw, and behold, a black horse; and he who sat upon it, has a pair of scales in his hand.


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And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures, saying, A chenix of wheat for a denarius, and three chenices of barley for a denarius; you see that you injure not the oil, nor the wine.


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And when he opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature, saying, Come and see.


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And I saw, and behold, a pale horse; and as for him who sat on it, his name was Death; and Hades followed him: and there was given to him power to slay the fourth part of the earth with the sword, and with famine, and with death, and with the wild beasts of the field.


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And when he opened the fifth sea, I saw, under the altar, the souls of those who were slaughtered on account of the word of God, and the testimony which they held.


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And they cried with a loud voice, and said, How long, O sovereign Lord, holy and true, before thou dost judge, and avenge our blood upon those who dwell on the earth?


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And there were given to each of them white robes; and it was said to them, that they should rest yet a while, till the number of their fellow-servants and brethren who should be killed, as they had been, should be completed.


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And I saw, when he opened the sixth seal, and there was an earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair; and the moon became as blood;


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and the stars fell from heaven, on the earth, as fig tree drops its untimely figs, being shaken by a mighty wind:


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and the heavens passed away like a scroll, when it is rolled up; and every mountain, and island, was moved out of its place:


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and the kings of the earth, and the grandees, and the rich men, and the chief officers, and the powerful men, and every slave, and every freeman, hid themselves in the caves, and rocks of the mountains:


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and they said to the mountains, and the rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb!


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And, after these things, I saw four angels, standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind might not blow upon the earth, nor upon the sea, nor on any tree.


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And I saw another angel ascending from the rising sun, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a great voice to the four angels to whom power was given to injure the earth, and the sea;


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saying, Injure not the earth, nor the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God, in their foreheads.


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And I heard the number of those that were sealed: one hundred and forty-four thousand, who were sealed out of every tribe of the children of Israel.


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Of the tribe of Judah, were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben, were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad, were sealed twelve thousand.


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Of the tribe of Asher, were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Naphtali, were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasseh, were sealed twelve thousand.


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Of the tribe of Simeon, were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi, were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar, were sealed twelve thousand.


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Of the tribe of Zebulon, were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph, were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin, were sealed twelve thousand.


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After this, I saw, and beheld a great multitude, which no one could number, out of every nation, and tribe, and people, and language, standing before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palms in their hands;


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and they cry with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God who sits upon the throne, and to the Lamb!


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And all the messengers stood round about the throne, and about the elders, and the four living creatures; and they fell down on their faces, before the throne, and worshiped God;


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saying, Amen: the blessing, and the glory, and the wisdom, and the thanksgiving, and the honor, and the power, and the strength, be to our God for ever and ever: Amen.


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And one of the elders answered, saying to me, As for those who are clothed with white apparel, who are they, and whence do they come?


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And I said to him, Sir, you know. And he said to me, These are they who have come out of much tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb:


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therefore, they are before the throne of God, and serve him, day and night, in his temple; and he who sits upon the throne, pitches his tabernacle over them.


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They shall hunger no more, neither shall they thirst any more; nor shall the sun fall upon them, nor any heat:


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for the Lamb, who is in the midst of the throne, shall feed them, and he shall lead them to fountains of living water; and God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes.


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And another angel came, and stood before the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given to him much incense, that he might present it with the prayers of all the saints, upon the golden altar which was before the throne.


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And the smoke of the perfumes went up, with the prayers of the saints, from the hand of the angel, before God.


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And the angel took the censer, and filled it with the fire of the altar, and threw it upon the earth; and there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings, and an earthquake.


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And the first sounded; and there hail and fire, mingled with blood, and it was cast down upon the earth; and a third part of the trees was burnt up, and all the herbage was burnt up.


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And the second angel sounded; and it was as if a great mountain, burning with fire, was cast into the sea;


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and a third part of the creatures which had life in the sea, died; and a third part of the ships were destroyed.


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And the third angel sounded; and there fell from heaven a great star, blazing like a torch; and fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters:


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and the name of the star was called Wormwood, and a third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were become bitter.


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And the fourth angel sounded; and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars, so that the third part of them was darkened, and the day was obscured for a third part, and the night also.


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And I beheld, and heard one of the angels flying in the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to those who dwell upon the earth, for the remaining sounds of the trumpets of the three angels, which are yet to sound!


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And the fifth angel sounded; and I saw a Star fall from the heaven to the earth; and there was given to him the key of the bottomless pit.


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And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke ascended from the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace: and the sun and the air were darkened by the smoke of the pit.


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And out of the smoke there came locusts upon the earth; and power was given to them, as scorpions of the earth have power.


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And it was said to them that they should not injure the grass of the earth, nor any green thing, nor any tree; but the men who had not the seal of God in their foreheads.


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And it was not given to them to kill them, but to torment them five months: and their torment was like that of a scorpion when it stings a man.


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And in these days men shall seek death, and shall not find it: and they shall desire to die, and death shall fly from them.


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And the resemblance of the locusts was like horses prepared for war; and on their heads were, as it were, crowns of gold; and their faces were like the faces of men:


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And they had breastplates like breastplates of iron; and the noise of their wings was like the noise of chariots, and many horses rushing to war.


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And they had tails like scorpions, and their stings were in their tails; and their power was to hurt men five months.


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For they had a king over them, the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name, in the Hebrew language, is Abaddon; and in the Greek, he has the name Apollyon.


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And the sixth angel sounded; and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which was before God,


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saying to the sixth angel, who had the trumpet, Loose the four angels who are bound by the great river Euphrates.


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And the four angels were loosed, who were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, to kill a third part of men.


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And I saw the horses, and those who sat upon them, thus in their appearance; having breastplates of fire, and hyacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses were like the heads of lions, and out of their mouths went fire, and smoke, and brimstone.


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With these three-by the fire, by the smoke, and by the brimstone-that went out of their mouths, they slew a third part of men.


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And their powers are in their mouths, and in their tails; and their tails are like serpents, having heads, and with them they injure.


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Yet the remainder of men, who died not by these plagues, did not reform from the works of their hands, that they might not worship demons, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and wood; which can neither see, nor hear, nor walk.


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And they reformed not from their murders, and their magical incantations; nor from their fornication, nor their thefts.


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And I saw another mighty angel descending from heaven, clothed with a cloud; and a rainbow was about his head, and his face was as the sun, and his feet like pillars of fire.


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And he had in his hand a little book, open; and he put his right foot upon the sea, and the left upon the earth.


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And he cried out with a loud voice, as when a lion roars: and when he cried, the seven thunders uttered their voices.


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And when the seven thunders had spoken, I was about to write: and I heard a voice from heaven, saying, Seal up what the seven thunders have spoken, and write it not.


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and swore by him that lives for ever and ever, who created the heaven, and those things which are in it; and the sea, and the things which are in it; and the earth, and the things which are in it; that there should be no longer delay.


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But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel; when he shall begin to sound, then the secret of God, as he had revealed its glad tidings to his servants the prophets, should be fulfilled.


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And the voice which I heard from heaven spoke to me again, and said, Go, take the little book, which is open, out of the hand of the angel which stands upon the sea and upon the earth.


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And I went to the angel, and said to him, Give me the little book. And he said to me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall embitter your stomach, but in your mouth it shall be as sweet as honey.


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And I took the little book out of the hand of the angel, and eat it up; and in my mouth it was sweet as honey, but when I had eaten it, my stomach was bitter.


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And there was given to me a reed like a measuring rod, saying, Arise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and those who worship at it;


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and the outer court of the temple throw out, and measure it not; for it shall be given to the Gentiles, and they shall trample upon the holy city forty-two months.


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And I will give to my two witnesses commission, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.


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And if any one will injure them, fire shall come out of their mouth, and devour their enemies: and if any one will injure them, so must he be put to death.


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These have power to shut heaven, so that no rain shall be showered down in the days of their prophecy; they have power over the waters, to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth as often as they will, with every plague.


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And when they shall have finished their testimony, the savage beast which ascends out of the abyss, shall make war against them, and shall conquer them, and kill them.


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And their corpses shall lie in the street of the great city, which is spiritually called Sodom and Egypt; where also our Lord was crucified.


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And persons of various people, and tribes, and tongues, and nations, shall look on their dead bodies three days and a half, and shall not permit their corpses to be laid in the graves.


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And they who dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and be glad, and shall send gifts to each other; because these two prophets tormented those who dwelt upon the earth.


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And after three days and a half, the breath of life from God, entered into them, and they stood upon their feet: and great fear fell on those who looked upon them.


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And they heard a great voice saying to them, from heaven, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud, and their enemies looked on them.


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And in that hour there was a great earthquake; and a tenth part of the city fell, and seven thousand titles of men were destroyed by the earthquake; and the rest were terrified, and gave glory to the God of heaven.


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And the seventh angel sounded, and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of the world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.


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And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones, fell upon their faces and worshiped God,


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saying, We give thanks to thee, O Lord God Almighty, who art, and who wast, because thou hast taken by great power, and hast commenced thy reign.


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And the nations were wroth; and thy wrath came, and the time of the dead when they should be judged, and a reward should be given to thy servants, the prophets, and to the saints, and to them that fear thy name, small and great; and when thou shouldst destroy those that destroy the earth.


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And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of his covenants appeared in his temple: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunders, and an earthquake, and great hail.


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And there appeared a great sign in heaven-a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars;


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And there appeared another sign in heaven; and, behold! a great fiery dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his heads seven crowns.


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And his tail drew down a third part of the stars of heaven, and cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman who was about to bring forth, that when she was delivered he might devour her child.


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And she brought forth a masculine son, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and he child was suddenly taken up to God, even to his throne.


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And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she had a place prepared by God, that she might there be nourished one thousand two hundred and sixty days.


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And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels made war against the dragon; and the dragon made war, and his angels:


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And thus the great dragon was cast out; even the old serpent called the Devil, and Satan, who deceives the world, was cast out to the earth; and his angels were cast out with him.


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And I heard a great voice saying, in heaven, Now is come the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ; because the accuser of our brethren is cast out, who accused them before our God day and night.


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And they have overcome him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives to the death.


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Therefore, rejoice you heavens, and you who inhabit them. But woe to those who inhabit the earth and the sea; for the devil is come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has but a short time.


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And when the dragon saw that he was cast out on the earth, he persecuted the woman who had brought forth the masculine child.


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And there were given to the woman two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, to her place; where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.


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And the serpent threw out of his mouth water, like a river, after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the stream:


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And the dragon was enraged against the woman, and went away to make war against the remainder of her seed, who keep the commandments of God, and retain the testimony of Jesus Christ.


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And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a savage beast ascending out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns; and upon its horns were ten diadems; and on its heads were the named of defamation.


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And the beast which I saw was like a leopard, and its feet were like those of a bear, and its mouth like the mouth of a lion; and the dragon gave it his power, and his throne, and great authority.


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And I saw one of its heads wounded, as it were, to death; and yet its mortal wound was healed. And the whole earth wondered, and followed after the wild beast;


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and they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the wild beast, saying, Who is like to the beast? who can war against it?


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And there was given to it a mouth speaking great things, and defamation: and there was given to it power to practice forty-two months-


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and it opened its mouth to utter defamation against God; to defame his name and his tabernacle, and those that dwell in heaven.


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And it was given to it to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and there was given to it power over every tribe, and tongue, and nation.


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And all the inhabitants of the earth shall worship it, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb, that was slain from the beginning of the world.


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If any one lead them into captivity, he shall be led into captivity: if any one slay with the sword, he shall himself be slain with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.


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And I saw another beast ascending out of the earth, and it had two horns like a lamb: but it spoke like a dragon.


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And it exercises all the power of the first beast, in its presence; and it makes the earth, and those that dwell in it, to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.


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and it deceives the inhabitants of the earth by signs which it is given it to do before the beast; commanding the inhabitants of the earth to make an image of the beast that had the wound of the sword, and lived.


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And it was given to it to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast might speak, and cause as many as will not worship the image of the beast to be put to death.


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And he causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, freemen and slaves, to receive the mark on their right hand, or on their foreheads;


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and that no one should be able to buy or sell, but one who has the mark, the name of the beast, or the number of its name.


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Here is wisdom: let him who has understanding, compute the number of the beast; for it is the number of a man; and its number is six hundred and sixty-six.


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And I looked, and behold the Lamb was standing upon Mount Zion, and with him one hundred and forty-four thousand who had the name of his Father written on their foreheads.


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And I heard a voice out of heaven, as the sound of many waters, and like the sound of great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers playing upon their harps.


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And they sang a new song before the throne, and before the four living creatures and the elders: and none could learn the song, unless the one hundred and forty-four thousand who are redeemed from the earth.


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These are they who have not been polluted with women; for they are virgins. These are they who follow the Lamb whithersoever he goes. These were redeemed from among men, as the first fruits to God, and to the Lamb.


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And I saw another angel flying through the midst of heaven, having everlasting good news to proclaim to the inhabitants of the earth, even to every nation, and tribe, and tongue, and people;


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saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgments is come: and worship him who made heaven, and earth, and sea, and the fountains of water.


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And another angel followed, saying, It is fallen! it is fallen! even Babylon the Great; because it made all the nations drink of the wine of its raging fornication.


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And a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any one worship the beast, and his image, and receive the mark on his forehead, or on his hand,


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he also shall drink of the wine of the indignation of God, which is tempered, without mixture, in the cup of his wrath; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb.


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And the smoke of their torment ascends for ever and ever: and they have no rest, day nor night, who worship the beast, and his image; and whoever receives the mark of his name.


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Here is the patience of the saints: here are those who keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.


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And I heard a voice from heaven saying, Write: Henceforth blessed are the dead that die in the Lord; yes, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works follow them!


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And I saw, and behold, a white cloud, and on the cloud, one sitting like a Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle.


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And another angel came out of the temple of God, crying with a loud voice, to him that sat upon the cloud. Put forth your sickle, and reap; for the season of reaping is come, because the harvest of the earth is ripe.


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And another angel came from the altar, having power over the fire; and he cried out with a loud cry to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, Put forth your sharp sickle, and lop off the clusters of the vine upon the earth; for its grapes are ripe.


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And the angel laid his sickle to the earth, and lopped off the vine of the earth; and he threw them into the great wine press of the wrath of God.


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And the wine press, which stood out of the city, was trodden, and the blood came out of the wine press, even to the bridles of the horses, at the distance of one thousand six hundred furlongs.


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And I saw another great and wonderful sign in heaven; seven angels, who had the seven last plagues; because in them the wrath of God was to be completed.


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And I saw, as it were, a sea of glass mingled with fire; and those who overcame the beast, and its image, and its mark, and the number of its name; standing by the sea of glass, having the harps of God.


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And they sang the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb; saying, Great and wonderful are thy works, O Lord God Almighty; righteous and true are thy ways, O King of Saints.


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Who should not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou alone art perfect. Surely all nations shall come and worship before thee, because thy righteous judgments are made manifest.


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and the seven angels who had the seven plagues, came out of the temple, clothed with pure shining linen garments; and were girded round the breasts with golden girdles.


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And one of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels, seven golden vials, full of the wrath of God, who lives for ever and ever.


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And the temple was full of smoke from the glory of God, and from his power. And no one could enter into the temple till the seven plagues of the seven angels were finished.


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And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying, to the seven angels, Go, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.


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And the first went forth, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there was a malignant and grievous ulcer upon the men who had the mark of the beast, and upon them who worshiped his image.


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And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became blood, like that of a dead man: and every living soul that was in the sea died.


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And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers, and on the fountains of water; and they became blood.


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And I heard the angel of the waters saying, Righteous art thou, who art, and who wast; who art perfect; because thou hast judged these:


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for they have poured forth the blood of saints, and prophets; and thou hast given them blood to drink-they are worthy.


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And I heard a voice from the altar, saying, Yes, O Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are thy judgments.


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And the fourth angel poured forth his vial on the sun; and power was given to it to scorch men with fire.


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And men were scorched with great heat, and they reviled the name of God, who had power over these plagues, and reformed not, to give him glory.


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And the fifth poured forth his vial upon the throne of the beast; and his kingdom was darkened, and they gnawed their tongues for


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anguish, and reviled the God of heaven for their pains and their ulcers, and reformed not from their works.


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And the sixth poured forth his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and its water was dried up, that a way might be prepared for the kings from the rising of the sun.


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And I saw, and out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet there came forth three unclean spirits, like frogs:


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for these are the spirits of demons, working miracles, which go forth to the kings of the whole world, to bring them together to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.


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<J>Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watches, and keeps his garments, that he may not walk naked, so that they should see his shame.</J>


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And the seven poured forth his vial into the air; and there came forth a great voice from the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done.


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And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as there had not been from the time that men were upon the earth; such and so great an earthquake.


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And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the Gentiles fell down. And Babylon the great came into remembrance before God, to give her the cup of the wine of his fiercest wrath.


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And a great hail, as of the weight of a talent, descended from heaven upon men: and men reviled God, because of the plague of the hail; for the plague of it was very great.


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And one of the seven angels who had the seven vials, came and spoke with me, saying, Come, and I will show you the judgment of the great harlot, that sits upon many waters:


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with whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and all the inhabitants of the earth have been drunk with the wine of her whoredom.


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And he brought me, in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sitting upon a scarlet beast, full of slanderous names, having seven heads and ten horns.


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And the woman was clothed with purple, and scarlet, and adorned with gold, and precious stones, and pearls; having a golden cup in her hand, full of the abominations and pollution of her whoredom.


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And she had upon her forehead her name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS, AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.


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And I saw the woman drunk with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great amazement.


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And the angel said to me, Why do you wonder? I will tell you the secret of the woman, and of the beast which carries her, which has the seven heads and the ten horns.


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The beast which you saw, was, and is not; and he will ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go to destruction; and the inhabitants of the earth (whose names are not written in the book of life, from the foundation of the world) shall wonder, seeing the beast who was, and is not, yet shall be.


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And they are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he comes, he must endure for a little time.


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And the ten horns which you saw, are ten kings, which have not yet received their kingdom, but they shall receive authority with the beast, as kings at the same time.


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These shall make war with the Lamb; and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is the Lord of lords, and King of kings; and those that are with him, are called, and chosen, and faithful.


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And he said to me, The waters which you saw, on which the harlot sat, are people, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.


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And the ten horns which you saw on the beast, these shall hate the harlot, and make her desolate and naked; and they shall eat her flesh, and shall burn her with fire.


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For God has given it into the hearts to execute his sentence, even to perform one purpose; and to give their kingdoms to the beast, till the words of God be fulfilled.


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And after this, I saw an angel descending from heaven, who had great power; and the earth was enlightened with his glory.


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And he cried with a mighty and a loud voice, saying, It is fallen! it is fallen! it is fallen! even Babylon the Great: and it is become the habitation of demons, and the hold of every unclean spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird:


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for she has caused all the nations to drink of the wine of her raging whoredom; and the kings of the earth have committed whoredom with her, and the merchants of the earth have been enriched by the abundance of her luxuries.


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And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out from her, my people, that you may not be partakers with her in her sins, and that you may not partake of her plagues:


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for her sins have followed up to heaven, and her unrighteous actions are come up in remembrance before God.


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Give her, as he also has given; and recompense to her double, according to her works: in the cup which she has mingled, mingle to her double.


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In proportion to the degree in which she has made ostentation of her glory, and lived in luxury, inflict upon her torment and grief. Because she has said in her heart, I sit as a queen, and am not a widow, and shall not see sorrow;


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therefore, in one day shall her plagues come-death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be burnt with fire; for strong is the Lord God who judges her.


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And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication, and lived in luxury with her, shall mourn and lament, when they shall see the smoke of her burning,


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standing afar off, for fear of her torment, saying, Alas! alas! the great city, Babylon; the strong city! for in one hour is thy judgment come.


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And the merchants of the earth shall wail and lament over her, because no one buys their wares any longer-


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the merchandise of gold, and silver, and jewels, and pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and every odiferous wood, and every vessel of ivory, and every vessel of most precious wood, and of brass, and of iron, and of marble,


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and cinnamon, and perfume, and myrrh, and incense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and oxen, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.


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And the fruits which thy soul desired, are gone from thee; and all delicious and splendid things are departed from thee, and thou shalt never find them any more.


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The merchants of these commodities, who were enriched by her, shall stand afar off, for fear of her torment, weeping, and mourning,


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and saying, Alas! alas! the great city, that was clothed with fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and adorned with gold, and precious stones, and pearls;


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for in one hour all these riches are laid waste. And every pilot, and every passenger, and the mariners, and all that bestow their labor upon the sea, stood afar off,


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And they cast dust upon their heads, and cried, weeping, and mourning, saying, Alas! alas! the great city, by whose magnificent expenses, all that had ships in the sea were enriched; for she is made desolate in one hour!


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Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and you saints, and apostles, and prophets; for on your account God has pronounced sentence upon her.


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And a strong angel took a stone, like a great millstone, and cast it into the sea; saying, Thus shall Babylon, the great city, he dashed down with violence, and never be found again.


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And the voice of harpers, and musicians, of them that play the flute, and sound the trumpet, shall be heard no more in thee; nor shall the noise of the millstone be heard any more in thee;


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and the light of a lamp shall be seen no more in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom, and of the bride, shall be heard no more in thee: because they merchants were the grandees of the earth-because by thy sorceries were all the nations deceived:


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and in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, even of all those who were slain upon the earth.


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And after these things, I heard the voice as of a great multitude in heaven, saying, Hallelujah! salvation, and glory, and power, to the Lord our God;


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for his judgments are true and righteous; for he has judged the great harlot, who corrupted the earth with her fornication; and he has avenged the blood of his servants shed by her hand.


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And the twenty-four elders, and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God, sitting upon the throne, saying, Amen! Hallelujah!


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And a voice came out from the throne, which said, Praise our God, all you his servants, you that fear him, both small and great.


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And I heard a sound, which was as the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and like the peal of mighty thunderings, saying, Hallelujah! for the Lord God, the Omnipotent, reigns!


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We rejoice, and exult, and give glory to him, because the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife has prepared herself.


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And it was given to her that she should be clothed in fine linen, pure and resplendent; and the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.


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And he said to me, Write-Happy are they who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb! And he said to me, These are the true words of God.


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And I fell before his feet to worship him; and he said to me, See you do it not: I am a fellow-servant with you, and with your brethren who keep the testimony of Jesus. Worship God; for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.


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And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse; and he that sat upon it was called Faithful and True; and he judges and makes war in righteousness:


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whose eyes are as a flame of fire; and many diadems were upon his head, having a name written which no man knows but himself:


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And the armies which are in heaven followed him, riding on white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.


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And there went out of his mouth a sharp sword, that with it he might smite the nations: and he shall govern them with a rod of iron; and he treads the wine press of the indignation and wrath of almighty God.


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And I saw a single angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the birds of prey, which were flying in the midst of heaven, Come, and assemble yourselves to the great supper of God:


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that you may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of commanders, and the flesh of the mighty, and the flesh of horses, and of those that sat on them; and the flesh of all, both freemen and slaves, both small and great.


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And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies gathered together to make war with him who sits upon the white horse, and with his army.


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And the beast was taken captive, and with him the false prophet, who had wrought signs before him, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast, and those who worshiped his image; both of whom were cast alive into the lake of fire which burned with brimstone.


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And the rest were slain with the sword that came out of the mouth of him who sat on the horse: and all the birds were satiated with their flesh.


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And I saw an angel descending from heaven, who had the key of the abyss, and a great chain in his hand.


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And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, who is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years;


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and he cast him into the abyss, and shut him down, and set a seal upon him, that he might not deceive the nations any more, till the thousand years were accomplished; and then he must be loosed again for a little time.


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And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given to them-even the souls of them who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus, and for the word of God, and who had not worshiped the beast, nor his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads, and upon their hands; and they lived, and reigned with Christ a thousand years:


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but the rest of the dead revived not till the thousand years were accomplished: this is the first resurrection.


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Happy and holy is he who has a part in the first resurrection! on such, the second death shall have no power; but they shall be the priests of God, and of Christ: and they shall reign with him a thousand years.


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and he shall go forth to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth. Gog and Magog, to gather them together for war; whose number is like the sand of the sea.


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And they went up over the breadth of the earth, and surrounded the camp of the saints, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God, out of heaven, and devoured them.


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And the devil, who had deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet were: and they shall be tormented day and night for ages and ages.


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And I saw a great white throne, and him who sat on it, from whose face earth and heaven fled away, and there was found no place for them.


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And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged out of the things written in the books, according to their works.


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And the sea gave up the dead that were in it; and death and hades gave up the dead that were in them: and they were judged every one according to his works.


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And I saw a new heaven, and a new earth; for the former heaven and the former earth were passed away: and the sea was no more.


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And I, John, saw the holy city, the New Jerusalem, descending from God, out of heaven, prepared like a bride adorned for her husband.


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And I heard a great voice out of heaven, saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he shall pitch his tent among them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be among them-their God.


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And he shall away wipe every tear from their eyes; and death shall be no more, nor grief, nor crying; nor shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.


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And he that sat upon the throne, said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said, Write, for these are true and faithful words.


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And he said to me, It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End: I will give to him that is athirst, of the fountain of the water of life freely.


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But, as for the cowards, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and prostitutes, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars-their part shall be in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.


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And there came one of the seven angels, who had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues; and spoke with me, saying, Come, and I will show you the bride, the Lamb's wife.


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And he brought me, in the Spirit, to a great and high mountain; and he showed me the city, the holy Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God,


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having the glory of God; (its luster was like that of a precious gem, even as a jasper stone, clear as crystal,)


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having a great and high wall; having also twelve gates, and over the gates twelve angels, and names written upon them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel:


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on the east, three gates; on the north, three gates; and on the south, three gates; and on the west, three gates.


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And the wall of the city had twelve foundations; and on them the names of the twelve Apostles of the Lamb.


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And he that spoke with me, had a golden reed, that he might measure the city, and its gates and wall.


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And the city is square, and its length is equal to its breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs: and its length and its breadth, and its height are equal.


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And he measured its wall, one hundred and forty-four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of an angel.


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And the foundations of the walls of the city, were adorned with every precious stone. The first foundation is jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, chalcedony; the fourth, emerald;


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the fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, topaz; the tenth, chrysoprasus; the eleventh, hyacinth; and the twelfth, amethyst.


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And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: each of the gates was of one pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.


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And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it; for the glory of the Lord enlightened it, and the Lamb is the light of it.


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And the nations of the saved shall walk in its light; and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and their honor into it.


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And nothing unclean shall enter into it, nor anything which practices abomination and falsehood; but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life.


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And he showed me a river of water of life, clear as crystal, issuing out of the throne of God, and of the Lamb.


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In the midst of the broad street, and on each side of the river, was the tree of life, producing twelve kinds of fruit- producing its fruit in every month: and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.


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And every curse shall cease. And the throne of God, and of the Lamb, shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him.


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And there shall be no more night; and they have no need of a lamp, nor of the light of the sun; because the Lord God shall enlighten them: and they shall reign for ever and ever.


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And he said to me, These words are faithful and true. And the Lord God of the holy prophets, has sent his holy angel to show his servants what must quickly be done.


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And I, John, saw and heard these things, and when I heard and saw them, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things.


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And he said to me, See you do it not: I am a fellow-servant with you, and of your brethren, the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book: worship God.


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Let him that is unjust, be unjust still; and let him that is polluted, be polluted still; and let him that is righteous, be righteous still; and let him that is holy, be holy still.


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<J>Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me: I will recompense to every man according as his works shall be.</J>


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(Happy are they who keep his commandments, that they may have the privilege to eat of the tree of life; and they shall enter by the gates into the city.


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Without are the dogs, and the sorcerers, and the fornicators, and the murderers, and the idolaters, and every one who loves and invents a lie.)


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<J>I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify these things to you, in the congregations. I am the Root and the Offspring of David; the bright and the Morning Star.</J>


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And the Spirit and the Bride say, Come: and let him that hears, say, Come: and let him that is thirsty, come: whoever will, let him take of the water of life freely.


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And I testify of every one that hears the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man add to these things, God shall add to him the plagues which are written in this book:


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and if any one take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city-the things which are written in this book.


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He who testifies these things, says, <J>Surely, I come quickly.</J> Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.


