Bible King James Version with Concise Commentaries by Hide - HTML preview

/ Home / Religious / Bible King James Version with Concise Commentaries

PLEASE NOTE: This is an HTML preview only and some elements such as links or page numbers may be incorrect.
Download the book in PDF, ePub, Kindle for a complete version.

1 8

I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps?

¶ Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.

2 0

For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults:

2 1

and lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.

This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.

I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: 3

since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.

For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.

¶ Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

2 4 7 6

2 C o r i n t h i a n s 1 3

But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.

Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.

For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.

For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.

1 0

Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.

Final Greetings

1 1

¶ Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.

1 2

Greet one another with a holy kiss.

All the saints salute you.

¶ The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Galatians

[Galatians]

Salutation

Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) 2

and all the brethren which are with me.

¶ Unto the churches of Galatia:

¶ Grace be to you, and peace, from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,

who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: 5

to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

There Is No Other Gospel

¶ I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:

which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

1 0

¶ For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men?

for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

2 4 7 8

G a l at i a n s

Paul’s Ministry of the True Gospel

1 1

¶ But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.

1 2

For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’

religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:

and profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

1 5

But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace,

1 6

to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: 1 7

neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.

1 8

¶ Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days.

But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord’s brother.

2 0

Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.

2 1

Afterward I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; 2 2

and was unknown by face unto the churches of Judea which were in Christ:

but they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.

2 4

And they glorified God in me.

Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.

2 4 7 9

G a l at i a n s

And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.

But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised:

and that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:

to whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.

But of those who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man’s person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me:

but contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;

(for he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles;) 9

and when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

1 0

Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.

Paul Rebukes Peter at Antioch

1 1

¶ But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.

1 2

For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.

2 4 8 0

G a l at i a n s

And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.

But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?

1 5

We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, 1 6

knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

1 7

But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.

1 8

For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.

For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.

2 0

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

2 1

I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

The Spirit Received through Faith

O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?

This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?

Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain.

2 4 8 1

G a l at i a n s

He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

God’s Covenant with Abraham

¶ Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.

Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.

And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.

So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

1 0

¶ For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written,

Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.

1 1

But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

1 2

And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.

Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:

that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

1 5

¶ Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man’s covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto.

1 6

Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.

2 4 8 2

G a l at i a n s

1 7

And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.

1 8

For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

The Purpose of the Law

¶ Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.

2 0

Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.

2 1

¶ Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.

2 2

But the Scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

¶ But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterward be revealed.

2 4

Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

2 5

But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.

2 6

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

2 7

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

2 8

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;

2 4 8 3

G a l at i a n s

but is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.

Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:

but when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.

And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

Warning against Returning to Bondage

¶ Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.

But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

1 0

Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years.

1 1

I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labor in vain.

1 2

¶ Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not

injured me at all.

Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first.

And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.

1 5

Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.

1 6

Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?

1 7

They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.

2 4 8 4

G a l at i a n s

1 8

But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you.

My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,

2 0

I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you.

The Allegory of Hagar and Sarah

2 1

¶ Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?

2 2

For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a free woman.

But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the free woman was by promise.

2 4

Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Hagar.

2 5

For this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children.

2 6

But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all.

2 7

For it is written,

Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not;

break forth and cry, thou that travailest not:

for the desolate hath many more children

than she which hath a husband.

2 8

Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.

But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.

3 0

Nevertheless what saith the Scripture?

Cast out the bondwoman and her son:

for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir

with the son of the free woman.

3 1

So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.

2 4 8 5

G a l at i a n s

Stand Fast in Liberty

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

¶ Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.

For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law.

Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.

For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.

Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you.

A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.

1 0

I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.

1 1

And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offense of the cross ceased.

1 2

I would they were even cut off which trouble you.

¶ For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

1 5

But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.

2 4 8 6

G a l at i a n s

The Fruit of the Spirit and the Works of the Flesh 1 6

¶ This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

1 7

For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

1 8

But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these, adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

2 0

idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

2 1

envyings, murders, drunkenness, revelings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

2 2

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

2 4

And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

2 5

¶ If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

2 6

Let us not be desirous of vainglory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

For every man shall bear his own burden.

2 4 8 7

G a l at i a n s

¶ Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

¶ Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

1 0

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Paul Glories in the Cross

1 1

¶ Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand.

1 2

As many as desire to make a fair show in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.

For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.

But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

1 5

For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.

1 6

And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.

1 7

¶ From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.

Benediction

1 8

¶ Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Amen.

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Ephesians

[Ephesians]

Salutation

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God,

¶ To the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:

¶ Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Spiritual Blessings in Christ

¶ Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4

according as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:

having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6

to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved:

in whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9

having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 1 0

that in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him.

2 4 8 9

E p h e s i a n s

1 1

¶ In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

1 2

that we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also, after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise,

which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

Prayer for Knowledge and Understanding

1 5

¶ Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,

1 6

cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;

1 7

that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:

1 8

the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 2 0

which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 2 1

far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

2 2

and hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,

which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

2 4 9 0

E p h e s i a n s

Saved by Grace

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2

wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace, in his kindness toward us, through Christ Jesus.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

not of works, lest any man should boast.

1 0

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

One New Man in Christ

1 1

¶ Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;

1 2

that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

2 4 9 1

E p h e s i a n s

but now, in Christ Jesus, ye who sometime were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

1 5

having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

1 6

and that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

1 7

and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

1 8

For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 2 0

and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

2 1

in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord:

2 2

in whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit.

Paul’s Ministry to the Gentiles

For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, 2

if ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

how that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words;

whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ,)

which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

2 4 9 2

E p h e s i a n s

that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel.

¶ Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

1 0

to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

1 1

according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:

1 2

in whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

Prayer for Love Which Surpasses Knowledge

¶ For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

1 5

of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 1 6

that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; 1 7

that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

1 8

may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

2 0

¶ Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

2 4 9 3

E p h e s i a n s

2 1

unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

The Unity of the Spirit

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love;

endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

one Lord, one faith, one baptism,

one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

Wherefore he saith,

When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?

1 0

He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)

1 1

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

1 2

for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

2 4 9 4

E p h e s i a n s

that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 1 5

but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

1 6

from whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

The New Life in Christ

1 7

¶ This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 1 8

having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:

who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

2 0

But ye have not so learned Christ;

2 1

if so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:

2 2

that ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23

and be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

2 4

and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

2 5

¶ Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another.

2 6

Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 2 7

neither give place to the devil.

2 8

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

2 4 9 5

E p h e s i a n s

Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

3 0

And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

3 1

Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 3 2

and be ye kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Walk as Children of Light

Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 2

and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savor.

¶ But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;

neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

Be not ye therefore partakers with them.

For ye were sometime darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light;

(for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)

1 0

proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.

1 1

And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.

2 4 9 6

E p h e s i a n s

1 2

For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.

But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.

Wherefore he saith,

Awake thou that sleepest,

and arise from the dead,

and Christ shall give thee light.

1 5

¶ See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 1 6

redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

1 7

Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

1 8

And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 2 0

giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

2 1

submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.

Be Subject to One Another

2 2

¶ Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.

For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.

2 4

Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.

2 5

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

2 6

that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

2 7

that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

2 4 9 7

E p h e s i a n s

2 8

So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.

For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:

3 0

for we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

3 1

For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.

3 2

This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

3 3

Nevertheless, let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

Honor thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;

that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

¶ Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;

not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;

with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: 8

knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.

And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.

2 4 9 8

E p h e s i a n s

The Whole Armor of God

1 0

¶ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

1 1

Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

1 2

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

1 5

and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 1 6

above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

1 7

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

1 8

praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, 2 0

for which I am an ambassador in bonds; that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Final Greetings

2 1

¶ But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things:

2 2

whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts.

¶ Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

2 4 9 9

E p h e s i a n s

2 4

Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.

Amen.

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Philippians

[Philippians]

Salutation

Paul and Timothy, the servants of Jesus Christ,

¶ To all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

¶ Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul’s Prayer for the Philippian Christians

¶ I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,

always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, 5

for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; 6

being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: 7

even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.

And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;

1 0

that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; 1 1

being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

2 5 0 1

P h i l i p p i a n s

To Me to Live Is Christ

1 2

¶ But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;

so that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;

and many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

1 5

¶ Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:

1 6

the one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:

1 7

but the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel.

1 8

What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretense, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.

¶ For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 2 0

according to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.

2 1

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

2 2

But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labor: yet what I shall choose I wot not.

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

2 4

nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.

2 5

And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; 2 6

that your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.

2 5 0 2

P h i l i p p i a n s

2 7

¶ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

2 8

and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.

For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

3 0

having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

Christ’s Humiliation and Exaltation

If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, 2

fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6

who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

1 0

that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

2 5 0 3

P h i l i p p i a n s

1 1

and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Shining as Lights in the World

1 2

¶ Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling:

for it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

¶ Do all things without murmurings and disputings: 1 5

that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

1 6

holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.

1 7

Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

1 8

For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.

Timothy and Epaphroditus

¶ But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.

2 0

For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.

2 1

For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.

2 2

But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.

Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.

2 4

But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.

2 5

¶ Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.

2 5 0 4

P h i l i p p i a n s

2 6

For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick.

2 7

For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.

2 8

I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.

Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:

3 0

because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.

Pressing toward the Mark

Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.

¶ Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.

For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: 5

circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;

concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.

But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

2 5 0 5

P h i l i p p i a n s

and be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

1 0

that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

1 1

if by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

1 2

¶ Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before.

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

1 5

Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

1 6

Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.

1 7

¶ Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.

1 8

(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19

whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)

2 0

For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

2 1

who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

2 5 0 6

P h i l i p p i a n s

Rejoice in the Lord

Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.

¶ I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord.

And I entreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellow laborers, whose names are in the book of life.

¶ Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Think on These Things

¶ Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

Acknowledgment of the Philippians’ Gift

1 0

¶ But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.

2 5 0 7

P h i l i p p i a n s

1 1

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

1 2

I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

¶ Notwithstanding, ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.

1 5

Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.

1 6

For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

1 7

Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.

1 8

But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God.

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

2 0

Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Final Greetings

2 1

¶ Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you.

2 2

All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar’s household.

¶ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Colossians

[Colossians]

Salutation

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

¶ To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colossae:

¶ Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom

¶ We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints,

for the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;

which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:

as ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellow servant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;

who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.

¶ For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 1 0

that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

2 5 0 9

C o l o s s i a n s

1 1

strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness; 1 2

giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13

who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.

Reconciliation through Christ’s Death

¶ In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

1 5

who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

1 6

for by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

1 7

and he is before all things, and by him all things consist: 1 8

and he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 2 0

and, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

Paul’s Ministry to the Church

2 1

¶ And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled 2 2

in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in his sight:

if ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which

2 5 1 0

C o l o s s i a n s

was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

2 4

who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church:

2 5

whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; 2 6

even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: 2 7

to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

2 8

whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: 29

whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;

that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.

For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.

¶ As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:

2 5 1 1

C o l o s s i a n s

rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.

Dead but Risen with Christ

¶ Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.

1 0

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

1 1

in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:

1 2

buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

1 5

and having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

1 6

¶ Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of a holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:

1 7

which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.

1 8

Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,

and not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.

2 5 1 2

C o l o s s i a n s

2 0

¶ Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances,

2 1

(touch not; taste not; handle not;

2 2

which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?

which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will-worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honor to the satisfying of the flesh.

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

The Old Life and the New

¶ Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:

for which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:

in the which ye also walked sometime, when ye lived in them.

But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.

Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;

1 0

and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

2 5 1 3

C o l o s s i a n s

1 1

where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.

1 2

¶ Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; 13

forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

1 5

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

1 6

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

1 7

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

Social Duties of the New Life

1 8

¶ Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.

2 0

Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well-pleasing unto the Lord.

2 1

Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.

2 2

Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:

and whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

2 4

knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

2 5

But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

2 5 1 4

C o l o s s i a n s

Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.

¶ Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; 3

withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

¶ Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Final Greetings

¶ All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord: 8

whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts;

with Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you.

They shall make known unto you all things which are done here.

1 0

¶ Aristarchus my fellow prisoner saluteth you, and Mark, sister’s son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)

1 1

and Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellow workers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.

1 2

Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.

Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.

2 5 1 5

C o l o s s i a n s

1 5

Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.

1 6

And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea.

1 7

And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.

1 8

¶ The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds.

Grace be with you. Amen.

The First Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Thessalonians

[1 Thessalonians]

Salutation

Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy,

¶ Unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ:

¶ Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Thessalonians’ Faith and Example

¶ We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;

remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;

knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God.

For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.

And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: 7

so that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.

For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to Godward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.

For they themselves show of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;

2 5 1 7

1 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 2

1 0

and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

Paul’s Ministry in Thessalonica

For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:

but even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.

For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile:

but as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.

For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness; God is witness:

nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:

so being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

¶ For ye remember, brethren, our labor and travail: for laboring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

1 0

Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblamably we behaved ourselves among you that believe: 1 1

as ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children,

1 2

that ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

2 5 1 8

1 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 3

¶ For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but, as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews: 1 5

who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men:

1 6

forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins always: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.

Paul’s Absence and Concern

1 7

¶ But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavored the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.

1 8

Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

2 0

For ye are our glory and joy.

Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;

and sent Timothy, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:

that no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.

2 5 1 9

1 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 4

For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labor be in vain.

¶ But now when Timothy came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:

therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:

for now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.

For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;

1 0

night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

1 1

¶ Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.

1 2

And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: 13

to the end he may stablish your hearts unblamable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

A Life Pleasing to God

Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.

For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.

For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

2 5 2 0

1 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 4

that every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor;

not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:

that no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.

For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.

He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his Holy Spirit.

¶ But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.

1 0

And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;

1 1

and that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

1 2

that ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.

The Coming of the Lord

¶ But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

1 5

For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

1 6

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

2 5 2 1

1 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 5

1 7

then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

1 8

Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.

For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.

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.

For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

1 0

who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

1 1

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

Paul Exhorts the Brethren

1 2

¶ And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;

2 5 2 2

1 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 5

and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.

Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.

1 5

See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow

that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.

1 6

Rejoice evermore.

1 7

Pray without ceasing.

1 8

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Quench not the Spirit.

2 0

Despise not prophesyings.

2 1

Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

2 2

Abstain from all appearance of evil.

¶ And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 4

Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

Final Greetings and Benediction

2 5

¶ Brethren, pray for us.

2 6

¶ Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss.

2 7

¶ I charge you by the Lord, that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren.

2 8

¶ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Thessalonians

[2 Thessalonians]

Salutation

Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy,

¶ Unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:

¶ Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Judgment at Christ’s Coming

¶ We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; 4

so that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God, for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure:

which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:

seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;

and to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,

in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9

who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;

2 5 2 4

2 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 2

1 0

when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.

1 1

¶ Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power:

1 2

that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Revealing of the Man of Sin

Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2

that ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.

Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;

who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.

Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?

And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.

For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.

And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:

2 5 2 5

2 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 3

even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,

1 0

and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

1 1

And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:

1 2

that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

Chosen to Salvation

¶ But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:

whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 5

Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.

1 6

¶ Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,

1 7

comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.

Pray for Us

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: 2

and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.

2 5 2 6

2 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 3

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you.

And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.

The Obligation to Work

¶ Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.

For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you;

neither did we eat any man’s bread for nought; but wrought with labor and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you:

not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.

1 0

For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

1 1

For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.

1 2

Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.

¶ And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.

1 5

Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

Benediction

1 6

¶ Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.

2 5 2 7

2 T h e s s a l o n i a n s 3

1 7

¶ The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write.

1 8

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

The First Epistle of Paul the Apostle to Timothy

[1 Timothy]

Salutation

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope; 2

¶ Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith:

¶ Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father, and Jesus Christ our Lord.

Warning against False Doctrine

¶ As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.

Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: 6

from which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;

desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.

¶ But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; 9

knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,

1 0

for whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;

2 5 29

1 T i m o t h y 2

1 1

according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.

Paul’s Thankfulness for Mercy

1 2

¶ And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 13

who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.

And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

1 5

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

1 6

Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

1 7

Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

1 8

¶ This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;

holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away, concerning faith have made shipwreck:

2 0

of whom is Hymeneus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.

Instructions concerning Prayer

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2

for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

2 5 3 0

1 T i m o t h y 3

who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not,) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.

¶ I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.

In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

1 0

but (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

1 1

Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.

1 2

But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.

For Adam was first formed, then Eve.

And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.

1 5

Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

Qualifications of Bishops

This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3

not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;

2 5 3 1

1 T i m o t h y 3

one that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;

(for if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)

not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.

Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Qualifications of Deacons

¶ Likewise must the deacons be grave, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;

holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

1 0

And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.

1 1

Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.

1 2

Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.

For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

The Mystery of Our Religion

¶ These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly: 1 5

but if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.

1 6

And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh,

justified in the Spirit,

seen of angels,

preached unto the Gentiles,

2 5 3 2

1 T i m o t h y 4

believed on in the world,

received up into glory.

Prediction of Apostasy

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:

for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

A Good Minister of Jesus Christ

¶ If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.

For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation.

1 0

For therefore we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.

1 1

¶ These things command and teach.

2 5 3 3

1 T i m o t h y 5

1 2

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

1 5

Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.

1 6

Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

Responsibilities toward Others

Rebuke not an elder, but entreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren;

the elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.

¶ Honor widows that are widows indeed.

But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to show piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.

Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.

But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.

And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.

But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

¶ Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man,

1 0

well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

2 5 3 4

1 T i m o t h y 5

1 1

But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;

1 2

having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.

And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.

I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

1 5

For some are already turned aside after Satan.

1 6

If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.

1 7

¶ Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine.

1 8

For the Scripture saith,

Thou shalt not muzzle the ox

that treadeth out the corn.

And,

The laborer is worthy of his reward.

Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.

2 0

Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.

2 1

I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.

2 2

Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.

¶ Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.

2 4

¶ Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.

2 5

Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.

2 5 3 5

1 T i m o t h y 6

Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.

And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit.

¶ These things teach and exhort.

Godliness with Contentment

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;

he is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,

perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

But godliness with contentment is great gain.

For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

And having food and raiment, let us be therewith content.

But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

1 0

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

The Good Fight of Faith

1 1

¶ But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

2 5 3 6

1 T i m o t h y 6

1 2

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;

that thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:

1 5

which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; 1 6

who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen.

1 7

¶ Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;

1 8

that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;

laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

2 0

¶ O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:

2 1

which some professing have erred concerning the faith.

¶ Grace be with thee. Amen.

The Second Epistle of Paul the Apostle to Timothy

[2 Timothy]

Salutation

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,

¶ To Timothy, my dearly beloved son:

¶ Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

Be Not Ashamed

¶ I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;

greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy;

when I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

Wherefore I put thee in remembrance, that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

¶ Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;

who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began;

2 5 3 8

2 T i m o t h y 2

1 0

but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:

1 1

whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.

1 2

For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.

1 5

¶ This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.

1 6

The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:

1 7

but, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.

1 8

The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.

A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ

Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

2 5 3 9

2 T i m o t h y 2

And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

The husbandman that laboreth must be first partaker of the fruits.

Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.

¶ Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead, according to my gospel:

wherein I suffer trouble, as an evildoer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.

1 0

Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sake, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

1 1

It is a faithful saying:

For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:

1 2

if we suffer, we shall also reign with him:

if we deny him, he also will deny us:

if we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.

An Approved Workman

¶ Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.

1 5

Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

1 6

But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

1 7

And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymeneus and Philetus;

1 8

who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.

Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

2 5 4 0

2 T i m o t h y 3

2 0

¶ But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honor, and some to dishonor.

2 1

If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.

2 2

Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.

2 4

And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient;

2 5

in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

2 6

and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

The Character of Men in the Last Days

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3

without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4

traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;

having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7

ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

2 5 4 1

2 T i m o t h y 4

Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.

But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.

Paul’s Last Charge to Timothy

1 0

¶ But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, long-suffering, charity, patience,

1 1

persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.

1 2

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;

1 5

and that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

1 6

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

1 7

that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.

2 5 4 2

2 T i m o t h y 4

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

¶ For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Personal Instructions

¶ Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me:

1 0

for Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.

1 1

Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.

1 2

And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.

The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.

Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:

1 5

of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.

1 6

At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.

1 7

Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the

2 5 4 3

2 T i m o t h y 4

Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

1 8

And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Final Greetings

¶ Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.

2 0

Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletus sick.

2 1

Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.

2 2

¶ The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen.

The Epistle of Paul to

Titus

[Titus]

Salutation

Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;

in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;

but hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;

¶ To Titus, mine own son after the common faith:

¶ Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Qualifications of Elders and Bishops

¶ For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:

if any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.

For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;

but a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;

holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

2 5 4 5

T i t u s

1 0

For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision:

1 1

whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake.

1 2

One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are always liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.

This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;

not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.

1 5

Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.

1 6

They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

The Teaching of Sound Doctrine

But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: 2

that the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.

The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

that they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Young men likewise exhort to be soberminded.

In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

2 5 4 6

T i t u s

sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; 1 0

not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.

1 1

¶ For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

1 2

teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13

looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

1 5

¶ These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

Be Careful to Maintain Good Works

Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

to speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness unto all men.

For we ourselves also were sometime foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

2 5 4 7

T i t u s

that being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

¶ This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

1 0

A man that is a heretic, after the first and second admonition, reject;

1 1

knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

Personal Instructions

1 2

¶ When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.

Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.

And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

Benediction

1 5

¶ All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith.

¶ Grace be with you all. Amen.

The Epistle of Paul to

Philemon

[Philemon]

Salutation

Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother,

¶ Unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow laborer, 2

and to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in thy house:

¶ Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Philemon’s Love and Faith

¶ I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, 5

hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;

that the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

Paul Pleads for Onesimus

¶ Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,

yet for love’s sake I rather beseech thee, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

1 0

I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:

1 1

which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:

2 5 4 9

P h i l e m o n

1 2

whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:

whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel: 14

but without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.

1 5

¶ For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;

1 6

not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?

1 7

If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.

1 8

If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee aught, put that on mine account;

I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I

do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.

2 0

Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.

2 1

¶ Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

2 2

But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.

Final Greetings

¶ There salute thee Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus; 2 4

Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my fellow laborers.

2 5

¶ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Hebrews

[Hebrews]

God Has Spoken by His Son

God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,

hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 3

who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.

The Son Superior to Angels

¶ For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son,

this day have I begotten thee?

And again,

I will be to him a Father,

and he shall be to me a Son?

And again, when he bringeth in the first-begotten into the world, he saith,

And let all the angels of God worship him.

And of the angels he saith,

Who maketh his angels spirits,

and his ministers a flame of fire.

But unto the Son he saith,

Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever:

2 5 5 1

H e b r e w s

a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.

Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

1 0

And,

Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands.

1 1

They shall perish, but thou remainest:

and they all shall wax old as doth a garment;

1 2

and as a vesture shalt thou fold them up,

and they shall be changed:

but thou art the same,

and thy years shall not fail.

But to which of the angels said he at any time,

Sit on my right hand,

until I make thine enemies thy footstool?

Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

So Great Salvation

Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.

For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward;

how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;

God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?

2 5 5 2

H e b r e w s

The Captain of Salvation Made Perfect through Suffering 5

¶ For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.

But one in a certain place testified, saying,

What is man, that thou art mindful of him?

or the son of man, that thou visitest him?

Thou madest him a little lower than the angels;

thou crownedst him with glory and honor,

and didst set him over the works of thy hands:

thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet.

For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.

But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.

1 0

¶ For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

1 1

For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, 1 2

saying,

I will declare thy name unto my brethren,

in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee.

And again,

I will put my trust in him.

And again,

Behold I and the children which God hath given me.

¶ Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

1 5

and deliver them, who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

2 5 5 3

H e b r e w s

1 6

For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.

1 7

Wherefore in all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

1 8

For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted.

Christ Superior to Moses

Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house.

For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honor than the house.

For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things

is God.

And Moses verily was faithful in all his house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; 6

but Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.

A Rest for the People of God

¶ Wherefore as the Holy Ghost saith,

Today if ye will hear his voice,

harden not your hearts, as in the provocation,

in the day of temptation in the wilderness:

2 5 5 4

H e b r e w s

when your fathers tempted me, proved me,

and saw my works forty years.

1 0

Wherefore I was grieved with that generation,

and said, They do always err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.

1 1

So I sware in my wrath,

They shall not enter into my rest.

1 2

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end;

1 5

while it is said,

Today if ye will hear his voice,

harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.

1 6

For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses.

1 7

But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcasses fell in the wilderness?

1 8

And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?

So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.

Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.

For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.

For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath,

if they shall enter into my rest:

2 5 5 5

H e b r e w s

although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.

For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.

And in this place again,

If they shall enter into my rest.

Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief:

again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, Today, after so long a time; as it is said,

Today if ye will hear his voice,

harden not your hearts.

For if Jesus [Joshua] had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day.

There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.

1 0

For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.

1 1

¶ Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

1 2

For the word of God is quick, 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 intents of the heart.

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

Jesus the Great High Priest

¶ Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

1 5

For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

2 5 5 6

H e b r e w s

1 6

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:

who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.

And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.

And no man taketh this honor unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.

¶ So also Christ glorified not himself to be made a high priest; but he that said unto him,

Thou art my Son,

today have I begotten thee.

As he saith also in another place,

Thou art a priest for ever

after the order of Melchizedek.

¶ Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; 8

though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;

and being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;

1 0

called of God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek.

The Danger of Slothfulness and Apostasy

1 1

¶ Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.

2 5 5 7

H e b r e w s

1 2

For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.

For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.

But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,

of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

And this will we do, if God permit.

For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,

and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,

if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:

but that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.

¶ But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.

2 5 5 8

H e b r e w s

1 0

For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have showed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

1 1

And we desire that every one of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:

1 2

that ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

¶ For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself,

saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.

1 5

And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.

1 6

For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife.

1 7

Wherein God, willing more abundantly to show unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: 1 8

that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; 2 0

whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made a high priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.

The Priestly Order of Melchizedek

For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;

to whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;

2 5 5 9

H e b r e w s

without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.

¶ Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils.

And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham:

but he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.

And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.

And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.

And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, paid tithes in Abraham.

1 0

For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchizedek met him.

1 1

¶ If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be called after the order of Aaron?

1 2

For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.

For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.

For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Judah; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.

1 5

¶ And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchizedek there ariseth another priest,

1 6

who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life.

1 7

For he testifieth,

Thou art a priest for ever

after the order of Melchizedek.

2 5 6 0

H e b r e w s

1 8

For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof.

For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.

2 0

¶ And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest:

2 1

(for those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him,

The Lord sware and will not repent,

Thou art a priest for ever

after the order of Melchizedek:)

2 2

by so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.

¶ And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death:

2 4

but this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood.

2 5

Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

2 6

¶ For such a high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; 2 7

who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people’s: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.

2 8

For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.

The Mediator of a New Covenant

Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such a high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;

2 5 6 1

H e b r e w s

a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.

For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.

For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: 5