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Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,
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to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone.
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For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, despicable, hating one another.
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But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,
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he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water 1 of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
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This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
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so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
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The saying is sure.
I desire that you insist on these things, so that those who have come to believe in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works; these things are excellent and profitable to everyone.
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But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.
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After a first and second admonition, have nothing more to do with anyone who causes divisions,
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since you know that such a person is perverted and sinful, being self-condemned.