THE NEW TESTAMENT, Hoehn Version, copyright 2011, all rights reserved. Editor's Note: Thank God for Christian mothers. My mother took us children to church, and I became a born-again Christian by age four. You get born-again when you hear or read the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (see John chapt. 3), and say yes to God in answer to his free offer of salvation through Jesus (Romans 10:9,10.), (Rev. 3:20) I grew up with the King James Version of the Bible. But since my youth, I've felt there was a need for a translation of the Bible in plain American English. Some translations have come along, but there still seemed to be a lot of room for improvement. There are warnings in the book of Revelation about not adding to nor taking away from the Bible. One could send himself to hell by violating that. My intention has been to do neither, but to simply present the Bible in plain American English. I hope that English speaking people in other nations will find it useful, too. God is not against translating the Bible into other languages, he's for it. That's what I've prayerfully tried to do, while neither adding to, nor taking away from it. May God bless you as you read His Book, the Holy Bible. Frederick E. Hoehn The audio book, "The New Testament, Hoehn Version," is available at Audiobooks.com ___Matthew chapter 1 1 The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. 2 Abraham fathered Isaac, and Isaac fathered Jacob, and Jacob fathered Judah and his brothers, 3 And Judah fathered Pharez and Zarah from Tamar, and Pharez fathered Hezron, and Hezron fathered Ram, 4 And Ram fathered Amminadab, and Amminadab fathered Nahshon, and Nahshon fathered Salmon, 5 And Salmon fathered Boaz from Rahab, and Boaz fathered Obed from Ruth, and Obed fathered Jesse, 6 And Jesse fathered David the king, and David the king fathered Solomon from her that had been the wife of Uriah, 7 And Solomon fathered Rehoboam, and Rehoboam fathered Abijam, and Abijam fathered Asa, 8 And Asa fathered Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat fathered Jehoram, and Jehoram fathered Ahaziah, 9 And Ahaziah fathered Joash, and Joash fathered Amaziah, and Amaziah fathered Azariah, and Azariah fathered Jotham, and Jotham fathered Ahaz, and Ahaz fathered Hezekiah, 10 And Hezekiah fathered Manasseh, and Manasseh fathered Amon, and Amon fathered Josiah, 11 And Josiah fathered Jehoiakim, and Jehoiakim fathered Jechoniah and his brothers, about the time they were carried away to Babylon, 12 And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechoniah fathered Salathiel, and Salathiel fathered Zorobabel, 13 And Zorobabel fathered Abiud, and Abiud fathered Eliakim, and Eliakim fathered Azor, 14 And Azor fathered Sadoc, and Sadoc fathered Achim, and Achim fathered Eliud, 15 And Eliud fathered Eleazar, and Eleazar fathered Matthan, and Matthan fathered Jacob, 16 And Jacob fathered Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. 17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are about fourteen generations, and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are about fourteen generations, and from the carrying away into Babylon to Christ are about fourteen generations. 18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was like this: when his mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, before they came together, she became pregnant by the Holy Ghost. 19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and who didn't want to make her a public example, was thinking about putting her away privately. 20 But while he thought about these things, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, you son of David, don't be afraid to take to yourself Mary, your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Ghost. 21 And she shall give birth to a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sins." 22 Now all this was done, so that what was spoken regarding the Lord by the prophet would be fulfilled, 23 "See, a virgin shall be with child, and shall give birth to a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel," which being interpreted is, God with us. 24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did what the angel of the Lord had told him, and took Mary to be his wife, 25 And didn't have sex with her until she had given birth to her firstborn son, and he called his name Jesus. ___Matthew chapter 2 1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 And said, "Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and have come to worship him." 3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded they tell him where Christ would be born. 5 And they told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet, 6 And you Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not the least among the princes of Judah, for out of you shall come a governor, that shall rule my people Israel." 7 Then Herod, when he had privately called the wise men, diligently inquired of them what time the star appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, "Go and search diligently for the young child, and when you've found him, bring me word, so I can come and worship him also." 9 After they had heard the king, they departed, and the star that they saw in the east, went before them, until it came and stopped over where the young child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with very great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him, and when they had opened their treasures, they presented to him gifts, gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And being warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed into their own country by another route. 13 And when they had departed, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Get up, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word, for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him." 14 When he got up, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed for Egypt, 15 And was there until the death of Herod, so that what was spoken about the Lord by the prophet would be fulfilled, "Out of Egypt, I have called my son." 16 Then Herod, when he saw that he wasn't taken seriously by the wise men, was very angry and sent out and killed all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts of it, from two years old and under, according to the time that he had diligently inquired of the wise men. 17 Then what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled, 18 "In Rama there was a voice heard, lamentation and crying, and great mourning, Rachel crying for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not." 19 But when Herod was dead, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20 Saying, "Get up, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel, for those who wanted to kill the young child are dead." 21 And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus reigned in Judea in the office of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, also, being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee, 23 And he came and lived in a city called Nazareth, so that what was spoken by the prophets would be fulfilled, "He shall be called a Nazarene." ___Matthew chapter 3 1 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 And saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." 3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, who said, "The voice of someone shouting in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." 4 And the same John had clothing of camel's hair, and a leather girdle around his hips, and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then Jerusalem went out to him, and all Judea, and all the region around Jordan, 6 And were baptized by him in Jordan, confessing their sins. 7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said to them, "O generation of snakes, who has warned you to flee from the anger to come? 8 Produce therefore fruits appropriate for repentance, 9 And don't think to say inside yourselves, We have Abraham as our father, for I say to you that God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. 10 And also, the axe is now being applied to the root of the trees, therefore every tree that doesn't produce good fruit will be cut down, and thrown into the fire. 11 I indeed baptize you with water for repentance, but he that comes after me is mightier than I am, whose shoes I am not worthy to carry, he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire, 12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." 13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 14 But John said to him, "No, I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" 15 And Jesus answered him, "Allow it to be so now, because this is what we need to do to fulfill all righteousness." Then he allowed it. 16 And Jesus, after being baptized, went up directly out of the water, and the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and landing on him, 17 And there was a voice from heaven saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." ___Matthew chapter 4 1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 And after he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, "If you're the Son of God, command that these stones become bread." 4 But he answered, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God." 5 Then the devil took him up into the holy city, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, 6 And said to him, "If you're the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, He shall give his angels commandment concerning you, and in their hands they'll hold you up, so you won't at any time dash your foot against a stone." 7 Jesus said to him, "It is written again, You shall not tempt the Lord your God." 8 Again, the devil took him up into a very high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them, 9 And said to him, "I will give you all these things, if you'll fall down and worship me." 10 Then Jesus said to him, "Get away from here, Satan, for it is written, You shall worship the Lord your God, and you shall serve only him." 11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and ministered to him. 12 Now when Jesus had heard that John had been thrown into prison, he went into Galilee, 13 And leaving Nazareth, he came and lived in Capernaum, which is on the sea coast, in the borders of Zebulun and Naphtali, 14 So that what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet would be fulfilled, 15 "The land of Zebulun, and the land of Naphtali, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, 16 The people who sat in darkness saw great light, and to those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has sprung up." 17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." 18 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, throwing a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 19 And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fishermen of men." 20 And they immediately left their nets, and followed him. 21 And going on from there, he saw two more brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. 22 And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him. 23 And Jesus went around all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. 24 And his fame went throughout all Syria, and they brought to him all sick people that were afflicted by various diseases and torments, and those who were possessed by devils, and those who were lunatics, and those who had the palsy, and he healed them. 25 And great multitudes of people followed him from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from beyond Jordan. ___Matthew chapter 5 1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain, and when he was set, his disciples came to him, 2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, 3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, because they'll be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, because they'll obtain mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, because they'll see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, because they'll be called the children of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for being righteous, because the kingdom of heaven is theirs. 11 Blessed are you, when men revile you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be very glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for that's what they did to the prophets who went before you. 13 You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be salted? It is then good for nothing, except to be thrown out, and to be walked on by men's feet. 14 You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill can't be hidden. 15 Nor do men light a candle, and put it under a basket, but on a candlestick, and it gives light to all that are in the house. 16 Let your light shine before men in such a way that they'll see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. 17 Don't think that I've come to destroy the law, or the prophets, I haven't come to destroy, but to fulfill. 18 For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth go away, one period or one comma shall in no way pass from the law, until all is fulfilled. 19 Whoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever shall do and teach them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say to you, unless you are more righteous than the scribes and Pharisees, you'll in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. 21 You have heard that it was said by those of old time, You shall not kill, and whoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment, 22 But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother without a good reason shall be in danger of the judgment, and whoever shall say to his brother, You vain fellow, shall be in danger of the council, but whoever shall say, You fool, shall be in danger of hell's fire. 23 Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, 24 Leave your gift there before the altar and go away, first make peace with your brother, and then go back and offer your gift. 25 Agree with your adversary quickly, while you're on the road with him, so the adversary won't turn you over to the judge, and the judge won't turn you over to the officer, and you aren't thrown into prison. 26 Truly I say to you, you'll no way come out from there, until you've paid the very last penny. 27 You've heard that it was said by those of old time, You shall not commit adultery, 28 But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. 29 And if your right eye offends you, pluck it out, and throw it from you, for it is profitable for you that one of your members is destroyed, and not that your whole body should be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand offends you, cut it off, and throw it from you, for it is profitable for you that one of your members is destroyed, and not that your whole body should be thrown into hell. 31 It has been said, Whoever shall put away his wife, let him give her divorce papers, 32 But I say to you that whoever shall put away his wife, except because of fornication, causes her to commit adultery, and whoever shall marry her that's divorced commits adultery. 33 Again, you've heard that it has been said by those of old time, You shall not falsely promise, but shall perform to the Lord your oaths, 34 But I say to you, don't swear at all, neither by heaven, for it is God's throne, 35 Nor by the earth, for it is his footstool, nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 Nor shall you swear by your head, because you can't make one hair white or black. 37 But let your communication be, Yes, yes, no, no, for whatever is more than these comes from evil. 38 You have heard that it has been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth, 39 But I say to you, don't resist evil, but whoever shall strike you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if any man will sue you at the law, and take away your coat, let him have your overcoat also. 41 And whoever shall compel you to go a mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to him that asks you, and from him that would borrow from you don't turn away. 43 You have heard that it has been said, You shall love your neighbor, and hate your enemy. 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who despitefully use you, and persecute you, 45 So that you'll be the children of your Father who is in heaven, for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Don't even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet your brothers only, what are you doing more than others? Don't even the tax collectors do so? 48 Therefore be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect." ___Matthew chapter 6 1 "Be careful that you don't give charitable gifts in the sight of men to be seen by them, otherwise you have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. 2 Therefore when you give charitable gifts, don't sound a trumpet before you, like the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so they'll have honor from men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward. 3 But when you give, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 So that your giving will be in secret, and your Father who sees in secret shall himself reward you openly. 5 And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites are, because they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, so they'll be seen by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward. 6 But you, when you pray, enter into your closet, and when you've shut your door, pray to your Father in secret, and your Father who sees in secret shall reward you openly. 7 But when you pray, don't use useless repetitions, like the heathen do, because they think they'll be heard for their many words. 8 Therefore, don't be like them, because your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9 Therefore, pray like this, Our Father who is in heaven, your name be honored. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth, like it is in heaven. 11 Give us our daily bread today. 12 And forgive our debts, like we forgive our debtors. 13 And don't lead us into temptation, but give us deliverance from evil, for yours are the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. 14 For if you forgive men their wrong doing, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, 15 But if you don't forgive men their wrong doing, neither will your Father forgive your wrong doing. 16 Also, when you fast, don't have a sad face like the hypocrites, for they distort their faces, so they'll appear to men to be fasting. Truly I say to you, they have their reward. 17 But you, when you fast, put ointment on your head and wash your face, 18 So that you don't seem to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in secret, and your Father, who sees in secret, shall reward your openly. 19 Don't store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and rust corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal, 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moths nor rust can corrupt, and where thieves don't break through nor steal, 21 Because where your treasure is, your heart will be there also. 22 The light of the body is the eye, if therefore your eye is single, your whole body shall be full of light. 23 But if your eye is evil, your whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness! 24 No man can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. You can't serve God and money. 25 Therefore I say to you, don't be worrying about your life, what you'll eat, or what you'll drink, nor for your body, what you'll put on. Isn't the life more important than food, and the body than clothes? 26 Look at birds of the air, for they don't plant, nor do they harvest, nor gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren't you much better than they are? 27 Which of you, by thinking, can add eighteen inches to his height? 28 And why do you take thought for clothes? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow, they don't work, nor do they spin, 29 And yet I say to you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. 30 So, if God clothes the grass of the field, that exists today, and is thrown into the furnace tomorrow, won't he much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 Therefore don't think, What will we eat? Or, What will we drink? Or, with what shall we be clothed? 32 (Because the Gentiles seek for all those things,) for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore, don't worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient to the day is its own evil." ___Matthew chapter 7 1 "Don't judge, so that you won't be judged. 2 For with what judgment you judge, you shall be judged, and with what measure you measure out, it shall be measured back to you again. 3 And why do you look at the speck that's in your brother's eye, but don't consider the plank that's in your own eye? 4 Or how will you say to your brother, Let me pull out the speck out of your eye, and see, a plank is in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first cast out the plank out of your own eye, and then you'll see clearly to cast out the speck from your brother's eye. 6 Don't give that which is holy to the dogs, and don't throw your pearls before pigs, so they don't trample them under their feet, and turn again and tear you. 7 Ask, and it shall be given to you, seek, and you'll find. Knock, and it shall be opened to you, 8 For everyone that asks receives, and he that seeks finds, and to him that knocks it shall be opened. 9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son asks for bread, will he give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a snake? 11 If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him? 12 Therefore whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the law and the prophets. 13 Enter in at the restricted gate, because wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and there are many that go in there, 14 Because the gate is restricted, and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it. 15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are greedy wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree produces good fruit, but a corrupt tree produces bad fruit. 18 A good tree can't produce bad fruit, nor can a corrupt tree produce good fruit. 19 Every tree that doesn't produce good fruit is cut down, and thrown into the fire. 20 So, by their fruits you'll know them. 21 Not everyone that says to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, Lord, Lord, haven't we prophesied in your name? And in your name have cast out devils? And in your name done many wonderful works? 23 And then I will tell them, I never knew you, go away from me, you sinners. 24 Therefore whoever hears these sayings of mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man, who built his house on a rock, 25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat on that house, and it didn't fall, because it was founded on a rock. 26 And everyone that hears these sayings of mine, and doesn't do them, is like a foolish man, who built his house on the sand, 27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat on that house, and it fell, and it was a big disaster." 28 And when Jesus had finished these sayings, the people were amazed at his doctrine, 29 Because he taught them like someone who had authority, and not like the scribes. ___Matthew chapter 8 1 When he had come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him. 2 And, a leper came and worshipped him, and said, "Lord, if you would, you can make me clean." 3 And Jesus put out his hand, and touched him and said, "I will, be clean." And immediately he was cleansed from leprosy. 4 And Jesus said to him, "Make sure you don't tell anyone, but go and show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony to them." 5 And when Jesus had entered into Capernaum, a centurion came to him, begging him, 6 And saying, "Lord, my servant lies at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented." 7 And Jesus said to him, "I will come and heal him." 8 The centurion answered him, "Lord, I'm not worthy for you to come under my roof, but speak the word only, and my servant will be healed. 9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me, and I say to this man, go, and he goes, and to another, come, and he comes, and to my servant, do this, and he does it." 10 When Jesus heard it, he was surprised, and said to those who followed, "Truly I say to you, I have not found such great faith, no, not in Israel. 11 And I say to you that many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. 12 But the children of the kingdom shall be thrown out into outer darkness, there shall be crying and gnashing of teeth." 13 And Jesus said to the centurion, "Go your way, and what you've believed for shall be done to you." And his servant was healed in the same hour. 14 And when Jesus had come into Peter's house, he saw his mother-in-law lying, and sick with a fever. 15 And he touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she got up, and ministered to them. 16 When evening had come, they brought to him many that were possessed by devils, and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick, 17 So that it would be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, "Himself took our infirmities, and carried our sicknesses." 18 Now when Jesus saw great multitudes around him, he gave commandment to depart for the other side. 19 And a certain scribe came, and said to him, "Master, I will follow you wherever you go." 20 And Jesus said to him, "The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man doesn't have a place to lay his head." 21 And another of his disciples said to him, "Lord, allow me first to go and bury my father." 22 But Jesus said to him, "Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead." 23 And when he had entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. 24 And a great storm came up on the sea, so that the ship was covered with the waves, but he was asleep. 25 And his disciples came to him and awoke him, saying, "Lord, save us, we're about to die." 26 And he said to them, "Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?" Then he got up, and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. 27 But the men were amazed, and said, "What kind of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!" 28 And when he had come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, two possessed by devils met him, coming out of the tombs, very fierce, so that no man could pass by that way. 29 And they called out, "What have we to do with you, Jesus, you Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?" 30 And there was a good way off from them a herd of many pigs feeding. 31 So the devils asked him, "If you cast us out, allow us to go into the herd of pigs." 32 And he said to them, "Go." And when they had come out, they went into the herd of pigs, and the whole herd of pigs ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and drowned in the waters. 33 And those who kept them fled, and went into the city, and told everything, and what had happened to those possessed by devils. 34 And the whole city came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him, they asked him to go away out of their coasts. ___Matthew chapter 9 1 And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city. 2 And they brought him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed, and Jesus seeing their faith said to the man sick of the palsy, "Son, be of good cheer, your sins are forgiven." 3 And certain of the scribes said inside themselves, "This man is blaspheming." 4 And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, "Why do you think evil in your hearts? 5 For which is easier, to say, Your sins are forgiven, or to say, Get up, and walk? 6 But so that you'll know that the Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins," (then he said to the man sick of the palsy,) "Get up, pick up your bed, and go to your house." 7 And he got up, and went to his house. 8 But when the multitudes saw it, they were amazed, and glorified God, who had given such power to men. 9 And as Jesus departed from there, he saw a man named Matthew, sitting and collecting taxes, and he said to him, "Follow me." And he got up, and followed him. 10 And as Jesus sat to eat in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said to his disciples, "Why does your master eat with tax collectors and sinners?" 12 But when Jesus heard that, he said to them, "Those who are well don't need a doctor, but those who sick. 13 But go and learn what it means, I want mercy, not sacrifice, for I haven't come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." 14 Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples don't fast?" 15 And Jesus said to them, "Can the wedding guests mourn, while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then they'll fast. 16 No man sews a piece of new cloth on an old garment, because what is put in to fill it up takes from the garment, and the tear gets worse. 17 Nor do men put new wine into old wineskins, otherwise the wineskins break, and the wine runs out, and the wineskins are destroyed, but they put new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved." 18 While he spoke these things to them, a certain ruler came and worshipped him, saying, "My daughter is now dead, but come and lay your hand on her, and she'll live." 19 And Jesus got up, and followed him, and so did his disciples. 20 And a woman who had been diseased for twelve years with bleeding that wouldn't stop, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment, 21 For she said inside herself, "If I can just touch his garment, I'll be well." 22 But Jesus turned around, and when he saw her, he said, "Daughter, be of good comfort, your faith has made you well." And the woman was made well from that hour. 23 And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise, 24 He said to them, "Make room, for the girl is not dead, but sleeping." And they laughed at him scornfully. 25 But when the people had been put out, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. 26 And the news of this went around into all that land. 27 And when Jesus departed from there, two blind men followed him, calling out, "You Son of David, have mercy on us." 28 And when he had come into the house, the blind men came to him, and Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" They said to him, "Yes, Lord." 29 Then he touched their eyes and said, "Have what you're believing for." 30 And their eyes were opened, and Jesus strictly commanded them, "Make sure that no man knows it." 31 But they, when they had departed, spread around his fame in all that country. 32 As they went out, they brought to him a man who couldn't speak, possessed by a devil. 33 And when the devil had been cast out, the man spoke, and the multitudes were amazed, saying, "It was never so seen in Israel." 34 But the Pharisees said, "He casts out devils through the prince of the devils." 35 And Jesus went around all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. 36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is truly plenteous, but the laborers are few, 38 Therefore pray to the Lord of the harvest, that he will send out laborers into his harvest." ___Matthew chapter 10 1 And when he had called to himself his twelve disciples, he gave them authority against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease. 2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: the first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, 3 Philip, and Bartholomew, Thomas, and Matthew the tax collector, James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus Thaddaeus, 4 Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. 5 Jesus sent these twelve out, and commanded them, "Don't go into the way of the Gentiles, and don't enter into any city of the Samaritans, 6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as you go, preach, and say, The kingdom of heaven is near. 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils, you have received for free, give for free. 9 Don't provide gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, 10 Nor paper money for your journey, nor two coats, nor shoes, nor yet staves, because the workman is worthy of his food. 11 And into whatever city or town you enter, ask who in it is worthy, and live there until you leave that city. 12 And when you go into a house, greet the people there. 13 And if the house is worthy, let your peace come on it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. 14 And whoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when you depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. 15 Truly I say to you, it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment, than for that city. 16 See, I send you out like sheep surrounded by wolves, therefore be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. 17 But beware of men, because they'll deliver you up to the councils, and they'll scourge you in their synagogues, 18 And you'll be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. 19 But when they deliver you up, don't think about how or what you'll say, for it shall be given to you in that same hour what to say. 20 For it is not you that speaks, but the Spirit of your Father that speaks in you. 21 And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child, and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. 22 And you'll be hated by all men for my name's sake, but he that endures to the end shall be saved. 23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee into another, for truly I say to you, you won't have gone over the cities of Israel, until the Son of man has come. 24 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. 25 It is enough for the disciple that he be like his master, and the servant like his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they say that about those of his household? 26 Therefore don't be afraid of them, for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed, and nothing hidden, that shall not become known. 27 What I tell you in darkness, speak in light, and what you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops. 28 And don't fear those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul, but rather, fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Aren't two sparrows sold for a quarter? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. 30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Therefore don't be afraid, you are of more value than many sparrows. 32 Whoever therefore shall confess me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in heaven. 33 But whoever shall deny me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven. 34 Don't think that I've come to send peace on earth, I didn't come to send peace, but a sword. 35 For I've come to set a man against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. 36 And a man's enemies shall be those of his own household. 37 He that loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and he that loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 And he that doesn't take his cross, and follow after me, is not worthy of me. 39 He that finds his life shall lose it, and he that loses his life for my sake shall find it. 40 He that receives you receives me, and he that receives me receives him that sent me. 41 He that receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward, and he that receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward. 42 And whoever shall give to drink to one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, truly I say to you, he shall in no way lose his reward." ___Matthew chapter 11 1 And when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed from there to teach and to preach in their cities. 2 Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, 3 And said to him, "Are you he that was supposed to come, or should we be looking for someone else?" 4 Jesus answered them, "Go back and tell John the things that you hear and see, 5 The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. 6 And blessed is he, whoever is not offended by me." 7 And as they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes about John, "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A bush shaken by the wind? 8 But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft clothing? Those who wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. 9 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. 10 For this is he, about whom it is written, See, I send my messenger before your face, who shall prepare your way before you. 11 Truly I say to you, among those who've been born of women, no one has arisen that is greater than John the Baptist, but he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven endures violence, and the violent take it by force. 13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. 14 And if you'll receive it, this is the Elijah who was to come. 15 He that has ears to hear, let him hear. 16 But to what shall I liken this generation? It is like children sitting in the market places, and calling to their friends, 17 We have piped to you, and you haven't danced, we have mourned to you, and you haven't lamented. 18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He has a devil. 19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, See, a glutton and a wino, a friend of tax collectors and sinners. But wisdom is justified by her children." 20 Then he began to find fault with the cities in which most of his mighty works were done, because they didn't repent, 21 "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works that have been done in you had been done in Tyre and Zidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. 22 But I say to you, it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Zidon at the day of judgment, than for you. 23 And you, Capernaum, that is lifted up to heaven, shall be brought down to hell, for if the mighty works that have been done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. 24 But I say to you that it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment, than for you." 25 At that time Jesus answered and said, "I thank you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you've hidden these things from the wise and prudent, and have revealed them to babies. 26 Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in your sight. 27 All things are delivered to me by my Father, and no man knows the Son, but the Father, nor does any man know the Father, except the Son, and he to whomever the Son will reveal him. 28 Come to me, all of you that labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke on you, and learn from me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and you'll find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." ___Matthew chapter 12 1 At that time, Jesus went through the corn fields on the Sabbath day, and his disciples were hungry, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat. 2 But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, "See, your disciples do what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath day." 3 But he said to them, "Haven't you read what David did, when he was hungry, and those who were with him, 4 How he entered into the house of God, and ate the showbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? 5 Or haven't you read in the law, how that on the Sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath day, and are blameless? 6 But I say to you that in this place is someone greater than the temple. 7 But if you had known what this means, I want mercy, not sacrifice, you wouldn't have condemned the innocent. 8 For the Son of man is Lord even of the Sabbath day." 9 And when he had departed from there, he went into their synagogue, 10 And a man was there with a withered hand. And they asked him, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath days?" So they could accuse him. 11 And he said to them, "What man is there among you, who if he has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath day, won't he take hold of it, and lift it out? 12 How much then is a man better than a sheep? So, it is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days." 13 Then he said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." And he stretched it out, and it was restored well, like the other one. 14 Then the Pharisees went out, and plotted how they could destroy him. 15 But when Jesus knew it, he went away from there, and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all, 16 And commanded them not to make him known, 17 So that what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet would be fulfilled, 18 "Look at my servant, whom I have chosen, my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased, I will put my spirit on him, and he'll show judgment to the gentiles. 19 He won't strive, nor shout, nor shall any man hear his voice in the streets. 20 He won't break a bruised reed, and he won't quench smoking flax, until he causes justice to be victorious. 21 And in his name shall the Gentiles trust." 22 Then someone possessed by a devil was brought to him, blind, and not able to speak, and he healed him, so that the blind and speechless man spoke and saw. 23 And all the people were amazed, and said, "Isn't this the son of David?" 24 But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, "This fellow doesn't cast out devils, but by Beelzebub, the prince of the devils." 25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself gets destroyed, and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand, 26 And if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself, how then shall his kingdom stand? 27 And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. 28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you. 29 Or else how can someone enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, unless he first ties up the strong man? And then he will spoil his house. 30 He that is not with me is against me, and he that doesn't gather with me scatters away. 31 So I say to you, all kinds of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven to men, but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven to men. 32 And whoever speaks a word against the Son of man, he'll be forgiven for it, but whoever speaks against the Holy Ghost, he won't be forgiven for it, neither in this world, nor in the next world. 33 Either make the tree good, and its fruit good, or else make the tree corrupt, and its fruit corrupt, because the tree is known by its fruit. 34 O generation of snakes, how can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. 35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart brings out good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings out evil things. 36 But I say to you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account of on the day of judgment. 37 For by your words you'll be justified, and by your words you'll be condemned." 38 Then certain scribes and Pharisees answered, "Master, we want to see a sign from you." 39 But he answered them, "An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, and no sign shall be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah, 40 For like Jonah was three days and three nights in the whale's belly, so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it, because they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and see, a greater than Jonah is here. 42 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it, because she came from the farthest parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and see, a greater than Solomon is here. 43 When the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he walks through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. 44 Then he says, I'll return into my house that I came out of, and when he gets there, he finds it empty, swept, and garnished. 45 Then he goes, and takes with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and live there, and the last condition of that man is worse than the first. That's how it will be also, for this wicked generation." 46 While he still talked to the people, his mother and his brothers stood outside, desiring to speak with him. 47 Then someone said to him, "See, your mother and your brothers are standing outside, and want to speak with you." 48 But he answered him that told him, "Who is my mother? And who are my brothers?" 49 And he stretched out his hand toward his disciples, and said, "Look at my mother and my brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of my Father who is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother." ___Matthew chapter 13 1 The same day, Jesus went out of the house, and sat by the sea side. 2 And great multitudes were gathered together to him, so that he went into a ship and sat, and the whole multitude stood on the shore. 3 And he spoke many things to them in parables, and said, "See, a planter went out to plant, 4 And when he planted, some seeds fell by the way side, and the birds came and devoured them up, 5 Some fell on stony places, where they didn't have much earth, and immediately they sprang up, because they had no deepness of earth, 6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched, and because they had no root, they withered away. 7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked them, 8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some a hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. 9 Whoever has ears to hear, let him hear." 10 And the disciples came and said to him, "Why do you speak to them in parables?" 11 He answered them, "Because it is given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it hasn't been given. 12 For whoever has, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance, but whoever doesn't have, from him shall be taken away even what he has. 13 Therefore I speak to them in parables, because they seeing, don't see, and hearing, they don't hear, nor do they understand. 14 And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah that says, By hearing, you'll hear, and not understand, and seeing, you'll see, and won't perceive, 15 For these people's hearts have become large, and their ears are dull of hearing, and they've closed their eyes, so that at no time will they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and be converted, and I would heal them. 16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. 17 For truly I say to you, many prophets and righteous men have desired to see the things that you see, and haven't seen them, and to hear the things that you hear, and haven't heard them. 18 Therefore hear the parable of the planter. 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and doesn't understand it, then the wicked one comes, and catches away what was planted in his heart. This is he who received seed by the way side. 20 But he that received the seed into stony places, is he that hears the word, and with joy receives it, 21 Yet doesn't have roots in himself, but endures for a while, because when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, then he becomes offended. 22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that hears the word, and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. 23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that hears the word, and understands it, who also produces fruit, and brings forth, some a hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold." 24 He spoke another parable to them, "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who planted good seed in his field, 25 But while men slept, his enemy came and planted tares among the wheat, and went his way. 26 But when the blade had sprung up, and produced fruit, then the tares appeared also. 27 So the servants of the householder came and said to him, Sir, didn't you plant good seed in your field? So why do we have tares? 28 He said to them, An enemy has done this. The servants said to him, do you want us to go and gather them up? 29 But he said, No, because while you gather up the tares, you'll also uproot some of the wheat with the tares. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, gather together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn." 31 He gave them another parable, "The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took, and planted in his field, 32 Which indeed is the least of all seeds, but when it has grown up, it is the greatest among herbs, and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches of it." 33 He spoke another parable to them, "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast, that a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, until all of it was leavened." 34 Jesus spoke all these things to the multitude in parables, and he didn't speak to them without a parable, 35 So that what was spoken by the prophet would be fulfilled, "I will open my mouth in parables, I will tell things that have been kept secret from the foundation of the world." 36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house, and his disciples came to him, saying, "Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field." 37 He answered them, "He that plants the good seed is the Son of man, 38 The field is the world, the good seed are the children of the kingdom, but the tares are the children of the wicked one, 39 The enemy that planted them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the world, and the reapers are the angels. 40 Therefore, like the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, that's how it will be at the end of this world. 41 The Son of man shall send out his angels, and they'll gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and those who sin, 42 And shall throw them into a furnace of fire, there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous shall shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears to hear, let him hear. 44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which when a man has found he hides, and rejoicing about that, goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field. 45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant man, seeking good pearls, 46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. 47 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net, that was thrown into the sea, and gathered of every kind, 48 Which when it was full, they pulled it to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into containers, but threw the bad away. 49 It shall be like that at the end of the world, the angels shall come, and separate the wicked from among the just, 50 And shall throw them into the furnace of fire, there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth." 51 Jesus said to them, "Have you understood all of these things?" They said to him, "Yes, Lord." 52 Then he said to them, "Therefore every scribe who has been instructed regarding the kingdom of heaven is like a man that is a householder, who brings out of his treasure new things and old things." 53 And when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed from there. 54 And when he had come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, such that they were astonished, and said, "From where does this man get this wisdom, and these mighty works? 55 Isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother called Mary? And his brothers, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? 56 And his sisters, aren't they all with us? From where then does this man have all these things?" 57 And they were offended at him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor, except in his own country, and in his own house." 58 And he didn't do many mighty works there because of their unbelief. ___Matthew chapter 14 1 At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, 2 And said to his servants, "This is John the Baptist, he has risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works are done by him." 3 Because Herod had arrested John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife. 4 Because John said to him, "It is not lawful for you to have her." 5 And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. 6 But when Herod's birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. 7 And so he swore that he would give her whatever she would ask for. 8 And she, being before instructed by her mother said, "Give me here John Baptist's head in a container." 9 And the king was sorry, but because of the oath and those who sat with him to eat, he commanded it to be given to her. 10 And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison. 11 And his head was brought in a container, and given to the young woman, and she brought it to her mother. 12 And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus. 13 When Jesus heard about it, he departed from there by ship into a desert place apart, and when the people had heard about it, they followed him on foot out of the cities. 14 And Jesus went out, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. 15 And when it was evening, his disciples came to him and said, "This is a desert place, and the time has now passed, send the multitude away, so they can go into the villages, and buy themselves food." 16 But Jesus said to them, "They don't need to go, you give them food." 17 And they said to him, "We only have five loaves here, and two fish." 18 He said, "Bring them here to me." 19 And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and broke, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. 20 And they all ate, and were filled, and they took up of the pieces that remained twelve full baskets. 21 And those who had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children. 22 And immediately Jesus told his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him to the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. 23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray, and when the evening had come, he was there alone. 24 But the ship was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by waves, because the wind was contrary. 25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. 26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, and said, "It is a spirit," and they shouted out for fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, "Be of good cheer, it is I, don't be afraid." 28 And Peter answered him, "Lord, if it's you, tell me to come to you on the water." 29 And he said, "Come." And when Peter had come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the very strong wind he was afraid, and beginning to sink, he shouted, "Lord, save me." 31 And immediately Jesus stretched out his hand, and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" 32 And when they had come into the ship, the wind stopped. 33 Then those who were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God." 34 And when they had gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place knew about him, they sent out into all that country around there, and brought to him all that were diseased, 36 And asked him to just let them touch the hem of his garment, and as many as touched were made perfectly well. ___Matthew chapter 15 1 Then scribes and Pharisees who were from Jerusalem came to Jesus and said, 2 "Why do your disciples go against the tradition of the elders? They don't wash their hands when they eat bread." 3 But he answered them, "Why do you also go against the commandment of God by your tradition? 4 For God commanded, Honor your father and mother, and, he that curses father or mother, let him die the death. 5 But you say, Whoever shall say to his father or his mother, whatever I might have given to you, I've given to God, 6 And doesn't honor his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus, you've made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition. 7 You hypocrites, Isaiah prophesied well about you, saying, 8 These people come near me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. 9 But they worship me without benefit, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." 10 And he called the multitude, and said to them, "Listen, and understand, 11 It's not what goes into the mouth that pollutes a man, but it's what comes out of the mouth that pollutes a man." 12 Then his disciples came and said to him, "Do you know that the Pharisees were offended, when they heard this saying?" 13 But he answered, "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted, shall be uprooted. 14 Let them alone, they are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch." 15 Then Peter said to him, "Explain this parable to us." 16 And Jesus said, "Are you also still without understanding? 17 Don't you yet understand, that whatever enters in at the mouth goes into the belly, and goes out into the toilet? 18 But the things that proceed out of the mouth come out of the heart, and they defile the man. 19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies, 20 These are the things that defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands doesn't defile a man." 21 Then Jesus went from there, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Zidon. 22 And a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and called to him, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, you Son of David, my daughter is grievously tormented by a devil." 23 But he didn't answer her a word. And his disciples came and asked him to send her away, because she calls to us. 24 But he answered, "I am not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." 25 Then she came and worshipped him, saying, "Lord, help me." 26 But he answered, "It's not right to take the children's bread, and to throw it to dogs." 27 And she said, "Truth Lord, yet the dogs eat from the crumbs that fall from their master's table." 28 Then Jesus answered her, "O woman, great is your faith, have what you want." And her daughter was made well from that very hour. 29 And Jesus departed from there, and came near the sea of Galilee, and went up into a mountain, and sat down there. 30 And great multitudes came to him, having with them those who were lame, blind, unable to speak, maimed, and many others, and dropped them down at Jesus' feet, and he healed them, 31 So that the multitude was amazed, when they saw the dumb speak, the maimed well, the lame walking, and the blind seeing, and they glorified the God of Israel. 32 Then Jesus called his disciples to him, and said, "I have compassion on the multitude, because they've continued with me now for three days, and have nothing to eat, and I don't want to send them away fasting, or they might faint on the way." 33 And his disciples said to him, from where would we have enough bread in the wilderness, to fill so large a multitude?" 34 And Jesus said to them, "How many loaves do you have?" And they said, "Seven, and a few little fish." 35 And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground. 36 And he took the seven loaves and the fish, and gave thanks, and broke them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. 37 And they all ate and were filled, and they took up of the broken food that was left, seven full baskets. 38 And those who ate were four thousand men, beside women and children. 39 And he sent away the multitude, and boarded a ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala. ___Matthew chapter 16 1 The Pharisees and Sadducees also came, and tempting, wanted him to show them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered them, "When it is evening, you say, It will be fair weather, because the sky is red. 3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather today, because the sky is red and lowering. Oh you hypocrites, you can discern the face of the sky, but you can't discern the signs of the times? 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeks a sign, and no sign will be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah." And he left them, and departed. 5 And when his disciples had come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. 6 Then Jesus said to them, "Take heed, and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees." 7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, "It is because we have brought no bread." 8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said to them, "Oh you of little faith, why do you reason among yourselves, because you've brought no bread? 9 Don't you yet understand, or remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets you took up? 10 Nor the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets you took up? 11 How is it that you don't understand that I wasn't talking about bread, when I told you to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?" 12 Then they understood that he wasn't telling them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. 13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Whom do men say that I, the Son of man, am?" 14 And they said, "Some say you're John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah, or one of the prophets." 15 He said to them, "But whom do you say that I am?" 16 And Simon Peter answered, "You're the Christ, the Son of the living God." 17 And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood haven't revealed it to you, but my Father who is in heaven. 18 And I say also to you, that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." 20 Then he instructed his disciples not to tell anyone that he was Jesus, the Christ. 21 From then on, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. 22 Then Peter took him, and began to scold him, "Be it far from you, Lord, this shall not be for you." 23 But he turned, and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan, you are an offense to me, because you don't prefer the things that are of God, but those that are of men." 24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25 For whoever will save his life shall lose it, and whoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26 For how does a man profit, if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and then he shall reward every man according to his doings. 28 Truly I say to you, there are some standing here, who won't taste of death, until they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom." ___Matthew chapter 17 1 And after six days, Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, and brought them up into a high mountain apart, 2 And his appearance was changed before them, and his face shined like the sun, and his clothing was white like the light. 3 And Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with him. 4 Then Peter responded, and said to Jesus, "Lord, it's good for us to be here, if you're willing, let's make three tents here, one for you, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah." 5 While he yet spoke, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and there was a voice out of the cloud that said, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased, listen to him." 6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were very afraid. 7 And Jesus came and touched them, and said, "Get up, and don't be afraid." 8 And when they looked up, they saw no man except Jesus. 9 And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus told them to tell the vision to no man until the Son of man had risen again from the dead. 10 And his disciples asked him, "Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?" 11 And Jesus answered them, "Elijah truly does come first, and restores all things. 12 But I say to you that Elijah has already come, and they didn't know him, but have done to him whatever they wanted. Likewise also shall the Son of man suffer from them." 13 Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist. 14 And when they had come to the multitude, a certain man came to him, kneeling down to him, and saying, 15 "Lord, have mercy on my son, because he is a lunatic, and quite vexed, because he often falls into the fire, and often into the water. 16 And I brought him to your disciples, and they couldn't cure him." 17 Then Jesus answered, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I endure you? Bring him to me." 18 And Jesus rebuked the devil, and he went out of him, and the child was cured from that very hour. 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately, and said, "Why couldn't we cast him out?" 20 And Jesus said to them, "Because of your unbelief, for truly I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you'll say to this mountain, Move from here to that other place, and it shall go there, and nothing shall be impossible to you. 21 But this kind doesn't go out except by prayer and fasting." 22 And while they stayed in Galilee, Jesus said to them, "The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men, 23 And they'll kill him, and the third day he'll be raised again." And they were very sorry. 24 And when they'd come to Capernaum, the tax collectors came to Peter, and said, "Doesn't your master pay taxes?" 25 He said, "Yes." And when he had come into the house, Jesus stopped him, saying, "What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take custom or taxes? From their own children, or from strangers?" 26 Peter said to him, "From strangers." Jesus said to him, "Then the children are free. 27 But still, so that we won't offend them, go to the sea, and cast a hook, and take up the first fish that comes up, and when you've opened its mouth, you'll find a piece of money. Take that, and give it to them for me and you." ___Matthew chapter 18 1 At the same time the disciples came to Jesus, and said, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" 2 And Jesus called a little child to him, and set him among them, 3 And said, "Truly I say to you, unless you're converted, and become like little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whoever therefore shall humble himself like this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 And whoever shall receive one such little child in my name receives me. 6 But whoever shall offend one of these little ones who believe in me, it would have been better for him that a millstone had been hung around his neck, and that he had been drowned in the depth of the sea. 7 Woe to the world because of offences! Because it must happen that offences come, but woe to that man by whom the offence comes! 8 So if your hand or your foot offends you, cut them off, and throw them from you, it is better for you to enter into life missing a body part, rather than having two hands or two feet to be thrown into everlasting fire. 9 And if your eye offends you, pluck it out, and throw it from you, it is better for you to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be thrown into hell's fire. 10 Be careful that you don't offend one of these little ones, for I say to you, that in heaven, their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. 11 For the Son of man has come to save those who were lost. 12 What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, doesn't he leave the ninety nine, and go into the mountains, and seek the one that went astray? 13 And if he finds it, truly I say to you, he rejoices more about that sheep, than about the ninety nine that didn't go astray. 14 Even so, it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven for one of these little ones to be destroyed. 15 Also if your brother wrongs you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone, if he agrees, you've gained your brother. 16 But if he doesn't agree, then take with you one or two more, so that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word will be established. 17 And if he won't hear them, tell it to the church, but if he won't hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen man and a tax collector. 18 Truly I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19 Again I say to you that if two of you shall agree on earth concerning anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them." 21 Then Peter came to him, and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Until seven times?" 22 Jesus said to him, "I don't say to you, until seven times, but until seventy times seven. 23 Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king, who would take account of his servants. 24 And when he had begun to reckon, someone was brought to him, who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But since he had nothing to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you all that I owe. 27 Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and set him free, and forgave him the debt. 28 But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, who owed him a hundred pence, and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me what you owe. 29 And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and begged him, Have patience with me, and I will pay you all. 30 And he wouldn't, but went and threw him into prison, until he paid the debt. 31 So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told their lord all that had happened. 32 Then his lord, after he had called him, said to him, O you wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt, because you desired me to. 33 Shouldn't you also have had compassion on your fellow servant, like I had pity on you? 34 And his lord was angry, and delivered him to the tormentors, until he paid all that was due. 35 So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also to you, if you don't from your hearts forgive everyone his brother's trespasses against them." ___Matthew chapter 19 1 And when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and went into the coasts of Judea beyond Jordan, 2 And great multitudes followed him, and he healed them there. 3 The Pharisees also came to him, tempting him, and saying to him, "Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every reason?" 4 And he answered them, "Haven't you read that he who made them at the beginning made them male and female, 5 And said, For this reason shall a man leave father and mother, and shall stick with his wife, and the two of them shall be one flesh? 6 So, they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let man not separate." 7 They said to him, "Why then did Moses command to give divorce papers, and to put her away?" 8 He said to them, "Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, allowed you to put away your wives, but from the beginning it was not so. 9 And I say to you, whoever shall put away his wife, except if there was fornication, and marries someone else, commits adultery, and whoever marries her that was put away commits adultery." 10 His disciples said to him, "If the case of the man is so with his wife, it is not good to marry." 11 But he said to them, "Not everyone can receive this saying, except those to whom it has been given. 12 For there are some eunuchs, who were born that way from their mother's womb, and there are some eunuchs, who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who've made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it." 13 Then little children were brought to him, so that he would put his hands on them and pray, and his disciples scolded them. 14 But Jesus said, "Allow little children to come to me, and don't forbid them, for of such is the kingdom of heaven." 15 And he laid his hands on them, and departed from there. 16 And someone came and said to him, "Good Master, what good thing shall I do, so that I can have eternal life?" 17 And he said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except one, that is, God, but if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments." 18 He said to him, "Which?" Jesus said, "You shall not commit murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not tell lies, 19 Honor your father and your mother, and you shall love your neighbor like yourself." 20 The young man said to him, "I have kept all these things from my youth up, what do I yet lack?" 21 Jesus said to him, "If you want to be perfect, go and sell what you have, and give to the poor, and you'll have treasure in heaven, and come and follow me." 22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. 23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Truly I say to you, that a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. 24 And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God." 25 When his disciples heard it, they were quite amazed, and said, "Who then can be saved?" 26 But Jesus looked at them, and said to them, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." 27 Then Peter answered him, "See, we've forsaken all, and followed you, what shall we have therefore?" 28 And Jesus said to them, "Truly I say to you, That you who have followed me, in the new creation, when the Son of man shall sit on the throne of his glory, you shall also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone that has forsaken houses, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. 30 But many that are first shall be last, and the last shall be first." ___Matthew chapter 20 1 "For the kingdom of heaven is like a man that is a house holder, who went out early in the morning to hire laborers into his vineyard. 2 And when he had agreed with the laborers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 And said to them, You go also into the vineyard, and whatever is right I will give you. And they went their way. 5 Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. 6 And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and said to them, Why do you stand here all the day idle? 7 They said to him, Because no man has hired us. He said to them, You go also into the vineyard, and whatever is right, you'll receive. 8 So when evening had come, the lord of the vineyard said to his steward, Call the laborers, and give them their wages, beginning from the last to the first. 9 And when those who had been hired about the eleventh hour came, they each received a penny. 10 But when the first came, they supposed that they would have received more, and they likewise each received a penny. 11 And when they had received it, they murmured against the house holder, 12 Saying, These last have worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who have endured the burden and heat of the day. 13 But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I've done you no wrong, didn't you agree with me for a penny? 14 Take what is yours, and be on your way, I will give to this last the same as to you. 15 Isn't it legal for me to do what I choose with my own money? Is your eye evil, because I am good? 16 So the last shall be first, and the first last, for many are called, but few chosen." 17 And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples apart on the way, and said to them, 18 "See, we're going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of man shall be betrayed to the chief priests and to the scribes, and they'll sentence him to death, 19 And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him, and the third day he'll rise back up." 20 Then the mother of Zebedee's children came to him with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing from him. 21 And he said to her, "What do you want?" She said to him, "Grant that these two sons of mine will sit, one on your right hand, and the other on the left, in your kingdom." 22 But Jesus answered, "You don't know what you're asking. Are you able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" They said to him, "We are able." 23 And he said to them, "You shall indeed drink of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with, but to sit at my right hand, and at my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to those for whom it has been prepared by my Father." 24 And when the ten heard it, they were angry with the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them to himself, and said, "You know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise authority over them, and those who are great exercise authority on them. 26 But it shall not be so among you, but whoever will be great among you, let him be your minister. 27 And whoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant, 28 Just like the Son of man didn't come to be ministered to, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many." 29 And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him. 30 And two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, called out saying, "Have mercy on us, Oh Lord, you Son of David." 31 And the multitude scolded them, because they should be quiet, but they shouted the more, "Have mercy on us, Oh Lord, you Son of David." 32 And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, "What do you want me to do for you?" 33 They said to him, "Lord, for our eyes to be opened." 34 So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes, and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him. ___Matthew chapter 21 1 And when they came near Jerusalem, and had come to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 Saying to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you'll find an ass tied, and a colt with her, untie them, and bring them to me. 3 And if any man says anything to you, say the Lord needs them, and immediately he will send them." 4 All this was done, so that what was spoken by the prophet would be fulfilled, who said, 5 "Tell the daughter of Zion, see, your King comes to you meek, and sitting on an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass." 6 And the disciples went, and did what Jesus commanded them, 7 And brought the ass, and the colt, and put their clothes on them, and they placed him as the rider. 8 And a very great multitude spread their garments on the path, others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way. 9 And the multitudes that went before, and that followed called out, "Hosanna to the Son of David, blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord, Hosanna in the highest." 10 And when he had come to Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, "Who is this?" 11 And the multitude said, "This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee." 12 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and threw out all of those who sold and bought in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers, and the seats of those who sold doves, 13 And said to them, "It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer, but you've made it a den of thieves." 14 And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple, and he healed them. 15 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children calling out in the temple, and saying, "Hosanna to the Son of David," they were very displeased, 16 And said to him, "Do you hear what these are saying?" And Jesus said to them, "Yes, have you never read, Out of the mouth of babies and sucklings you've perfected praise?" 17 And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany, and he lodged there. 18 Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he was hungry. 19 And when he saw a fig tree on the way, he came to it, and found nothing on it except leaves, and said to it, "Let no fruit grow on you from now on, forever." And soon the fig tree withered away. 20 And when the disciples saw it, they were amazed and said, Look how soon the fig tree has withered away! 21 Jesus answered them, "Truly I say to you, If you have faith, and don't doubt, you'll not only do this that has been done to the fig tree, but also if you'll say to this mountain, Be removed, and be thrown into the sea, it shall be done. 22 And all things, whatever you shall ask in prayer, believing, you'll receive." 23 And when he had come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him as he was teaching, and said, "By what authority do you do these things? And who gave you this authority?" 24 And Jesus answered them, "I will also ask you one thing, which if you tell me, I likewise will tell you by what authority I do these things. 25 The baptism of John, where was it from? From heaven, or of men?" And they reasoned with themselves, "If we say, From heaven, he'll say to us, Then why didn't you believe him? 26 But if we say, from men, we fear the people, for all count John as a prophet." 27 And they answered Jesus, "We can't tell." And he said to them, "Nor do I tell you by what authority I do these things. 28 But what do you think? A certain man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, Son, go work today in my vineyard. 29 He answered, I won't, but afterward he changed his mind, and went. 30 And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered, I go, sir, and didn't go. 31 Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said to him, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly I say to you, that the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you. 32 For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you didn't believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him, and you, when you had seen it, didn't repent afterward, so that you would believe him. 33 Hear another parable, there was a certain house holder, who planted a vineyard, and put a hedge around it, and dug a winepress in it, and built a tower, and rented it to vineyard keepers, and went into a far country. 34 And when the time of fruit came near, he sent his servants to the vineyard keepers, to collect fruit from them. 35 And the vineyard keepers took his servants and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. 36 Again, he sent other servants more than the first, and they did to them likewise. 37 But last of all, he sent them his son, saying, They'll respect my son. 38 But when the vineyard keepers saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir. Come, let's kill him, and let's take his inheritance. 39 And they caught him, and threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. 40 Therefore, when the lord of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vineyard keepers?" 41 They said to him, "He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will rent his vineyard to other vineyard keepers, who'll pay him the fruits in their seasons." 42 Jesus said to them, "Didn't you ever read in the scriptures, The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes? 43 Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation producing the fruits of it. 44 And whoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken, but on whomever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder." 45 And when the chief priests and Pharisees had heard his parables, they perceived that he spoke about them. 46 But when they wanted to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude, because they took him to be a prophet. ___Matthew chapter 22 1 And Jesus spoke to them again by parables, and said, 2 "The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king, who made a wedding for his son, 3 And sent out his servants to call those who'd been invited to the wedding, and they wouldn't come. 4 Again, he sent out other servants, saying, Tell those who've been invited, See, I've prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fatlings have been killed, and all things are ready, come to the wedding. 5 But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise, 6 And the rest of them took his servants, and mistreated them, and killed them. 7 But when the king heard about it, he was angry, and he sent out his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. 8 Then he said to his servants, The wedding is ready, but those who were invited weren't worthy. 9 Go therefore into the highways, and as many as you find, invite to the wedding. 10 So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together as many as they found, both bad and good, and the wedding was furnished with guests. 11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who wasn't wearing a wedding garment, 12 And he said to him, Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment? And he couldn't answer. 13 Then the king said to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and throw him into outer darkness. There shall be crying and gnashing of teeth. 14 For many are called, but few are chosen." 15 Then the Pharisees went and plotted how they could entangle him in his talk. 16 And they sent out to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, "Master, we know that you are true, and teach the way of God in truth, nor do you care for any man, for you don't regard the person of men. 17 Tell us therefore, what do you think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?" 18 But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, "Why do you tempt me, you hypocrites? 19 Show me the tax money." And they brought him a penny. 20 And he said to them, "Whose is this image and writing?" 21 They said to him, "Caesar's." Then he said to them, "Give therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." 22 When they had heard these words, they were amazed, and left him, and went away. 23 The same day, the Sadducees came to him, who say there is no resurrection, and asked him, 24 "Master, Moses said if a man dies, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up children for his brother. 25 Now there were seven brothers with us, and the first, when he had married a wife, died, and having no children, left his wife to his brother. 26 Likewise the second also, and the third, all the way to the seventh. 27 And last of all the woman died also. 28 Therefore in the resurrection, whose wife shall she be of the seven? For they all had her." 29 Jesus answered them, "You err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. 30 For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are like the angels of God in heaven. 31 But concerning the resurrection of the dead, haven't you read what was spoken to you by God, 32 I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living." 33 And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at his doctrine. 34 But when the Pharisees had heard that he'd put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together. 35 Then one of them, who was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, 36 "Master, which is the great commandment in the law?" 37 Jesus said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it, you shall love your neighbor like yourself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." 41 While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, 42 "What do you think about Christ? Whose son is he?" They said to him, "The Son of David." 43 He said to them, "How then does David in spirit call him Lord, saying, 44 The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool? 45 If David then calls him Lord, how is he his son?" 46 And no man was able to answer him a word, nor dared any man from that day on ask him any more questions. ___Matthew chapter 23 1 Then Jesus spoke to the multitude, and to his disciples, 2 "The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' office, 3 Therefore, whatever they tell you to observe, observe and do it, but don't do like they do, for they say, but don't do. 4 For they tie heavy burdens and grievous to be carried, and lay them on men's shoulders, but they themselves won't move them with one of their fingers. 5 But they do all their works to be seen by men, they make their phylacteries broad, and enlarge the borders of their garments, 6 And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the main seats in the synagogues, 7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called by men, Rabbi, Rabbi. 8 But don't you be called Rabbi, because you have one master, Christ, and all of you are brothers. 9 And don't call any man your father on earth, for someone is your Father who is in heaven. 10 And don't be called masters, for someone is your master, who is Christ. 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whoever shall exalt himself shall be brought low, and he that shall humble himself shall be lifted up. 13 But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men, for you don't go in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in. 14 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you devour widows' houses, and for a pretense make long prayer, therefore you'll receive the greater damnation. 15 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you travel over sea and land to make one convert, and after he's converted, you make him twice as much the child of hell as yourselves. 16 Woe to you, you blind guides, who say, Whoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing, but whoever swears by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor! 17 You fools and blind, for which is greater, the gold, or the temple that makes the gold holy? 18 And, Whoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing, but whoever swears by the gift that is on it, he is guilty. 19 You fools and blind, for which is greater, the gift, or the altar that makes the gift holy? 20 Whoever therefore swears by the altar, swears by it, and by all things that are on it. 21 And whoever swears by the temple, swears by it, and by Him that lives in it. 22 And he that swears by heaven, swears by the throne of God, and by Him that sits on it. 23 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you pay tithe of mint and anise and cumin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith. You ought to have done these, and not to leave the other undone. 24 You blind guides, who choke on a flea, and swallow a camel. 25 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you clean the outside of the cup and platter, but inside they are full of extortion and excess. 26 You blind Pharisee, clean first that which is inside the cup and platter, so that the outside of them will be clean also. 27 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you are like whitened tombs, that indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. 28 Even so, you also appear to be righteous to men outwardly, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and sin. 29 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the tombs of the righteous, 30 And say, If we had been living in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. 31 So you are witnesses against yourselves, that you are the children of those who killed the prophets. 32 Fill up then the measure of your fathers. 33 You serpents, you generation of snakes, how can you escape the damnation of hell? 34 So see, I send you prophets, and wise men, and scribes, and some of them you'll kill and crucify, and some of them you'll scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city, 35 So that on you will come all the righteous blood shed on the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zachariah, son of Barachiah, whom you killed between the temple and the altar. 36 Truly I say to you, all these things shall come on this generation. 37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that kills the prophets, and stones those who are sent to you, how often would I have gathered your children together, like a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you weren't willing! 38 See, your house is left to you desolate. 39 For I say to you, you won't see me from now on until you say, blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord." ___Matthew chapter 24 1 And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple, and his disciples came to him to show him the buildings of the temple. 2 And Jesus said to them, "Don't you see all these things? Truly I say to you, there won't be left here one stone on another, that won't be thrown down." 3 And as he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, "Tell us, when shall these things be? And what shall be the sign of your coming, and of the end of the world?" 4 And Jesus answered them, "Make sure that no man deceives you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ, and shall deceive many. 6 And you'll hear of wars and rumors of wars. Make sure you're not troubled, for all these things must happen, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 Then they'll deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you, and you'll be hated by all nations for my name's sake. 10 And then many shall be offended, and shall betray each other, and shall hate each other. 11 And many false prophets shall arise, and deceive many. 12 And because sin shall be abundant, the love of many shall grow cold. 13 But he that endures to the end, shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness to all nations, and then the end shall come. 15 Therefore when you see the abomination of desolation, spoken about by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoever reads, let him understand,) 16 Then let those who are in Judea flee into the mountains, 17 Let him that is on the housetop not come down to take anything out of his house, 18 Nor let him that is in the field return back to take his clothes. 19 And woe to those who are with child, and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 20 But pray that your flight won't be in the winter, nor on the Sabbath day, 21 For then there shall be great tribulation, such as hasn't been since the beginning of the world until that time, no, nor ever shall be. 22 And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved, but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened. 23 Then if any man says to you, see, here is Christ, or there, don't believe it. 24 For false Christs shall arise, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders, so that, if it were possible, they'll deceive the very elect. 25 See, I have told you beforehand. 26 So if they say to you, See, he is in the desert, don't go out, See, he is in the secret rooms, don't believe it. 27 For like the lightning comes out of the east, and shines all the way to the west, so also shall the coming of the Son of man be. 28 For wherever the carcass is, that's where the eagles will be gathered together. 29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give its light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken. 30 And then the sign of the Son of man shall appear in heaven, and then all of the tribes of the earth shall mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. 32 Now learn a parable from the fig tree, when its branch is yet tender, and puts out leaves, you know that summer is near. 33 So likewise you, when you see all these things, know that it's near, even at the doors. 34 Truly I say to you, this generation shall not pass, until all these things have been fulfilled. 35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 36 But regarding that day and hour no man knows, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. 37 But as the days of Noah were, so also shall the coming of the Son of man be. 38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, 39 And didn't know until the flood came, and took them all away, so also shall the coming of the Son of man be. 40 Then two shall be in the field. One shall be taken, and the other left. 41 Two women shall be grinding at the mill. One shall be taken, and the other left. 42 Be ready therefore, because you don't know at what hour your Lord comes. 43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known what time the thief would come, he would have stayed awake, and would not have allowed his house to be broken up. 44 Therefore, you be ready also, for in such an hour as you think not, the Son of man will come. 45 Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord has made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season? 46 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he comes shall find doing so. 47 Truly I say to you that he shall make him ruler over all his goods. 48 But if that evil servant says in his heart, My lord delays his coming, 49 And begins to strike his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken, 50 The lord of that servant shall come on a day when he's not looking for him, and at an hour that he's not aware of, 51 And shall cut him in pieces, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites. There shall be crying and gnashing of teeth." ___Matthew chapter 25 1 "The kingdom of heaven is like ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 Those who were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them, 4 But the wise took oil in their containers with their lamps. 5 While the bridegroom delayed, they all napped and slept. 6 And at midnight there was a shout made, See, the bridegroom's coming, go out to meet him. 7 Then all those virgins got up, and trimmed their lamps. 8 And the foolish said to the wise, Give us some of your oil, because our lamps have gone out. 9 But the wise answered, Not so, or there may not be enough for us and you, but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves. 10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding, and the door was shut. 11 The other virgins also came afterward, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. 12 But he answered, Truly I say to you, I don't know you. 13 Be ready therefore, because you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of man will come. 14 For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered to them his goods. 15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each man according to his particular abilities, and immediately took his journey. 16 Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with them, and gained another five talents. 17 And likewise he that had received two, he also gained another two. 18 But he that had received one went and dug in the earth, and hid his lord's money. 19 After a long time the lord of those servants came, and reckoned with them. 20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought another five talents, saying, Lord, you delivered to me five talents, see, I have gained beside them five talents more. 21 His lord said to him, Well done, good and faithful servant, you've been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things, enter into the joy of your lord. 22 He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, you delivered to me two talents, see, I have gained two other talents beside them. 23 His lord said to him, Well done, good and faithful servant, you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things, enter into the joy of your lord. 24 Then he that had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew that you are a hard man, reaping where you haven't planted, and gathering where you haven't strawed, 25 And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the earth, see, there you have what is yours. 26 His lord answered him, You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I didn't plant, and gather where I haven't strawed. 27 You should therefore have put my money with the exchangers, and then when I returned, I would have received what was mine plus interest. 28 Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents. 29 For to everyone that has, shall be given, and he shall have abundance, but from him that doesn't have shall be taken away even what he has. 30 And throw the unprofitable servant into outer darkness, there shall be crying and gnashing of teeth. 31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then he shall sit on the throne of his glory, 32 And all nations shall be gathered before him, and he shall separate them from each other, like a shepherd separates his sheep from the goats. 33 And he shall set the sheep at his right hand, but the goats at the left. 34 Then the King shall say to those at his right hand, Come, you blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world, 35 For I was hungry, and you gave me food. I was thirsty, and you gave me drink, I was a stranger, and you took me in, 36 Naked, and you clothed me, I was sick, and you visited me, I was in prison, and you came to me. 37 Then the righteous shall answer him, Lord, when did we see we you hungry, and feed you? Or thirsty, and gave you drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger, and took you in? Or naked, and clothed you? 39 Or when did we see you sick, or in prison, and came to you? 40 And the King shall answer them, Truly I say to you, since you have done it to one of the least of these my brothers, you have done it to me. 41 Then he shall say also to those on the left hand, Depart from me, you cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels, 42 For I was hungry, and you gave me no food. I was thirsty, and you gave me no drink, 43 I was a stranger, and you didn't take me in, naked, and you didn't clothe me, sick and in prison, and you didn't visit me. 44 Then they shall also answer him, Lord, when did we see you hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and didn't minister to you? 45 Then he shall answer them, Truly I say to you, since you didn't do it to one of the least of these, you didn't do it to me. 46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous to life eternal." ___Matthew chapter 26 1 And when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said to his disciples, 2 "You know that the Feast of the Passover comes in two days, and the Son of man will be betrayed to be crucified." 3 Then the chief priests assembled together, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, to the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, 4 And consulted how they could arrest Jesus on some technicality, and kill him. 5 But they said, "Not on the feast day, or there might be a riot among the people." 6 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, 7 A woman came to him having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat to eat. 8 But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation and said, "For what purpose is this waste? 9 Because this ointment could have been sold for much, and given to the poor." 10 When Jesus understood it, he said to them, "Why do you trouble the woman? She has done a good work on me. 11 For you have the poor with you always, but me you don't have always. 12 For in that she has poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. 13 Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, what this woman has done shall also be told for a memorial of her." 14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests, 15 And said to them, "What will you give me, and I will deliver him to you?" And they agreed with him for thirty pieces of silver. 16 And from that time he looked for opportunity to betray him. 17 Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread, the disciples came to Jesus, saying to him, "Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?" 18 And he said, "Go into the city to such a man, and say to him, The Master says, my time is at hand, I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples." 19 And the disciples did what Jesus had told them, and they prepared the Passover. 20 Now when the evening had come, he sat down with the twelve. 21 And as they ate, he said, "Truly I say to you, that one of you shall betray me." 22 And they were very sorrowful, and all of them began to say to him, "Lord, is it I?" 23 And he answered, "He that dips his hand with me in the dish, shall betray me. 24 The Son of man goes as it is written about him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of man gets betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born." 25 Then Judas, who betrayed him, answered, "Master, is it I?" He said to him, "You are right." 26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and broke it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat. This is my body." 27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, "All of you drink it, 28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is spilled for many for the remission of sins. 29 But I tell you, from now on, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom." 30 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out into the Mount of Olives. 31 Then Jesus said to them, "All of you shall be offended because of me this night, because it is written, I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered. 32 But after I've risen again, I will go before you into Galilee." 33 Peter answered him, "Though all men shall be offended because of you, yet I will never be offended." 34 Jesus said to him, "Truly I say to you, this night, before the rooster crows, you'll deny me three times." 35 Peter said to him, "Even if I die with you, I won't deny you." Likewise also said all the disciples. 36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, "Sit here, while I go and pray over there." 37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. 38 Then he said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful, even to death, wait here, and stay awake with me." 39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, "O my Father, if possible, let this cup pass from me, however not as I will, but as you will." 40 And he came to the disciples, and found them asleep, and said to Peter, "What, couldn't you stay awake with me one hour? 41 Stay awake and pray, so that you don't enter into temptation, the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." 42 He went away again the second time and prayed, "O my Father, if this cup can't pass away from me unless I drink it, your will be done." 43 And he came and found them asleep again, because their eyes were heavy. 44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then he came to his disciples and said to them, "Sleep on now, and take your rest, see, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man has been betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Get up, let's be going, see, he is at hand that betrays me." 47 And while he yet spoke, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and elders of the people. 48 Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, "Whomever I kiss, that's the one, hold him tightly." 49 And immediately he came to Jesus, and said, "Hail, master," and kissed him. 50 And Jesus said to him, "Friend, why have you come?" Then they came, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him. 51 And one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest's, and cut off his ear. 52 Then Jesus said to him, "Put up your sword into its place, for all of those who take the sword shall die by the sword. 53 Do you think that I can't now pray to my Father, and he shall soon give me more than twelve legions of angels? 54 But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled that it must be like this?" 55 In that same hour Jesus said to the multitudes, "Have you come out like against a thief with swords and clubs to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and you didn't arrest me. 56 But all this was done so that the scriptures of the prophets would be fulfilled." Then all the disciples left him, and fled. 57 And those who had taken hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. 58 But Peter followed him at a distance to the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants to see the end. 59 Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, looked for false witnesses against Jesus, to put him to death, 60 But found none, yes, though many false witnesses came, yet they found none. At last, two false witnesses came, 61 And said, "This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days." 62 And the high priest got up, and said to him, "Do you answer nothing? What is it that these witness against you?" 63 But Jesus said nothing. And the high priest said to him, "I adjure you by the living God, to tell us whether you are the Christ, the Son of God." 64 Jesus said to him, "You are right, anyway I say to you, hereafter you'll see the Son of man sitting at the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven." 65 Then the high priest tore his clothes, saying, "He has spoken blasphemy. Why would we need any more witnesses? See, now you've heard his blasphemy. 66 What do you think?" They answered, "He deserves to die." 67 Then they spat in his face, and punched him, and others struck him with the palms of their hands, 68 Saying, "Prophesy to us, you Christ, which one of us struck you?" 69 Now Peter sat outside in the palace, and a young woman came to him, and said, "You were also with Jesus of Galilee." 70 But he denied before them all, saying, "I don't know what you're talking about." 71 And when he had gone out into the porch, another young woman saw him, and said to those who were there, "This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth." 72 And again he denied with an oath, "I don't know the man." 73 And after a while those who stood by came to him and said to Peter, "Surely you're also one of them, because the way you talk betrays you." 74 Then he began to curse and to swear, saying, "I don't know the man." And immediately the rooster crowed. 75 And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, who said to him, "Before the rooster crows, you'll deny me three times." And he went out, and cried bitterly. ___Matthew chapter 27 1 When the morning had come, all the chief priests and elders of the people consulted together against Jesus to put him to death. 2 And when they had tied him, they led him away, and brought him to Pontius Pilate, the governor. 3 Then Judas, who had betrayed him, when he saw that he had been condemned, regretted what he'd done, and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, 4 Saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." And they said, "What is that to us? You take care of that." 5 And he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hung himself. 6 And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, "It's not lawful to put them into the treasury, because it's the price of blood." 7 And they took advice, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in. 8 So that field was called, "The Field of Blood," until this day. 9 And that fulfilled what had been spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, "And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom those of the children of Israel set a price on, 10 And gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me." 11 And Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" And Jesus said to him, "You're right." 12 And when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. 13 Then Pilate said to him, "Don't you hear how many things they testify against you?" 14 And he answered not a word, so that the governor was very much amazed. 15 Now at that feast the governor usually released to the people a prisoner of their choice. 16 And at that time they had a notable prisoner called Barabbas. 17 Therefore when they had gathered together, Pilate said to them, "Whom do you want me to release to you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?" 18 Because he knew that for envy they had brought him. 19 When he sat down on the judgment seat, his wife sent a message to him, "Have nothing to do with that honest man, because I've suffered many things today in a dream because of him." 20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude to ask for Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. 21 The governor answered them, "Which of the two do you want me to release to you?" They said, "Barabbas." 22 Pilate said, "What shall I do then with Jesus who is called Christ?" They all said to him, "Let him be crucified." 23 And the governor said, "Why, what wrong has he done?" But they shouted the more, "Let him be crucified." 24 When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a riot was starting, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, "I am innocent of the blood of this honest person, you take care of it." 25 Then all the people answered, "His blood be on us, and on our children." 26 Then he released Barabbas to them, and after he had scourged Jesus, he gave the order for him to be crucified. 27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered the whole band of soldiers. 28 And they stripped him, and put a red robe on him. 29 And when they had woven a crown of thorns, they put it on his head, and a pole in his right hand, and they bowed the knee before him, and made fun of him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!" 30 And they spat on him, and took the pole, and struck him on the head. 31 And after they had mocked him, they took the robe off of him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him away to crucify him. 32 And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene named Simon. They made him carry the cross. 33 And when they had come to a place called Golgotha, that is to say, "a place of a skull," 34 They gave him vinegar to drink mixed with gall, and when he had tasted it, he wouldn't drink. 35 And they crucified him, and divided his garments, drawing straws, so that what was spoken by the prophet would be fulfilled, "They divided my garments among them, and for my clothing they drew straws." 36 And sitting down, they watched him there, 37 And set up over his head his written accusation, "This Is Jesus, The King of the Jews." 38 Then there were two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. 39 And those who passed by made fun of him, shaking their heads, 40 And saying, "You who destroys the temple, and builds it in three days, save yourself. If you're the Son of God, come down from the cross." 41 Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders said, 42 "He saved others, he can't save himself. If he's the King of Israel, let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe him. 43 He trusted in God. Let him deliver him now, if he will have him, because he said, I am the Son of God." 44 The thieves also, who were crucified with him, threw the same in his teeth. 45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus shouted with a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?" That is to say, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" 47 Some of those who stood there, when they heard that said, "This man is calling for Elijah." 48 And immediately one of them ran, and took a sponge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a pole, and offered it to him to drink. 49 The rest said, "Leave it be, let's see whether Elijah will come to save him." 50 Jesus, when he had shouted again with a loud voice, yielded up the spirit. 51 And the veil of the temple was torn in two from the top to the bottom, and there was an earthquake, and the rocks split, 52 And the graves were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had been dead got up, 53 And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared to many. 54 Now when the centurion and those who were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and the things that happened, they were very afraid, saying, "Truly this was the Son of God." 55 And many women were there watching from a distance, who followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him, 56 Among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children. 57 When the evening had come, a rich man of Arimathaea came, named Joseph, who was also was Jesus' disciple, 58 He went to Pilate, and begged for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be given to him. 59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 And laid it in his own new tomb that he had cut out in the rock, and he rolled a huge stone to the door of the tomb, and went away. 61 And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting opposite the tomb. 62 Now the next day that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together to Pilate, 63 And said, "Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was still alive, After three days I will rise again. 64 Command therefore that the tomb be secured until the third day, or his disciples might come at night, and steal him away, and say to the people, He has risen from the dead, so the last error shall be worse than the first." 65 Pilate said to them, "You have a watch, go your way, make it as secure as you can." 66 So they went, and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch. ___Matthew chapter 28 1 At the end of the Sabbath day, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene came, and the other Mary, to see the tomb. 2 And there was a great earthquake, for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it. 3 His facial appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow, 4 And for fear of him the keepers shook, and became like dead men. 5 And the angel said to the women, "Don't be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He's not here, for he has risen like he said. Come, see the place where the Lord was laying. 7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and see, he goes before you into Galilee, you'll see him there, see, I've told you." 8 And they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to bring his disciples word. 9 And as they went to tell his disciples, Jesus met them, saying, "All hail." And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, "Don't be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go into Galilee, and they'll see me there." 11 Now when they were going, some of the watch came into the city, and told the chief priests all the things that had happened. 12 And when they were assembled with the elders and had taken advice, they gave a lot of money to the soldiers, 13 Saying, "Say that his disciples came at night, and stole him away while we slept. 14 And if this comes to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you." 15 So they took the money, and did like they were taught. And this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day. 16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, "All power has been given to me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, 20 Teaching them to observe all things that I've commanded you, and see, I am with you always, even to the end of the world. Amen." ___Mark chapter 1 1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, 2 As it is written in the prophets, "See, I send my messenger before your face, who shall prepare your way before you. 3 The voice of someone crying in the wilderness, prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." 4 John baptized in the wilderness, and preached the baptism of repentance for the getting rid of sins. 5 And all the land of Judea went out to him, and those of Jerusalem, and were all baptized by him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins. 6 And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of leather around his middle, and he ate locusts and wild honey, 7 And preached, "Someone mightier than I is coming after me, whose shoelaces I'm not worthy to stoop down and untie. 8 I indeed have baptized you with water, but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost." 9 And in those days, Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan River. 10 And immediately, coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending on him, 11 And a voice came from heaven, "You are my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." 12 And immediately the Spirit drove him into the wilderness. 13 And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild animals, and the angels ministered to him. 14 Now after John had been put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, 15 And saying, "The time has been fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe the gospel." 16 Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother throwing a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 17 And Jesus said to them, "Follow me, and I will teach you to fish for men." 18 And immediately they left their nets, and followed him. 19 And when he had gone a little further there, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who were also in the ship mending their nets. 20 And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired hands, and followed him. 21 And they went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught. 22 And they were astonished at his doctrine, because he taught them like someone with authority, and not like the scribes. 23 And there was a man with an unclean spirit in their synagogue, and he shouted, 24 "Let us alone. What have we to do with you, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God." 25 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Don't speak, and come out of him." 26 And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and shouted with a loud voice, he came out of him. 27 And they were all amazed, so much that they questioned among themselves, "What thing is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority he commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him." 28 And immediately his fame spread around throughout all the region around Galilee. 29 And immediately, when they had come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30 But Simon's wife's mother was lying sick with a fever, and so they told him about her. 31 And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up, and immediately the fever left her, and she waited on them. 32 And in the evening, they brought to him all that were diseased, and those who were possessed by devils. 33 And all the people of the city were gathered together at the door. 34 And he healed many that were sick of various diseases, and cast out many devils, and didn't allow the devils to speak, because they knew him. 35 And in the morning, rising up a long time before daybreak, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and prayed there. 36 And Simon and those who were with him followed him. 37 And when they had found him, they said to him, "All men are looking for you." 38 And he said to them, "Let's go into the next towns, so I can preach there also, because that's why I came out." 39 And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils. 40 And a leper came to him, begging him, and kneeling down to him, and saying to him, "If you would, you can make me clean." 41 And Jesus, moved by compassion, put out his hand, and touched him, and said to him, "I will, be clean." 42 And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was healed. 43 And he strictly commanded him, and immediately sent him away, 44 Saying to him, "Make sure that you say nothing to any man, but be on your way, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing the things that Moses commanded, for a testimony to them." 45 But he went out, and began to tell everyone, and to blaze around the matter, so much that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was outside in desert places, and they came to him from every quarter. ___Mark chapter 2 1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days, and people heard that he was in the house. 2 And immediately many were gathered together, so much that there was no room to receive them, no, not even around the door, and he preached the word to them. 3 And they came to him bringing someone sick of the palsy, who was carried by four people. 4 And when they could not come near him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where he was, and after they had broken it up, they let down the bed on which the man sick of the palsy was lying. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man with palsy, "Son, your sins are forgiven." 6 But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, 7 "Why does this man thus speak blasphemies? Who can forgive sins except God?" 8 And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they reasoned like that inside themselves, he said to them, "Why do you reason these things in your hearts? 9 Which is easier, to say to the sick of the palsy, Your sins are forgiven, or to say, Get up, and take up your bed, and walk? 10 But so that you'll know that the Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins, (he said to the man sick of palsy,) 11 I say to you, get up, and pick up your bed, and go to your house." 12 And immediately he got up, picked up the bed, and went out before them all, so that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, “We never saw it like this.” 13 And he went out again by the sea side, and all the multitude resorted to him, and he taught them. 14 And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting and collecting taxes, and said to him, "Follow me." And he got up and followed him. 15 And as Jesus sat to eat in his house, many tax collectors and sinners also sat together with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many, and they followed him. 16 And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with tax collectors and sinners, they said to his disciples, "Why does he eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" 17 When Jesus heard it, he said to them, "Those who are well don't need a doctor, but those who are sick. I didn't come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." 18 And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to fast, and they came and said to him, "Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples don't fast?" 19 And Jesus said to them, "Can the wedding guests fast, while the bridegroom is with them? While they have the bridegroom with them, they can't fast. 20 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then they'll fast in those days. 21 Also, no man sews a piece of new cloth on an old garment, otherwise the new piece that filled it up takes away from the old, and the tear gets worse. 22 And no man puts new wine into old wineskins, otherwise the new wine bursts the wineskins, and the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined, but new wine must be put into new wineskins." 23 And when he went through the corn fields on the Sabbath day, and his disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn. 24 And the Pharisees said to him, "See, why are they doing on the Sabbath day what is not lawful?" 25 And he said to them, "Haven't you ever read what David did, when he had need, and was hungry, he, and those who were with him? 26 How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and ate the showbread, which it's not lawful to eat except for the priests, and gave also to those who were with him?" 27 And he said to them, "The Sabbath day was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath day, 28 Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the Sabbath day." ___Mark chapter 3 1 And he entered again into the synagogue, and there was a man there who had a withered hand. 2 And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the Sabbath day, so that they could accuse him. 3 And he said to the man who had the withered hand, "Step forward." 4 And he said to them, "Is it lawful to do good on the Sabbath days, or to do evil? To save life, or to kill?" But they said nothing. 5 And when he had looked around at them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored normal like the other one. 6 And the Pharisees went out, and immediately consulted with the Herodians against him, how they could destroy him. 7 But Jesus withdrew himself with his disciples to the sea, and a great multitude from Galilee followed him, and from Judea, 8 And from Jerusalem, and from Idumaea, and from beyond Jordan, and those around Tyre and Zidon, a great multitude, when they had heard what great things he did, came to him. 9 And he spoke to his disciples that a small ship should wait on him because of the multitude, so that they wouldn't mob him. 10 For he had healed many, so that they pressed on him to touch him, as many as had diseases. 11 And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and called out, "You are the Son of God." 12 And he strictly charged them to not make him known. 13 And he went up into a mountain, and called to him the ones he chose, and they came to him. 14 And he ordained twelve, to be with him, and so he could send them out to preach, 15 And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils. 16 And Simon he surnamed Peter, 17 And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James, and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, the sons of thunder, 18 And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite, 19 And Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him, and they went into a house. 20 And the multitude came together again, so that they couldn't even eat bread. 21 And when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on him, for they said, "He is beside himself." 22 And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, "He has Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils he casts out devils." 23 And he called them to him, and said to them in parables, "How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 And if a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom can't stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house can't stand. 26 And if Satan rises up against himself, and is divided, he can't stand, but has an end. 27 No man can enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, unless he first ties up the strong man, and then he will spoil his house. 28 Truly I say to you, all sins shall be forgiven to the sons of men, and blasphemies with which they blaspheme, 29 But he that blasphemes against the Holy Ghost won't be forgiven, but is in danger of eternal damnation," 30 Because they said, "He has an unclean spirit." 31 Then his brothers and his mother came, and standing outside, sent to him, calling him. 32 And the multitude sat around him, and they said to him, "See, your mother and your brothers outside are looking for you." 33 And he answered them, "Who is my mother, or my brothers?" 34 And he looked around at those sitting around him, and said, "Look at my mother and my brothers! 35 For whoever shall do the will of God is my brother, and my sister, and mother." ___Mark chapter 4 1 And he began again to teach by the sea side, and a great multitude gathered to him, so that he entered into a ship, and sat on the sea, and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land. 2 And he taught them many things by parables, and said to them in his doctrine, 3 "Listen, a planter went out to plant. 4 And as he planted, some fell by the way side, and the birds of the air came and devoured it. 5 And some fell on stony ground, where it didn't have much earth, and immediately it sprang up, because it was in shallow earth. 6 But when the sun was up, it was scorched, and because it had no root, it withered away. 7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. 8 And other fell on good ground, and yielded fruit that sprang up and increased, and produced, some thirtyfold, and some sixtyfold, and some a hundredfold. 9 And he said to them, he that has ears to hear, let him hear." 10 And when he was alone, those who were around him with the twelve asked him about the parable. 11 And he said to them, "To you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God, but to those who are outside, all these things are done in parables, 12 So that seeing they will see, but not perceive, and hearing they will hear, and not understand, so they won't be converted, and have their sins forgiven." 13 And he said to them, "Don't you know this parable? And how then will you know all parables? 14 The planter plants the word. 15 And these are the ones by the way side, where the word is planted, but when they've heard, Satan comes immediately, and takes away the word that was planted in their hearts. 16 And these are the ones also who are planted on stony ground, who, when they've heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness, 17 But have no root in themselves, and so endure briefly. Afterward, when affliction or persecution arises for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. 18 And these are the ones that are planted among thorns, such as hear the word, 19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 And these are the ones who are planted on good ground, such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixtyfold, and some a hundredfold." 21 And he said to them, "Is a candle brought to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not to be set on a candlestick? 22 For nothing is hidden, that won't be revealed, nor was anything kept secret, that won't come out. 23 If any man has ears to hear, let him hear." 24 And he said to them, "Be careful what you hear, with what measure you measure out, it shall be measured back to you, and to you that hear more shall be given. 25 For he that has, to him it shall be given, and he that doesn't have, from him shall be taken even what he has." 26 And he said, "So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should throw seed into the ground, 27 And sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he doesn't know how. 28 For the earth produces fruit by itself, first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. 29 But when the fruit has been produced, immediately he uses the cutting tool, because the harvest has come." 30 And he said, "To what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what comparison shall we compare it? 31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it has been planted in the earth, is less than all the seeds that are in the earth, 32 But after it's been planted, it grows up, and becomes greater than all plants, and shoots out large branches, so that the fowls of the air can lodge under the shadow of it." 33 And with many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it. 34 But without a parable he didn't speak to them, and when they were alone, he explained all things to his disciples. 35 And the same day, when evening had come, he said to them, "Let's go over to the other side." 36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. 37 And a great storm of wind arose, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the rear of the ship, asleep on a pillow, and they awoke him, and said to him, "Master, don't you care that we're going to die?" 39 And he got up, and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Peace, be still." And the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. 40 And he said to them, "Why are you so afraid? How is it that you have no faith?" 41 And they were quite afraid, and said to each other, "What kind of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" ___Mark chapter 5 1 And they went over to the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. 2 And when he had come out of the ship, immediately a man with an unclean spirit came out of the tombs and met him, 3 Who lived among the tombs. And no man could tie him, no, not with chains, 4 Because he had often been bound with fetters and chains, and he had pulled the chains and fetters in pieces, nor could any man tame him. 5 And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. 6 But when he saw Jesus far off, he ran and worshipped him, 7 And shouted with a loud voice, "What do I have to do with you, Jesus, you Son of the most high God? I ask you in the name of God not to torment me." 8 For he said to him, "Come out of the man, you unclean spirit." 9 And he asked him, "What is your name?" And he answered, "My name is Legion, for we are many." 10 And he begged him much not to send them away out of the country. 11 Now a large herd of pigs was feeding there near the mountains. 12 And all the devils asked him, "Send us to enter into the pigs." 13 And immediately Jesus gave them permission. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the pigs, and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (there were about two thousand,) and were drowned in the sea. 14 And those who fed the pigs fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what had happened. 15 And they came to Jesus, and saw him that had been possessed by the devil, and had had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind, and they were afraid. 16 And those who saw it told them what happened to the man that had been possessed by the devil, and also about the pigs. 17 And they began to ask him to depart out of their borders. 18 And when he had come into the ship, he that had been possessed by the devil asked him if he could be with him. 19 But Jesus wouldn't allow it, but said to him, "Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and has had compassion on you." 20 And he departed, and began to proclaim in Decapolis what great things Jesus had done for him, and all men were amazed. 21 And when Jesus had passed over again by ship to the other side, many people gathered to him, and he was near the sea. 22 And Jairus, one of the rulers of the synagogue came, and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, 23 And begged him greatly, "My little daughter lies at the point of death, please, come and lay your hands on her so that she'll be healed, and she'll live." 24 And Jesus went with him, and many people followed him, and crowded around him. 25 And a certain woman, who had been bleeding for twelve years, 26 And had endured many things from many doctors, and had spent all that she had, and didn't get any better, but rather grew worse, 27 When she had heard about Jesus, came in the crowd behind, and touched his garment. 28 For she said, "If I can just touch his clothes, I'll be healed." 29 And immediately she stopped bleeding, and she felt in her body that she was healed from that disease. 30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that power had gone out of him, turned around in the crowd, and said, "Who touched my clothes?" 31 And his disciples said to him, "You see the multitude crowding you, and you say, Who touched me?" 32 And he looked around to see the woman that had touched him. 33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what had been done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him the whole truth. 34 And he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well, go in peace, and be well from your disease." 35 While he yet spoke, some came from the ruler of the synagogue's house who said, "Your daughter is dead, why trouble the Master any further?" 36 As soon as Jesus heard the word that had been spoken, he said to the ruler of the synagogue, "Don't be afraid, only believe." 37 And he allowed no man to follow him, except Peter, and James, and John the brother of James. 38 And he came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and saw the commotion, and those who cried and wailed a lot. 39 And when he had come in, he said to them, "Why do you make this fuss, and cry? The girl isn't dead, but sleeping." 40 And they laughed at him scornfully. But when he had put them all out, he took the father and the mother of the girl, and those who were with him, and entered in where the girl was lying. 41 And he took the girl by the hand, and said to her, "Talitha cumi," which is, by interpretation, "Girl, I say to you, get up." 42 And immediately the girl got up, and walked, for she was twelve years old. And they were astonished with a great astonishment. 43 And he strictly ordered them that no man should know it, and commanded to give her some food. ___Mark chapter 6 1 And he went out from there, and went into his own country, and his disciples followed him. 2 And when the Sabbath day had come, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many hearing him were astonished, saying, "From where does this man get these things? And what wisdom is this that has been given him, that such mighty works are done by his hands? 3 Isn't this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? And aren't his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him." 4 But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house." 5 And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick folk, and healed them. 6 And he was amazed at their unbelief. And he went around the villages, teaching. 7 And he called to himself the twelve, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over unclean spirits, 8 And commanded them to take nothing for their journey except only a staff, no paper money, no bread, no money in their wallet, 9 But have sandals on their feet, and not put on two coats. 10 And he said to them, "In whatever place you enter into a house, stay at the same house until you depart from that place." 11 And whoever won't receive you, nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Truly I say to you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the Day of Judgment than for that city." 12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent. 13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them. 14 And King Herod heard about him, (for his name was spread around,) and he said that John the Baptist had risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works are being done by him. 15 Others said that it's Elijah. And others said that it's a prophet, or like one of the prophets. 16 But when Herod heard about him, he said, "It's John, whom I beheaded, he has risen from the dead." 17 For Herod himself had sent out and taken hold on John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife, for he had married her. 18 For John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." 19 Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him, but she couldn't, 20 For Herod was afraid of John, knowing that he was a just man and holy, and observed him, and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly. 21 And when a convenient day had come, that Herod on his birthday made a supper for his lords, high captains, and main men of Galilee, 22 And when the daughter of the same Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and those who sat with him, the king said to the girl, "Ask me for whatever you want, and I will give it to you." 23 And he promised her, "Whatever you ask me for, I will give it to you, up to half of my kingdom." 24 And she went out, and said to her mother, "What shall I ask?" And she said, "The head of John the Baptist." 25 And she came in immediately with haste to the king and said, "I want you to give me soon in a container, the head of John the Baptist." 26 And the king was very sorry, yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes who sat with him, he would not reject her. 27 And immediately the king sent an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought, and he went and beheaded him in the prison, 28 And brought his head in a container, and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. 29 And when his disciples heard about it, they came and took up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb. 30 And the apostles gathered themselves together to Jesus, and told him everything they had done and taught. 31 And he said to them, "Come apart into a desert place, and rest a while," for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they departed into a desert place by ship privately. 33 And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran on foot there out of all cities, and outwent them, and came together to him. 34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw many people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd, and he began to teach them many things. 35 And when the day was far spent, his disciples came to him and said, "This is a desert place, and now it's getting late, 36 Send them away, so they can go into the country around here, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread, for they have nothing to eat." 37 He answered them, "You give them food." And they said to him, "Shall we go and buy two hundred penny's worth of bread, and give it to them?" 38 He said to them, "How many loaves do you have? Go and see." And when they knew, they said, "Five, and two fish." 39 And he commanded them to make all sit down by groups on the green grass. 40 And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. 41 And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and broke the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them, and the two fish he divided among them all. 42 And they all ate, and were full. 43 And they took up twelve baskets full of the pieces, and of the fish. 44 And those who ate of the loaves were about five thousand men. 45 And immediately he sent his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before to Bethsaida, while he sent the people away. 46 And when he had sent them away, he went into a mountain to pray. 47 And when evening had come, the ship was in the middle of the sea, and he alone on the land. 48 And he saw them working hard at rowing, for the wind was contrary to them, and about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed by them. 49 But when they saw him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a spirit, and shouted out, 50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and said to them, "Be of good cheer, it is I, don't be afraid." 51 And he went up to them into the ship, and the wind stopped, and they were extremely amazed in themselves, and wondered. 52 For they didn't consider the miracle of the loaves, for their heart was hardened. 53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and came near the shore. 54 And when they had come out of the ship, immediately they knew him, 55 And ran through that whole region around there, and began to carry around in beds those who were sick, where they heard he was. 56 And wherever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and asked him if they could touch even the border of his garment, and as many as touched him were healed. ___Mark chapter 7 1 Then the Pharisees came together to him, and some of the scribes, who came from Jerusalem. 2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashed, hands, they found fault. 3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, don't eat unless they wash their hands often, holding the tradition of the elders. 4 And when they come from the market, unless they wash, they don't eat. And many other things there are that they have received to keep, like the washing of cups, and pots, brass pots, and of tables. 5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, "Why don't your disciples walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashed hands?" 6 He answered them, "Well has Isaiah prophesied about you hypocrites, as it is written, These people honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. 7 But they worship me without benefit, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. 8 For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men, like the washing of pots and cups, and you do many other such similar things." 9 And he said to them, "Full well you reject the commandment of God, so you can keep your own tradition. 10 For Moses said, Honor your father and mother, and whoever curses father or mother, let him die the death, 11 But you say, If a man says to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, What I would have given to you, I’ve given to God, he shall be free. 12 And you allow him to do nothing more for his father or his mother, 13 Making the word of God of no effect through your tradition that you've delivered, and you do many other things like that." 14 And when he had called all the people to him, he said to them, "Listen to me every one of you, and understand, 15 There is nothing from outside a man, that entering into him can defile him, but the things that come out of him are what defiles the man. 16 If any man has ears to hear, let him hear." 17 And when he had entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18 And he said to them, "Are you so much lacking understanding also? Don't you see that whatever thing from outside enters into the man, it can't defile him, 19 Because it doesn't enter into his heart, but into the belly, and goes out into the toilet, purging all foods?" 20 And he said, "That which comes out of the man is what defiles the man. 21 For from inside, out of the hearts of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lust, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness, 23 All these evil things come from inside, and defile the man." 24 And from there he got up, and went into the borders of Tyre and Zidon, and entered into a house, and didn't want people to know it, but he couldn't be hidden. 25 For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard about him, and came and fell at his feet. 26 The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation, and she asked him to cast the devil out of her daughter. 27 But Jesus said to her, "Let the children be filled first, for it's not right to take the children's bread, and to throw it to the dogs." 28 And she answered him, "Yes Lord, yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs." 29 And he said to her, "For this saying go your way, the devil has gone out of your daughter." 30 And when she arrived at her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter lying on the bed. 31 And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Zidon, he came to the sea of Galilee, through the middle of the coasts of Decapolis. 32 And they brought to him a deaf person, who had an impediment in his speech, and they asked him to put his hand on him. 33 And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue, 34 And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and said to him, "Ephphatha," that is, "Be opened." 35 And immediately his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spoke plainly. 36 And he ordered them to tell no man, but the more he ordered them, so much the more, a great deal, they told it, 37 And were astonished beyond measure, saying, "He has done all things well, he makes the deaf to hear, and the speechless to speak." ___Mark chapter 8 1 In those days the multitude being very numerous, and having nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him, and said to them, 2 "I have compassion on the multitude, because they have been with me now for three days, and have nothing to eat. 3 And if I send them away fasting to their houses, they'll faint on the way, for some of them came from far." 4 And his disciples answered him, "How can we satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness?" 5 And he asked them, "How many loaves do you have?" And they said, "Seven." 6 And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground, and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and broke, and gave to his disciples to set before them, and they set them before the people. 7 And they had a few small fish, and he blessed, and commanded to set them also before them. 8 So they ate, and were filled, and they took up of the broken food that was left seven baskets. 9 And those who had eaten were about four thousand, and he sent them away. 10 And immediately he entered into a ship with his disciples, and came into the parts of Dalmanutha. 11 And the Pharisees came out, and began to question him, seeking from him a sign from heaven, tempting him. 12 And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and said, "Why does this generation seek for a sign? Truly I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation." 13 And he left them, and entering into the ship again departed to the other side. 14 Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, nor did they have in the ship with them more than one loaf. 15 And he commanded them, "Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod." 16 And they reasoned among themselves, "It is because we have no bread." 17 And when Jesus knew it, he said to them, "Why do you reason because you have no bread? Don't you yet perceive, nor understand? Do you still have your heart hardened? 18 Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And don't you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments did you take up?" They said, "Twelve." 20 "And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments did you take up?" And they said, "Seven." 21 And he said to them, "How is it that you don't understand?" 22 And he came to Bethsaida, and they brought a blind man to him, and asked him to touch him. 23 And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the town, and when he had spit on his eyes, and put his hands on him, he asked him if he saw anything. 24 And he looked up and said, "I see men like trees, walking." 25 After that he put his hands again on his eyes, and made him look up, and he was restored, and saw every man clearly. 26 And he sent him away to his house, saying, "Don't go into the town, nor tell it to anyone from the town." 27 And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi, and by the way he asked his disciples, "Whom do men say that I am?" 28 And they answered, "John the Baptist, but some say Elijah, and others, one of the prophets." 29 And he said to them, "But whom do you say that I am?" And Peter answered, "You are the Christ." 30 And he commanded them to tell no man about him. 31 And he began to teach them that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders, and by the chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 And he spoke that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to scold him. 33 But when he had turned around and looked at his disciples, he scolded Peter, saying, "Get behind me, Satan, for you don't prefer the things that are of God, but the things that are of men." 34 And when he had called the people to him with his disciples also, he said to them, "Whoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 35 For whoever will save his life shall lose it, but whoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's shall save it. 36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 38 Whoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels." ___Mark chapter 9 1 And he said to them, "Truly I say to you, that there are some of those who stand here, that won't taste of death, until they've seen the kingdom of God come with power." 2 And after six days Jesus took with him Peter, and James, and John, and led them up into a high mountain apart by themselves, and his appearance was changed before them. 3 And his clothes became shining, very white like snow, such as no bleach on earth could whiten them. 4 And Elijah and Moses appeared to them, and they were talking with Jesus. 5 And Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here, and let's make three tents, one for you, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah." 6 For he didn't know what to say, for they were very afraid. 7 And there was a cloud that overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son, listen to him." 8 And suddenly, when they had looked around, they saw no man anymore, except Jesus and themselves. 9 And as they came down from the mountain, he commanded them to tell no man the things they had seen, until the Son of man had risen from the dead. 10 And they kept that saying with themselves, questioning with each other what the rising from the dead meant. 11 And they asked him, "Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?" 12 And he answered, "Elijah truly does come first, and restores all things, and how it is written about the Son of man, that he must suffer many things, and be rejected. 13 But I say to you, that Elijah has indeed come, and they have done to him whatever they wanted, as it is written about him." 14 And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great multitude around them, and the scribes questioning with them. 15 And immediately all the people, when they saw him, were greatly amazed, and running to him, greeted him. 16 And he asked the scribes, "What are you asking them about?" 17 And one of the multitude answered, "Master, I have brought you my son, who has a spirit that prevents him from speaking, 18 And wherever he takes him, he tears him, and he foams at the mouth, and gnashes with his teeth, and pines away, and I spoke to your disciples to cast him out, and they couldn't." 19 He answered him, "O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I endure you? Bring him to me." 20 And they brought him to him, and when he saw him, immediately the spirit tore him, and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming. 21 And he asked his father, "How long ago did this come to him?" And he said, "Since he was a child. 22 And it has often thrown him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him, but if you can do anything, have compassion on us, and help us." 23 Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him that believes." 24 And immediately the father of the child shouted, and said with tears, "Lord, I believe, help my unbelief." 25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying to him, "You dumb and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and don't enter into him anymore." 26 And the spirit shouted, and tore him severely, and came out of him, and he was like a dead person, and many said, "He is dead." 27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up, and he got up. 28 And when he had come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we cast him out?" 29 And he said to them, "This kind comes out only by prayer and fasting." 30 And they departed from there, and passed through Galilee, and he didn't want anyone to know it. 31 For he taught his disciples, and said to them, "The Son of man will be delivered into the hands of men, and they'll kill him, and after he's been killed, he'll rise the third day." 32 But they didn't understand that saying, and were afraid to ask him. 33 And he came to Capernaum, and being in the house he asked them, "What was it that you disputed among yourselves on the way?" 34 But they didn't answer, for on the way they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest. 35 And he sat down, and called the twelve, and said to them, "If any man desires to be first, he shall be last of all, and servant of all." 36 And he took a child, and set him in the middle of them, and when he had taken him in his arms, he said to them, 37 "Whoever receives one of such children in my name, receives me, and whoever receives me, doesn't receive me, but him that sent me." 38 And John answered him, "Master, we saw someone casting out devils in your name, and he didn't follow us, and we told him to stop, because he's not following us." 39 But Jesus said, "Don't tell him to stop, for there is no man who shall do a miracle in my name, that can casually speak evil about me. 40 For he that is not against us is on our side. 41 For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in my name, because you belong to Christ, truly I say to you, he won't lose his reward. 42 And whoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it's better for him that a millstone were hung around his neck, and that he were thrown into the sea. 43 And if your hand offends you, cut it off, it's better for you to enter into life with one hand, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched, 44 Where their worms don't die, and the fire is not quenched. 45 And if your foot offends you, cut it off, it's better for you to enter with one foot into life, than having two feet to be thrown into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched, 46 Where their worms don't die, and the fire is not quenched. 47 And if your eye offends you, pluck it out, it's better for you to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be thrown into hell's fire, 48 Where their worms don't die, and the fire is not quenched. 49 For everyone shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt. 50 Salt is good, but if the salt has lost its flavor, with what will you flavor it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with each other." ___Mark chapter 10 1 And he got up from there, and went into the coasts of Judea by the far side of Jordan, and the people resorted to him again, and as he usually did, he taught them again. 2 And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, "Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife?," tempting him. 3 And he answered them, "What did Moses command you?" 4 And they said, "Moses allowed to write divorce papers, and to put her away." 5 And Jesus answered them, "For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this principle. 6 But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. 7 For this reason shall a man leave his father and mother, and stick with his wife, 8 And the two of them shall be one flesh, so then they are no more two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore, what God has joined together, let man not separate." 10 And in the house his disciples asked him again about the same matter. 11 And he said to them, "Whoever puts away his wife, and marries someone else, commits adultery against her. 12 And if a woman puts away her husband, and marries someone else, she commits adultery." 13 And they brought young children to him, so he would touch them, and his disciples found fault with those who brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was quite displeased, and said to them, "Allow the little children to come to me, and don't forbid them, for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Truly I say to you, whoever doesn't receive the kingdom of God like a little child, he shall not enter into it." 16 And he took them up in his arms, put his hands on them, and blessed them. 17 And when he had gone out into the road, someone came running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, "Good Master, what shall I do so I can inherit eternal life?" 18 And Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except one, and that's God. 19 You know the commandments, Don't commit adultery, Don't kill, Don't steal, Don't lie, Don't covet, Honor your father and mother." 20 And he answered, "Master, I've observed all these since my youth." 21 Then Jesus looking at him, loved him, and said to him, "One thing you lack, go your way, sell whatever you have, and give to the poor, and you'll have treasure in heaven, and come, take up the cross, and follow me." 22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved, for he had great possessions. 23 And Jesus looked around, and said to his disciples, "How difficult it is for those who have riches to enter into the kingdom of God!" 24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answered, "Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God." 26 And they were extremely astonished, saying among themselves, "Who then can be saved?" 27 And Jesus looking at them said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God, for with God all things are possible." 28 Then Peter began to say to him, "See, we've left all, and have followed you." 29 And Jesus answered, "Truly I say to you, there is no man that has left house, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, 30 But he shall receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brothers, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions, and in the world to come, eternal life. 31 But many that are first shall be last, and the last first." 32 And they were on the way going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus went before them, and they were amazed, and as they followed, they were afraid. And he took the twelve again, and began to tell them the things that would happen to him, 33 And said, "See, we go up to Jerusalem, and the Son of man shall be delivered to the chief priests, and to the scribes, and they'll condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles, 34 And they'll make fun of him, and scourge him, and shall spit on him, and shall kill him, and the third day he'll rise again." 35 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him, saying, "Master, we want you to do for us whatever we want." 36 And he said to them, "What do you want me to do for you?" 37 They said to him, "Grant that we may sit, one at your right hand, and the other at your left hand, in your glory." 38 But Jesus said to them, "You don't know what you're asking, can you drink of the cup that I drink of? And be baptized with the baptism that I'm baptized with?" 39 And they said to him, "We can." And Jesus said to them, "You shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of, and with the baptism that I am baptized with, you shall be baptized, 40 But to sit at my right hand and at my left hand is not mine to give, but it shall be given to those for whom it has been prepared." 41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be quite displeased with James and John. 42 But Jesus called them to him, and said to them, "You know that those who are assigned to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them. And their great ones exercise authority on them. 43 But it won't be like that among you, but whoever wants to be great among you, shall be your minister, 44 And whoever of you wants be the chief, shall be servant of all. 45 For even the Son of man didn't come to be ministered to, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many." 46 And they came to Jericho, and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, "Jesus, you Son of David, have mercy on me." 48 And many told him to be quiet, but he shouted the more a great deal, "You Son of David, have mercy on me." 49 And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called. And they called the blind man, saying to him, "Be of good comfort, get up, he's calling you." 50 And he, throwing away his garment, got up, and came to Jesus. 51 And Jesus answered him, "What do you want me to do for you?" The blind man said to him, "Lord, I want to receive my sight." 52 And Jesus said to him, "Go your way, your faith has made you well." And immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus on the way. ___Mark chapter 11 1 And when they came near Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, 2 And said to them, "Go your way into the village opposite you, and as soon as you've entered into it, you'll find a colt tied, on which man has never sat, untie him, and bring him. 3 And if any man says to you, Why are you doing this?, say that the Lord needs him, and immediately he will send him here." 4 And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door outside in a place where two roads met, and they untied him. 5 And certain of those who stood there said to them, "Why are you untying the colt?" 6 And they told them what Jesus had commanded, and they let them go. 7 And they brought the colt to Jesus, and threw their garments on him, and he sat on him. 8 And many spread their garments in the road, and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them on the road. 9 And those who went before, and those who followed shouted, "Hosanna, Blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord. 10 Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest." 11 And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple, and when he had looked around at everything, and now the evening had come, he went out to Bethany with the twelve. 12 And on the next day, when they had come from Bethany, he was hungry. 13 And seeing a fig tree far off having leaves, he came, if perhaps he might find something on it, and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not yet the time for figs. 14 And Jesus responded and said to it, "No man eat fruit of you from now on, forever." And his disciples heard it. 15 And they came to Jerusalem, and Jesus went into the temple, and began to throw out those who sold and bought in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers, and the seats of those who sold doves, 16 And would not allow any man to carry any container through the temple. 17 And he taught them, "Is it not written, my house shall be called by all nations the house of prayer? But you have made it a den of thieves." 18 And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and tried to find a way to destroy him, for they feared him, because all the people were astonished at his doctrine. 19 And when evening had come, he went out of the city. 20 And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter, remembering, said to him, "Master, see, the fig tree that you cursed has withered away." 22 And Jesus answered them, "Have faith in God. 23 For truly I say to you, that whoever shall say to this mountain, be removed, and be thrown into the sea, and doesn't doubt in his heart, but believes that the things that he says shall happen, he shall have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them. 25 And when you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father who is in heaven will also forgive your trespasses. 26 But if you don't forgive, neither will your Father who is in heaven forgive your trespasses." 27 And they came again to Jerusalem, and as he was walking in the temple, the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders came to him, 28 And said to him, "By what authority do you do these things? And who gave you this authority to do these things?" 29 And Jesus answered them, "I will also ask you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. 30 The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? Answer me." 31 And they reasoned with themselves, "If we say, From heaven, he will say, Then why didn't you believe him? 32 But if we say, Of men," they feared the people, for all men counted John, that he was certainly a prophet. 33 And they answered Jesus, "We can't tell." And Jesus answered them, "Nor do I tell you by what authority I do these things." ___Mark chapter 12 1 And he began to speak to them by parables. "A certain man planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a place for the wine vat, and built a tower, and rented it to vineyard keepers, and went into a far country. 2 And at the season he sent an employee to the vineyard keepers, to collect from the husbandmen some of the fruit of the vineyard. 3 And they caught him, and beat him, and sent him away empty. 4 And again he sent them another employee, and at him they threw stones, and wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully handled. 5 And again he sent another, and him they killed, and many others, beating some, and killing some. 6 Therefore, having yet one son, his well beloved, he sent him also last to them, saying, They will respect my son. 7 But those vineyard keepers said among themselves, this is the heir, come, let us kill him, and the inheritance shall be ours. 8 And they took him, and killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard. 9 What shall therefore the lord of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the vineyard keepers, and will give the vineyard to others. 10 And haven't you read this scripture, The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, 11 This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes?" 12 And they wanted to arrest him, but feared the people, for they knew that he had spoken the parable against them, and they left him, and went their way. 13 And they sent him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, to catch him in his words. 14 And when they had come, they said to him, "Master, we know that you are true, and care for no man, for you don't regard the person of men, but teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? 15 Shall we give, or shall we not give?" But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said to them, "Why do you tempt me? Bring me a penny, so I can see it." 16 And they brought it. And he said to them, "Whose is this image and writing?" And they said to him, "Caesar's." 17 And Jesus said to them, "Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." And they were amazed at him. 18 Then the Sadducees came to him, who say there is no resurrection, and they asked him, 19 "Master, Moses wrote to us, If a man's brother dies, and leaves his wife behind him, and leaves no children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up children to his brother. 20 Now there were seven brothers, and the first took a wife, and dying, left no children. 21 And the second took her, and died, nor did he leave any children, and the third likewise. 22 And the seven had her, and left no children, last of all the woman died also. 23 In the resurrection therefore, when they shall rise, which of them will have her as wife? For all seven had her as wife." 24 And Jesus answered them, "Aren't you therefore making a mistake, because you don't know the scriptures, nor the power of God? 25 For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are like the angels who are in heaven. 26 And concerning the dead, that they rise, haven't you read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spoke to him, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? 27 He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living, therefore you've made a big mistake." 28 And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, "Which is the first commandment of all?" 29 And Jesus answered him, "The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord, 30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength, this is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like it, namely this, You shall love your neighbor like yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these." 32 And the scribe said to him, "Well, Master, you've said the truth, for there is one God, and there is no other but he. 33 And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbor like himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices." 34 And when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And no man after that dared ask him any question. 35 And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in the temple, "How can the scribes say that Christ is the Son of David? 36 For David himself said by the Holy Ghost, The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool. 37 David therefore himself calls him Lord, and how is he then his son?" And the common people heard him gladly. 38 And he said to them in his doctrine, "Beware of the scribes, who love to go in long clothes, and love greetings in the marketplaces, 39 And the most important seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost rooms at feasts, 40 Who devour widows' houses, and for a show make long prayers, these shall receive greater damnation." 41 And Jesus sat opposite the treasury, and watched how the people threw money into the treasury, and many that were rich threw in much. 42 And a certain poor widow came, and she threw in two mites, which make a quarter. 43 And he called to him his disciples, and said to them, "Truly I say to you that this poor widow has thrown in more than all of those who have thrown into the treasury, 44 For all of them threw in from their abundance, but she in her poverty has thrown in all that she had, all her living. ___Mark chapter 13 1 And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, "Master, look at what kind of stones and what buildings are here!" 2 And Jesus said to him, "Do you see these large buildings? Not one stone will be left on another that won't be thrown down." 3 And as he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked him privately, 4 "Tell us, when shall these things be? And what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?" 5 And Jesus answering them began to say, "Be careful that no man deceives you, 6 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ, and shall deceive many. 7 And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, don't be troubled, for such things must happen, but the end won't be yet. 8 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there shall be earthquakes in various places, and there shall be famines and troubles, these are the beginnings of sorrows. 9 But be careful about yourselves, for they'll deliver you up to councils, and in the synagogues you'll be beaten, and you'll be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them. 10 And the gospel must first be published among all nations. 11 But when they lead you, and deliver you up, don't think about what you'll say beforehand, but whatever is given you in that hour, say that, for it is not you that speaks, but the Holy Ghost. 12 Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son, and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. 13 And you'll hated by all men for my name's sake, but he that endures to the end, shall be saved. 14 But when you see the abomination of desolation, spoken about by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that reads understand,) then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, 15 And let him that is on the housetop not go down into the house, nor enter into it to take anything out of his house, 16 And let him that is in the field not turn back again to get his garment. 17 But woe to those who are with child, and to those who are breast feeding babies in those days! 18 And pray that your escape is not in the winter. 19 For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation that God created up until now, nor shall be. 20 And unless the Lord shortens those days, no flesh would be saved, but for the elect's sake, whom he has chosen, he has shortened the days. 21 And then if any man says to you, See, here is Christ, or, See, he is there, don't believe him, 22 For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall show signs and wonders, to seduce if possible even the elect. 23 But be careful, see, I have foretold you everything. 24 But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give its light, 25 And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken. 26 And then they'll see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. 27 And then he'll send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of the earth to the farthest part of heaven. 28 Now learn a parable from the fig tree, when its branch is yet tender, and puts out leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 Likewise, when you see these things happen, know that it's near, even at the door. 30 Truly I say to you, that this generation shall not pass, until all these things have happened. 31 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 32 But no man knows about that day and that hour, no, not the angels that are in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father. 33 Be careful, stay awake and pray, for you don't know when the time is. 34 For the Son of man is like a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to stay awake. 35 Stay awake therefore, for you don't know when the master of the house is coming, at evening, or at midnight, or at the rooster's crowing, or in the morning, 36 So that coming suddenly, he doesn't find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you I say to all, Stay awake." ___Mark chapter 14 1 After two days was the feast of the Passover, and of unleavened bread, and the chief priests and the scribes looked for some carfty way to arrest him, and put him to death. 2 But they said, "Not on the feast day, so there won't be a riot by the people." 3 And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat to eat, a woman came, having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard, very precious, and she broke the box, and poured it on his head. 4 And there were some who disapproved, and said, "Why was this ointment wasted? 5 For it could have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor." And they murmured against her. 6 And Jesus said, "Let her alone, why do you trouble her? She's done a good thing to me. 7 For you have the poor with you always, and whenever you want you can do them good, but me you don't have always. 8 She has done what she could, she has come beforehand to anoint my body for burying. 9 Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she has done shall be spoken about for a memorial of her." 10 And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests, to help them arrest him. 11 And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he looked for a convenient way to betray him. 12 And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the Passover, his disciples said to him, "Where do you want us to prepare so you can eat the Passover?" 13 And he sent out two of his disciples, and said to them, "Go into the city, and a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water, follow him. 14 And wherever he goes in, say to the householder, The Master says, where is the guest room, where I'll eat the Passover with my disciples? 15 And he will show you a large upper room furnished and prepared, there make ready for us." 16 And his disciples went out, and came into the city, and found as he had said to them, and they prepared the Passover. 17 And in the evening he went with the twelve. 18 And as they sat and ate, Jesus said, "Truly I say to you, one of you that eats with me shall betray me." 19 And they began to be sorrowful, and to say to him one by one, "Is it I?" And another said, "Is it I?" 20 And he answered them, "It is one of the twelve, that dips with me in the dish. 21 The Son of man indeed goes, as it is written about him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of man gets betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had never been born." 22 And as they ate, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and broke it, and gave to them, and said, "Take, eat, this is my body." 23 And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. 24 And he said to them, "This is my blood of the new testament, that is shed for many. 25 Truly I say to you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God." 26 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out into the Mount of Olives. 27 And Jesus said to them, "All of you shall be offended because of me tonight, for it is written, I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered. 28 But after I've risen, I will go before you into Galilee." 29 But Peter said to him, "Although everyone else shall be offended, I won't." 30 And Jesus said to him, "Truly I say to you, this day, even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you'll deny me three times." 31 But he spoke more strongly, "If I would die with you, I won't deny you in any way." And they all said likewise. 32 And they came to a place that was named Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." 33 And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be very amazed, and to be very heavy, 34 And said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful like close to death, wait here, and stay awake." 35 And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if possible, the hour would go away from him. 36 And he said, "Abba, Father, all things are possible to you, take away this cup from me, however, not what I want, but what you want." 37 And he came, and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, "Simon, are you sleeping? Couldn't you stay awake for one hour? 38 Stay awake and pray, so you don't enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak." 39 And again he went away, and prayed, and spoke the same words. 40 And when he returned, he found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy,) and they didn't know what to answer him. 41 And he came the third time, and said to them, "Sleep on now, and take your rest, it is enough, the hour has come. See, the Son of man has been betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise up, let us go, he that's betraying me is here." 43 And immediately, while he yet spoke, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44 And he that betrayed him had given them a sign, saying, "Whomever I kiss, that's the one, take him, and lead him away securely." 45 And as soon as he had come, he went directly to him, and said, "Master, master, and kissed him." 46 And they laid their hands on him, and took him. 47 And one of those who stood by pulled out a sword, and struck a servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. 48 And Jesus answered them, "Have you come out, like against a thief, with swords and with clubs to take me? 49 I was with you daily in the temple teaching, and you didn't arrest me, but the scriptures must be fulfilled." 50 And they all left him, and ran away. 51 And a certain young man followed him, having a linen cloth thrown around his otherwise naked body, and the young men took hold of him, 52 And he left the linen cloth, and fled from them naked. 53 And they led Jesus away to the high priest, and with him were assembled all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes. 54 And Peter followed him at a distance, into the palace of the high priest, and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire. 55 And the chief priests and all the council looked for a witness against Jesus to put him to death, and found none. 56 For many gave false testimony against him, but their testimonies didn't agree with each other's. 57 And some arose, and gave false testimony against him, saying, 58 "We heard him say, I'll destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I'll build another made without hands." 59 But still their testimonies didn't agree. 60 And the high priest stood up among them, and asked Jesus, "Don't you answer? What is it that these witness against you?" 61 But he remained silent, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, "Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?" 62 And Jesus said, "I am, and you'll see the Son of man sitting at the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven." 63 Then the high priest tore his clothes, and said, "Why would we need any more witnesses? 64 You've heard the blasphemy, what do you think?" And they all condemned him to be deserving to die. 65 And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to punch him, and to say to him, "Prophesy," and the servants struck him with the palms of their hands. 66 And as Peter was beneath in the palace, one of the maids of the high priest came, 67 And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him, and said, "And you also were with Jesus of Nazareth." 68 But he denied, and said, "I don't know, nor do I understand what you're saying." And he went out into the porch, and the rooster crowed. 69 And a maid saw him again, and began to say to those who stood by, "This is one of them." 70 And he denied it again. And a little afterward, those who stood by also said to Peter, "Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean, and you talk like one." 71 But he began to curse and to swear, saying, "I don't know this man about whom you're speaking." 72 And the second time the rooster crowed. And Peter remembered the word that Jesus said to him, "Before the rooster crows twice, you'll deny me three times." And when he thought about it, he cried. ___Mark chapter 15 1 And immediately in the morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and handcuffed Jesus, and carried him away, and turned him over to Pilate. 2 And Pilate asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" And he answered him, "You say it." 3 And the chief priests accused him of many things, but he answered nothing. 4 And Pilate asked him again, "Don't you answer? Look at how many things they testify against you." 5 But Jesus still answered nothing, so that Pilate was amazed. 6 Now at that feast he released to them one prisoner, of their choice. 7 And there was one named Barabbas, who lay tied up with those who had made rebellion with him, who had committed murder in the rebellion. 8 And the multitude shouting out, began to desire him to do like he had always done with them. 9 But Pilate answered them, "Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?" 10 For he knew that the chief priests had arrested him for envy. 11 But the chief priests moved the people, that he should release Barabbas to them, instead of Jesus. 12 And Pilate answered them, "What do you want me to do with him whom you call the King of the Jews?" 13 And they shouted out again, "Crucify him." 14 Then Pilate said to them, "Why, what evil has he done?" And they shouted even stronger, "Crucify him." 15 And so Pilate, wanting to satisfy the people, released Barabbas to them, and delivered Jesus, after he had scourged him, to be crucified. 16 And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium, and they called together the whole band of soldiers. 17 And they dressed him in purple, and wove a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, 18 And began to salute him, "Hail, King of the Jews!" 19 And they struck him on the head with a pole, and spat on him, and bowing their knees worshipped him. 20 And after they'd made fun of him, they took off the purple from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him. 21 And they forced Simon, a Cyrenian who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to carry his cross. 22 And they brought him to the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, the place of a skull. 23 And they gave him wine to drink mixed with myrrh, but he wouldn't drink it. 24 And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments, drawing straws for them, what every man would get. 25 And it was the third hour, and they crucified him. 26 And the writing of his accusation was written over him, "The King of the Jews." 27 And with him they crucified two thieves, one at his right hand, and the other at his left. 28 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "And he was counted with the criminals." 29 And those who passed by made fun of him, shaking their heads, and saying, "Ah, you who destroys the temple, and builds it in three days, 30 Save yourself, and come down from the cross." 31 Likewise also the chief priests made fun of him, and said among themselves with the scribes, "He saved others, he can't save himself. 32 Let Christ the King of Israel come down now from the cross, so we can see and believe." And those who were crucified with him said nasty things to him. 33 And when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. 34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?" Which is, by interpretation, "My God, my God, why have you gone from me?" 35 And some of those who stood by, when they heard it, said, "See, he's calling Elijah." 36 And someone ran and filled a sponge full of vinegar, and put it on a pole, and offered him drink, saying, "Leave it be, let's see whether Elijah will come to take him down." 37 And Jesus shouted with a loud voice, and yielded up the spirit. 38 And the veil of the temple was torn in two from the top to the bottom. 39 And when the centurion, who stood opposite him, saw that he shouted like that, and yielded up the spirit, he said, "Truly this man was the Son of God." 40 There were also women looking on from a distance, among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome, 41 (Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered to him,) and many other women who came up with him to Jerusalem. 42 And now when the evening had come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the Sabbath, 43 Joseph of Arimathaea, an honorable counselor, who also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly to Pilate, and desired the body of Jesus. 44 And Pilate was amazed if he were already dead, and calling to himself the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead. 45 And when he knew it from the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph. 46 And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of a rock, and rolled a stone to the door of the tomb. 47 And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where they laid his body. ___Mark chapter 16 1 And when the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, so they could come and apply them to his body. 2 And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came to the tomb at sunrise. 3 And they said to each other, "Who will roll away the stone from the entrance of the tomb for us?" 4 And when they looked, they saw that the stone was already rolled away, for it was very large. 5 And entering into the tomb, they saw a young man sitting at the right side, clothed in a long white garment, and they were afraid. 6 And he said to them, "Don't be afraid, you're looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, he is not here, look at the place where they laid him. 7 But be on your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he's going before you into Galilee, you'll see him there, as he said to you." 8 And they went out quickly, and ran from the tomb, for they trembled and were amazed, nor did they say anything to any man, for they were afraid. 9 Now when Jesus had risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils. 10 And she went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and cried. 11 And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen by her, didn't believe it. 12 After that he appeared in another form to two of them, as they walked, and went into the country. 13 And they went and told it to the others, and they didn't believe them. 14 Afterward he appeared to the eleven as they sat to eat, and chided them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they didn't believe those who had seen him after he had risen. 15 And he said to them, "Go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believes and is baptized shall be saved, but he that doesn't believe shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow those who believe, in my name they'll cast out devils, they'll speak with new languages, 18 They shall pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it won't hurt them. They shall lay hands on the sick, and they'll recover." 19 So then after the Lord had spoken to them, he was received up into heaven, and sat at the right hand of God. 20 And they went out, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. ___Luke chapter 1 1 Since many have written in order, a declaration of the things that are most surely believed among us, 2 Just as they delivered them to us, who from the beginning were eye witnesses, and ministers of the word, 3 It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very beginning, to write to you in order, most excellent lover of God, 4 So that you would know the certainty of the things about which you've been instructed. 5 In the days of Herod the king of Judea, there was a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia, and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord without fault. 7 And they had no child, because Elisabeth was barren, and they were both senior citizens by then. 8 And while he performed the priest's office before God in the order of his course, 9 According to the custom of the priest's office, he happened to be assigned to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the time of incense. 11 And an angel of the Lord appeared to him standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled and became afraid. 13 But the angel said to him, "Don't be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elisabeth shall bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. 14 And you'll have joy and gladness, and many shall rejoice at his birth. 15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink, and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb. 16 And he shall turn many of the children of Israel toward the Lord their God. 17 And he'll go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." 18 And Zacharias said to the angel, "How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is an old woman." 19 And the angel answered him, "I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and am sent to speak to you, and to bring you this happy news. 20 And see, you'll be unable to speak, until the day that these things are performed, because you don't believe my words, which shall be fulfilled at the proper time." 21 And the people waited for Zacharias, and were surprised that he remained in the temple for so long. 22 And when he came out, he could not speak to them, and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them, and remained speechless. 23 And as soon as the days of his ministering had ended, he went to his own house. 24 And after those days, his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying, 25 "Thus has the Lord dealt with me in the days in which he looked at me, to take away my reproach among men." 26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27 To a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And the angel came to her, and said, "Hail, you who are highly favored, the Lord is with you, blessed are you among women." 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and wondered in her mind what kind of greeting that was. 30 And the angel said to her, "Don't be afraid, Mary, for you've found favor with God. 31 And see, you'll conceive in your womb, and give birth to a son, and shall call his name Jesus. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest, and the Lord God shall give him the throne of his father David. 33 And he shall rule over the house of Jacob forever, and his kingdom will never end." 34 Then Mary said to the angel, "How will that happen, since I'm not married?" 35 And the angel answered her, "The Holy Ghost shall come on you, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow you, therefore also the holy thing that shall be born of you shall be called the Son of God. 36 And see, your cousin Elisabeth, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month with her, who had been called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible." 38 And Mary said, "I'm the handmaid of the Lord, let it be as you have said." And the angel departed from her. 39 And Mary got up in those days, and hurried into the hill country, into a city of Judah, 40 And entered into the house of Zacharias, and greeted Elisabeth. 41 And when Elisabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby jumped in her womb, and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost, 42 And she spoke out with a loud voice and said, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43 And why does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? 44 For see, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the baby jumped for joy in my womb. 45 And blessed is she that believed, for there shall be a performance of the things that she was told from the Lord." 46 And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48 For he has seen the low estate of his handmaiden, for see, from now on, all generations shall call me blessed. 49 For he that is mighty has done to me great things, and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He has put down the mighty from their seats, and lifted up those of low degree. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things, and he has sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 As he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his children forever." 56 And Mary stayed with her about three months, and returned to her own house. 57 Now Elisabeth's full time came for her to receive deliverance, and she gave birth to a son. 58 And her neighbors and her cousins heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. 59 And on the eighth day, they came to circumcise the child, and they called him Zacharias, like his father. 60 And his mother answered, "Not so, but he shall be called John." 61 And they said to her, "There is none of your kindred that is called by this name." 62 And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. 63 And he asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John." And they were all amazed. 64 And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, and praised God. 65 And fear came on all who lived around them, and all these sayings were told around throughout all the hill country of Judea. 66 And all of those who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, "What kind of child shall this be!" And the hand of the Lord was with him. 67 And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, 68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people, 69 And has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, 70 As he said by the mouth of his holy prophets, who have been since the world began, 71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us, 72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant, 73 The oath that he swore to our father Abraham, 74 That he would grant to us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies, can serve him without fear, 75 In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. 76 And you, child, shall be called the prophet of the Highest, for you'll go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways, 77 To give knowledge of salvation to his people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God, by which the day spring from on high has visited us, 79 To give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." 80 And the child grew, and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts until the day of his showing to Israel. ___Luke chapter 2 1 And in those days, a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3 And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, (because he was of the house and genealogy of David,) 5 To be taxed with Mary his wife, who was large with child. 6 And so it was, that while they were there, the days were accomplished for her to receive deliverance. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son, and wrapped him in cloth, and laid him in a feeding trough for animals, because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 And there were shepherds in the same country, staying in the field, keeping watch over their flock at night. 9 And see, the angel of the Lord came to them, and the glory of the Lord shined around them, and they were very afraid. 10 And the angel said to them, "Don't be afraid, for see, I bring you good news of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign to you, you'll find the baby wrapped in cloth, lying in a feeding trough for animals." 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." 15 And after the angels had gone away from them to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, "Let's go now to Bethlehem, and see this thing that has happened, that the Lord has made known to us." 16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the baby lying in a feeding trough for animals. 17 And when they had seen it, they made known all around what they'd been told about this child. 18 And all of those who heard it wondered at the things that had been told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. 21 And when eight days had gone by for the circumcising of the child, his name was called Jesus, who was so named by the angel before he was conceived in the womb. 22 And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses had been accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord, 23 (As it is written in the law of the Lord, every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord,) 24 And to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, "A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons." 25 And see, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Ghost was on him. 26 And it was revealed to him by the Holy Ghost, that he wouldn't see death until he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, 28 Then he took him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, 29 "Lord, now you're letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word, 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 That you've prepared before the face of all people, 32 A light to illuminate the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel." 33 And Joseph and his mother were amazed at the things that were spoken by him. 34 And Simeon blessed them, and said to his mother Mary, "See, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign that shall be spoken against, 35 (Yes, a sword shall pierce through your own soul also,) so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed." 36 And there was a prophetess named Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity, 37 And she was a widow of about eighty four years, who didn't depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And she, coming in that moment, gave thanks likewise to the Lord, and spoke about him to all of those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. 39 And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. 40 And the child grew, and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him. 41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. 43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, and Joseph and his mother didn't know about it. 44 But they, supposing him to have been in the group of people, went a day's journey, and they looked for him among their family and friends. 45 And when they didn't find him, they turned back again to Jerusalem, looking for him. 46 And after three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the doctors, hearing them, and asking them questions. 47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. 48 And when they saw him, they were amazed, and his mother said to him, "Son, why have you treated us this way? See, your father and I have been looking for you with sorrow." 49 And he said to them, "How is it that you looked for me? Didn't you know that I must be doing my Father's business?" 50 And they didn't understand what he said to them. 51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. ___Luke chapter 3 1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, 2 Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. 3 And he came into all the country around Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, "The voice of someone shouting in the wilderness, prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth, 6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God." 7 Then he said to the multitude that came out to be baptized by him, "O generation of snakes, who has warned you to flee from the anger to come? 8 Therefore produce fruits consistent with repentance, and don't begin to say inside yourselves, We have Abraham as our father, for I say to you that God is able from these stones to raise up children of Abraham. 9 And now also the axe is laid to the root of the trees, every tree therefore that doesn't produce good fruit will be cut down, and thrown into the fire." 10 And the people asked him, "What shall we do then?" 11 He answered them, "He that has two coats, let him give to him that has none, and he that has food, let him do likewise." 12 Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, "Master, what shall we do?" 13 And he said to them, "Collect no more than that which has been appointed." 14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, "And what shall we do?" And he said to them, "Do violence to no man, nor accuse anyone falsely, and be content with your wages." 15 And as the people were in expectation, and all men pondered in their hearts about John, whether he was the Christ, or not, 16 John answered them all, "I indeed baptize you with water, but someone mightier than I is coming, whose shoelaces I am not worthy to untie, he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire, 17 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire." 18 And in his exhortation, he preached many other things to the people. 19 But Herod the tetrarch, being reprimanded by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils that Herod had done, 20 Added yet this above all, that he put John in prison. 21 Now when all the people were baptized, Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, 22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove on him, and a voice came from heaven that said, "You are my beloved Son, in you I am well pleased." 23 And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years old, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, who was the son of Heli, 24 Who was the son of Matthat, who was the son of Levi, who was the son of Melchi, who was the son of Janna, who was the son of Joseph, 25 Who was the son of Mattathias, who was the son of Amos, who was the son of Naum, who was the son of Esli, who was the son of Nagge, 26 Who was the son of Maath, who was the son of Mattathias, who was the son of Semei, who was the son of Joseph, who was the son of Juda, 27 Who was the son of Joanna, who was the son of Rhesa, who was the son of Zorobabel, who was the son of Salathiel, who was the son of Neri, 28 Who was the son of Melchi, who was the son of Addi, who was the son of Cosam, who was the son of Elmodam, who was the son of Er, 29 Who was the son of Jose, who was the son of Eliezer, who was the son of Jorim, who was the son of Matthat, who was the son of Levi, 30 Who was the son of Simeon, who was the son of Juda, who was the son of Joseph, who was the son of Jonan, who was the son of Eliakim, 31 Who was the son of Melea, who was the son of Menan, who was the son of Mattatha, who was the son of Nathan, who was the son of David, 32 Who was the son of Jesse, who was the son of Obed, who was the son of Boaz, who was the son of Salmon, who was the son of Nahshon, 33 Who was the son of Amminadab, who was the son of Ram, who was the son of Hezron, who was the son of Pharez, who was the son of Judah, 34 Who was the son of Jacob, who was the son of Isaac, who was the son of Abraham, who was the son of Terah, who was the son of Nahor, 35 Who was the son of Serug, who was the son of Reu, who was the son of Peleg, who was the son of Eber, who was the son of Salah, 36 Who was the son of Arphaxad, who was the son of Shem, who was the son of Noah, who was the son of Lamech, 37 Who was the son of Methuselah, who was the son of Enoch, who was the son of Jared, who was the son of Mahalaleel, who was the son of Cainan, 38 Who was the son of Enos, who was the son of Seth, who was the son of Adam, who was the son of God. ___Luke chapter 4 1 And Jesus, being full of the Holy Ghost, returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2 Being forty days tempted by the devil. And in those days he ate nothing. And when they had ended, afterward he was hungry. 3 And the devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to be made bread." 4 And Jesus answered him, "It is written, man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God." 5 And the devil, taking him up into a high mountain, showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6 And the devil said to him, "I will give you all this power, and the glory of them, for that has been given to me, and to whomever I choose I give it. 7 If you therefore will worship me, all shall be yours." 8 And Jesus answered him, "Get behind me, Satan, for it is written, you shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve." 9 And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said to him, "If you're the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, 10 For it is written, He'll give his angels charge over you, to keep you, 11 And in their hands they'll lift you up, so you won't at any time dash your foot against a stone." 12 And Jesus answered him, "It is said, You shall not tempt the Lord your God." 13 And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a while. 14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee, and his fame went throughout all the region around there. 15 And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. 16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. 17 And the book of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, 18 "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, he has sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set free those who are bruised, 19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord." 20 And he closed the book, and he gave it back to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all of those who were in the synagogue were fastened on him. 21 And he began to say to them, "This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears." 22 And all were his witnesses, and wondered at the gracious words that proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, "Isn't this Joseph's son?" 23 And he said to them, "You will surely say to me this proverb, physician, heal yourself, whatever we've heard done in Capernaum, do also here in your country." 24 And he said, "Truly I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own country. 25 But I tell you truly, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elijah, when heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land, 26 But Elijah was sent to none of them, except to Sarepta, a city of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. 27 And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet, and none of them was cleansed, except Naaman the Syrian." 28 And all of those in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with anger, 29 And got up, and pushed him out of the city, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, so they could throw him down head first. 30 But he, passing through the middle of them, went his way, 31 And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the Sabbath days. 32 And they were astonished at his doctrine, for his word was with power. 33 And in the synagogue there was a man, who had a spirit of an unclean devil, and shouted with a loud voice, 34 "Let us alone, what have we to do with you, you Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One from God." 35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be silent, and come out of him." And when the devil had thrown him among them, he came out of him, and didn't hurt him. 36 And they were all amazed, and spoke among themselves, "What a word is this! For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out." 37 And his fame went out into every place of the country around there. 38 And he went out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother had a bad fever, and they asked him to help her. 39 And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever, and it left her, and immediately she got up and waited on them. 40 Now when the sun was setting, all of those who had any sick with various diseases brought them to him, and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them. 41 And devils also came out of many, shouting out, "You are Christ the Son of God." And he, rebuking them, wouldn't allow them to speak, for they knew that he was Christ. 42 And when it was day, he departed and went into a desert place, and the people looked for him, and came to him, and asked him to stay longer. 43 And he said to them, "I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also, for that's why I've been sent." 44 And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee. ___Luke chapter 5 1 And as the people pressed on him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 And saw two ships standing by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them, and were washing their nets. 3 And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and asked him to move out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. 4 Now when he had stopped speaking, he said to Simon, "Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draw." 5 And Simon answered him, "Master, we have worked hard all night, and have taken nothing, however, at your word I will let down the net." 6 And when they had done that, they enclosed a great multitude of fish, and their net broke. 7 And they waved at their partners, who were in the other ship, so they would come and help them. And they came and filled both ships, so that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Go away from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 9 For he was amazed, and all who were with him, at the draw of the fish they had taken, 10 And so were also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid, from now on, you'll catch men." 11 And when they had brought their ships to land, they gave up everything and followed him. 12 And when he was in a certain city, there was a man full of leprosy, who seeing Jesus, fell on his face, and asked him, "Lord, if you will, you can make me clean." 13 And he put out his hand, and touched him, and said, "I will, be clean." And immediately the leprosy went out of him. 14 And he commanded him to tell no man, but, "Go, and show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing, what Moses commanded, for a testimony to them." 15 But so much the more, his fame went around, and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him from their sicknesses. 16 And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed. 17 And on a certain day, as he was teaching, there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, who had come out of every town of Galilee, and Judea, and Jerusalem, and the power of the Lord was present to heal them. 18 And men brought in a bed a man who had palsy, and they looked for a way to bring him in, and to lay him before him. 19 And when they couldn't find a way to bring him in because of the multitude, they went up on the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the area before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith, he said to him, "Man, your sins are forgiven." 21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, "Who is this that speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, except only God?" 22 But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answered them, "What do you reason in your hearts? 23 Which is easier, to say, Your sins are forgiven, or to say, Get up and walk? 24 But so that you'll know that the Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins," (he said to the man sick with palsy,) "I say to you, get up, and take up your bed, and go to your house." 25 And immediately he got up before them, and picked up what he had been lying on, and went to his own house, glorifying God. 26 And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, "We have seen strange things today." 27 And after these things, he went out, and saw a tax collector, named Levi, sitting and collecting taxes, and he said to him, "Follow me." 28 And he left all, got up, and followed him. 29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house, and there was a large group of tax collectors and of others that sat down with them. 30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" 31 And Jesus answered them, "Those who are well don't need a doctor, but those who are sick. 32 I didn't come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." 33 And they said to him, "Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink?" 34 And he said to them, "Can you make the children of the bride's room fast, while the bridegroom is with them? 35 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then they'll fast in those days." 36 And he also spoke a parable to them, "No man puts a piece of a new garment on an old, otherwise the new piece causes a tear, and the piece that was taken out of the new doesn't agree with the old. 37 And no man puts new wine into old wineskins, otherwise the new wine will burst the wineskins, and be spilled, and the wineskins shall be destroyed. 38 But new wine must be put into new wineskins, and both are preserved. 39 Also, no man having drunk old wine immediately desires new, for he says, The old is better." ___Luke chapter 6 1 And on the second Sabbath after the first, he went through the corn fields, and his disciples plucked the ears of corn and ate, rubbing them in their hands. 2 And some of the Pharisees said to them, "Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath days?" 3 And Jesus answered them, "Haven't you read what David did, when he was hungry, and those who were with him, 4 How he went into the house of God, and took and ate the showbread, and gave also to those who were with him, which it's not lawful to eat except only for the priests?" 5 And he said to them, "The Son of man is Lord also of the Sabbath." 6 And on another Sabbath, he entered into the synagogue and taught, and there was a man whose right hand was withered. 7 And the scribes and Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on the Sabbath day, so they could find an accusation against him. 8 But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man who had the withered hand, "Get up, and stand up in the middle." And he got up and stood. 9 Then Jesus said to them, "I will ask you one thing, is it lawful on the Sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? To save life, or to destroy it?" 10 And looking around on them all, he said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." And he did so, and his hand was restored well, like the other one. 11 And they were filled with insanity, and consulted with each other what they could do to Jesus. 12 And in those days, he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. 13 And when it was day, he called to him his disciples, and from them he chose twelve, whom he also named apostles, 14 Simon, (whom he also named Peter), and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, 15 Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes, 16 And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, who also was the traitor. 17 And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Zidon, who came to hear him, and to be healed from their diseases, 18 And those who were vexed with unclean spirits, and they were healed. 19 And the whole multitude tried to touch him, for power went out of him, and healed them all. 20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, "Blessed are you that are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. 21 Blessed are you that hunger now, for you'll be filled. Blessed are you that cry now, for you shall laugh. 22 Blessed are you, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and throw out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. 23 Rejoice in that day, and jump for joy, for see, your reward is great in heaven, for their fathers did like that to the prophets. 24 But woe to you that are rich! For you've received your good things. 25 Woe to you that are full! For you'll be hungry. Woe to you that laugh now! For you'll mourn and cry. 26 Woe to you, when all men speak well about you! Because that's what their fathers did to the false prophets. 27 But I say to you that hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 Bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you. 29 And to him that slaps you on one cheek offer also the other cheek, and to him that takes away your overcoat don't forbid to take your coat also. 30 Give to every man that asks of you, and of him that takes away your goods don't ask for them back. 31 And as you want men to do to you, do to them likewise. 32 For if you love those who love you, what thanks do you have? For sinners also love those that love them. 33 And if you do good to those who do good to you, what thanks do you have? For sinners also do the same. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what thanks do you have? For sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. 35 But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again, and your reward shall be great, and you'll be the children of the Highest, for he is kind to the unthankful and to the evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, like your Father also is merciful. 37 Don't judge, and you won't be judged, don't condemn, and you won't be condemned, forgive, and you'll be forgiven. 38 Give, and it shall be given to you, good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measuring tool that you measure out with, it shall be measured back to you. 39 And he spoke a parable to them, can the blind lead the blind? Won't they both fall into the ditch? 40 The disciple is not above his master, but everyone that is perfect shall be like his master. 41 And why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but don't notice the plank that is in your own eye? 42 Or how can you say to your brother, Brother, let me remove the speck that is in your eye, when you yourself don't see the plank that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first remove the plank out of your own eye, and then you'll see clearly to remove the speck that's in your brother's eye. 43 For a good tree doesn't produce corrupt fruit, nor does a corrupt tree produce good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For from thorns men don't gather figs, nor from a bramble bush do they gather grapes. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart produces that which is good, and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart produces that which is evil, for from the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. 46 And why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and don't do the things that I say? 47 Whoever comes to me, and hears my sayings, and does them, I will show you to whom he is like, 48 He is like a man who built a house, and dug deep, and laid the foundation on a rock, and when the flood came, the stream beat forcefully on that house, and couldn't shake it, for it had a rock for its foundation. 49 But he that hears, and doesn't do my sayings, is like a man that built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat forcefully, and immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great." ___Luke chapter 7 1 Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum. 2 And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear to him, was sick and ready to die. 3 And when he heard about Jesus, he sent to him the elders of the Jews, asking him to please come and heal his servant. 4 And when they came to Jesus, they asked him immediately, saying that he was worthy for whom he should do this, 5 "For he loves our nation, and he has built us a synagogue." 6 Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying to him, "Lord, don't trouble yourself, for I am not worthy for you to enter under my roof, 7 So I also didn't think myself worthy to come to you, but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed. 8 For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me, and I say to one, Go, and he goes, and to another, Come, and he comes, and to my servant, Do this, and he does it." 9 When Jesus heard these things, he was surprised at him, and turned around, and said to the people that followed him, "I say to you, I have not found such great faith, no, not in Israel." 10 And those who were sent, returning to the house, found the servant well that had been sick. 11 And the next day, he went into a city called Nain, and many of his disciples went with him, and many people. 12 Now when he came near the gate of the city, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow, and many people of the city were with her. 13 And when the Lord saw her, he took pity on her, and said to her, "Don't cry." 14 And he came and touched the bier, and those who carried him stood still. And he said, "Young man, I say to you, get up." 15 And he that was dead sat up, and began to talk. And he gave him to his mother. 16 And fear came on all, and they glorified God, saying, "A great prophet has risen up among us," and, "God has visited his people." 17 And this rumor of him went throughout all Judea, and throughout all the region around there. 18 And the disciples of John showed him all these things. 19 And John calling to himself two of his disciples, sent them to Jesus, saying, "Are you he that was supposed to come? Or should we look for someone else?" 20 When the men had come to him, they said, "John the Baptist has sent us to you, saying, Are you he that was supposed to come? Or should we look for someone else?" 21 And in that same hour he cured many from their sicknesses and diseases, and from evil spirits, and to many that were blind he gave sight. 22 Then Jesus answered them, "Go back and tell John the things that you've seen and heard, how the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. 23 And blessed is he, whoever is not offended in me." 24 And when the messengers of John had departed, he began to speak to the people concerning John, "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? Some bamboo shaken by the wind? 25 But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft clothing? See, those who are gorgeously appareled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and much more than a prophet. 27 This is he, about whom it is written, See, I send my messenger before your face, who'll prepare your way before you. 28 For I say to you, among those that have been born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist, but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." 29 And all the people that heard him, and the tax collectors justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the advice of God against themselves, not being baptized by him. 31 And the Lord said, "To what then shall I liken the men of this generation? And to what are they like? 32 They are like children sitting in the market place, and calling to each other, and saying, We have piped to you, and you haven't danced, we have mourned to you, and you haven't cried. 33 For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, He has a devil. 34 The Son of man has come eating and drinking, and you say, See, a glutton, and a wino, a friend of tax collectors and sinners! 35 But wisdom is justified by all her children." 36 And one of the Pharisees desired him to eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to eat. 37 And see, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat to eat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38 And stood at his feet behind him crying, and began to wash his feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said inside himself, "This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what kind of woman this is that touches him, for she is a sinner." 40 And Jesus, answering, said to him, "Simon, I have something to say to you." And he said, "Master, go ahead." 41 "There was a certain creditor who had two debtors, the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?" 43 Simon answered and said, "I suppose he to whom he forgave most." And he said to him, "You've rightly judged." 44 And he turned to the woman, and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered into your house, you didn't give me any water for my feet, but she has washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 You gave me no kiss, but this woman since the time I came in hasn't stopped kissing my feet. 46 You didn't anoint my head with oil, but this woman has anointed my feet with ointment. 47 So I say to you, her sins, which are many, have been forgiven, for she loved much, but to whom little has been forgiven, the same loves little." 48 And he said to her, "Your sins are forgiven." 49 And those who sat to eat with him began to say inside themselves, "Who is this that forgives sins also?" 50 And he said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you, go in peace." ___Luke chapter 8 1 Afterward, he went through every city and village, preaching and showing the good news of the kingdom of God, and the twelve were with him, 2 And a certain woman, who had been healed from evil spirits and illnesses, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had gone seven devils, 3 And Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, who gave to him out of their possessions. 4 And when many people had gathered together, and had come to him out of every city, he spoke by a parable, 5 "A planter went out to plant his seed, and as he planted, some fell by the way side, and it was walked on, and the birds of the air ate it. 6 And some fell on a rock, and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. 7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. 8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and produced fruit a hundredfold." And when he had said these things, he shouted, "He that has ears to hear, let him hear." 9 And his disciples asked him, "What is this parable?" 10 And he said, "To you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to others in parables, so that seeing, they won't see, and hearing, they won't understand. 11 Now the parable is this: the seed is the word of God. 12 Those by the way side are those who hear, then comes the devil, and takes away the word out of their hearts, so they won't believe and be saved. 13 Those on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy, and these have no root, who for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. 14 And that which fell among thorns are those who, when they've heard, go on, and are choked by cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. 15 But that on the good ground are those who, in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and produce fruit with patience. 16 No man, when he has lit a candle, covers it with a container, or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a candlestick, so those who enter in can see the light. 17 For nothing is secret, that won't be made clear, nor anything hidden, that won't be known and come out. 18 Be careful therefore how you hear, for whoever has, to him shall be given, and whoever doesn't have, from him shall be taken even what he seems to have." 19 Then his mother and his brothers came to him, and couldn't get close to him because of the crowd. 20 And some people told him, "Your mother and your brothers stand outside, desiring to see you." 21 And he answered them, "My mother and my brothers are these who hear the word of God, and do it." 22 Now on a certain day, he went into a ship with his disciples, and he said to them, "Let's go over to the other side of the lake." And they launched out. 23 But as they sailed, he fell asleep, and a storm of wind came down on the lake, and they were filled with water, and were in danger. 24 And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, "Master, master, we're going to die." Then he got up, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water, and they stopped, and there was a calm. 25 And he said to them, "Where is your faith?" And being afraid, they wondered, saying to each other, "What kind of man is this! For he commands even the winds and water, and they obey him." 26 And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite Galilee. 27 And when he went out to land, a certain man met him out of the city who had devils for a long time, and didn't wear any clothes, nor live in any house, but in the tombs. 28 When he saw Jesus, he shouted, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, "What do I have to do with you, Jesus, you Son of God most high? I beg you, don't torment me." 29 (For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For often it had caught him, and he was kept bound with chains and in fetters, and he broke the bands, and was driven by the devil into the wilderness.) 30 And Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" And he said, "Legion," because many devils had entered into him. 31 And they asked him to not command them to go out into the deep. 32 And there was a herd of many pigs there, feeding on the mountain, and they asked him to let them enter into them. And he gave them permission to do so. 33 Then the devils went out of the man, and entered into the pigs, and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the lake, and were drowned. 34 When those who fed them saw what had happened, they ran off, and went and told it in the city and in the country. 35 Then they went out to see what had happened, and came to Jesus, and found the man out of whom the devils had departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind, and they were afraid. 36 Those also who saw it, told them how the man that had been possessed by the devils was healed. 37 Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gadarenes around there asked him to go away from them, for they were taken by great fear, and he went up into the ship, and returned back again. 38 Now the man out of whom the devils had departed asked him if he could be with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, 39 "Return to your own house, and show how God has done great things to you." And he went his way, and proclaimed throughout the whole city how Jesus had done great things to him. 40 And when Jesus had returned, the people gladly received him, for they were all waiting for him. 41 And a man named Jairus came, and he was a ruler of the synagogue, and he fell down at Jesus' feet, and asked him to come into his house, 42 For he had only one daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay dying. But as he went, the people crowded him. 43 And a woman who had been bleeding for twelve years, who had spent all her living on doctors, and couldn't be cured by any of them, 44 Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment, and immediately her bleeding stopped. 45 And Jesus said, "Who touched me?" When all denied, Peter and those who were with him said, "Master, the multitude crowd you and press you, and do you say, Who touched me?" 46 And Jesus said, "Someone has touched me, for I perceive that power has gone out of me." 47 And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared to him before all the people why she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. 48 And he said to her, "Daughter, be of good comfort, your faith has made you well, go in peace." 49 While he yet spoke, someone came from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, "Your daughter is dead, don't trouble the Master." 50 But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, "Don't be afraid, only believe, and she shall be made well." 51 And when he came into the house, he allowed no man to go in, except Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the girl. 52 And all wept, and bewailed her, but he said, "Don't cry, she's not dead, but sleeping." 53 And they laughed at him scornfully, knowing that she was dead. 54 And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, "Girl, get up." 55 And her spirit came again, and she got up immediately, and he commanded to give her some food. 56 And her parents were amazed, but he commanded them not to tell any man what had happened. ___Luke chapter 9 1 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. 2 And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick. 3 And he said to them, "Take nothing for your journey, don't take a walking stick, nor paper money, nor bread, nor coins, and don't have two coats each. 4 And whatever house you enter into, stay there until you leave that city. 5 And whoever will not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them." 6 And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing everywhere. 7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had risen from the dead, 8 And by some, that Elijah had appeared, and by others, that one of the old prophets had risen again. 9 And Herod said, "I've beheaded John, but who is this, about whom I hear such things?" And he desired to see him. 10 And the apostles, when they'd returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. 11 And the people, when they knew it, followed him, and he received them, and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing. 12 And when the day began to wear away, then the twelve came and said to him, "Send the multitude away, so they can go into the towns and country around here, and lodge, and get food, for we are here in a desert place." 13 But he said to them, "You give them food." And they said, "We have no more than five loaves and two fish, unless we go and buy food for all these people." 14 For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, "Make them sit down in groups of fifty." 15 And they did so, and made them all sit down. 16 Then he took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and broke, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude. 17 And they ate, and were all filled, and they took up twelve baskets of remaining pieces. 18 And as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him, and he asked them, "Whom do the people say I am?" 19 They answered, "John the Baptist, but some say Elijah, and others say that one of the old prophets has risen again." 20 He said to them, "But whom do you say that I am?" Peter answered, "The Christ of God." 21 And he strictly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing, 22 Saying, "The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day." 23 And he said to them all, "If any man wants to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save his life shall lose it, but whoever will lose his life for my sake, shall save it. 25 For what advantage does a man have, if he gains the whole world, and loses himself, or is thrown away? 26 For whoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he comes in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here that shall not taste of death until they see the kingdom of God." 28 And about eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. 29 And as he prayed, the shape of his face was changed, and his clothing was white and shining. 30 And see, two men talked with him, who were Moses and Elijah, 31 Who appeared in glory, and spoke about his dying that he would accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 But Peter and those who were with him were deep in sleep, and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. 33 And as they departed from him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here, and let us make three tents, one for you, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah," not knowing what he said. 34 While he thus spoke, a cloud came, and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered into the cloud. 35 And a voice came from the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son, listen to him." 36 And after the voice, Jesus was seen alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of the things that they had seen. 37 And on the next day, when they had come down from the hill, many people met him. 38 And a man of the company called out, "Master, please, look at my son, for he is my only child. 39 And see, a spirit takes him, and he suddenly shouts out, and it tears him so that he foams again, and bruising him hardly departs from him. 40 And I asked your disciples to cast him out, and they couldn't." 41 And Jesus answered, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and endure you? Bring your son here." 42 And as he was still coming, the devil threw him down, and tore him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and gave him back to his father. 43 And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. But while they all wondered at all the things that Jesus did, he said to his disciples, 44 "Let these sayings sink down in your ears, for the Son of man shall be given into the hands of men." 45 But they didn't understand this saying, and it was hidden from them, so that they didn't perceive it, and they were afraid to ask him about that saying. 46 Then a reasoning arose among them which of them would be greatest. 47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him, 48 And said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him that sent me, for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great." 49 And John answered, "Master, we saw someone casting out devils in your name, and we told him to stop, because he doesn't follow with us." 50 And Jesus said to him, "Don't stop him, for he that is not against us is for us." 51 And when the time had come for him to be received up, he steadily set his face to go to Jerusalem, 52 And sent messengers before his face, and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. 53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. 54 And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, "Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, like Elijah did?" 55 But he turned, and scolded them, and said, "You don't know what kind of spirit you are of. 56 For the Son of man hasn't come to destroy men's lives, but to save them." And they went to another village. 57 And as they went, on the way, a certain man said to him, "Lord, I will follow you wherever you go." 58 And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man doesn't have a place to lay his head." 59 And he said to another, "Follow me." But he said, "Lord, allow me first to go and bury my father." 60 Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their dead, but you go and preach the kingdom of God." 61 And another also said, "Lord, I will follow you, but first let me go say goodbye to those at home at my house." 62 And Jesus said to him, "No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." ___Luke chapter 10 1 After these things, the Lord chose seventy others also, and sent them two by two before his face into every city and place, where he himself would go. 2 Therefore he said to them, "The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few, pray therefore to the Lord of the harvest, that he would send out laborers into his harvest. 3 Go your ways, see, I send you out like lambs among wolves. 4 Don't carry purse, nor paper money, nor shoes, and greet no man on the way. 5 And into whatever house you enter, first say, Peace be to this house. 6 And if the son of peace is there, your peace shall rest on it, if not, it shall return to you. 7 And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give, for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Don't go from house to house. 8 And into whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat the things that are set before you, 9 And heal the sick that are there, and say to them, The kingdom of God has come near you. 10 But into whatever city you enter, and they don't receive you, go your ways out into the streets of it and say, 11 Even the very dust of your city, that sticks to us, we wipe off against you, anyway, be sure of this, that the kingdom of God has come near you. 12 But I say to you, it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city. 13 Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Zidon that have been done in you, they would have repented a long time ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Zidon at the judgment, than for you. 15 And you, Capernaum, that is lifted up to heaven, shall be thrown down to hell. 16 He that hears you hears me, and he that despises you despises me, and he that despises me despises him that sent me." 17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, "Lord, even the devils are subject to us through your name." 18 And he said to them, "I saw Satan like lightning fall from heaven. 19 See, I give you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall in any way hurt you. 20 However, don't rejoice that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven." 21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, "I thank you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you've hidden these things from the wise and prudent, and have revealed them to babies, even so, Father, for so it seemed good in your sight. 22 All things have been delivered to me by my Father, and no man knows who the Son is, but the Father, and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him." 23 And he turned to his disciples, and said privately, "Blessed are the eyes that see the things that you see, 24 For I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see the things that you see, and haven't seen them, and to hear the things that you hear, and haven't heard them." 25 And a certain lawyer stood up and tempted him, saying, "Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" 26 He said to him, "What is written in the law? What do you read?" 27 And he answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor like yourself." 28 And he said to him, "You've answered right, do that and you'll live." 29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 30 And Jesus answered, "A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothes, and wounded him, and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 And by chance, a certain priest came down that way, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked at him, and passed by on the other side. 33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, 34 And went to him, and bandaged his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own animal, and brought him to a hotel, and took care of him. 35 And on the next day when he left, he took out two pence, and gave them to the hotel keeper, and said to him, Take care of him, and whatever you spend more, when I come back, I'll repay you. 36 Now which of these three, do you think, was neighbor to him that fell among the thieves?" 37 And he said, "He that showed mercy on him." Then Jesus said to him, "Go, and do likewise." 38 Now as they went, he entered into a certain village, and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. 40 But Martha was burdened with much serving, and came to him, and said, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her therefore to help me." 41 And Jesus answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are careful and troubled about many things, 42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, that won't be taken away from her." ___Luke chapter 11 1 And as he was praying in a certain place, when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, like John also taught his disciples." 2 And he said to them, "When you pray, say, Our Father who is in heaven, honored be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. 3 Give us day by day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us. And don't lead us into temptation, but give us deliverance from evil." 5 And he said to them, "Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and say to him, Friend, lend me three loaves, 6 For a friend of mine in his journey has come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? 7 And he from inside shall answer, Don't trouble me, the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed, I can't get up and give to you. 8 I say to you, though he will not get up and give him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he'll rise and give him as many as he needs." 9 And I say to you, "Ask, and it shall be given to you, seek, and you'll find, knock, and it shall be opened to you. 10 For everyone that asks receives, and he that seeks finds, and to him that knocks it shall be opened. 11 If a son asks bread from any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he instead of a fish give him a snake? 12 Or if he shall ask for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 13 If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?" 14 And he was casting out a devil, and it was the kind that prevents the host person from talking. And when the devil had gone out, the formerly mute person spoke, and the people wondered. 15 But some of them said, "He casts out devils through Beelzebub the head of the devils." 16 And others, tempting him, sought from him a sign from heaven. 17 But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be brought to desolation, and a house divided against itself falls. 18 If Satan also is divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? Because you say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub. 19 And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they'll be your judges. 20 But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God has come to you. 21 When a strong, armed man keeps his palace, his goods are in peace, 22 But when a stronger than he shall come to him and overcome him, he takes from him all his armor in which he trusted, and divides his spoils. 23 He that is not with me is against me, and he that doesn't gather with me scatters. 24 When the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he walks through dry places, seeking rest, and finding none, he says, I will return to my house that I came out of. 25 And when he comes, he finds it swept and garnished. 26 Then he goes, and takes to himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in, and live there, and the last condition of that man is worse than the first." 27 And as he spoke these things, a certain woman of the crowd lifted up her voice, and said to him, "Blessed is the womb that gave you birth, and the breasts that you've sucked." 28 But he said, "Yes, rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God, and keep it." 29 And when the people were gathered thickly together, he began to say, "This is an evil generation, they look for a sign, and no sign shall be given to it, except for the sign of Jonah the Prophet. 30 For like Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so shall the Son of man also be a sign to this generation. 31 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them, for she came from the farthest parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and see, a greater than Solomon is here. 32 The men of Nineveh shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and see, a greater than Jonah is here. 33 No man, when he has lighted a candle, puts it in a secret place, nor under a basket, but on a candlestick, so those who come in will see the light. 34 The light of the body is the eye, therefore when your eye is single, your whole body also is full of light, but when your eye is evil, your body also is full of darkness. 35 Therefore, be careful that the light that is in you isn't darkness. 36 If your whole body therefore is full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, like when the bright shining of a candle gives you light." 37 And as he spoke, a certain Pharisee asked him to eat with him, and he went in, and sat down to eat. 38 And when the Pharisee saw it, he was surprised that he hadn't first washed before dinner. 39 And the Lord said to him, "Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and the plate clean, but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness. 40 You fools, didn't he that made that which is outside make that which is inside also? 41 But rather give alms of such things as you have, and see, all things are clean to you. 42 But woe to you, Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all kinds of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God. These ought you to have done, and not to leave the other undone. 43 Woe to you, Pharisees! For you love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets. 44 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you're like graves that are hidden, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them. 45 Then one of the lawyers answered him, "Master, when you talk like that, you reproach us also." 46 And he said, "Woe to you also, you lawyers! For you load men with burdens, the carrying of which causes grief, and you yourselves won't touch he burdens with one of your fingers. 47 Woe to you! For you build the tombs of the prophets, and your fathers killed them. 48 Truly you testify that you allow the deeds of your fathers, for they indeed killed them, and you build their tombs. 49 Therefore the wisdom of God also said, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall kill and persecute, 50 So that the blood of all the prophets, that was spilled from the foundation of the world, will be required of this generation, 51 From the blood of Abel to the blood of Zacharias, who perished between the altar and the temple, truly I say to you, it shall be required of this generation. 52 Woe to you, lawyers! For you've taken away the key of knowledge, you didn't enter in yourselves, and those who were entering in you hindered." 53 And as he said these things to them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to urge him forcefully, and to provoke him to speak about many things, 54 Lying in ambush for him, (figuratively, not literally), and looking to catch something out of his mouth, so they could accuse him. ___Luke chapter 12 1 In the meantime, when an uncountable multitude of people was gathered together, so much that they stepped on each other, he began to say to his disciples first of all, "Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 For there is nothing covered that won't be revealed, nor hidden that won't be known. 3 Therefore whatever you've spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light, and what you've spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed on the house tops. 4 And I say to you my friends, don't be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom to fear, fear him, who after he has killed has the power to throw you into hell, yes I say to you, fear him. 6 Aren't five sparrows sold for two quarters? And not one of them is forgotten by God. 7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Therefore, don't be afraid, you are of more value than many sparrows. 8 Also I say to you, whoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God, 9 But he that denies me before men shall be denied before the angels of God. 10 And whoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him, but to him that blasphemes against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven. 11 And when they bring you to the synagogues, and to magistrates, and powers, don't think about how or what you'll answer, or what you'll say, 12 For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what to say." 13 And one of the crowd said to him, "Master, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me." 14 And he said to him, "Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?" 15 And he said to them, "Be careful, beware of covetousness, for a man's life doesn't consist in the abundance of the things that he possesses." 16 And he spoke a parable to them, "The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully, 17 And he thought within himself, What shall I do, because I don't have enough space to put my produce? 18 And he said, Here's what I'll do, I'll pull down my barns, and build larger, and I'll put all my fruits and my goods there. 19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have a lot of goods laid up for many years, take your ease, eat, drink, and be merry. 20 But God said to him, You fool, tonight your soul shall be required from you, then whose shall those things be that you've provided? 21 So is he that lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." 22 And he said to his disciples, "Therefore I say to you, don't worry about your life, what you'll eat, nor for the body, what to wear. 23 The life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens, for they neither plant nor reap, which neither have storehouse nor barn, and God feeds them, how much more are you better than the birds? 25 And which of you can, by thinking, make himself eighteen inches taller? 26 So if you're not able to do the thing that's least, why think about the rest? 27 Consider the lilies how they grow, they don't work, they don't spin, and yet I say to you, that Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. 28 So then if God dresses up the grass that way, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith? 29 And don't worry about what you'll eat, or what you'll drink, and don't be of doubtful mind. 30 Because the nations of the world seek for all these things, and your Father knows that you need these things. 31 But rather, seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. 32 Don't be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell what you have, and give to the poor, provide for yourselves wallets that don't grow old, a treasure in the heavens that doesn't fail, where no thief approaches, nor moth corrupts. 34 For where your treasure is, that's where your heart will be also. 35 Have your pants on, and your lights on, 36 And you yourselves like men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding, so that when he comes and knocks, they'll open to him immediately. 37 Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he comes shall find awake, truly I say to you, that he'll dress himself, and make them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them. 38 And if he comes in the second shift of the guard, or comes in the third shift of the guard, and finds them so, blessed are those servants. 39 And know this, that if the householder had known what hour the thief would come, he would have stayed awake, and not have let his house be broken into. 40 Therefore, you be ready also, for the Son of man will come at an hour when you think not." 41 Then Peter said to him, "Lord, do you speak this parable to us, or to all?" 42 And the Lord said, "Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? 43 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he comes shall find so doing. 44 Of a truth I say to you that he will make him ruler over all that he has. 45 But if that servant says in his heart, My lord delays his coming, and shall begin to beat the men servants and young women, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken, 46 The lord of that servant will come on a day when he doesn't look for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in pieces, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47 And that servant, who knew his lord's will, and didn't prepare himself, nor did according to his will, shall be beaten with many strokes of the whip. 48 But he that didn't know, and committed things worthy of strokes, shall be beaten with few strokes of the whip. For to whom much has been given, from him shall much be required, and to whom men have committed much, from him they will ask the more. 49 I've come to send fire on the earth, and what do I need, if the fire's already started? 50 But I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how much I'm restricted until it has been accomplished! 51 Do you suppose that I've come to give peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division, 52 For from now on there'll be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. 53 The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father, the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother, the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law." 54 And he said also to the people, "When you see a cloud rise out of the west, immediately you say, A shower is coming, and that's right. 55 And when you see the south wind blow, you say, There will be heat, and it happens. 56 You hypocrites, you can figure out the face of the sky and of the earth, but how is it that you don't figure out this time? 57 Yes, and why even of yourselves don't you judge what is right? 58 When you go with your adversary to the magistrate, while you're in the street, give diligence so that you'll obtain deliverance out of his hand, so he doesn't turn you over to the judge, and the judge turns you over to the officer, and the officer throws you into prison. 59 I tell you, you won't get out of there, until you've paid the very last penny." ___Luke chapter 13 1 There were present at that season some that told him about the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2 And Jesus answered them, "Do you suppose that those Galileans were sinners more than all the Galileans, because such things happened to them? 3 I tell you no, but unless you repent, you'll all likewise be destroyed. 4 Or those eighteen, on whom the tower in Siloam fell, and killed them, do you think that they were sinners more than all men that lived in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you no, but unless you repent, you'll all likewise be destroyed." 6 He spoke also this parable: "A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came and looked for fruit on it, and found none. 7 Then he said to the worker in his vineyard, See, these three years I've come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and found none, cut it down, why should it be a burden to the ground? 8 And he answered him, Lord, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it, and fertilize it, 9 And if it bears fruit, well, and if not, then after that we'll cut it down." 10 And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. 11 And there was a woman who had a spirit of sickness eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no way lift up herself. 12 And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said to her, "Woman, you're loosed from your sickness." 13 And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. 14 And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath day, and said to the people, "There are six days in which men ought to work, in them therefore come and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day." 15 The Lord then answered him, "You hypocrite, doesn't each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering? 16 And shouldn't this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?" 17 And when he had said these things, all his adversaries were ashamed, and all the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by him. 18 Then he said, "To what is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I liken it? 19 It is like a grain of mustard seed, that a man took, and threw into his garden, and it grew, and became a large tree, and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it." 20 And again he said, "To what shall I liken the kingdom of God? 21 It is like yeast, that a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, until all of it was leavened." 22 And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. 23 Then someone said to him, "Lord, are there few that get saved?" And he said to them, 24 "Try hard to enter in at the restricted gate, because many, I say to you, will seek to enter in, and won't be able. 25 When once the master of the house has risen up, and has locked the door, and you begin to stand outside, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us, and he shall answer you, I don't know where you're from. 26 Then you'll begin to say, We've eaten and drunk in your presence, and you've taught in our streets. 27 But he'll say, I tell you, I don't know where you're from, go away from me, all of you who commit sin. 28 There shall be crying and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves pushed out. 29 And they'll come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. 30 And there are last that shall be first, and there are first that shall be last." 31 The same day certain of the Pharisees came and said to him, "Get out, and go from here, for Herod will kill you." 32 And he said to them, "Go and tell that fox, See, I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected. 33 However, I must walk today, and tomorrow, and the day following, for it can't be that a prophet dies outside of Jerusalem. 34 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that kills the prophets, and stones those who are sent to you, how often would I have gathered your children together, like a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you weren't willing! 35 See, your house is left to you desolate, and truly I say to you, you won't see me until the time comes when you say, Blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord." ___Luke chapter 14 1 And as he went into the house of one of the chief Pharisees to eat bread on the Sabbath day, they watched him. 2 And there was a certain man before him who had the dropsy. 3 And Jesus answered the lawyers and Pharisees, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath day?" 4 And they kept quiet. And he took him and healed him, and let him go, 5 And answered them, "Which of you shall have an ass or an ox that's fallen into a pit, and will not immediately pull him out on the Sabbath day?" 6 And they couldn't answer him back about these things. 7 And he put out a parable to those who had been invited, when he saw how they chose out the best rooms, saying to them, 8 "When you are invited by any man to a wedding, don't sit down in the highest room, because a more honorable man than you might have been invited by him, 9 And he that invited you and him come and say to you, give this man the room, and you begin with shame to take the lowest room. 10 But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest room, so that when he that invited you comes, he will say to you, Friend, go up higher, then you'll have admiration in the presence of those who sit to eat with you. 11 For whoever lifts himself up shall be brought low, and he that humbles himself shall be lifted up." 12 Then he said also to him that invited him, "When you make a dinner or a supper, don't invite your friends, nor your brothers, nor your kinsmen, nor your rich neighbors, or they'll also invite you back, and you'll be repaid. 13 But when you make a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind, 14 And you'll be blessed, for they can't repay you, for you'll be repaid at the rising of the just from the dead." 15 And when one of those who sat to eat with him heard these things, he said to him, "Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God." 16 Then he said to him, "A certain man made a great supper, and invited many, 17 And sent his servant at supper time to say to those who'd been invited, Come, for everything's now ready. 18 And they all began to make excuses. The first said to him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must go and see it, please have me excused. 19 And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to test them, please have me excused. 20 And another said, I have married a wife, and that's why I can't come. 21 So that servant came, and showed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in here the poor, and the maimed, and those who walk with difficulty, and the blind. 22 And the servant said, Lord, it is done as you've commanded, and yet there is room. 23 And the lord said to the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, so my house will be filled. 24 For I say to you that none of those men who were invited shall taste of my supper." 25 And great multitudes went with him, and he turned, and said to them, 26 "If any man comes to me, and doesn't hate his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brothers, and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he can't be my disciple. 27 And whoever doesn't carry his cross, and come after me, can't be my disciple. 28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, doesn't sit down first, and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it? 29 Otherwise, perhaps after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that see it begin to make fun of him, 30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. 31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, doesn't sit down first, and consult whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him that comes against him with twenty thousand? 32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sends an ambassador, and desires conditions of peace. 33 So likewise, whoever he is of you that doesn't forsake all that he has, he can't be my disciple. 34 Salt is good, but if the salt has lost its flavor, with what will it be seasoned? 35 It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the manure pile, but men throw it out. He that has ears to hear, let him hear." ___Luke chapter 15 1 Then all the tax collectors and sinners came near to hear him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes grumbled, "This man receives sinners, and eats with them." 3 And he spoke this parable to them: 4 "What man of you, who has a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, doesn't leave the ninety nine in the wilderness, and go after the one that's lost, until he finds it? 5 And when he's found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost. 7 I say to you that likewise, there'll be joy in heaven over one sinner that repents, more than over ninety nine righteous people, who don't need repentance. 8 Or what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she loses one piece, doesn't light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently until she finds it? 9 And when she's found it, she calls her friends and her neighbors together, and says, Rejoice with me, for I've found the piece that I had lost. 10 Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents." 11 And he said, "A certain man had two sons, 12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that will be mine. And he divided to them his living. 13 And not many days later the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and wasted his substance there with riotous living. 14 And when he had spent all, a mighty famine arose in that land, and he began to lack the things he needed. 15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 And he would preferably have filled his belly with the husks that the pigs ate, and no man gave to him. 17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I'm dying of hunger! 18 I'll get up and go to my father, and will say to him, father, I have sinned against heaven, and before you, 19 And am no more worthy to be called your son, make me like one of your hired servants. 20 And he got up, and went to his father. But when he was yet a long way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight, and am no more worthy to be called your son. 22 But the father said to his servants, Bring out the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet, 23 And bring here the fatted calf, and kill it, and let us eat, and be merry, 24 For this son of mine was dead, and is alive again, he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. 25 Now his elder son was in the field, and as he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said to him, Your brother has returned, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him safe and sound. 28 And he was angry, and wouldn't go in, so his father came out, and reasoned with him. 29 And he answered his father, See, these many years I've served you. I never disobeyed your orders, and yet you never gave me a young goat so I could party with my friends, 30 But as soon as this son of yours has come, who has consumed your living with prostitutes, you've killed for him the fatted calf. 31 And he said to him, Son, you're always with me, and all that I have is yours. 32 It was right that we should make merry, and be glad, for this brother of yours was dead, but is alive again, and was lost, and is found." ___Luke chapter 16 1 And he said also to his disciples, "There was a certain rich man, who had an employee who had been accused to him that he had wasted his goods. 2 And he called him, and said to him, How is it that I hear this about you? Give an account of your stewardship, for you'll no longer be steward. 3 Then the steward said inside himself, What shall I do?, for my lord is taking away from me the stewardship, I can't dig, to beg I am ashamed. 4 Here's what I'll do, so that when I've been put out of the stewardship, they'll receive me into their houses. 5 So he called every one of his lord's debtors to him, and said to the first, How much do you owe my lord? 6 And he said, A hundred measures of oil. And he said to him, Take your bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty. 7 Then he said to another, And how much do you owe? And he said, A hundred measures of wheat. And he said to him, Take your bill, and write eighty. 8 And the lord complimented the sloppy steward, because he had done wisely, for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. 9 And I say to you, make for yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness, so that when you fail, they'll receive you into everlasting houses. 10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much, and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. 11 If therefore you haven't been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who'll commit to your trust the true riches? 12 And if you haven't been faithful in what is another man's, who'll give you that which is your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. You can't serve God and money." 14 And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things, and they made fun of him. 15 And he said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts, for that which is highly esteemed among men is hated in the sight of God. 16 The law and the prophets were until John. Since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presses into it. 17 And it is easier for heaven and earth to go away, than for one period or comma of the law to fail. 18 Whoever puts away his wife and marries someone else, commits adultery, and whoever marries her that has been put away from her husband commits adultery. 19 There was a certain rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen, and feasted every day. 20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, who laid at his gate, full of sores, 21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table, also the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 And the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom, the rich man also died, and was buried. 23 And in hell he lifted up his eyes, being tormented, and saw Abraham far off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 And he shouted, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, so he can dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am tormented in these flames. 25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that in your lifetime, you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things, but now he is comforted, and you're tormented. 26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a large gulf fixed, so that those who might want to pass from here to you can't, nor can they pass to us that want to come from there. 27 Then he said, Please, therefore, father, send him to my father's house, 28 For I have five brothers, so that he'll testify to them, so they won't also come into this place of torment. 29 Abraham said to him, They have Moses and the prophets, let them hear them. 30 And he said, No, father Abraham. But if someone went back to them from the dead, they'll repent. 31 And he said to him, If they won't listen to Moses and the prophets, they won't be persuaded, even if someone rose from the dead." ___Luke chapter 17 1 Then he said to the disciples, "It is impossible that offences won't come, but woe to him through whom they come! 2 It would have been better for him that a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. 3 Be careful about yourselves, if your brother wrongs you, tell him what he did wrong, and if he's sorry, forgive him. 4 And if he wrongs you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turns again to you, and says, I'm sorry, you shall forgive him." 5 And the apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith." 6 And the Lord said, "If you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you can say to this sycamore tree, Be plucked up roots and all, and be planted in the sea, and it will obey you. 7 But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say to him by and by, when he has come from the field, Go and sit down to eat? 8 And won't rather say to him, Make ready so I can eat, and gird yourself, and serve me, until I've eaten and drunk, and afterward you'll eat and drink? 9 Does he thank that servant because he did the things that had been commanded him? Certainly not. 10 So likewise you, when you've done all the things that you've been commanded, say, We are not exceptional achievers, we've done what was our duty to do." 11 And as he went to Jerusalem, he passed through the middle of Samaria and Galilee. 12 And as he entered into a certain village, ten men that were lepers met him, who stood far off. 13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." 14 And when he saw them, he said to them, "Go show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were healed. 15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks, and he was a Samaritan. 17 And Jesus answered, "Weren't there ten who got healed? But where are the other nine? 18 There are not found who returned to give glory to God, except this stranger." 19 And he said to him, "Get up, go your way, your faith has made you well." 20 And when the Pharisees demanded to know when the kingdom of God would come, he answered them, "The kingdom of God doesn't come with observation, 21 Nor shall they say, See here! Or, see there! For, the kingdom of God is inside you." 22 And he said to the disciples, "The days will come, when you'll desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and you won't see it. 23 And they'll say to you, See here, or, See there, don't go after them, nor follow them. 24 For like the lightning, that shines out of the one part under heaven, shines to the other part under heaven, so shall also the Son of man be in his day. 25 But first, he must suffer many things, and be rejected by this generation. 26 And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. 27 They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. 28 Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot, they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built, 29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. 30 That's how it shall be on the day when the Son of man is revealed. 31 In that day, he that's on the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away, and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back. 32 Remember Lot's wife. 33 Whoever shall try to save his life shall lose it, and whoever shall lose his life shall preserve it. 34 I tell you, in that night there'll be two men in one bed, the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left. 35 Two women shall be grinding together, the one shall be taken, and the other left. 36 Two men shall be in the field, the one shall be taken, and the other left." 37 And they answered him, "Where, Lord?" And he said to them, "Wherever the body is, that's where the eagles will be gathered together." ___Luke chapter 18 1 And he spoke a parable to them for this purpose, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint, 2 Saying, "There was a judge in a city, who didn't fear God, nor regarded man. 3 And there was a widow in that city, and she came to him, saying, Avenge me of my adversary. 4 And he wouldn't for a while, but afterward he said inside himself, Though I don't fear God, nor regard man, 5 Yet because this widow troubles me, I will avenge her, so that by her continual coming, she doesn't tire me." 6 And the Lord said, "Listen to what the dishonest judge says. 7 And won't God avenge his own elect, who cry day and night to him, though he bears long with them? 8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. However, when the Son of man comes, will he find faith on the earth?" 9 And he spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others, 10 "Two men went up into the temple to pray, the one a Pharisee, and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed like this with himself, God, I thank you that I'm not like other men are, extortionists, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I have. 13 And the tax collector, standing far off, wouldn't lift up as much as his eyes to heaven, but struck his chest, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other, for everyone that lifts himself up shall be brought low, and he that humbles himself shall be lifted up." 15 And they also brought to him infants, so he would touch them, but when his disciples saw it, they scolded them. 16 But Jesus called them to him, and said, "Allow little children to come to me, and don't forbid them, for of such is the kingdom of God. 17 Truly I say to you, whoever won't receive the kingdom of God like a little child shall in no case enter into it." 18 And a certain ruler asked him, "Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" 19 And Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except one, that is God. 20 You know the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and your mother." 21 And he said, "I have kept all these since my youth." 22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said to him, "You still lack one thing, sell all that you have, and give to the poor, and you'll have treasure in heaven, and come, follow me." 23 And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful, for he was very rich. 24 And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, "How hardly shall those who have riches enter into the kingdom of God! 25 For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God." 26 And those who heard it said, "Who then can be saved?" 27 And he said, "The things that are impossible with men are possible with God." 28 Then Peter said, "See, we've left all and followed you." 29 And he said to them, "Truly I say to you, there is no man that has left house, or parents, or brothers, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, 30 Who won't receive many times as much in this present time, and in the world to come everlasting life." 31 Then he took to himself the twelve, and said to them, "See, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that have been written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished. 32 For he shall be delivered to the Gentiles, and shall be made fun of, and mistreated and spat on, 33 And they shall whip him, and put him to death, and the third day he shall rise again." 34 And they didn't understand any of these things, and this saying was hidden from them, nor did they know the things that were spoken. 35 And as he came near Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging, 36 And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant. 37 And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by. 38 And he shouted, "Jesus, you Son of David, have mercy on me." 39 And those who went before scolded him, so he would be quiet, but he shouted so much the more, "You Son of David, have mercy on me." 40 And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought to him, and when he had come near, he asked him, 41 "What do you want me to do to you?" And he said, "Lord, I want to receive my sight." 42 And Jesus said to him, "Receive your sight, your faith has saved you." 43 And immediately he received his sight, and followed Him, glorifying God, and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God. ___Luke chapter 19 1 And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 2 And there was a man named Zacchaeus, who was the head of the tax collectors, and he was rich. 3 And he tried to see Jesus who he was, but couldn't because of the crowd, because he was a short man. 4 And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. 5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said to him, "Zacchaeus, hurry up and come down, for today I must stay at your house." 6 And he hurried, and came down, and received him joyfully. 7 And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying that he was going to be guest with a man that is a sinner. 8 And Zacchaeus stood, and said to the Lord, "See Lord, half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I've taken anything from any man by false accusation, I restore to him four times as much." 9 And Jesus said to him, "This day has salvation come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of man has come to seek and to save that which was lost." 11 And as they heard these things, he added and spoke a parable, because he was near Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God would immediately appear. 12 He said therefore, "A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. 13 And he called his ten servants, and delivered to them ten pounds, and said to them, Occupy until I return. 14 But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We won't have this man to rule over us. 15 And when he had returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded those servants to be called to him to whom he had given the money, so he would know how much every man had gained by trading. 16 Then the first came and said, Lord, your pound has gained ten pounds. 17 And he said to him, Well, you good servant, because you have been faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities. 18 And the second came, saying, Lord, your pound has gained five pounds. 19 And he said likewise to him, You are also over five cities. 20 And another came, saying, Lord, see, here is your pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin, 21 For I feared you, because you are a rough man, you take up what you didn't lay down, and reap what you didn't plant. 22 And he said to him, Out of your own mouth I'll judge you, you wicked servant. You knew that I was a rough man, taking up what I didn't lay down, and reaping what I didn't plant, 23 Why then didn't you put my money in the bank, so that at my return I could have required my own plus interest? 24 And he said to those who stood by, take the pound from him, and give it to him that has ten pounds. 25 (And they said to him, Lord, he has ten pounds.) 26 For I say to you, that to everyone who has shall be given, and from him that doesn't have, even what he has shall be taken away from him. 27 But those enemies of mine, who didn't want me to rule over them, bring here, and kill them before me." 28 And when he had said that, he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem. 29 And when he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, 30 And said, "Go into the village opposite you, in which at your entering you'll find a colt tied, on which man has never sat, untie him, and bring him here. 31 And if any man asks you, Why do you untie him? You say, Because the Lord needs him." 32 And those who'd been sent went their way, and found like he had said to them. 33 And as they were loosing the colt, the owners said to them, "Why are you untying the colt?" 34 And they said, "The Lord has need of him." 35 And they brought him to Jesus, and they threw their garments on the colt, and they set Jesus on him. 36 And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way. 37 And when he had come near, even now at the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, 38 Saying, "Blessed be the King that comes in the name of the Lord, peace in heaven, and glory in the highest." 39 And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said to him, "Master, scold your disciples." 40 And he answered them, "I tell you that if these would be quiet, the stones would immediately cry out." 41 And when he had come near, he saw the city, and cried tears over it, 42 Saying, "If you had known, even you, at least in this your day, the things that belong to your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For the days shall come on you, that your enemies shall dig a trench around you, and surround you, and keep you in on every side, 44 And shall lay you level with the ground, and your children within you, and they won't leave in you one stone on another, because you didn't know the time of your visitation." 45 And he went into the temple, and began to throw out those who sold there, and those who bought, 46 Saying to them, "It is written, My house is the house of prayer, but you've made it a den of thieves." 47 And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests and the scribes and the chief of the people tried to destroy him, 48 And couldn't find anything they could do, for all the people listened closely to him. ___Luke chapter 20 1 And on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came to him with the elders, 2 And said to him, "Tell us by what authority you do these things? Or who is he that gave you this authority?" 3 And he answered them, "I will also ask you one thing, and answer me, 4 The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men?" 5 And they reasoned with themselves, "If we say, From heaven, he will say, Why then didn't you believe him? 6 But if we say, Of men, all the people will stone us, for they're persuaded that John was a prophet." 7 And they answered, that they couldn't tell where it was from. 8 And Jesus said to them, "Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things." 9 Then he began to speak to the people this parable, "A certain man planted a vineyard, and rented it to vineyard keepers, and went into a far country for a long time. 10 And at the season he sent a servant to the vineyard keepers, so they would pay him of the fruit of the vineyard, but the vineyard keepers beat him, and sent him away empty. 11 And again he sent another servant, and they beat him also, and treated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. 12 And again he sent a third, and they wounded him also, and threw him out. 13 Then the lord of the vineyard said, What shall I do? I'll send my beloved son, perhaps they'll respect him when they see him. 14 But when the vineyard keepers saw him, they reasoned among themselves, This is the heir, come, let's kill him, so the inheritance will be ours. 15 So they threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. Therefore what shall the lord of the vineyard do to them? 16 He shall come and destroy those vineyard keepers, and shall give the vineyard to others." And when they heard it, they said, "God forbid." 17 And he looked at them and said, "What is this then that is written, The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone? 18 Whoever shall fall on that stone shall be broken, but on whomever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder." 19 And the same hour, the chief priests and the scribes tried to arrest him, and they feared the people, for they understood that he had spoken this parable against them. 20 And they watched him, and sent out spies, who would pretend to be righteous men, so they could take hold of his words, so they could deliver him to the power and authority of the governor. 21 And they asked him, "Master, we know that you say and teach rightly, nor do you accept the person of any, but teach the way of God truly, 22 Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?" 23 But he perceived their craftiness, and said to them, "Why do you tempt me? 24 Show me a penny. Whose image and writing does it have?" They answered, "Caesar's." 25 And he said to them, "Give therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." 26 And they couldn't take hold of his words before the people, and they were amazed at his answer, and kept quiet. 27 Then certain of the Sadducees came to him, who deny that there is any rising from the dead, and they asked him, 28 "Master, Moses wrote to us, If any man's brother dies, having a wife, and he dies without children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed to his brother. 29 There were therefore seven brothers, and the first took a wife, and died without children. 30 And the second took her as wife, and he died childless. 31 And the third took her, and similarly the seven also, and they left no children, and died. 32 Last of all the woman died also. 33 Therefore in the resurrection whose wife of them is she? For seven had her as wife." 34 And Jesus answered them, "The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage, 35 But those who'll be counted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage, 36 Nor can they die anymore, for they are equal to the angels, and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. 37 Now that the dead are raised, even Moses showed at the bush, when he called the Lord the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. 38 For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living, for all live to him." 39 Then certain of the scribes answered, "Master, you've well said." 40 And after that they didn't dare ask him any question at all. 41 And he said to them, "How can they say that Christ is David's son? 42 And David himself said in the book of Psalms, The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand, 43 Until I make your enemies your footstool. 44 David therefore calls him Lord, how is he then his son?" 45 Then in the audience of all the people he said to his disciples, 46 "Beware of the scribes, who desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the main rooms at feasts, 47 Who devour widows' houses, and for a show make long prayers, they'll receive greater damnation." ___Luke chapter 21 1 And he looked up, and saw the rich men throwing their gifts into the treasury. 2 And he saw also a certain poor widow throwing two mites in there. 3 And he said, "Truly I say to you that this poor widow has thrown in more than all of them, 4 For all these have of their abundance thrown into the offerings of God, but she in her poverty has thrown in all the living that she had." 5 And as some spoke about the temple, how it was adorned with good stones and gifts, he said, 6 "As for these things that you see, the days will come in which there shall not be left one stone on another, that won't be thrown down." 7 And they asked him, "Master, but when shall these things be? And what sign will there be when these things shall happen?" 8 And he said, "Be careful that you're not deceived, for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ, and the time draws near, therefore don't follow them. 9 But when you hear of wars and commotions, don't be terrified, for these things must first happen, but the end is not yet." 10 Then he said to them, "Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, 11 And there shall be great earthquakes in various places, and famines, and pestilences, and fearful sights and there shall be great signs from heaven. 12 But before all these, they'll lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake. 13 And it will be a testimony for you. 14 Settle it therefore in your hearts not to think ahead of time what you'll answer, 15 For I'll give you a mouth and wisdom, that all your adversaries won't be able to contradict nor resist. 16 And you'll be betrayed both by parents, and brothers, and kinsfolk, and friends, and some of you they'll cause to be put to death. 17 And you'll be hated by all men for my name's sake. 18 But not a hair of your head will be destroyed. 19 In your patience possess your souls. 20 And when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that the desolation of it is near. 21 Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, and let those who are inside of it go out, and let those who are in the countries not enter into it. 22 For these are the days of vengeance, so that all things that are written will be fulfilled. 23 But woe to those who are with child and to those who breast feed in those days! For there shall be great distress in the land, and anger at these people. 24 And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations, and Jerusalem shall be walked on by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. 25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars, and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring, 26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking at the things that are coming on the earth, for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27 And then they'll see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 And when these things begin to happen, then look up, and lift up your heads, for your redemption gets close." 29 And he spoke to them a parable, "See the fig tree, and all the trees. 30 When they now shoot out branches, you see and know of your own selves that summer is now near. 31 So likewise you, when you see these things happen, know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Truly I say to you, this generation shall not pass away, until all has been fulfilled. 33 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 34 And watch yourselves, so that your hearts won't become overloaded by excessive indulgence, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day takes you by surprise. 35 For like a trap it shall come on all of those who live on the face of the whole earth. 36 Stay awake therefore, and pray always, so that you'll be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall happen, and to stand before the Son of man." 37 And in the day time he was teaching in the temple, and at night he went out, and stayed in the mount that is called the Mount of Olives. 38 And early in the morning, all the people came to him in the temple, to hear him. ___Luke chapter 22 1 Now the feast of unleavened bread came near, which is called the Passover. 2 And the chief priests and scribes tried to find a way to kill him, for they feared the people. 3 Then Satan entered into Judas Iscariot, being one of the twelve. 4 And he went, and consulted with the chief priests and captains, how he could betray him to them. 5 And they were glad, and promised to give him money. 6 And he promised, and looked for opportunity to betray him to them in the absence of the multitude. 7 Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the Passover must be killed. 8 And He sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare us the Passover, so we can eat." 9 And they said to him, "Where do you want us to prepare?" 10 And he said to them, "See, when you've entered into the city, a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water, follow him into the house that he goes into. 11 And say to the householder, The Master says to you, where is the guest room, where I'll eat the Passover with my disciples? 12 And he shall show you a large upper room furnished, make ready there." 13 And they went, and found like he had told them, and they prepared the Passover. 14 And when the hour had come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. 15 And he said to them, "With desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, 16 For I say to you, I will not eat of it anymore, until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God." 17 And he took the cup and gave thanks, and said, "Take this, and divide it among yourselves, 18 For I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God has come." 19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and broke it, and gave to them, saying, "This is my body that is given for you, do this in remembrance of me." 20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new testament in my blood, that will be shed for you. 21 But see, the hand of him that betrays me is with me on the table. 22 And truly the Son of man goes, as it was determined, but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed!" 23 And they began to inquire among themselves, which of them it would be that would do this thing. 24 And there was also a strife among them, which of them would be counted the greatest. 25 And he said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority on them are called benefactors. 26 But it won't be like that with you, but he that is greatest among you, let him be like the younger, and he that is chief, like he that serves. 27 For which is greater, he that sits to eat, or he that serves? Isn't he that sits to eat? But I am among you as he that serves. 28 You are those who've continued with me in my temptations. 29 And I appoint to you a kingdom, like my Father has appointed to me, 30 So that you'll eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel." 31 And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon, see, Satan has desired to have you, so he can sift you like wheat, 32 But I have prayed for you, so that your faith doesn't fail, and when you've been converted, strengthen your brothers." 33 And he said to him, "Lord, I am ready to go with you, both into prison, and to death." 34 And he said, "I tell you, Peter, the rooster won't crow this day, before you'll three times deny that you know me." 35 And he said to them, "When I sent you without purse, and paper money, and shoes, did you lack anything?" And they said, "Nothing." 36 Then he said to them, "But now, he that has a purse, let him take it, and likewise his paper money, and he that doesn't have a sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. 37 For I say to you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, AND HE WAS RECKONED AMONG THE CRIMINALS, for the things concerning me have an end." 38 And they said, "Lord, see, here are two swords." And he said to them, "It is enough." 39 And he came out, and went, as he usually did, to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples also followed him. 40 And when he was at the place, he said to them, "Pray so that you don't enter into temptation." 41 And he was removed from them about a stone's throw, and kneeled down, and prayed, 42 "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me, however, not my will, but yours, be done." 43 And an angel appeared to him from heaven, strengthening him. 44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was, as it were, large drops of blood falling down to the ground. 45 And when he got up from prayer, and had come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow, 46 And said to them, "Why do you sleep? Get up and pray, so you won't enter into temptation." 47 And while he yet spoke, see, a lot of people, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and came near Jesus to kiss him. 48 But Jesus said to him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of man with a kiss?" 49 When those who were around him saw what was going to happen, they said to him, "Lord, shall we strike with the sword?" 50 And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear. 51 And Jesus answered, "That's far enough." And he touched his ear, and healed him. 52 Then Jesus said to the chief priests and captains of the temple, and the elders who had come to him, "Have you come out like against a thief, with swords and clubs? 53 When I was daily with you in the temple, you didn't stretch out hands against me, but this is your hour, and the power of darkness." 54 Then they took him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest's house. And Peter followed far off. 55 And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the hall, and had sat down together, Peter sat down among them. 56 But a certain maid saw him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly looked at him and said, "This man was also with him." 57 And he denied him, saying, "Woman, I don't know him." 58 And after a little while another saw him and said, "You are also of them." And Peter said, "Man, I am not." 59 And about the space of one hour afterward someone else confidently affirmed, "Truly this fellow also was with him, for he is a Galilean." 60 And Peter said, "Man, I don't know what you're talking about." And immediately, while he yet spoke, the rooster crowed. 61 And the Lord turned, and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows, you'll deny me three times." 62 And Peter went out, and cried bitterly. 63 And the men that held Jesus made fun of him, and struck him. 64 And when they had blindfolded him, they struck him on the face, and asked him, "Prophesy, who is it that struck you?" 65 And they blasphemously spoke against him many other things. 66 And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led him into their council, and said, 67 "Are you the Christ? Tell us." And he said to them, "If I tell you, you won't believe, 68 And also if I ask you, you won't answer me, nor let me go. 69 After this, the Son of man shall sit at the right hand of the power of God." 70 Then they all said, "Then are you the Son of God?" And he said to them, "You say that I am." 71 And they said, "Why do we need any further witnesses? For we ourselves have heard from his own mouth." ___Luke chapter 23 1 And the whole multitude of them got up, and led him to Pilate. 2 And they began to accuse him, "We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to pay taxes to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ, a King." 3 And Pilate asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" And he answered him, "You say it." 4 Then Pilate said to the chief priests and to the people, "I find no fault in this man." 5 And they were the more fierce, saying, "He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place." 6 When Pilate heard about Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilean. 7 And as soon as he knew that he belonged to Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself was also at Jerusalem at that time. 8 And when Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had desired to see him for a long time, because he had heard many things about him, and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him. 9 Then he questioned him in many words, but He answered him nothing. 10 And the chief priests and scribes stood and strongly accused him. 11 And Herod with his men of war treated him as though he were dirt, and made fun of him, and clothed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him back to Pilate. 12 And the same day Pilate and Herod became friends together, for before there was friction between them. 13 And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people, 14 Said to them, "You've brought this man to me, as someone who perverts the people, and see, having examined him before you, I have found no fault in this man concerning the things about which you accuse him, 15 No, nor yet Herod, for I sent you to him, and see, nothing worthy of death is done by him. 16 I will therefore whip him, and release him." 17 (For of necessity he must release someone to them at the feast.) 18 And they all shouted, "Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas," 19 (Who for a certain rebellion made in the city, and for murder, was thrown into prison.) 20 Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spoke again to them. 21 But they shouted, "Crucify him, crucify him." 22 And he said to them the third time, "Why, what evil has he done? I have found no cause of death in him, I will therefore whip him, and let him go." 23 And instantly they demanded with loud voices that he be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed. 24 And Pilate gave sentence that it would be as they required. 25 And he released to them him that for rebellion and murder had been thrown into prison, whom they had desired, but he delivered Jesus to their will. 26 And as they led him away, they grabbed Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and they laid the cross on him, so he would carry it after Jesus. 27 And a large crowd of people followed him, and of women, who also bewailed and lamented him. 28 But Jesus turning to them said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, don't cry for me, but cry for yourselves, and for your children. 29 For see, the days are coming, in which they'll say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never gave suck. 30 Then they'll begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us, and to the hills, Cover us. 31 For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?" 32 And there were also two others, criminals, led with him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place that is called Calvary, they crucified him there, and the criminals, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they're doing." And they divided his clothes, and drew straws for them. 35 And the people stood watching. And the rulers with them also made fun of him, saying, "He saved others, let him save himself, if he is Christ, the chosen of God." 36 And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, 37 And saying, "If you're the king of the Jews, save yourself." 38 And a sign also was written above him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, "This is the King of the Jews." 39 And one of the criminals who were crucified railed at him, saying, "If you are Christ, save yourself and us." 40 But the other, answering, scolded him, saying, "Don't you fear God, seeing that you are in the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." 42 And he said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom." 43 And Jesus said to him, "Truly I say to you, today you'll be with me in heaven." 44 And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. 45 And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in the middle. 46 And when Jesus had shouted with a loud voice, he said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit," and having said that, he yielded up his spirit. 47 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, "Certainly, this was a righteous man." 48 And all the people that came together to that sight, seeing the things that were done, struck their chests, and returned. 49 And everyone who knew him, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood far off, watching these things. 50 And see, there was a man named Joseph, a counselor, and he was a good man, and fair, 51 (He had not agreed with the advice and deed of them,) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews, who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. 52 This man went to Pilate, and begged for the body of Jesus. 53 And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a tomb that had been cut out of stone, in which no one had ever before been placed. 54 And that day was the preparation, and the Sabbath was approaching. 55 And the women also, who came with him from Galilee, followed after, and saw the tomb, and how his body had been laid. 56 And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments, and rested the Sabbath day according to the commandment. ___Luke chapter 24 1 Now on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came to the tomb, bringing the spices they had prepared, and certain others with them. 2 And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb. 3 And they entered in, and didn't find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 And as they were much frustrated about it, see, two men stood by them in shining garments, 5 And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he spoke to you when he was still in Galilee, 7 Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again." 8 And they remembered his words, 9 And returned from the tomb, and told all these things to the eleven, and to all the rest. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, who told these things to the apostles. 11 And their words seemed to them like fairy tales, and they didn't believe them. 12 Then Peter got up, and ran to the tomb, and stooping down, he saw the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at what had happened. 13 And see, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, that was about sixty furlongs from Jerusalem. 14 And they talked together about all these things that had happened. 15 And while they talked together and reasoned, Jesus himself came near, and went with them. 16 But their eyes were hindered such that they didn't recognize him. 17 And he said to them, "What kind of communications are these that you have with each other, as you walk, and are sad?" 18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, "Are you only a stranger in Jerusalem, and haven't known the things that have happened there in these days?" 19 And he said to them, "What things?" And they said to him, "Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. 21 But we trusted that it had been he that would have redeemed Israel, and beside all this, today is the third day since these things have happened. 22 Yes, and certain women also of our group made us astonished, who were at the tomb early, 23 And when they didn't find his body, they came, saying that they had also seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 And some of those who were with us went to the tomb, and found it like the women had said, but they didn't see him." 25 Then he said to them, "O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken, 26 Shouldn't Christ have suffered these things, and entered into his glory?" 27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he explained to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. 28 And they came near the village where they were going, and he made as though he would have gone further. 29 But they detained him, saying, "Stay with us, for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent." And he went in to wait with them. 30 And as he sat to eat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and broke, and gave to them. 31 And their eyes were opened, and they knew him, and he disappeared out of their sight. 32 And they said to each other, "Didn't our heart burn within us, while he talked with us on the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?" 33 And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and those who were with them, 34 Saying, "The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon." 35 And they told what things were done on the way, and how he was known by them in breaking of bread. 36 And as they thus spoke, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, "Peace be to you." 37 But they were terrified and afraid, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. 38 And he said to them, "Why are you troubled? And why do thoughts arise in your hearts? 39 Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself, handle me, and see, for a spirit doesn't have flesh and bones, like you see me have." 40 And when he had thus spoken, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 And while they didn't yet believe for joy, and wondered, he said to them, "Do you have any food here?" 42 And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of a honeycomb. 43 And he took it, and ate before them. 44 And he said to them, "These are the words that I spoke to you, while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled that were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the Psalms about me." 45 Then he opened their understanding, so that they would understand the scriptures, 46 And said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And you are witnesses of these things. 49 And see, I send the promise of my Father on you, but wait in the city of Jerusalem, until you are empowered from on high." 50 And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. 51 And while he blessed them, he was separated from them, and carried up into heaven. 52 And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53 And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen. ___John chapter 1 1 The Word was there in the beginning, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him, and nothing that was made was made without him. 4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shined in darkness, and the darkness didn't understand it. 6 A man was sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came for a witness, to testify about the Light, so all men through him would believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to testify about that Light. 9 That was the true Light, that illuminates every man that comes into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world didn't know him. 11 He came to his own, and his own didn't receive him. 12 But to as many as did receive him, he gave power to become the sons of God, to those who believe on his name, 13 Who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. 14 And the Word was made flesh, and lived among us, (and we saw his glory, the glory as of God's only child,) full of grace and truth. 15 John testified about him, and shouted, "This is the one about whom I spoke, He that comes after me is preferred before me, for he was before me." 16 And of his fullness all of us have received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. 18 No man has seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he has declared him. 19 And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" 20 And he confessed, and didn't deny, but confessed, "I am not the Christ." 21 And they asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" And he said, "I am not." "Are you that prophet?" And he answered, "No." 22 Then they said to him, "Who are you? So we can give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?" 23 He said, "I am the voice of someone shouting in the wilderness, Make the way of the Lord straight, like the prophet Isaiah said." 24 And those who were sent were from the Pharisees. 25 And they asked him, "Why do you baptize then, if you aren't the Christ, nor Elijah, nor that prophet?" 26 John answered them, "I baptize with water, but someone stands among you whom you don't know. 27 He's the one, who coming after me, is preferred before me, whose shoelaces I am not worthy to untie." 28 These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. 29 The next day John saw Jesus coming to him, and said, "See, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. 30 This is He about whom I said, after me comes a man who is preferred before me, for He was before me. 31 And I didn't know him, but that he would be presented to Israel, that's why I've come baptizing with water." 32 And John testified, "I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it stayed on him. 33 And I didn't know him, but he that sent me to baptize with water said to me, On whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he that baptizes with the Holy Ghost. 34 And I saw, and testified that this is the Son of God." 35 Again the next day John stood, and two of his disciples, 36 And looking at Jesus as he walked, he said, "See, the Lamb of God!" 37 And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. 38 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, "What are you looking for?" They said to him, "Rabbi," (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) "Where do you live?" 39 He said to them, "Come and see." They came and saw where he lived, and stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. 40 One of the two that heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41 He first found his own brother, Simon, and told him, "We have found the Messiah, which by interpretation is, the Christ." 42 And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus saw him, he said, "You are Simon the son of Jona, you'll be called Cephas," which by interpretation is, a stone. 43 The day following, Jesus went into Galilee, and found Philip, and said to him, "Follow me." 44 Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, "We have found him about whom Moses in the law, and the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." 46 And Nathanael said to him, "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." 47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said about him, "See, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceitfulness!" 48 Nathanael said to him, "Where do you know me from?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." 49 Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God, you are the King of Israel." 50 Jesus answered him, "Do you believe because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree? You'll see greater things than these." 51 And he said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, After this you'll see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending from and descending on the Son of man." ___John chapter 2 1 And the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 And Jesus and his disciples were invited to the wedding. 3 And when they ran out of wine, Jesus' mother said to him, "They have no wine." 4 Jesus said to her, "Woman, what do I have to do with you? My hour has not yet come." 5 His mother said to the servants, "Whatever he says to you, do it." 6 And six water pots of stone were set there, the way the Jews purify water, containing two or three firkins each. 7 Jesus said to them, "Fill the water pots with water." And they filled them up to the brim. 8 And he said to them, "Draw out now, and carry it to the governor of the feast." And they carried it. 9 When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was changed to wine, and didn't know where it came from, (but the servants who drew the water knew,) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, 10 And said to him, "Every man at the beginning sets out good wine, and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse, but you've kept the good wine until now." 11 Jesus did this beginning of miracles in Cana of Galilee, and demonstrated his glory, and his disciples believed on him. 12 After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brothers, and his disciples, and they stayed there not many days. 13 And the Jews' Passover was approaching, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, 14 And found in the temple those who sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting. 15 And when he had made a scourge from small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen, and poured out the changers' money, and overturned the tables, 16 And said to those who sold doves, "Take these things away from here, don't make my Father's house a house of merchandise." 17 And his disciples remembered that it was written, "The zeal of your house has eaten me up." 18 Then the Jews said to him, "What sign do you show us, since you're doing these things?" 19 Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." 20 Then the Jews said, "It took forty six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?" 21 But he was talking about the temple of his body. 22 So, when he had risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this to them, and they believed the scripture, and the word that Jesus had said. 23 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover, on the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles that he did. 24 But Jesus did not commit himself to them, because he knew all men, 25 And didn't need any man to testify, for he knew what was in man. ___John chapter 3 1 There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 He came to Jesus at night, and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who's come from God, for no man can do these miracles that you do, unless God is with him." 3 Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a man is born again, he can't see the kingdom of God." 4 Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?" 5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a man is born of water and of the Spirit, he can't enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Don't be surprised that I said to you, You must be born again. 8 The wind blows where it wants, and you hear the sound of it, but can't tell where it comes from, nor where it's going. So is everyone that is born of the Spirit." 9 Nicodemus answered him, "How can these things be?" 10 Jesus answered him, "Are you a master of Israel, and don't know these things? 11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak that we know, and testify that we have seen, and you don't accept our testimony. 12 If I have told you earthly things, and you don't believe, how will you believe, if I tell you about heavenly things? 13 And no man has ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, who is the Son of man, who is in heaven. 14 And like Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so the Son of man must be lifted up, 15 So that whoever believes in him won't be destroyed, but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, so that whoever believes in him won't be destroyed, but have everlasting life. 17 For God didn't send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but so that the world through him would be saved. 18 He that believes on him is not condemned, but he that doesn't believe is already condemned, because he hasn't believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone that does evil hates the light, and doesn't come to the light, so that his wrongdoing won't be found out. 21 But he that does truth comes to the light, so that his deeds will be shown to be done in God." 22 After these things Jesus and his disciples went into the land of Judea, and he stayed there with them, and baptized. 23 And John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was a lot of water there, and they came, and were baptized. 24 For John had not yet been put in prison. 25 Then a question arose between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying. 26 And they came to John and said to him, "Rabbi, he that was with you on the other side of Jordan, about whom you testified, see, he's baptizing, and all men come to him." 27 John answered, "A man can receive nothing, unless it is given to him from heaven. 28 You yourselves know that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I have been sent before him. 29 He that has the bride is the bridegroom, but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice, therefore this, my joy, is fulfilled. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease. 31 He that comes from above is above all, he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaks of the earth, he that comes from heaven is above all. 32 And what he has seen and heard, he testifies about, and no man receives his testimony. 33 He that has received his testimony believes that God is righteous. 34 For he whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit to him without limit. 35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into his hand. 36 He that believes on the Son has everlasting life, and he that doesn't believe the Son shall not see life, but the anger of God remains on him." ___John chapter 4 1 Therefore when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, 2 (Though Jesus himself didn't baptize, but his disciples did,) 3 He left Judea, and went again into Galilee. 4 And he had to go through Samaria. 5 Then he came to a city of Samaria that is called Sychar, near the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. 6 Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being tired from his journey, sat on the well, and it was about the sixth hour. 7 A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink." 8 (For his disciples had gone away to the city to buy food.) 9 Then the woman of Samaria said to him, "How is it that you, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, who am a woman of Samaria, for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans?" 10 Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that says to you, Give me a drink, you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." 11 The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep, from where then do you have that living water? 12 Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank of it himself, and his children, and his cattle?" 13 Jesus answered her, "Whoever drinks of this water will get thirsty again, 14 But whoever drinks of the water that I give him shall never get thirsty, but the water that I give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." 15 The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so I don't get thirsty, nor come here to draw." 16 Jesus said to her, "Go, call your husband, and come here." 17 The woman answered, "I have no husband." Jesus said to her, "You have well said, I have no husband, 18 For you've had five husbands, and he whom you now have is not your husband, in that you spoke truly." 19 The woman said to him, "Sir, I can see that you're a prophet. 20 Our fathers worshipped in this mountain, and you say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship." 21 Jesus said to her, "Woman, believe me, the hour is coming, when you'll neither in this mountain, nor at Jerusalem worship the Father. 22 You don't know what you worship, we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. 23 But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father seeks such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit, and those who worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth." 25 The woman said to him, "I know the Messiah is coming, who is called Christ, when he comes, he will tell us all things." 26 Jesus said to her, "I that speak to you am he." 27 And then his disciples came, and were surprised that he talked with the woman, yet no man said, "What are you looking for?", or "Why are you talking with her?" 28 Then the woman left her water pot, and went into the city, and said to the men, 29 "Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did, isn't this the Christ?" 30 Then they went out of the city, and came to him. 31 In the mean time his disciples asked him, "Please eat, Master." 32 But he said to them, "I have food to eat that you don't know about." 33 Therefore the disciples said to each other, "Has anyone brought him anything to eat?" 34 Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. 35 Don't you say, there are yet four months, and then comes the harvest? See, I say to you, lift up your eyes, and look at the fields, for they are white already for harvesting. 36 And he that reaps receives wages and gathers fruit yielding eternal life, so that both he that plants and he that reaps will rejoice together. 37 And this is how that saying is true, One plants, and another harvests. 38 I sent you to harvest what you didn't work for, other men labored, and you have entered into their labors." 39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, who testified, "He told me everything I ever did." 40 So when the Samaritans had come to him, they asked him to remain with them, and he stayed there two days. 41 And many more believed because of his own word, 42 And said to the woman, "Now we believe, not because of your words, for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world." 43 Now after two days he departed from there, and went into Galilee. 44 For Jesus himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. 45 Then when he had come into Galilee, the Galileans received him, having seen all the things that he did at Jerusalem at the feast, for they also went to the feast. 46 So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he'd turned the water to wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum. 47 When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judea into Galilee, he went to him, and asked him to come down, and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. 48 Then Jesus said to him, "Unless you see signs and wonders, you won't believe." 49 The nobleman said to him, "Sir, come down before my child dies." 50 Jesus said to him, "Go your way, your son will live." And the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken to him, and he started home. 51 And as he was now going down, his servants met him, and told him, "Your son will live." 52 Then he asked them what hour he began to get better. And they said to him, "Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him." 53 So the father knew that it was at the same hour in which Jesus said to him, "Your son lives," and he himself believed and his whole family. 54 This is the second miracle that Jesus did, after he had come out of Judea into Galilee. ___John chapter 5 1 After this, there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 2 Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, that is called in the Hebrew language Bethesda, having five porches. 3 In these lay a great multitude of sick people, of blind, those who walked with difficulty, and withered people, waiting for the moving of the water. 4 For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water. Then whoever stepped in first after the troubling of the water, was healed of whatever disease he had. 5 And a certain man was there, who'd had a sickness for thirty eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had now been a long time in that condition, he said to him, "Do you want to be healed?" 7 The invalid man answered him, "Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool, but while I am coming, someone else steps down before me." 8 Jesus said to him, "Get up, pick up your bed, and walk." 9 And immediately the man was healed, and picked up his bed, and walked, and that day was the Sabbath day. 10 The Jews therefore said to him that had been healed, "It is the Sabbath day, it is not lawful for you to carry your bed." 11 He answered them, "He that made me well said to me, Pick up your bed, and walk." 12 Then they asked him, "Which man is that who told you to pick up your bed and walk?" 13 And he that had been healed didn't know who it was, for Jesus had gone away, a multitude being in that place. 14 Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, "See, you've been healed, don't sin anymore, or something worse could happen to you." 15 The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him. 16 And so the Jews persecuted Jesus, and looked for a way to kill him, because he had done these things on the Sabbath day. 17 But Jesus answered them, "My Father works up until now, and so do I." 18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the Sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God. 19 Then Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of himself, but what he sees the Father do, for whatever things He does, the Son also does them likewise. 20 For the Father loves the Son, and shows him all things that he does, and he will show him greater works than these, so that you'll be amazed. 21 For as the Father raises up the dead, and makes them live, even so the Son makes alive whomever he wants to. 22 For the Father judges no man, but has committed all judgment to the Son, 23 So that all men would honor the Son, just like they honor the Father. He that doesn't honor the Son, doesn't honor the Father who sent him. 24 Truly, truly, I say to you, he that hears my word, and believes on him that sent me, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but has passed from death to life. 25 Truly, truly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear shall live. 26 For as the Father has life in himself, so he has given to the Son to have life in himself, 27 And has given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. 28 Don't be surprised at this, for the hour is coming, in which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29 And shall come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of damnation. 30 I can of my own self do nothing, as I hear, I judge, and my judgment is fair, because I don't seek my own will, but the will of the Father who sent me. 31 If I testify of myself, my witness is not true. 32 There is another that testifies about me, and I know that the testimony that he testifies about me is true. 33 You sent to John, and he testified to the truth. 34 But I don't receive testimony from man, but these things I say, so that you'll be saved. 35 He was a burning and a shining light, and you were willing for a while to rejoice in his light. 36 But I have a more important witness than from John, for the works that the Father has given me to finish, those works that I do testify about me that the Father has sent me. 37 And the Father himself, who sent me, has testified about me. You have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. 38 And you don't have his word living in you, for whom he has sent, you don't believe. 39 Search the scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life, and they testify about me. 40 And you will not come to me so you can have life. 41 I don't receive honor from men. 42 But I know you, that you don't have the love of God in you. 43 I have come in my Father's name, and you don't receive me. If another comes in his own name, you'll receive him. 44 How can you believe, who receive honor from each other, and don't seek the honor that comes from God only? 45 Don't think that I will accuse you to the Father, there is one that accuses you, and that's Moses in whom you trust. 46 For had you believed Moses, you would have believed me, for he wrote about me. 47 But if you don't believe his writings, how shall you believe my words?" ___John chapter 6 1 After these things, Jesus went across the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias. 2 And a great multitude followed him, because they saw his miracles that he did on those who were diseased. 3 And Jesus went up into a mountain, and he sat there with his disciples. 4 And the Passover, a feast of the Jews, was approaching. 5 Then when Jesus lifted up his eyes, and saw a large multitude that had come to him, he said to Philip, "Where shall we buy bread, so that these can eat?" 6 And this he said to test him, for he himself knew what he would do. 7 Philip answered him, "Two hundred penny's worth of bread is not enough for them, so that every one of them can take a little." 8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to him, 9 "There is a boy here who has five barley loaves, and two small fish, but what are they among so many?" 10 And Jesus said, "Make the men sit down." Now there was a lot of grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number. 11 And Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to those who were sitting down, and likewise of the fish as much as they wanted. 12 When they were filled, he said to his disciples, "Gather up the pieces that are left, so that nothing is lost." 13 Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, that were left over after the people had eaten. 14 Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, "This is certainly that prophet that's supposed to come into the world." 15 When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain by himself. 16 And when evening had come, his disciples went down to the sea, 17 And entered into a ship, and went across the sea toward Capernaum. And it was now dark, and Jesus hadn't come to them. 18 And the sea was stirred up by a great wind that blew. 19 So when they had rowed about twenty five or thirty furlongs, they saw Jesus walking on the sea, and coming near the ship, and they were afraid. 20 But he said to them, "It is I, don't be afraid." 21 Then they willingly received him into the ship, and immediately the ship was at the land where they had been going to. 22 The day following, when the people who stood on the other side of the sea saw that there was no other boat there, except the one into which his disciples had entered, and that Jesus didn't go with his disciples into the boat, but that his disciples had gone away alone, 23 (But other boats came from Tiberias near the place where they ate bread, after the Lord had given thanks,) 24 When the people therefore saw that Jesus wasn't there, nor his disciples, they also took shipping, and went to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus. 25 And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, "Rabbi, when did you come here?" 26 Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you don't seek me because you saw the miracles, but because you ate of the loaves, and were filled. 27 Don't work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give you, for God the Father has sealed him." 28 Then they said to him, "What shall we do, so we can do the works of God?" 29 Jesus answered them, "This is the work of God, that you believe on him whom he has sent." 30 They said therefore to him, "What sign do you show then, so that we can see, and believe you? What do you do? 31 Our fathers ate manna in the desert, as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat." 32 Then Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, Moses didn't give you that bread from heaven, but my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is he that came down from heaven, and gives life to the world. 34 Then they said to him, "Lord, always, increasingly, give us this bread." 35 And Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. He that comes to me shall never hunger, and he that believes on me shall never thirst. 36 But I said to you, that you also have seen me, and don't believe. 37 Everyone that the Father gives me shall come to me, and him that comes to me I will in no way throw out. 38 For I didn't come down from heaven to do my own will, but the will of Him that sent me. 39 And this is the Father's will who sent me, that of all that he has given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that everyone who sees the Son, and believes on him, will have everlasting life, and I will raise him up at the last day." 41 Then the Jews murmured at him, because he said, "I am the bread that came down from heaven." 42 And they said, "Isn't this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that he says, I came down from heaven?" 43 Jesus therefore answered them, "Don't murmur among yourselves. 44 No man can come to me, unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day. 45 It is written in the prophets, And they shall all be taught by God. Every man therefore that has heard, and has learned from the Father, comes to me. 46 Not that any man has seen the Father, except he that is from God, he has seen the Father. 47 Truly, truly, I say to you, he that believes on me has everlasting life. 48 I am that bread of life. 49 Your fathers ate manna in the wilderness, and are dead. 50 This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that a man can eat of it, and not die. 51 I am the living bread that came down from heaven, if any man eats of this bread, he'll live forever, and the bread that I will give is my flesh, that I will give for the life of the world." 52 The Jews therefore argued among themselves, "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?" 53 Then Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, you have no life in you. 54 Whoever eats my flesh, and drinks my blood, has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 56 He that eats my flesh, and drinks my blood, lives in me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father has sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eats me shall live by me. 58 This is that bread that came down from heaven, not like your fathers ate manna, and are dead. He that eats of this bread shall live forever. 59 He said these things in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum. 60 Many of his disciples therefore, when they'd heard this, said, "This is a difficult saying, who can understand it?" 61 When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said to them, "Does this offend you? 62 What if you see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? 63 It is the spirit that makes alive, the flesh doesn't profit, the words that I speak to you, they are spirit, and they are life. 64 But there are some of you that don't believe." For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that didn't believe, and who would betray him. 65 And he said, "That's why I said to you that no man can come to me, unless it's given to him by my Father." 66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and didn't walk with him anymore. 67 Then Jesus said to the twelve, "Will you also go away?" 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 And we believe and are sure that you are the Christ, the Son of the living God." 70 Jesus answered them, "Haven't I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?" 71 He was talking about Judas Iscariot the son of Simon, for he it was that would betray him, being one of the twelve. ___John chapter 7 1 After these things, Jesus walked in Galilee, for he wouldn't walk in Jewry, because the Jews were trying to kill him. 2 Now the Jews' feast of tabernacles was near. 3 His brothers therefore said to him, "Depart from here, and go into Judea, so that your disciples also can see the works that you do. 4 For there is no man that does anything in secret, and he himself wants to be known openly. If you do these things, show yourself to the world." 5 For his brothers didn't believe in him, either. 6 Then Jesus said to them, "My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready. 7 The world can't hate you, but it hates me, because I testify about it, that it's doings are evil. 8 You go up to this feast, I won't go up yet to this feast, for my time has not yet fully come." 9 When he had said these words to them, he remained in Galilee. 10 But when his brothers had gone up, then he also went up to the feast, not openly, but secretly. 11 Then the Jews looked for him at the feast, and said, "Where is he?" 12 And there was a lot of murmuring among the people concerning him, for some said, "He is a good man." Others said, "No, he deceives the people." 13 But no man spoke openly about him for fear of the Jews. 14 Now about the middle of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and taught. 15 And the Jews were surprised and said, "How does this man know letters, since he has no education?" 16 Jesus answered them, "My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. 17 If any man will do his will, he shall know about the doctrine, whether it is from God, or whether I'm speaking on my own. 18 He that speaks on his own seeks his own glory, but he that seeks the glory of him that sent him is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. 19 Didn't Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keeps the law? Why are you trying to kill me?" 20 The people answered, "You have a demon, who's trying to kill you?" 21 Jesus answered them, "I have done one work, and you're all surprised. 22 Moses therefore gave you circumcision, (not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers,) and you circumcise a man on the Sabbath day. 23 If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath day, so that the law of Moses won't be broken, are you angry at me, because I have made a man completely well on the Sabbath day? 24 Don't judge according to appearances, but judge righteous judgment." 25 Then some of those of Jerusalem said, "Isn't this he, whom they're trying to kill? 26 But see, he speaks boldly, and they say nothing to him. Do the rulers know indeed that this is the actual Christ? 27 But we know where this man is from, but when Christ comes, no one knows where he's from." 28 Then Jesus said loudly in the temple as he taught, "You know me, and you also know where I'm from, and I haven't come on my own, but he that sent me is true, whom you don't know. 29 But I know him, for I am from him, and he has sent me." 30 Then they looked for a way to arrest him, but no man laid hands on him, because his hour had not yet come. 31 And many of the people believed on him, and said, "When Christ comes, will he do more miracles than these that this man has done?" 32 The Pharisees heard that the people murmured such things about him, and the Pharisees and the chief priests sent officers to arrest him. 33 Then Jesus said to them, "I am with you yet a little while, and then I go to him that sent me. 34 You'll look for me, and won't find me, and where I am you can't come. 35 Then the Jews said among themselves, "Where will he go so that we won't find him? Will he go to the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles? 36 What kind of saying is this, You'll look for me, and won't find me, and where I am you can't come?" 37 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and shouted, "If any man is thirsty, let him come to me, and drink. 38 He that believes on me, as the scripture has said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." 39 (But he spoke this about the Spirit that those who believe on him would receive, for the Holy Ghost was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.) 40 Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, "Truly this is the Prophet." 41 Others said, "This is the Christ." But some said, "Shall Christ come out of Galilee? 42 Don't the scriptures say that Christ comes from the descendants of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?" 43 So there was a division among the people because of him. 44 And some of them would have arrested him, but no man laid hands on him. 45 Then the officers came to the chief priests and Pharisees, and they said to them, "Why haven't you brought him?" 46 The officers answered, "No man ever talked like this man." 47 Then the Pharisees answered, "Are you also deceived? 48 Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him? 49 But these people who don't know the law are cursed." 50 Nicodemus said to them, (he that came to Jesus at night, being one of them,) 51 "Does our law judge any man, before it hears him, and knows what he's doing?" 52 They answered him, "Are you also from Galilee? Search, and look, for no prophet arises out of Galilee." 53 And every man went to his own house. ___John chapter 8 1 Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. 2 And early in the morning he went again into the temple, and all the people came to him, and he sat down, and taught them. 3 And the scribes and Pharisees brought to him a woman arrested for adultery, and when they had set her among them, 4 They said to him, "Master, this woman was arrested in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned, but what do you say?" 6 They said this, tempting him, so that they could have something to accuse him with. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he didn't hear them. 7 So when they continued asking him, he stood up, and said to them, "He that is without sin among you, let him throw the first stone at her." 8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. 9 And those who heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the oldest, until the last, and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing there. 10 When Jesus had stood up, and saw no one but the woman, he said to her, "Woman, where are your accusers? Doesn't anyone condemn you?" 11 She said, "No man, Lord." And Jesus said to her, "Nor do I condemn you, go, and sin no more." 12 Then Jesus spoke again to them, "I am the light of the world, he that follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." 13 The Pharisees therefore said to him, "You testify about yourself, your record is not true." 14 Jesus answered them, "Though I testify about myself, yet my record is true, for I know where I came from, and where I'm going, but you can't tell where I came from, nor where I'm going. 15 You judge after the flesh, I judge no one. 16 And yet if I judge, my judgment is true, for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me. 17 It is also written in your law that the testimony of two men is true. 18 I am one that testifies about myself, and the Father that sent me testifies about me." 19 Then they said to him, "Where is your Father?" Jesus answered, "You don't know me or my Father, if you had known me, you would have known my Father also." 20 Jesus spoke these words in the treasury, as he taught in the temple, and no man laid hands on him, for his hour had not yet come. 21 Then Jesus also said to them, "I go my way, and you'll look for me, and shall die in your sins, where I go, you can't come." 22 Then the Jews said, "Will he kill himself?" Because he said, "Where I go, you can't come." 23 And he said to them, "You are from beneath, I am from above, you are of this world, I am not of this world. 24 I said therefore to you, that you'll die in your sins, for if you don't believe that I am he, you'll die in your sins." 25 Then they said to him, "Who are you?" And Jesus said, "I'm the same one I've been telling you about from the beginning. 26 I have many things to say and to judge of you, but he that sent me is true, and I speak to the world the things that I've heard from him." 27 They didn't understand that he spoke to them about the Father. 28 Then Jesus said to them, "When you've lifted up the Son of man, then you'll know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own, but as my Father has taught me, I speak these things. 29 And he that sent me is with me, the Father hasn't left me alone, for I always do the things that please him." 30 As he spoke these words, many believed on him. 31 Then Jesus said to the Jews who believed on him, "If you continue in my word, then you are my disciples indeed, 32 And you'll know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." 33 They answered him, "We are Abraham's descendants, and were never in bondage to any man, what do you mean, You'll be made free?" 34 Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is the servant of sin. 35 And the servant doesn't live in the house forever, but the Son lives forever. 36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, you'll be free indeed. 37 I know that you are Abraham's descendants, but you're trying to kill me, because my word has no place in you. 38 I speak that which I have seen with my Father, and you do that which you have seen with your father." 39 They answered him, "Abraham is our father." Jesus said to them, "If you were Abraham's children, you would do the works of Abraham. 40 But now you're trying to kill me, a man that has told you the truth, which I've heard from God. Abraham didn't do that. 41 You do the deeds of your father." Then they said to him, "We're not born from fornication, we have one Father, God." 42 Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I proceeded out and came from God, nor did I come on my own, but he sent me. 43 Why don't you understand my speech? Because you can't hear my word. 44 You are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father you'll do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and didn't remain in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks of his own, for he is a liar, and the father of it. 45 And because I tell you the truth, you don't believe me. 46 Which of you can show me to be a sinner? And if I say the truth, why don't you believe me? 47 He that is of God hears God's words, you therefore don't hear, because you are not of God." 48 Then the Jews answered him, "Don't we well say that you're a Samaritan, and have a demon?" 49 Jesus answered, "I don't have a demon, but I honor my Father, and you dishonor me. 50 And I don't seek my own glory, there is one that seeks and judges. 51 Truly, truly, I say to you, if a man keeps my sayings, he'll never see death." 52 Then the Jews said to him, "Now we know that you have a demon. Abraham is dead, and the prophets, and you say, If a man keeps my sayings, he'll never taste of death. 53 Are you greater than our father Abraham, who is dead? And the prophets are dead. Whom are you trying to make of yourself?" 54 Jesus answered, "If I honor myself, my honor is nothing, it is my Father that honors me, about whom you say, that he is your God, 55 Yet you haven't known him, but I know him, and if I were to say I don't know him, I would be a liar like you. But I know him, and keep his sayings. 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day, and he saw it, and was glad." 57 Then the Jews said to him, "You're not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?" 58 Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am." 59 Then they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the middle of them, and so passed by. ___John chapter 9 1 And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. 2 And his disciples asked him, "Master, who sinned, this man, or his parents, so that he was born blind?" 3 Jesus answered, "Neither this man, nor his parents, but so that the works of God would be revealed through him. 4 I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day, the night comes, when no man can work. 5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." 6 When he had said that, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the saliva, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, 7 And said to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam," (which is, by interpretation, "Sent.") He went his way therefore, and washed, and returned with good eyesight. 8 The neighbors therefore, and those who had seen before that he was blind, said, "Isn't this he that sat and begged?" 9 Some said, "This is he." Others said, "He is like him," but he said, "I am he." 10 Therefore they said to him, "How were your eyes opened?" 11 He answered, "A man called Jesus made clay, and anointed my eyes,and said to me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash, and I went and washed, and I received sight." 12 Then they said to him, "Where is he?" He said, "I don't know." 13 They brought to the Pharisees him that had been blind. 14 And it was the Sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes. 15 Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said, "He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see." 16 Therefore some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not of God, because he doesn't keep the Sabbath day." Others said, "How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles?" And there was a division among them. 17 They said again to the blind man, "What do you say about him, that he has opened your eyes?" He said, "He is a prophet." 18 But the Jews did not believe that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called for the parents of him that had received his sight. 19 And they asked them, "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?" 20 His parents answered them, "We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind, 21 But by what means he now sees, we don't know, or who has opened his eyes, we don't know, he is of age, ask him, he'll speak for himself." 22 His parents spoke these words, because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man confessed that he was Christ, he would be put out of the synagogue. 23 That's why his parents said, "He is of age, ask him." 24 Then again they called the man that had been blind, and said to him, "Give God the praise, we know that this man is a sinner." 25 He answered, "Whether he's a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I know, that although I was blind, now I see." 26 Then they said to him again, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" 27 He answered them, "I've told you already, and you didn't hear. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to be his disciples?" 28 Then they made fun of him, and said, "You are his disciple, but we are Moses' disciples. 29 We know that God spoke to Moses, as for this fellow, we don't know where he's from." 30 The man answered them, "Why in this is a marvelous thing, that you don't know where he's from, and yet he has opened my eyes. 31 Now we know that God doesn't listen to sinners, but if any man is a worshiper of God, and does his will, he hears him. 32 Since the world began it wasn't heard that any man opened the eyes of someone born blind. 33 If this man were not of God, he could do nothing." 34 They answered him, "You were completely born in sins, and do you teach us?" And they threw him out. 35 Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when He had found him, He said to him, "Do you believe on the Son of God?" 36 He answered, "Who is he, Lord, so I can believe on him?" 37 And Jesus said to him, "You have seen him, and it is he that talks with you." 38 And he said, "Lord, I believe." And he worshiped him. 39 And Jesus said, "For judgment I've come into this world, so that those who don't see can see, and so that those who see will be made blind." 40 And some of the Pharisees who were with him heard these words, and said to him, "Are we blind also?" 41 Jesus said to them, "If you were blind, you would have no sin, but now you say, We see, therefore your sin remains." ___John chapter 10 1 "Truly, truly, I say to you, he that doesn't enter by the door into the sheepfold, but climbs up some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 But he that enters in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the door keeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out. 4 And when he sends out his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 And they won't follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they don't know the voice of strangers." 6 Jesus spoke this parable to them, but they didn't understand the things that he spoke to them. 7 Then Jesus said to them again, "Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All that ever came prior to my coming are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door, by me if anyone enters in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal, and to kill, and to destroy, I have come so they can have life, and so they can have it more abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd, the good shepherd gives his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is a hired hand, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep, and runs off, and the wolf catches them, and scatters the sheep. 13 The hired hand runs off, because he is a hired hand, and doesn't care about the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known by them. 15 As the Father knows me, so also, I know the Father, and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, that are not of this fold, them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice, and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. 17 Therefore my Father loves me, because I lay down my life, so that I can take it again. 18 No man takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have the ability to lay it down, and I have the ability to take it again. I have received this commandment from my Father." 19 There was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings. 20 And many of them said, "He has a demon and is crazy, why do you listen to him?" 21 Others said, "These are not the words of him that has a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?" 22 And it was at Jerusalem and the feast of the dedication, and it was winter. 23 And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon's porch. 24 Then the Jews came around him, and said to him, "How long will you make us doubt? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly." 25 Jesus answered them, "I told you, and you didn't believe, the works that I do in my Father's name testify about me. 26 But you don't believe because you are not of my sheep, like I said to you. 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me, 28 And I give them eternal life, and they'll never be destroyed, nor will anyone pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who gave them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and my Father are one." 31 Then the Jews picked up stones again to throw at him. 32 Jesus answered them, "I've shown you many good works from my Father, for which of those works do you stone me?" 33 The Jews answered him, "We don't stone you for a good work, but for blasphemy, and because you, being a man, make yourself God." 34 Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in your law, I said, You are gods? 35 If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came, and the scripture can't be broken, 36 Do you say about him whom the Father has made holy, and sent into the world, You blaspheme, because I said, I am the Son of God? 37 If I don't do the works of my Father, don't believe me. 38 But if I do, though you don't believe me, believe the works, so that you'll know and believe that the Father is in me, and I in him." 39 Therefore they tried again to find a way to arrest him, but he escaped out of their hand, 40 And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized, and he lived there. 41 And many resorted to him, and said, "John did no miracle, but all things that John spoke about this man were true." 42 And many believed on him there. ___John chapter 11 1 Now a certain man was sick named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 (It was the Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) 3 Therefore his sisters sent to him saying, "Lord, see, he whom you love is sick." 4 When Jesus heard that, he said, "This sickness is not fatal, but for the glory of God, so that the Son of God will be glorified by it." 5 Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. 6 When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he still remained two days in the same place where he was. 7 Then after that, he said to his disciples, "Let's go into Judea again." 8 His disciples said to him, "Master, the Jews recently tried to stone you, and are you going there again?" 9 Jesus answered, "Aren't there twelve hours in the day? If any man walks in the day, he doesn't stumble, because he sees the light of this world. 10 But if a man walks in the night, he stumbles, because there is no light in him." 11 He said these things, and after that he said to them, "Our friend Lazarus sleeps. But I go, so I can awake him out of sleep." 12 Then his disciples said, "Lord, if he sleeps, he's doing well." 13 But Jesus meant he was dead. But they thought that he'd spoken about taking of rest in sleep. 14 Then Jesus said to them plainly, "Lazarus is dead. 15 And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, so that you'll believe, anyway, let's go to him." 16 Then Thomas who is called Didymus said, to his fellow disciples, "Let us also go, so we can die with him." 17 Then when Jesus came, he found that he had been laying in the grave four days already. 18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs away, 19 And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother. 20 Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him. But Mary remained in the house. 21 Then Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But I know that even now, whatever you ask God for, God will do for you." 23 Jesus said to her, "Your brother shall rise again." 24 Martha said to him, "I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day." 25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection, and the life. He that believes in me, though he were dead, yet he will live, 26 And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?" 27 She said to him, "Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, that was supposed to come into the world." 28 And when she had said that, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly saying, "The Master has come, and asks for you." 29 As soon as she heard that, she got up quickly, and went to him. 30 Now Jesus had not yet come into the town, but was in the place where Martha met him. 31 The Jews then, who were with her in the house and comforted her, when they saw that Mary rose up hastily and went out, followed her saying, "She's going to the grave to cry there." 32 Then when Mary had come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying to him, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." 33 When Jesus therefore saw her crying, and the Jews also crying who came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled, 34 And said, "Where have you laid him?" They said to him, "Lord, come and see." 35 Jesus cried tears. 36 Then the Jews said, "See how he loved him!" 37 And some of them said, "Couldn't this man, who opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man would not have died?" 38 Jesus therefore again groaning in himself went to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay on it. 39 Jesus said, "Take away the stone." Martha, the sister of him that was dead, said to him, "Lord, by this time he stinks, for he has been dead four days." 40 Jesus said to her, "Didn't I say to you that if you would believe, you would see the glory of God?" 41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead had been laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me. 42 And I knew that you hear me always, but because of the people that stand by I said it, so that they'll believe that you've sent me." 43 And when he thus had spoken, he shouted with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out." 44 And he that had been dead came out, bound hand and foot with grave clothes, and his face was wrapped with a napkin. Jesus said to them, "Loose him, and let him go." 45 Then many of the Jews who came to Mary, and had seen the things that Jesus did, believed on him. 46 But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them the things Jesus had done. 47 Then the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered a council, and said, "What are we going to do? For this man is doing many miracles. 48 If we let him alone, all men will believe on him, and the Romans will come and take away our place and our nation." 49 And one of them named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said to them, "You know nothing at all, 50 Nor consider that it is best for us that one man should die for the people, so that the whole nation is not destroyed." 51 And he didn't speak this on his own, but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus would die for that nation, 52 And not for that nation only, but that also he would gather together the children of God that were scattered abroad. 53 Then from that day onward they plotted together to put him to death. 54 Jesus therefore didn't walk openly anymore among the Jews, but went from there to a country near the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim, and continued there with his disciples. 55 And the Jews' Passover had nearly arrived, and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the Passover, to purify themselves. 56 Then they looked for Jesus, and spoke among themselves as they stood in the temple, "What do you think, that he will not come to the feast?" 57 Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a commandment that if any man knew where he was, he must tell them, so they could arrest him. ___John chapter 12 1 Then six days before the Passover, Jesus went to Bethany, where Lazarus was, who had been dead, whom He raised from the dead. 2 They made him a supper there. And Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with him. 3 Then Mary took a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair, and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment. 4 Then Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples, Simon's son, who would betray him, said, 5 "Why wasn't this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?" 6 This he said, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the wallet, and carried what was put in it. 7 Then Jesus said, "Let her alone, she has kept this for the day of my burying. 8 For you always have the poor with you, but you don't always have me." 9 Many of the Jews therefore knew that he was there, and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but so they could see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 But the chief priests consulted about also putting Lazarus to death, 11 Since because of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus. 12 On the next day, many people that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, 13 Took branches of palm trees, and went out to meet him, and shouted, "Hosanna, blessed is the King of Israel that comes in the name of the Lord." 14 And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat on it, as it is written, 15 "Fear not, daughter of Zion. See, your King comes, sitting on an ass's colt." 16 His disciples didn't understand these things at first, but after Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things were written about him, and that they had done these things to him. 17 The people therefore that were with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, became witnesses. 18 For this reason the people also met him, because they heard that he had done this miracle. 19 The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, "See how you don't prevail at all? See, the world follows him." 20 And there were certain Greeks among those who came up to worship at the feast. 21 So they went to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked, "Sir, we want to see Jesus." 22 Philip went and told Andrew, and again Andrew and Philip told Jesus. 23 And Jesus answered them, "The hour has come for the Son of man to be glorified. 24 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone. But if it dies, it produces much fruit. 25 He that loves his life shall lose it. And he that hates his life in this world shall keep it and have life eternal. 26 If any man serves me, let him follow me. And where I am, my servant will be there also. If any man serves me, my Father will honor him. 27 Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour?, but for this reason I came to this hour. 28 Father, glorify your name." Then a voice came from heaven, "I have glorified it, and will glorify it again." 29 The people therefore that stood by and heard it said that it thundered. Others said, "An angel spoke to him." 30 Jesus answered, "This voice didn't come because of me, but for your sakes. 31 Now is the judgment of this world, now shall the prince of this world be thrown out. 32 And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to me." 33 This he said, signifying what death he would die. 34 The people answered him, "We have heard out of the law that Christ lives forever, so how can you say, The Son of man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of man?" 35 Then Jesus said to them, "For yet a little while, the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, so that darkness doesn't come on you, for he that walks in darkness doesn't know where he's going. 36 While you have light, believe in the light, so that you'll be the children of light." Jesus spoke these things, and departed, and hid himself from them. 37 But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they didn't believe on him, 38 So that the saying that was spoken by Isaiah the prophet would be fulfilled, "Lord, who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?" 39 Therefore they couldn't believe, because Isaiah said again, 40 "He has blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart, so they wouldn't see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I would heal them." 41 Isaiah said these things, when he saw his glory, and spoke about him. 42 However, among the top rulers also, many believed on him, but because of the Pharisees they didn't confess him, so they wouldn't be put out of the synagogue, 43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. 44 Jesus shouted and said, "He that believes on me, believes not on me, but on him that sent me. 45 And he that sees me, sees him that sent me. 46 I have come a light into the world, so that whoever believes on me won't remain in darkness. 47 And if any man hears my words, and doesn't believe, I don't judge him, for I didn't come to judge the world, but to save the world. 48 He that rejects me, and doesn't receive my words, has one that judges him, the word that I have spoken shall judge him at the last day. 49 For I haven't spoken of myself, but the Father who sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. 50 And I know that his commandment is life everlasting. Whatever I speak therefore, just as the Father said to me, so I speak." ___John chapter 13 1 Now before the feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come that he was to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own that were in the world, he loved them until the end. 2 And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him, 3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God, and went to God, 4 He got up from supper, and laid aside his garments, and took a towel, and wrapped it around himself. 5 After that he poured water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel. 6 Then he came to Simon Peter, and Peter said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" 7 Jesus answered him, "What I do you don't know now, but you'll know later." 8 Peter said to him, "You'll never wash my feet." Jesus answered him, "If I don't wash them, you have no part with me." 9 Simon Peter said to him, "Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head." 10 Jesus said to him, "He that is washed only needs his feet washed, but is every bit clean, and you are clean, but not all." 11 For he knew who would betray him. That's why he said, "You're not all clean." 12 So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and sat down again, he said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call me Master and Lord, and you're right, because I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash each other's feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, the servant is not greater than his lord, nor is he that is sent greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, you are happy if you do them. 18 I'm not talking about you all. I know whom I have chosen, but so that the scripture will be fulfilled, He that eats bread with me has lifted up his heel against me. 19 Now I tell you before it happens, so that, when it has happened, you'll believe that I am he. 20 Truly, truly, I say to you, he that receives whomever I send receives me. And he that receives me receives him that sent me." 21 When Jesus had said that, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me." 22 Then the disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he meant. 23 Now one of his disciples was leaning on Jesus' chest, whom Jesus loved. 24 Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it was about whom he spoke. 25 He then lying on Jesus' chest said to him, "Lord, who is it?" 26 Jesus answered, "It is he to whom I'll give a sop, after I've have dipped it." And after he dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. 27 And after the sop, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus said to him, "What you do, do quickly." 28 Now no man at the table knew why he said that to him. 29 For some of them thought, because Judas had the wallet, that Jesus had said to him, "Buy the things that we need for the feast," or, that he should give something to the poor. 30 He then, having received the sop, immediately went out, and it was night. 31 Therefore, when he had gone out, Jesus said, "Now the Son of man is glorified, and God is glorified in him. 32 If God is glorified in him, God shall also glorify him in himself, and shall immediately glorify him. 33 Little children, I am with you yet a little while. You'll seek me, and as I said to the Jews, where I go, you can't come, so I say now to you. 34 A new commandment I give you, that you love each other like I've loved you, that you also love each other. 35 By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love for each other." 36 Simon Peter said to him, "Lord, where are you going?" Jesus answered him, "Where I'm going, you can't follow me now, but you'll follow me afterward." 37 Peter said to him, "Lord, why can't I follow you now? I will lay down my life for your sake." 38 Jesus answered him, "Will you lay down your life for my sake? Truly, truly, I say to you, the rooster won't crow, until you've denied me three times." ___John chapter 14 1 "Don't let your heart be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to myself, so that where I am, you'll be there also. 4 And where I'm going you know, and the way you know." 5 Thomas said to him, "Lord, we don't know where you're going, and how can we know the way?" 6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life, no man comes to the Father, except by me. 7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also, and from now on you know him, and have seen him." 8 Philip said to him, "Lord, show us the Father, and it will be sufficient for us." 9 Jesus said to him, "Have I been such a long time with you, and yet have you not known me, Philip? He that has seen me has seen the Father, and how then can you say, Show us the Father? 10 Don't you believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak to you, I don't speak on my own, but the Father that lives in me. He does the works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me, or else believe me for the very works' sake. 12 Truly, truly, I say to you, he that believes on me, the works that I do, he shall do also. And greater works than these shall he do, because I go to my Father. 13 And whatever you ask in my name, that's what I'll do, so that the Father will be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask anything in my name, I'll do it. 15 If you love me, keep my commandments. 16 And I will pray to the Father, and he'll give you another Comforter, so that he will live with you forever, 17 Who is the Spirit of Truth, whom the world can't receive, because it doesn't see him, nor know him. But you know him, for he lives with you, and shall be in you. 18 I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you. 19 Yet a little while, and the world sees me no more. But you see me. Because I live, you'll live also. 20 At that day you'll know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. 21 He that has my commandments, and keeps them, he it is that loves me. And he that loves me shall be loved by my Father, and I will love him, and will reveal myself to him." 22 Judas said to him, not Iscariot, "Lord, how is it that you'll reveal yourself to us, and not to the world?" 23 Jesus answered him, "If a man loves me, he will keep my words, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and live with him. 24 He that doesn't love me doesn't keep my sayings. And the word that you hear is not mine, but the Father's who sent me. 25 I've spoken these things to you while yet present with you. 26 But the Comforter, who is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he'll teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatever I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I give to you not like the world gives. Don't let your heart be troubled, and don't let it be afraid. 28 You've heard how I said to you, I go away, and come again to you. If you loved me, you would rejoice, because I said, I go to the Father, for my Father is greater than I am. 29 And now I have told you before it happens, so that, when it has happened, you'll believe. 30 From now on I will not talk much with you, for the prince of this world comes, and has nothing in me. 31 But so that the world will know that I love the Father, and as the Father gave me commandment, so I do. Get up, let's go from here." ___John chapter 15 1 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vineyard keeper. 2 Every branch in me that doesn't produce fruit, he takes away. And every branch that bears fruit, he purges it, so it will produce more fruit. 3 Now you are clean through the word that I've spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, and I in you. As the branch can't bear fruit by itself, unless it remains in the vine, no more can you, unless you remain in me. 5 I am the vine, you are the branches. He that remains in me, and I in him, the same produces a lot of fruit, for without me you can do nothing. 6 If a man doesn't remain in me, he is thrown out like a branch, and is withered, and men gather them, and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you remain in me, and my words remain in you, you'll ask whatever you want, and it shall be done to you. 8 In this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit. In that way, you'll be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you, continue in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you'll remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments, and remain in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, so that my joy will remain in you, and so your joy will be full. 12 This is my commandment, that you love each other, like I have loved you. 13 No man has greater love than this, that a man lays down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends, if you do whatever I command you. 15 From now on I don't call you servants, for the servant doesn't know what his lord is doing, but I have called you friends, for all things that I've heard from my Father I've made known to you. 16 You haven't chosen me, but I've chosen you, and ordained you, so that you'll go and produce fruit, and so that your fruit will remain, so that whatever you ask from the Father in my name, he will give it to you. 17 These things I command you, that you love each other. 18 If the world hates you, you know that it hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. But because you're not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you, the servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they've kept my sayings, they will keep yours also. 21 But they will do all these things to you for my name's sake, because they don't know him that sent me. 22 If I hadn't come and spoken to them, they would not have had sin, but now they have no covering for their sin. 23 He that hates me hates my Father also. 24 If I hadn't done among them the works that no other man did, they would not have had sin. But now they've seen and hated both me and my Father. 25 But this happens so that the word is fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a reason. 26 But when the Comforter has come, whom I will send to you from the Father, who is the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he'll testify about me. 27 And you'll also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning." ___John chapter 16 1 "I have spoken these things to you so that you won't be offended. 2 They'll put you out of the synagogues. Yes, the time will come, that whoever kills you will think that he's doing God a service. 3 And these things they'll do to you, because they haven't known the Father, nor me. 4 But I've told you these things so that when the time comes, you'll remember that I told you about them. And I didn't say these things to you at the beginning, because I was with you. 5 But now I go my way to him that sent me. And none of you asks me, Where are you going? 6 But because I've said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts. 7 Even so, I tell you the truth, It's best for you that I go away, for if I don't go away, the Comforter won't come to you. But if I depart, I'll send him to you. 8 And when he has come, he'll reveal the sin of the world, and will show righteousness, and will show justice. 9 The sin, because they don't believe on me. 10 The righteousness, because I go to my Father, and you don't see me anymore. 11 The justice, because the prince of this world is judged. 12 I still have many things to say to you, but you can't cope with them now. 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, has come, he will guide you into all truth, for he shall not speak of himself, but whatever he shall hear, he will speak. And he'll show you things to come. 14 He'll glorify me, for he'll receive of mine, and shall show it to you. 15 All things that the Father has are mine. That's why I said, he'll take of mine, and shall show it to you. 16 A little while, and you won't see me. And again, a little while, and you'll see me, because I go to the Father." 17 Then some of his disciples said among themselves, "What is this that he says to us, A little while, and you won't see me, and again, a little while, and you'll see me, and, because I go to the Father?" 18 They said therefore, "What is this that he says, A little while? We can't tell what he's saying." 19 Now Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, and said to them, "Do you inquire among yourselves about the saying, A little while, and you won't see me, and again a little while, and you'll see me? 20 Truly, truly, I say to you that you'll cry and lament, but the world will rejoice. And you'll be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. 21 A woman, when she is in travail has sorrow, because her hour has come, but as soon as she obtains the relief after childbirth, she no longer remembers the pain, for the joy that a man has been born into the world. 22 And you now therefore have sorrow. But I'll see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you. 23 And in that day you'll ask me nothing. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in my name, he'll give it to you. 24 Until now you've asked nothing in my name, ask, and you'll receive, so that your joy will be full. 25 I have spoken these things to you in proverbs. But the time will come, when I'll no longer speak to you in proverbs, but I'll show you plainly from the Father. 26 At that day you'll ask in my name. And I don't say to you, that I will pray to the Father for you. 27 For the Father himself loves you, because you've loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. 28 I came from the Father, and have come into the world. Again, I leave the world, and go to the Father." 29 His disciples said to him, "See, now you're speaking plainly, and not speaking a proverb. 30 Now we're sure that you know all things, and don't need for any man to ask you. By this we believe that you came from God." 31 Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe? 32 See, the hour is coming, yes, has now come, that you'll be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone. And yet I'm not alone, because the Father is with me. 33 I have spoken these things to you so that in me you'll have peace. In the world you'll have tribulation. But be of good cheer, I've overcome the world." ___John chapter 17 1 Jesus spoke these words, and looked up toward heaven, and said, "Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, so that your Son will also glorify you. 2 As you've given him power over all flesh, so that he'd give eternal life to as many as you have given him. 3 And this is life eternal, that they'll know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you've sent. 4 I have glorified you on the earth. I've finished the work that you gave me to do. 5 And now, O Father, glorify me with your own self, with the glory that I had with you before the world was. 6 I have revealed your name to the men that you gave me out of the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me. And they have kept your word. 7 Now they have known that all things that you've given me are from you. 8 For I've given them the words that you gave me. And they've received them, and have known surely that I came out from you, and they've believed that you sent me. 9 I pray for them. I don't pray for the world, but for those that you've given me, for they are yours. 10 And all of mine are yours, and yours are mine. And I'm glorified in them. 11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to you. Holy Father, keep through your own name those whom you've given me, so that they'll be one, as we are. 12 While I was with them in the world, I kept them in your name. Those that you gave me I've kept, and none of them is lost, except for the son of hell, so that the scripture would be fulfilled. 13 And now I come to you. And these things I speak in the world, so that they'll have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I've given them your word. And the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I don't pray that you'll take them out of the world, but that you'll keep them from the evil. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Make them holy through your truth. Your word is truth. 18 Like you've sent me into the world, so I've also sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I purify myself, so that they also will be made holy through the truth. 20 Nor do I pray for these only, but for those also who will believe on me through their word, 21 So that they'll all be one, like you, Father, are in me, and I in you, so that they'll also be one in us, so that the world will believe that you've sent me. 22 And the glory that you gave me, I've given them, so that they'll be one, just as we are one, 23 I in them, and you in me, so that they'll be made perfect in one, and so the world will know that you've sent me, and have loved them, like you've loved me. 24 Father, I also want those that you've given me to be with me where I am, so that they'll see my glory that you've given me, for you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, the world hasn't known you. But I've known you, and these have known that you've sent me. 26 And I have declared to them your name, and will declare it, so that the love with which you've loved me will be in them, and I in them." ___John chapter 18 1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where there was a garden, into which he entered, and his disciples. 2 And Judas also, who betrayed him, knew the place, for Jesus often went there with his disciples. 3 Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, came there with lanterns and torches and weapons. 4 Jesus therefore, knowing all things that would happen to him, went out and said to them, "Who are you looking for?" 5 They answered him, "Jesus of Nazareth." Jesus said to them, "I am he." And Judas also, who betrayed him, stood with them. 6 As soon then as he had told them, "I am he," they went backward, and fell to the ground. 7 Then he asked them again, "Who are you looking for?" And they said, "Jesus of Nazareth." 8 Jesus answered, "I've told you that I am he. If therefore you seek me, let these go their way," 9 So that the saying would be fulfilled that he said, "Of those that you gave me, I've lost none." 10 Then Simon Peter having a sword pulled it out, and struck the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus. 11 Then Jesus said to Peter, "Put away your sword into the sheath. The cup that my Father has given me, shall I not drink it?" 12 Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and tied him, 13 And led him away to Annas first, for he was father in law to Caiaphas, who was the high priest that year. 14 Now Caiaphas was the one who gave advice to the Jews that it was best for one man to die for the people. 15 And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. That disciple was known to the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest. 16 But Peter stood outside at the door. Then that other disciple went out, who was known to the high priest, and spoke to the woman that kept the door, and brought in Peter. 17 Then the young woman that kept the door said to Peter, "Aren't you also one of this man's disciples?" He said, "I'm not." 18 And the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals, for it was cold. And they warmed themselves. And Peter stood with them, and warmed himself. 19 Then the high priest asked Jesus about his disciples, and about his teachings. 20 Jesus answered him, "I spoke openly to the world. I always taught in the synagogue and in the temple, where the Jews always go. And I've said nothing in secret. 21 Why do you ask me? Ask those who heard me what I've said to them. See, they know what I said." 22 And when he had said this, one of the officers who stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand and said, "Is that how you answer the high priest?" 23 Jesus answered him, "If I have spoken evil, testify about the evil, but if well, why do you strike me?" 24 Now Annas had sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest. 25 And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore to him, "Aren't you also one of his disciples?" He denied it, and said, "I'm not." 26 One of the servants of the high priest, being a kinsman of the man whose ear Peter had cut off said, "Didn't I see you in the garden with him?" 27 Peter then denied again, and immediately the rooster crowed. 28 Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas to the hall of judgment. And it was early. And they themselves didn't go into the judgment hall, so they wouldn't be defiled, but so they could eat the Passover. 29 Then Pilate went out to them and said, "What accusation do you bring against this man?" 30 They answered him, "If he weren't a criminal, we wouldn't have brought him to you." 31 Then Pilate said to them, "You take him and judge him according to your law." The Jews therefore said to him, "It is not lawful for us to execute anyone," 32 So that the saying of Jesus would be fulfilled, that he spoke, signifying what death he would die. 33 Then Pilate went into the judgment hall again and called Jesus, and said to him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" 34 Jesus answered him, "Do you say this thing on your own, or did others say this to you about me?" 35 Pilate answered, "Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have brought you to me. What have you done?" 36 Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, then my servants would fight, so that I wouldn't be given to the Jews. But now my kingdom is not from here." 37 Pilate therefore said to him, "Are you a king then?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. That's why I was born, and I came into the world for this reason, so that I would testify to the truth. Everyone that is of the truth hears my voice." 38 Pilate said to him, "What is truth?" And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews, and said to them, "I find no fault at all in him. 39 But you have a custom, that I should set someone free for you at the Passover. So do you want me to set free the King of the Jews for you?" 40 Then they all shouted again, "Not this man, but Barabbas." Now Barabbas was a robber. ___John chapter 19 1 Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and whipped him. 2 And the soldiers wove a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put a purple robe on him, 3 And said, "Hail, King of the Jews!" And they struck him with their hands. 4 Pilate therefore went out again, and said to them, "See, I bring him out to you, so you'll know that I find no fault in him." 5 Then Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate said to them, "Look at the man!" 6 When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they shouted, "Crucify him, crucify him." Pilate said to them, "You take him, and crucify him, for I find no fault in him." 7 The Jews answered him, "We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God." 8 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was more afraid, 9 And went again into the judgment hall, and said to Jesus, "Where are you from?" But Jesus gave him no answer. 10 Then Pilate said to him, "You won't answer me? Don't you know that I have the authority to crucify you, and have authority to set you free?" 11 Jesus answered, "You could have no authority at all over me, unless it had been given to you from above, therefore he that brought me to you has the greater sin." 12 And from then on Pilate looked for a way to release him, but the Jews shouted, "If you let this man go, you're not Caesar's friend. Whoever makes himself a king speaks against Caesar." 13 When Pilate therefore heard that, he brought Jesus out, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha. 14 And it was the preparation of the Passover, and about the sixth hour, and he said to the Jews, "Look at your King!" 15 But they shouted, "Away with him, away with him, crucify him." Pilate said to them, "Shall I crucify your King?" The chief priests answered, "We have no king but Caesar." 16 Then he gave him therefore to them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away. 17 And he, carrying his cross went out into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew, Golgotha, 18 Where they crucified him, and two others with him, one on each side, and Jesus in the middle. 19 And Pilate wrote a sign, and put it on the cross. And the sign said, "Jesus of Nazareth, The King of the Jews." 20 Then many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city. And it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin. 21 Then the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, "Don't write, The King of the Jews, but that he said, I am King of the Jews." 22 Pilate answered, "What I have written I have written." 23 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and divided them into four parts, to each soldier a part. And also his coat. Now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. 24 They said therefore among themselves, "Let's not tear it, but draw straws for it, to see who gets it," so that the scripture would be fulfilled, that says, "They divided my clothing among them, and for my vesture they drew straws." These things therefore the soldiers did. 25 Now Jesus' mother stood by his cross, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he said to his mother, "Woman, look at your son!" 27 Then he said to the disciple, "Look at your mother!" And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home. 28 After this, Jesus knowing that all things had now been accomplished, so that the scripture would be fulfilled, said, "I'm thirsty." 29 Now a container full of vinegar was sitting there. And they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it on hyssop, and put it to his mouth. 30 When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, "It is finished," and he bowed his head, and yielded up his spirit. 31 The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, so the bodies wouldn't remain on the cross on the Sabbath day, (for that Sabbath day was a high day,) asked Pilate for their legs to be broken, and that they would be taken away. 32 Then the soldiers came, and broke the legs of the first, and of the other who were crucified with him. 33 But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was already dead, they didn't break his legs. 34 But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and immediately blood and water came out. 35 And he that saw it testified, and his testimony is true. And he knows that he's telling the truth, so that you'll believe. 36 For these things were done, so that the scripture would be fulfilled, "No bone of him shall be broken." 37 And again, another scripture says, "They shall look at him whom they pierced." 38 And after this, Joseph of Arimathaea, a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate for permission to take away the body of Jesus. And Pilate gave him permission. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. 39 And Nicodemus also came, who at the first came to Jesus at night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds in weight. 40 Then they took the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen cloth with the spices, the way the Jews bury people. 41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been buried. 42 Therefore they laid Jesus there because of the Jews' preparation day, for the tomb was nearby. ___John chapter 20 1 The first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came early to the tomb, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. 2 Then she ran, and came to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They've taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they've laid him." 3 Peter therefore went out, and that other disciple, and came to the tomb. 4 So they both ran together. And the other disciple outran Peter, and arrived first at the tomb. 5 And stooping down, and looking in, he saw the linen clothes lying. But he didn't go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb, and saw the linen clothes lie, 7 And the napkin, that had been around his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself. 8 Then that other disciple also went in, who came first to the tomb, and he saw, and believed. 9 For they didn't yet know the scripture that he must rise again from the dead. 10 Then the disciples went away again to their own home. 11 But Mary stood outside at the tomb crying. And as she cried, she stooped down, and looked into the tomb, 12 And saw two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. 13 And they said to her, "Woman, why are you crying?" She said to them, "Because they've taken away my Lord, and I don't know where they've laid him." 14 And when she had said that, she turned around, and saw Jesus standing, and didn't know it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you crying? Who are you looking for?" She, supposing him to be the gardener, said to him, "Sir, if you've carried him from here, tell me where you've laid him, and I will take him away." 16 Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned around, and said to him, "Rabboni," which is to say, "Master." 17 Jesus said to her, "Don't touch me, because I haven't yet ascended to my Father, but go to my brothers, and say to them, I ascend to my Father, and your Father, and to my God, and your God." 18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had said these things to her. 19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them, and said to them, "Peace be to you." 20 And when he had said that, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad, when they saw the Lord. 21 Then Jesus said to them again, "Peace be to you, as my Father has sent me, so I send you." 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Ghost. 23 Whoever's sins you cancel, they are cancelled for them, and whoever's sins you retain, they are retained." 24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said to him, "We've seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the print of the nails in his hands, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into his side, I won't believe." 26 And after eight days his disciples were again indoors, and Thomas with them. Then Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood among them, and said, "Peace be to you." 27 Then he said to Thomas, "Reach your finger here, and see my hands, and reach your hand here, and put it into my side, and don't be faithless, but believing." 28 And Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God." 29 Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen me, you've believed, blessed are those who haven't seen, and yet have believed." 30 And truly, Jesus did many other signs, in the presence of his disciples, that are not written in this book, 31 But these are written, so that you'll believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and so that believing, you'll have life through his name. ___John chapter 21 1 After these things, Jesus showed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias, and here's how he showed himself. 2 Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples were gathered together. 3 Simon Peter said to them, "I'm going fishing." They said to him, "We'll go, too." They went out, and entered into a ship immediately. And that night they caught nothing. 4 But when the morning had come, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples didn't know that it was Jesus. 5 Then Jesus said to them, "Children, do you have any fish?" They answered him, "No." 6 And he said to them, "Throw the net on the right side of the ship, and you'll find." They threw therefore, and now they were not able to pull it for the multitude of fish. 7 Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It's the Lord." Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his fisherman's coat, (for he was naked,) and jumped into the sea. 8 And the other disciples came in a little ship, (for they weren't far from land, but about a hundred yards,) dragging the net with fish. 9 As soon then as they had come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish that you've now caught." 11 Simon Peter went up, and pulled the net to land full of large fish, one hundred fifty three fish, and though there were so many, yet the net was not broken. 12 Jesus said to them, "Come and eat." And none of the disciples dared to ask him, "Who are you?," knowing that it was the Lord. 13 Then Jesus came, and took bread, and gave it to them, and also fish. 14 This is now the third time that Jesus showed himself to his disciples, after he had risen from the dead. 15 So when they had eaten, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of Jona, do you love me more than you love these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord, you know I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs." 16 He said to him again the second time, "Simon, son of Jona, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord, you know I love you." He said to him, "Feed my sheep." 17 He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of Jona, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" And he said to him, "Lord, you know everything, you know I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you dressed yourself, and walked where you wanted to, but when you're old, you'll reach out your hands, and someone else will dress you, and carry you where you don't want to go." 19 This he spoke, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when he had said this, he said to him, "Follow me." 20 Then Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following, who also leaned on his chest at supper, and said, "Lord, who is it that will betray you?" 21 Peter, seeing him, said to Jesus, "Lord, and what shall this man do?" 22 Jesus said to him, "If I want him to wait until I come, what is that to you? Follow me." 23 Then this saying went around among the brothers, that that disciple wouldn't die, yet Jesus didn't say to him, "He won't die," but, "If I want him to wait until I come, what is that to you?" 24 This is the disciple who's testifying about these things, and wrote these things, and we know that his testimony is true. 25 And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which, if they were all to be written, I suppose even the world itself couldn't contain the books that would be written. Amen. ___Acts chapter 1 1 I have written the previous book, O lover of God, about all that Jesus began to do and teach, 2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after he, through the Holy Ghost, had given commandments to the Apostles whom he had chosen, 3 To whom also he showed himself alive after his ordeal by many reliable proofs, being seen by them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. 4 And being assembled together with them, commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, "Which," he said, "you have heard from me. 5 For John truly baptized with water, but you'll be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days from now." 6 When they therefore had come together, they asked him, "Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?" 7 He said to them, "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, that the Father has put in his own power. 8 But you'll receive power, after the Holy Ghost has come on you, and you'll be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and to the farthest parts of the earth." 9 And when he had spoken these things, while they watched, he was taken up, and a cloud received him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked steadily toward heaven as he went up, see, two men stood by them in white clothes, 11 Who also said, "You men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, shall come back the same way as you have seen him go into heaven." 12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the Mount Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a Sabbath day's journey. 13 And when they had come in, they went up into an upper room, where Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James stayed. 14 These all continued in agreement in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. 15 And in those days Peter stood up among the disciples, and said, (the number of names together was about one hundred twenty,) 16 "Men and brothers, this scripture must necessarily have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who was guide to those who arrested Jesus. 17 For he was one of us, and had obtained part of this ministry. 18 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of sin, and falling down, he burst in pieces in the middle, and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it was known to all those living in Jerusalem, so that the field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The Field of Blood. 20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell in it, and let someone else take his office. 21 So of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, until the day that he was taken up from us, someone must be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection." 23 And they selected two candidates, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed, and said, "You Lord, who knows the hearts of all men, show which of these two you've chosen, 25 So he can take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas fell by sinning, so that he would go to his own place." 26 And they drew straws and got Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven Apostles. ___Acts chapter 2 1 And when the day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all in agreement in one place. 2 And suddenly, a sound came from heaven like a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And they saw split tongues like fire, and it rested on each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other languages, as the Spirit gave them the words to speak. 5 And Jews were living at Jerusalem, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. 6 Now when this news had spread around, the multitude came together and were amazed, because every man heard them speak in his own language. 7 And they were all amazed and surprised, saying to each other, "See, aren't all of these who speak Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear every man in our own language in which we were born? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and those living in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya around Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, Jews and converts, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we hear them speak in our languages the wonderful works of God." 12 And they were all amazed and were in doubt, saying to each other, "What does this mean?" 13 Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine." 14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said to them, "You men of Judea, and all of you that live at Jerusalem, know this, and listen to my words, 15 For these people aren't drunk, like you think, since it's only the third hour of the day. 16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel, 17 And it shall be, in the last days, says God, I will pour out of my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams, 18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit, and they shall prophesy, 19 And I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath, blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke, 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord comes, 21 And it shall be, that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. 22 You men of Israel, hear these words, Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved by God among you, by miracles and wonders and signs, that God did by him among you, as you yourselves also know, 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and beforehand knowledge of God, you've taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and killed, 24 Whom God has raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that he should be held captive by it. 25 For David speaks concerning him, I could always picture the Lord before my face, for he is at my right hand, so that I wouldn't be moved, 26 Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad, also my flesh shall rest in hope, 27 Because you won't leave my soul in hell, nor will you allow your Holy One to see corruption. 28 You've made known to me the ways of life, you'll make me full of joy with your face. 29 Men and brothers, let me freely speak to you about the patriarch David, that he is dead and buried, and his tomb is still with us today. 30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne, 31 He, seeing this beforehand, spoke of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, nor did his flesh see corruption. 32 God has raised up this Jesus, about whom all of us are witnesses. 33 Therefore being honored at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he has given this that you now see and hear. 34 For David has not ascended into the heavens, but he said himself, The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand, 35 Until I make your enemies your footstool. 36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain, that God has made that same Jesus, whom you've crucified, the Lord and Christ." 37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said to Peter and to the rest of the Apostles, "Men and brothers, what shall we do?" 38 Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and you'll receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is to you, and to your children, and to all that are far off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." 40 And he testified and exhorted with many other words, and said, "Save yourselves from this wicked generation." 41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized, and the same day there were added to them about three thousand souls. 42 And they continued steadily in the Apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 And fear came on every soul, and many wonders and signs were done by the Apostles. 44 And all that believed were together, and had all things in common, 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and divided them to all men, as every man had need. 46 And they, continuing daily in agreement in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, ate their food with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were going to be saved. ___Acts chapter 3 1 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, which was the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man who couldn't walk since birth was carried, whom they laid every day at the gate of the temple that is called Beautiful, to beg for money from those who entered into the temple, 3 Who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for money. 4 And Peter, fastening his eyes on him with John said, "Look at us." 5 And he paid attention to them, expecting to receive something from them. 6 Then Peter said, "I have no silver or gold, but what I have, I give you, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." 7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 And they knew that it was he that sat begging at the Beautiful gate of the temple, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. 11 And as the lame man who'd been healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering. 12 And when Peter saw it, he said to the people, "You men of Israel, why are you surprised at this? Or why do you look so earnestly at us, as though by our own power or holiness we had given this man the ability to walk? 13 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his Son Jesus, whom you arrested, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he wanted to set him free. 14 But you denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted to you, 15 And killed the Prince of Life, whom God has raised from the dead, about which we are witnesses. 16 And his name, through faith in his name has made this man strong, whom you see and know, yes, the faith that is by him has given him this perfect health in the presence of you all. 17 And now, brothers, I know that you did it through ignorance, as did also your rulers. 18 But those things that God had shown beforehand, by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ would suffer, he has so fulfilled. 19 Repent therefore, and be converted, so that your sins will be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord, 20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, who was previously preached to you, 21 Whom the heaven must hold until the times of restoring of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began. 22 For Moses truly said to the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up to you of your brothers, like me, him shall you hear in all things whatever he shall say to you. 23 And it shall be, that every soul, that won't listen to that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people. 24 Yes, and all the prophets starting with Samuel, and those that follow later, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. 25 You are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant that God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, And in your descendants all the people of the earth shall be blessed. 26 To you first, God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his sins." ___Acts chapter 4 1 And as they spoke to the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came to them, 2 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 3 And they arrested them, and put them in jail until the next day, for it was already evening. 4 But many of those who heard the word believed, and the number of men was about five thousand. 5 And on the next day, their rulers, and elders, and scribes, 6 And Annas, the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and all the family of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. 7 And when they had brought them in, they asked, "By what power, or by what name, have you done this?" 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said to them, "You rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, 9 If we are questioned today about the good deed done to the man who couldn't walk, by what means he's been made well, 10 I tell you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him does this man stand here before you well. 11 This is the stone that was rejected by you builders, that has become the cornerstone. 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men, by which we must be saved." 13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and ignorant men, they were surprised, and they took note of them, that they had been with Jesus. 14 And seeing the man standing with them who had been healed, they could say nothing against it. 15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, 16 Saying, "What shall we do to these men? The fact that a notable miracle has been done by them is clear to all those who live in Jerusalem, and we can't deny it. 17 But so that it spreads no further among the people, let us strictly threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name. 18 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you can judge. 20 For we can only speak the things that we have seen and heard." 21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people, for all men glorified God for what had been done. 22 For the man was more than forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shown. 23 And being let go, they went to their own people, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. 24 And when they heard that, they all lifted up their voices to God, and said, "Lord, you are God, who has made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that is in them, 25 Who by the mouth of your servant David have said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? 26 The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ. 27 For truly against your holy child Jesus, whom you have anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, 28 To do whatever your hand and your judgment previously determined to be done. 29 And now, Lord, look at their threatenings, and grant to your servants, that with all boldness they'll speak your word, 30 By stretching out your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders will be done by the name of your holy child Jesus." 31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together, and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spoke the word of God with boldness. 32 And the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and of one soul, nor did any of them say that anything he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. 33 And the Apostles witnessed with great power about the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was on them all. 34 Nor were there any among them that lacked, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35 And laid them down at the Apostles' feet, and distribution was made to every man according to his needs. 36 And Joses, who by the Apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, "The Son of Consolation,") a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, 37 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the Apostles' feet. ___Acts chapter 5 1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2 And kept back part of the money, his wife also knowing about it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the Apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? 4 While it remained, wasn't it your own? And after it was sold, wasn't it under your control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You haven't lied to men, but to God." 5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the spirit, and great fear came on all of those who heard these things. 6 And the young men got up, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. 7 And it was about three hours later when his wife, not knowing what had happened, came in. 8 And Peter said to her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?" And she said, "Yes, for so much." 9 Then Peter said to her, "How is it that you have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? See, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and shall carry you out." 10 Then she fell down immediately at his feet, and yielded up the spirit, and the young men came in, and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. 11 And great fear came on all the church, and on as many as heard these things. 12 And by the hands of the Apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people, (and they were all in agreement in Solomon's porch. 13 And of the rest, no man dared join himself to them, but the people magnified them. 14 And more believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women.) 15 So that they brought out the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, so that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. 16 A multitude also came out of the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people, and those who were troubled by evil spirits, and they were all healed. 17 Then the high priest rose up, and all of those who were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, 18 And arrested the Apostles, and put them in the common prison. 19 But the angel of the Lord at night opened the prison doors, and brought them out, and said, 20 "Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life." 21 And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and those who were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. 22 But when the officers came, and didn't find them in the prison, they returned and said, 23 "Truly, we found the prison shut with all security, and the keepers standing outside in front of the doors, but when we had opened, we found no one inside." 24 Now when the high priest, and the top officer of the temple, and the chief priests heard these things, they worried who would hear about it. 25 Then someone came and told them, "The men you put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people." 26 Then the captain went with the officers, and brought them without violence, for they feared the people, so that they wouldn't be stoned. 27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council, and the high priest asked them, 28 "Didn't we strictly command you not to teach in this name? And see, you've filled Jerusalem with your teachings, and intend to make us guilty of this man's blood." 29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, "We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you killed and hung on a tree. 31 God has exalted him with his right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things, and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God has given to those who obey him." 33 When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and looked for ways to kill them. 34 Then a Pharisee named Gamaliel stood up in the council, a doctor of the law, with a good reputation among all the people, and commanded to move the apostles farther away, 35 And said to them, "You men of Israel, be careful what you intend to do concerning these men. 36 For before these days, Theudas rose up, boasting himself to be someone, to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves, who was killed, and all who obeyed him were scattered, and brought to nothing. 37 After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the taxing, and attracted away many people after him. He also died, and all who obeyed him, were dispersed. 38 And now I say to you, back off from these men, and let them alone, for if this counsel or this work is of men, it will come to nothing, 39 But if it is from God, you can't overthrow it, or you might find you're fighting against God." 40 And to him they agreed, and when they had called the Apostles, and beaten them, they commanded them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. 42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they didn't stop teaching and preaching Jesus Christ." ___Acts chapter 6 1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples had multiplied, a murmuring of the Greeks arose against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples to them, and said, "It is not reasonable that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. 3 So brothers, choose from among yourselves seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we can appoint over this business. 4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word." 5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas, a convert from Antioch, 6 Whom they set before the Apostles, and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. 7 And the word of God increased, and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith. 8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. 9 Then certain of the synagogue that is called the synagogue of the Libertines arose, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of those of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. 10 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spoke. 11 Then they found false witnesses, who said, "We've heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God." 12 And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came to him and arrested him, and brought him to the council, 13 And set up false witnesses who said, "This man won't stop speaking blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law, 14 For we've heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place, and change the customs that Moses gave us." 15 And all that sat in the council, looking steadily at him, saw his face as though it was the face of an angel. ___Acts chapter 7 1 Then the high priest said, "Are these things so?" 2 And he said, "Men, brothers, and fathers, listen, the God of glory appeared to our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Charran, 3 And said to him, Get out of your country, and from your family, and come into the land that I will show you. 4 Then he came out of the land of the Chaldeans, and lived in Charran, and from there, when his father was dead, he moved him into this land in which you're now living. 5 And he gave him no inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on, yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his descendants after him, when as yet he had no child. 6 And God spoke this way, that his descendants would temporarily live in a strange land, and that they would bring them into bondage, and treat them evil four hundred years. 7 And the nation to whom they'll be in bondage I will judge, said God, and after that they'll come out, and serve me in this place. 8 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision, and so Abraham fathered Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day, and Isaac fathered Jacob, and Jacob fathered the twelve patriarchs. 9 And the patriarchs, because of envy, sold Joseph into Egypt, but God was with him, 10 And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house. 11 Now a famine came over all the land of Egypt and Canaan, and great affliction, and our fathers found no food. 12 But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first. 13 And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brothers, and Joseph's family was made known to Pharaoh. 14 Then Joseph sent, and called his father Jacob to him, and all his family, seventy five souls. 15 So Jacob went down into Egypt and died, he, and our fathers, 16 And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the tomb that Abraham bought for a sum of money from the sons of Emmor, the father of Sychem. 17 But when the time of the promise came near, that God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt, 18 Until another king arose, who didn't know Joseph. 19 He dealt treacherously with our people, and did evil to our fathers, so that they threw out their babies to kill them. 20 At which time Moses was born, and was a good looking baby, and nourished up in his father's house three months, 21 And when he was thrown out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son. 22 And Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds. 23 And when he was fully forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brothers, the children of Israel. 24 And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and struck the Egyptian, 25 For he supposed his brothers would have understood how that God by his hand would give them deliverance, but they didn't understand. 26 And the next day he showed himself to them as they argued, and would have made peace between them, saying, Sirs, you are brothers, why do you do wrong to each other? 27 But he that did his neighbor wrong pushed him away, saying, Who made you a ruler and a judge over us? 28 Will you kill me, like you did the Egyptian yesterday? 29 Then Moses ran off after hearing that, and was a stranger in the land of Midian, where he fathered two sons. 30 And after forty years, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in the wilderness of Mount Sinai, in a flame of fire in a bush. 31 When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight, and as he went near to see it, the voice of the Lord came to him, 32 Saying, I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and didn't dare look. 33 Then the Lord said to him, Put off your shoes from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground. 34 I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my people who are in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and have come down to give them deliverance. And now come, I will send you into Egypt. 35 This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made you a ruler and a judge? God sent to be a ruler and a deliverance giver by the hand of the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36 He brought them out, after he had shown wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years. 37 This is that Moses, who said to the children of Israel, The Lord your God shall raise up to you a prophet like me from your brothers. You shall listen to him. 38 This is he that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel that spoke to him in Mount Sinai, and with our fathers, who received the lively oracles to give to us, 39 To whom our fathers would not obey, but pushed him from them, and in their hearts turned back again to Egypt, 40 Saying to Aaron, Make us gods to go before us, for as for this Moses, who brought us out of the land of Egypt, we don't know what has become of him. 41 And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice to the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands. 42 Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven, as it is written in the book of the prophets, O house of Israel, have you offered to me dead animals and sacrifices for forty years in the wilderness? 43 Yes, you took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures that you made to worship, and I will carry you away beyond Babylon. 44 Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking to Moses, that he should make it according to the pattern that he had seen. 45 Which also our fathers that came afterward brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drove out before the face of our fathers, until the days of David, 46 Who found favor before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob. 47 But Solomon built him a house. 48 But the most High doesn't live in temples made by hands, like the prophet says, 49 Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool, what house will you build me? Says the Lord, or what is the place of my rest? 50 Hasn't my hand made all these things? 51 You stiff necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Ghost. As your fathers did, so do you. 52 Which of the prophets have your fathers not persecuted? And they have killed those who showed before of the coming of the Just One, of whom you've now been the betrayers and murderers, 53 Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and haven't kept it." 54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed at him with their teeth. 55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadily into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, 56 And said, "I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." 57 Then they shouted with a loud voice, and plugged their ears, and all ran at him, 58 And threw him out of the city, and stoned him, and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. 59 And they stoned Stephen, calling on God, and saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." 60 And he kneeled down, and shouted with a loud voice, "Lord, don't hold this sin against them." And when he had said this, he died. ___Acts chapter 8 1 And Saul agreed with his being stoned to death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church that was at Jerusalem, and they were all scattered around throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the Apostles. 2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. 3 As for Saul, he fought against the church, entering into every house, and arresting men and women, sent them to prison. 4 Therefore those who were scattered around went everywhere preaching the word. 5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ to them. 6 And the people all paid attention to the things that Philip spoke, hearing and seeing the miracles that he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voices, came out of many that had been possessed by them, and many that had the palsy, and that were lame, were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city. 9 But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, presenting himself as some great person, 10 To whom they all paid attention, from the least to the greatest, saying, "This man is the great power of God." 11 And to him they had regard, because for a long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. 12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Then Simon himself also believed, and when he'd been baptized, he continued with Philip and wondered, seeing the miracles and signs that were done. 14 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 Who, when they had come down, prayed for them, so they would receive the Holy Ghost, 16 (For as yet he had fallen on none of them, only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 17 Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. 18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the Apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, 19 Saying, "Give me also this power, so that on whomever I lay hands, he will receive the Holy Ghost." 20 But Peter said to him, "Let you and your money be destroyed, because you've thought that the gift of God can be purchased for money. 21 You have no part nor rights in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of your wickedness, and pray to God, if perhaps the thought of your heart can be forgiven. 23 For I perceive that you are in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of sin." 24 Then Simon answered, "Pray to the Lord for me, that none of these things that you've spoken comes on me." 25 And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans. 26 And the angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, "Get up, and go toward the south to the way that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza, which is desert." 27 And he got up and went, and see, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem to worship, 28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Isaiah, the prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, "Go near, and get aboard this chariot." 30 And Philip ran to him, and heard him read the prophet Isaiah and said, "Do you understand what you're reading?" 31 And he said, "How can I, unless some man helps me?" And he desired Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 The place of the scripture that he read was this, "He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so he didn't open his mouth, 33 In his humiliation, he was robbed of justice, and who shall declare his genealogy? For his life is taken from the earth." 34 And the eunuch answered Philip and said, "Please tell me, who is the prophet talking about here? About himself, or about some other man?" 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached Jesus to him. 36 And as they went on their way, they came to a certain body of water, and the eunuch said, "See, here is water, what would keep me from being baptized?" 37 And Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you can." And he answered, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." 38 And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. 39 And when they had come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, so that the eunuch saw him no more, and he went on his way rejoicing. 40 But Philip was found at Azotus, and passing through, he preached in all the cities until he came to Caesarea. ___Acts chapter 9 1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest, 2 And desired from him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, so that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he could bring them to Jerusalem in handcuffs. 3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shined around him, 4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" 5 And he said, "Who are you, Lord?" And the Lord said, "I am Jesus whom you're persecuting, it is hard for you to kick against the sharp points." 6 And he, trembling and astonished said, "Lord, what do you want me to do?" And the Lord said to him, "Get up and go into the city, and you'll be told what you must do." 7 And the men who traveled with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. 8 And Saul got up from the ground, and when his eyes were opened, he saw no one, but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was without sight for three days, and didn't eat or drink. 10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias, and the Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "See, I am here, Lord." 11 And the Lord said to him, "Get up, and go into the street that is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for someone called Saul of Tarsus, for see, he's praying, 12 And has seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, so that he'll receive his sight." 13 Then Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem, 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to arrest all that call on your name." 15 But the Lord said to him, "Be on your way, for he is a chosen container to me, to carry my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel, 16 For I will show him how he must suffer great things for my name's sake." 17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house, and putting his hands on him said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, that appeared to you on the way as you came, has sent me, so that you'll receive your sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost." 18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he received sight immediately, and got up, and was baptized. 19 And when he'd eaten, he was strengthened. Then Saul was certain days with the disciples who were at Damascus. 20 And immediately he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. 21 But all that heard him were amazed and said, "Isn't this he that destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and came here for that purpose, so he could bring them in handcuffs to the chief priests?" 22 But Saul increased even more in strength, and put to confusion the Jews who lived at Damascus, proving that this is the actual Christ. 23 And after many days had gone by, the Jews plotted to kill him, 24 But their laying in wait was known by Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. 25 Then the disciples took him at night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. 26 And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join himself to the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, and didn't believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the Apostles, and declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. 29 And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Greeks, but they tried to kill him. 30 Which, when the brothers knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him to Tarsus. 31 Then the churches had rest throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria, and were built up, and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied. 32 And as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints who lived at Lydda. 33 And he found a certain man named Aeneas there, who had been confined to his bed for eight years, and was sick of the palsy. 34 And Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus Christ makes you well, get up, and make your bed." And he got up immediately. 35 And all that lived at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord. 36 Now at Joppa, there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, who by interpretation is called Dorcas, this woman was full of good works and giving of money that she did. 37 And in those days she was sick and died, whom when they had washed, they laid her body in an upper room. 38 And because Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent to him two men, desiring him to not delay to come to them. 39 Then Peter got up and went with them. When he had come, they brought him into the upper room, and all the widows stood by him crying, and showing the coats and garments that Dorcas made, while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all out, and kneeled down, and prayed, and turning to the body said, "Tabitha, get up." And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. 42 And it was known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43 And he stayed in Joppa many days with Simon, a tanner. ___Acts chapter 10 1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the military unit called the "Italian band," 2 A devout man, and one who feared God with all his house, who gave a lot of money to the people, and prayed to God always. 3 He saw in a vision, apparently about the ninth hour of the day, an angel of God coming in to him, and saying to him, "Cornelius." 4 And when he looked at him, he was afraid and said, "What is it, Lord?" And he said to him, "Your prayers and your giving have come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now, send men to Joppa, and ask for Simon Peter. 6 He's staying with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea side, he'll tell you what you should do." 7 And when the angel who spoke to Cornelius had departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of those who waited on him continually, 8 And when he had told all these things to them, he sent them to Joppa. 9 On the next day, as they went on their journey, and came near the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray at about the sixth hour. 10 And he became very hungry, and wanted to eat, but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, 11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain container coming down to him, like a large sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth, 12 In which were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and birds of the air. 13 And a voice came to him, "Get up, Peter, kill and eat." 14 But Peter said, "Not so, Lord, for I've never eaten anything that is common or unclean." 15 And the voice spoke to him again the second time, "What God has cleansed, don't you call common." 16 This was done three times, and the container was pulled back into heaven. 17 Now while Peter wondered in himself what this vision that he had seen meant, the men who had been sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood at the gate, 18 And called, and asked whether Simon Peter was living there. 19 While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him, "See, three men are looking for you. 20 So get up, go down, and go with them, without worrying, for I have sent them." 21 Then Peter went down to the men who'd been sent to him from Cornelius and said, "See, I'm the one you're looking for, why have you come?" 22 And they said, "Cornelius the centurion, an honest man, and one that fears God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned by God, by a holy angel, to send for you to come to his house, and to listen to your words." 23 Then he invited them in, and lodged them. And on the next day Peter went away with them, and certain brothers from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And the next day afterward, they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his family and close friends. 25 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. 26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, "Stand up, I myself also am a man." 27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that had gathered together. 28 And he said to them, "You know that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come to someone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean. 29 Therefore I came to you without objecting, as soon as I was sent for. I ask therefore why have you sent for me?" 30 And Cornelius said, "Four days ago I was fasting until this hour, and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and see, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 And said, Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your giving has been remembered in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and ask Simon Peter to come here. He's living at the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea side, who when he comes, shall speak to you. 33 Immediately therefore I sent to you, and you've done well to come. Now therefore we're all present here before God, to hear all things that are commanded to you by God." 34 Then Peter opened his mouth and said, "Truly, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons, 35 But in every nation he that fears Him, and does righteousness, is accepted by Him. 36 The word that God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ, (he is Lord of all.) 37 That word, I say, you know, that was published throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism that John preached, 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power, who went around doing good, and healing all that were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things that he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem, whom they killed and hung on a tree, 40 God raised him up the third day, and showed him openly, 41 Not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by God, even to us, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is he that was ordained by God to be the Judge of the alive and of the dead. 43 All the prophets testify about him, that through his name whoever believes in him shall receive forgiveness of sins." 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all of those who heard the word. 45 And all the Jewish believers who came with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Ghost was also poured out on the Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speak with unknown tongues, and magnify God. Then Peter responded, 47 "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, who have received the Holy Ghost as well as we have?" 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a certain number of days. ___Acts chapter 11 1 And the Apostles and brothers that were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. 2 And when Peter had come up to Jerusalem, those who were of the circumcision contended with him, 3 Saying, "You went in to uncircumcised men, and ate with them." 4 But Peter told the story from the beginning, and explained it in order to them, saying, 5 "I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision, a certain container descend, like a large sheet, let down from heaven by four corners, and it came to me, 6 On which, when I had looked, I considered, and saw four-footed animals of the earth, and wild animals, and creeping things, and birds of the air. 7 And I heard a voice saying to me, Get up, Peter, kill and eat. 8 But I said, Not so, Lord, for nothing common or unclean has at any time entered into my mouth. 9 But the voice answered me back from heaven, What God has cleansed, don't you call common. 10 And this was done three times, and all were pulled up again into heaven. 11 And, immediately there were three men who had already come to the house where I was, sent from Caesarea to me. 12 And the Spirit told me to go with them without worrying. Also these six brothers accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house, 13 And he showed us how he had seen an angel in his house, that stood and said to him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon Peter, 14 Who will tell you words, by which you and all your family will be saved. 15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, like on us at the beginning. 16 Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, John indeed baptized with water, but you'll be baptized with the Holy Ghost. 17 So then, since God gave them the same gift as he did to us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I, that I could oppose God?" 18 When they heard these things, they didn't argue, and glorified God, saying, "Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance for salvation." 19 Now those who were scattered around because of the persecution that arose about Stephen traveled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one except the Jews. 20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Greeks, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed, and turned to the Lord. 22 Then news of these things came to the ears of the church that was in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas, so that he would go as far as Antioch. 23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, so that with purpose of heart they would stick with the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith, and many people were added to the Lord. 25 Then Barnabas departed to Tarsus, to look for Saul, 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And for a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. 27 And in those days prophets went from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 And one of them named Agabus stood up, and signified by the Spirit that there would be great drought throughout all the world, which happened in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brothers who lived in Judea, 30 Which they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. ___Acts chapter 12 1 Now about that time, Herod the king stretched out his hands to persecute certain of the church. 2 And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. 3 And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to arrest Peter also. (It was during the days of unleavened bread.) 4 And after he'd arrested him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four bands of soldiers to keep him, intending after Easter to bring him out to the people. 5 Peter therefore was kept in prison, but prayer was made without stopping by the church to God for him. 6 And when Herod would have brought him out, the same night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and the keepers before the door kept the prison. 7 And see, the angel of the Lord came to him, and a light shined in the prison, and he struck Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, "Get up quickly." And his chains fell off of his hands. 8 And the angel said to him, "Get dressed, and tie on your sandals." And he did. And he said to him, "Throw your garment around yourself, and follow me." 9 And he went out, and followed him, and didn't know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he saw a vision. 10 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, that opened to them by itself, and they went out, and passed on through one street, and immediately the angel departed from him. 11 And when Peter had come to himself he said, "Now I know certainly, that the Lord has sent his angel, and has given me deliverance out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the Jews." 12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John Mark, where many were gathered together praying. 13 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a young woman named Rhoda came to listen. 14 And when she knew Peter's voice, she didn't open the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood at the gate. 15 And they said to her, "You're crazy." But she insisted that it was so. Then they said, "It is his angel." 16 But Peter continued knocking, and when they had opened the door and saw him, they were amazed. 17 But he, beckoning to them with the hand to be quiet, declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, "Go show these things to James, and to the brothers." And he departed, and went into another place. 18 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers what had become of Peter. 19 And when Herod had looked for him, and didn't find him, he questioned the keepers, and commanded that they be executed. And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and lived there. 20 And Herod was highly displeased with those of Tyre and Zidon, but they came united, and having made Blastus, the king's butler, their friend, desired peace, because their country was nourished by the king's country. 21 And on a set day Herod, arrayed in royal clothes, sat on his throne and made an oration to them. 22 And the people gave a shout, "It is the voice of a god, and not of a man." 23 And immediately the angel of the Lord struck him, because he didn't give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms, and gave up the spirit. 24 But the word of God grew and multiplied. 25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John Mark. ___Acts chapter 13 1 Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers, like Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, "Separate for me Barnabas and Saul, for the work to which I have called them." 3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. 4 So they, being sent out by the Holy Ghost, departed to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. 5 And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews, and they had also John as one of their ministers. 6 And when they had gone through the island to Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew whose name was Barjesus, 7 Who was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man, who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God. 8 But Elymas, the sorcerer (because that's his name by interpretation), resisted them, trying to turn the deputy away from the faith. 9 Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him, 10 And said, "O full of all subtlety and all mischief, you child of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not stop trying to pervert the right ways of the Lord? 11 And now, see, the hand of the Lord is on you, and you'll be blind, not seeing the sun for a season." And immediately a mist and a darkness fell on him, and he went around looking for someone to lead him by the hand. 12 Then the deputy, when he saw what had been done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord. 13 Now when Paul and his group departed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia, and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem. 14 But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and sat down. 15 And after the reading of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying, "You men and brothers, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, go ahead." 16 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, "Men of Israel, and you who fear God, listen. 17 The God of our people Israel, chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they lived as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with a high arm he brought them out of it. 18 And for about forty years he endured their ways in the wilderness. 19 And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, he divided their land to them by drawing straws. 20 And after that, he gave them judges for about four hundred fifty years, until Samuel the prophet. 21 And afterward they wanted a king, and God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years. 22 And when he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after my own heart, who'll fulfill all my will. 23 Of this man's descendants, God according to his promise, has raised for Israel a Savior, Jesus, 24 When John had first preached before of his coming, the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. 25 And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Who do you think I am? I am not he. But see, someone is coming after me, whose shoelaces I am not worthy to untie. 26 Men and brothers, children of the stock of Abraham, and whoever among you fears God, to you is the word of this salvation sent. 27 For those who live at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they didn't know him, nor yet the voices of the prophets that are read every Sabbath day, they have fulfilled them in condemning him. 28 And though they found no reason to execute him, yet they desired Pilate to kill him. 29 And when they had fulfilled all that was written about him, they took him down from the cross, and laid him in a tomb. 30 But God raised him from the dead, 31 And he was seen many days by those who came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses to the people. 32 And we declare to you happy news, that the promise that was made to the fathers, 33 God has fulfilled the same to us their children, in that he has raised up Jesus again, as it is also written in the second psalm, You are my Son, this day I've begotten you. 34 And concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said like this, I will give you the sure mercies of David. 35 So he says also in another psalm, You won't allow your Holy One to see corruption. 36 For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, died, and was laid with his fathers, and saw corruption, 37 But he whom God raised again, saw no corruption. 38 I'm telling you therefore, men and brothers, that the forgiveness of sins, through this man, is preached to you. 39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which you couldn't be justified by the law of Moses. 40 Beware therefore, so what was spoken about in the prophets doesn't happen to you, 41 Look, you despisers, and wonder, and be destroyed, for I work a work in your days, a work that you'll no way believe, though a man explains it to you." 42 And when the Jews had gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles asked that these words would be preached to them the next Sabbath. 43 Now when the congregation had split up, many of the Jews and religious converts followed Paul and Barnabas, who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God. 44 And the next Sabbath day, almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God. 45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spoke against the things that were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas became bold and said, "It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you, but since you put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, see, we turn to the Gentiles. 47 For that's what the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set you to be a light of the Gentiles, so that you would be for salvation to the ends of the earth." 48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord, and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region. 50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and honorable women, and the important men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts. 51 But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost. ___Acts chapter 14 1 And in Iconium, both of them went together into the synagogue of the Jews, and spoke such that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and gave them a bad opinion of the brothers. 3 Therefore, they remained a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who gave testimony to the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 4 But the multitude of the city was divided, and part held with the Jews, and part with the Apostles. 5 And when there was an assault made both by the Gentiles, and also by the Jews with their rulers, to mistreat them, and to stone them, 6 They were aware of it, and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the region that's around there, 7 And they preached the gospel there. 8 And a certain man sat at Lystra, whose feet didn't work right, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who had never walked, 9 He heard Paul speak, who steadily looking at him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, 10 Said with a loud voice, "Stand up on your feet." And he jumped and walked. 11 And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, "The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men." 12 And they called Barnabas, Jupiter, and Paul, Mercury, because he was the main speaker. 13 Then the priest of Jupiter, who was before their city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people. 14 Which, when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard about, they tore their clothes, and ran in among the people, shouting, 15 "Sirs, why are you doing this? We also are men of similar emotions to you, and preach that you should turn away from these vanities to the living God, who made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are in them, 16 Who in the past allowed all nations to walk in their own ways. 17 But he didn't leave himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness." 18 And with these sayings they barely restrained the people from doing sacrifice to them. 19 And certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there, who persuaded the people, and having stoned Paul, brought him out of the city, supposing he was dead. 20 But, as the disciples stood around him, he rose up, and came into the city, and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. 21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, 22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. 23 And when they had ordained elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they committed them to the Lord, on whom they believed. 24 And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. 25 And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia, 26 And sailed from there to Antioch, from which place they had been committed to the grace of God for the work that they fulfilled. 27 And when they had arrived, and had gathered the church together, they recited all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. 28 And they stayed there a long time with the disciples. ___Acts chapter 15 1 And certain men who came down from Judea taught the brothers, and said, "Unless you are circumcised according to the law of Moses, you can't be saved." 2 Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others of them, would go up to Jerusalem to the Apostles and elders about this question. 3 And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles, and they caused great joy to all the brothers. 4 And when they had come to Jerusalem, they were received by the church, and by the Apostles and elders, and they told all things that God had done with them. 5 But some of the sect of the Pharisees who were believers rose up, saying that it was necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. 6 And the Apostles and elders came together to consider this matter. 7 And when there had been much arguing, Peter got up and said to them, "Men and brothers, you know that a good while ago, God made a choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel and believe. 8 And God, who knows the hearts, was a witness for them, giving them the Holy Ghost, just like he did to us, 9 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. 10 Now therefore, why would you tempt God, by putting a yoke on the neck of the disciples, that neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? 11 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, just like them." 12 Then all the multitude kept silence, and listened to Barnabas and Paul, telling what miracles and wonders God had done among the Gentiles by them. 13 And after they finished, James answered, "Men and brothers, listen to me. 14 Simon has declared how God at first visited the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. 15 And to this agree the words of the prophets, as it is written, 16 After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David that has fallen down, and I will build again the ruins of it, and I will set it up, 17 So that the remaining men will seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, on whom my name is called, says the Lord, who does all these things. 18 Known to God are all his works from the beginning of the world. 19 So my judgment is, that we not trouble those who from among the Gentiles have turned to God, 20 But that we write to them to abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. 21 For since old times, Moses has those who preach him in every city, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath day." 22 Then it pleased the Apostles and elders, and the whole church, to send chosen men of their own group to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas Barsabas, and Silas, important men among the brothers, 23 And they wrote letters by them like this, "The Apostles and elders and brothers send greetings to the brothers who are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, 24 Because we've heard that some who went out from us have inconvenienced you with words, troubling your souls, saying, You must be circumcised, and keep the law, to whom we gave no such commandment, 25 It seemed good to us, being assembled and united, to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 26 Men that have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27 Therefore we've sent Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth. 28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us, to lay on you no greater burden than these necessary things: 29 That you abstain from foods offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled things, and from fornication, which, if you keep yourselves from them, you'll do well. Farewell." 30 So when they'd been dismissed, they came to Antioch, and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter, 31 Which when they'd read, they rejoiced for the consolation. 32 And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brothers with many words, and confirmed them. 33 And after they had stayed there a while, they were sent out in peace from the brothers to the Apostles. 34 However, it pleased Silas to remain there longer. 35 Paul, also, and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also. 36 And some days afterward, Paul said to Barnabas, "Let's go again and visit our brothers in every city where we've preached the word of the Lord, and see how they're doing." 37 And Barnabas determined to take with them John Mark. 38 But Paul thought it wasn't good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and didn't go with them to the work. 39 And the disagreement was so sharp between them that they split from each other, and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed to Cyprus, 40 And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being committed by the brothers to the grace of God. 41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches. ___Acts chapter 16 1 Then he came to Derbe and Lystra, and a certain disciple was there named Timothy, the son of a certain woman who was a Jewess and a believer, but his father was a Greek, 2 Who had a good reputation among the brothers that were at Lystra and Iconium. 3 Paul wanted him to go ministering with him, and took and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those quarters, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. 4 And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees to keep that were ordained by the Apostles and elders who were at Jerusalem. 5 And so the churches were established in the faith, and increased in number daily. 6 Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden by the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, 7 After they'd come to Mysia, they planned to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit wouldn't allow it. 8 And passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. 9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night, a man of Macedonia stood and asked him, "Come over into Macedonia and help us." 10 And after he had seen the vision, immediately we planned to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us to preach the gospel to them. 11 Therefore departing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis, 12 And from there to Philippi, which is the main city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony, and we stayed in that city for a while. 13 And on the Sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was usually made, and we sat down, and spoke to the women who went there. 14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira who worshipped God, heard us, whose heart the Lord opened, so that she paid attention to the things that were spoken by Paul. 15 And after she and her household were baptized, she asked us, "If you've judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house, and stay there." And she persuaded us. 16 And as we went to prayer, a certain young woman possessed by a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune telling. 17 She followed Paul and us, and shouted, "These men are the servants of the most high God, who show us the way of salvation." 18 And she did that many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, "I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her." And he came out the same hour. 19 And when her masters saw that the hope of using her to make money was gone, they laid hands on Paul and Silas, and brought them into the marketplace to the rulers, 20 And brought them to the officials and said, "These men, being Jews, trouble our city very much, 21 And teach customs, that are not lawful for us to receive nor to observe, being Romans." 22 And the multitude rose up together against them, and the officials tore off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. 23 And when they had thoroughly whipped them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them safely, 24 Who, having received that responsibility, put them into the inner prison, and made their feet secure in the stocks. 25 And at midnight, Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises to God, and the prisoners heard them. 26 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken, and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's handcuffs and shackles were undone. 27 And the keeper of the prison, waking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he pulled out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had fled. 28 But Paul shouted with a loud voice, "Don't harm yourself, for we're all here." 29 Then he called for a light, and jumped in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, 30 And brought them out and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" 31 And they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you'll be saved, and your family." 32 And they spoke to him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their wounds, and was baptized, he and all his, immediately. 34 And when he had brought them into his house, he set food before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house. 35 And when it was day, the officials sent the sergeants, saying, "Let those men go." 36 And the keeper of the prison told this statement to Paul, "The officials have sent to let you go, now therefore depart, and go in peace." 37 But Paul said to them, "They have beaten us openly, without a trial, being Romans, and have thrown us into prison, and now do they put us out secretly? No truly, but let them come themselves and fetch us out." 38 And the sergeants told these words to the officials, and they were afraid, when they heard that they were Romans. 39 And they came and asked them please, and brought them out, and wanted them to depart out of the city. 40 And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia, and when they had seen the brothers, they comforted them and departed. ___Acts chapter 17 1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue. 2 And Paul, as he usually did, went in to them, and three Sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures, 3 Opening and declaring that Christ had to have suffered, and risen again from the dead, and that "This Jesus, whom I preach to you, is Christ." 4 And some of them believed, and fellowshipped with Paul and Silas, and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the main women not a few. 5 But the Jews who didn't believe, being envious, found certain lewd and crude men, and gathered a crowd, and put the city into an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and tried to bring them out to the people. 6 And when they didn't find them, they brought Jason and certain brothers to the rulers of the city, shouting, "These that have turned the world upside down have come here also, 7 Whom Jason has received, and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, Jesus." 8 And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things. 9 And when they had taken bond money from Jason and from the others, they let them go. 10 And the brothers immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night to Berea, who arriving there, went into the synagogue of the Jews. 11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. 12 Therefore many of them believed, also of honorable women who were Greeks, and of men, not a few. 13 But when the Jews of Thessalonica knew that the word of God was preached by Paul at Berea, they came there also, and stirred up the people. 14 And then immediately the brothers sent away Paul to go toward the sea, but Silas and Timothy remained there. 15 And those who conducted Paul brought him to Athens, and sending a commandment to Silas and Timothy to quickly come to him, they departed. 16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city completely given to idolatry. 17 Therefore he disputed in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout people, and in the market daily with those who met with him. 18 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoics, encountered him. And some said, "What will this babbler say?" Others said, "He seems to be a preacher of strange gods," because he preached Jesus to them, and the resurrection. 19 And they took him, and brought him to Areopagus, saying, "May we know what this new doctrine is that you talk about? 20 For you bring strange things to our ears. We want to know therefore what these things mean." 21 (For all the Athenians and strangers who were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.) 22 Then Paul stood in the middle of Mars' hill, and said, "You men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are too superstitious. 23 For as I passed by, and saw your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, To The Unknown God. Whom therefore you ignorantly worship, I'll tell you about him. 24 God, that made the world and all things in it, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, doesn't live in temples made by hands, 25 Nor is he ministered to by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he gives to all life, and breath, and all things, 26 And has from one blood made all nations of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined the times appointed beforehand, and the bounds of their habitation, 27 So that they should seek the Lord, if perhaps they would feel after him, and find him, though he's not far from any of us, 28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being, as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 29 Since we then are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like gold, or silver, or stone, engraved by art and man's device. 30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, 31 Because he has appointed a day, in which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he has ordained, about whom he has given assurance to all men, in that he has raised him from the dead." 32 And when they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some made fun of it, and others said, "We will hear you again about this matter." 33 So Paul departed from among them. 34 But certain men stuck with him and believed, among whom was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them. ___Acts chapter 18 1 After these things, Paul departed from Athens, and went to Corinth, 2 And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, recently arrived from Italy, with his wife Priscilla, (because Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome,) and went to them. 3 And because he was of the same craft, he stayed with them, and worked, for their occupation was tent making. 4 And he reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks. 5 And when Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is Christ. 6 And when they opposed themselves and blasphemed, he shook his clothes, and said to them, "Your blood is on your own heads, I am clean, from now on I will go to the Gentiles." 7 And he departed from there, and entered into a certain man's house named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house was right up against the synagogue. 8 And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house, and many of the Corinthians after hearing, believed and were baptized. 9 Then the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Don't be afraid, but speak, and don't be quiet, 10 For I am with you, and no man will set on you to hurt you, for I have many people in this city." 11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. 12 And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews united in a plot against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat, 13 And said, "This fellow persuades men to worship God contrary to the law." 14 And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, "If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O you Jews, it would be reasonable for me to bear with you, 15 But if it's a question of words and names, and of your law, you take care of it, for I will be no judge of such matters." 16 And his soldiers forced them to go from the judgment seat. 17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the main ruler of the synagogue, and beat him in front of the judgment seat. And Gallio cared about none of those things. 18 And after this, Paul stayed there yet a good while, and then departed from the brothers, and sailed from there into Syria, and with him, Priscilla and Aquila, having shaved his head in Cenchrea, for he had a vow. 19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there, but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews. 20 When they desired him to stay a longer time with them, he wouldn't, 21 But said "goodbye," and that "I must by all means keep this feast that's coming in Jerusalem, but I'll return again to you, God willing." And he sailed from Ephesus. 22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and greeted the church, he went down to Antioch. 23 And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples. 24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, a good speaker, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. 25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord, and being fervent in the spirit, he spoke and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. 26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue, whom, when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him, and explained to him the way of God more perfectly. 27 And when he was inclined to pass into Achaia, the brothers wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him, who when he had come, helped them much who had believed through grace, 28 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and in public, showing by the scriptures that Jesus is Christ. ___Acts chapter 19 1 And while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts, came to Ephesus. And finding certain disciples, 2 He said to them, "Have you received the Holy Ghost since you believed?" And they said, "We haven't heard whether there is a Holy Ghost." 3 And he said, "What kind of baptism did you have?" And they said, "John's baptism." 4 Then Paul said, "John truly baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they need to believe on him that would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus." 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Ghost came on them, and they spoke with tongues, and prophesied. 7 And there were about twelve of those men. 8 And he went into the synagogue, and spoke boldly for three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God. 9 But when various of them were hardened, and didn't believe, but spoke evil about that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of Tyrannus. 10 And this continued for two years, so that all of those who lived in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks. 11 And God did special miracles by the hands of Paul, 12 So that from his body, handkerchiefs or aprons were brought to the sick, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them. 13 Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, decided to call over those who had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, "We command you by Jesus whom Paul preaches." 14 And there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, who did that. 15 And the evil spirit answered and said, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are you?" 16 And the man that had the evil spirit jumped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. 17 And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks who were also living at Ephesus, and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. 18 And many that believed came, and confessed, and showed their deeds. 19 Many of those also who used occult arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men, and they counted the price of them, and found it to be fifty thousand pieces of silver. 20 So the word of God grew mightily and prevailed. 21 After these things had ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, after he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, "After I have been there, I must also see Rome." 22 So he sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to him, Timothy and Erastus. But he himself stayed in Asia for a while. 23 At the same time, there arose no small stir about that way. 24 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain to the craftsmen, 25 Whom he called together with the workmen of similar occupations, and said, "Sirs, you know that by this craft we have our wealth. 26 Also, you see and hear, that not only at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away many people, saying that any gods made by hands are not really gods, 27 So that not only is this our craft in danger to be destroyed, but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana will be despised, and her magnificence will be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worships." 28 And when they heard these sayings, they were full of anger, and shouted, "Great is Diana of the Ephesians." 29 And the whole city was filled with confusion, and having laid hands on Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's travel companions, they all rushed together into the theater. 30 And when Paul would have entered into the people, the disciples wouldn't allow it. 31 And certain of the important men of Asia who were his friends, sent to him, desiring that he would not risk going into the theater. 32 Some therefore shouted one thing, and some another, for the assembly was confused, and most of them didn't know why they were gathered together. 33 And they pulled Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defense to the people. 34 But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice for about two hours shouted, "Great is Diana of the Ephesians." 35 And when the town clerk had appeased the people, he said, "You men of Ephesus, what man is there who doesn't know that the people of the city of Ephesus are worshippers of the great goddess Diana, and of the image that fell down from Jupiter? 36 Seeing then that these things can't be spoken against, you ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly. 37 For you have brought these men here, who are neither robbers of churches, nor blasphemers of your goddess. 38 So if Demetrius, and the craftsmen that are with him, have a matter against any man, the courts are open, and there are deputies. Let them plead their cases. 39 But if you inquire anything concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly. 40 For we are in danger to be called in question for this day's uproar, since there's no reason we can give to explain this occurrence." 41 And after saying that, he dismissed the assembly. ___Acts chapter 20 1 And after the uproar had stopped, Paul called to himself the disciples, and embraced them, and departed to go into Macedonia. 2 And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he went into Greece, 3 And stayed there three months. And when the Jews laid in ambush for him, as he was about to sail to Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia. 4 And Sopater of Berea accompanied him into Asia, and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy, and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus. 5 These going before, waited for us at Troas. 6 And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came to Troas in five days, where we stayed seven days. 7 And on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached to them, ready to depart on the next day, and continued his preaching until midnight. 8 And there were many lights in the upper room where they were gathered together. 9 And a certain young man named Eutychus sat in a window, having fallen into a deep sleep. And as Paul was preaching for a long time, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and seemed to be dead. 10 And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, "Don't be troubled, for his life is in him." 11 When he had therefore come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even until daybreak, then he departed. 12 And they brought the young man alive, and were more than a little comforted. 13 And we went before to the ship, and sailed to Assos, intending to take Paul aboard there, because that's what he wanted, intending to go on foot. 14 And when he met us at Assos, we took him aboard, and came to Mitylene. 15 And we sailed from there, and came the next day opposite Chios, and the next day we arrived at Samos, and waited at Trogyllium, and the next day we came to Miletus. 16 For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia, for he hurried if possible, to be at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost. 17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. 18 And when they had come to him he said, "You know, from the first day I came into Asia, my lifestyle with you consistently, 19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears and temptations, that happened to me by the lying in ambush by the Jews, 20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable to you, but have shown you, and have taught you in public, and from house to house, 21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. 22 And now, see, I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 23 Except that the Holy Ghost witnesses in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions are on me. 24 But none of these things move me, nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I'll finish my course with joy, and the ministry that I have received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. 25 And now, see, I know that you all, among whom I've gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. 26 So I testify to you today, that I am clean from the blood of all men. 27 For I haven't failed to declare to you all of the counsel of God. 28 Watch yourselves therefore, and take care of the flock, over which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers, to feed the church of God that he has purchased with his own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departing grievous wolves shall enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves men shall arise, speaking perverse things, to pull away disciples after them. 31 So stay awake, and remember that for three years I never stopped warning everyone night and day, with tears. 32 And now brothers, I commit you to God, and to the word of his grace, who is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all of those who are made holy. 33 I have desired no man's silver, or gold, or clothes. 34 Yes, you yourselves know, that these hands have ministered to my necessities, and to those who were with me. 35 I have shown you all things, how that so laboring you ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive." 36 And when he had said that, he kneeled down and prayed with them all. 37 And they all cried a lot, and hugged Paul's neck, and kissed him, 38 Sorrowing most of all for the words that he spoke, that they would see his face no more. And they went with him to the ship. ___Acts chapter 21 1 And after we had gone from them and had launched, we came with a straight course to Coos, and the day following to Rhodes, and from there to Patara. 2 And finding a ship sailing over to Phenicia, we went aboard, and sailed away. 3 Now when we had seen Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre, for the ship was to unload its cargo there. 4 And finding disciples, we waited there seven days, who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem. 5 And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way, and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, until we were out of the city, and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed. 6 And when we had said goodbye, we boarded the ship, and they went home. 7 And when we had finished our trip from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and greeted the brothers, and stayed with them one day. 8 And the next day we that were of Paul's group departed, and came to Caesarea, and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him. 9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, who prophesied. 10 And as we waited there many days, a certain prophet came down from Judea, named Agabus. 11 And when he had come to us, he took Paul's girdle, and tied his own hands and feet, and said, "Thus says the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem handcuff the man that owns this girdle, and shall give him into the custody of the Gentiles." 12 And when we heard these things, both we, and those of that place, asked him not to go up to Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, "What do you mean, to cry and to break my heart? For I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." 14 And when he would not be persuaded, we stopped and said, "The will of the Lord be done." 15 And after those days we took our baggage, and went up to Jerusalem. 16 Some of the disciples of Caesarea also went with us, and brought with them Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple with whom we would lodge. 17 And when we had come to Jerusalem, the brothers received us gladly. 18 And the following day, Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present. 19 And when he had greeted them, he told the details of what God had done among the Gentiles by his ministry. 20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said to him, "You see brother, how many thousands of Jews there are that believe, and they are all zealous regarding the law. 21 And they are informed about you, that you teach all the Jews who are among the Gentiles not to follow Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, nor to walk after the customs. 22 What is it therefore? The multitude will certainly come together, for they'll hear that you've come here. 23 Therefore do this that we say to you. We have four men who have a vow on them. 24 Go and purify yourself with them, and be at charges with them, so they can shave their heads. And all will know that the things about which they were informed concerning you are nothing, but that you yourself also walk orderly, and keep the law. 25 Concerning the Gentiles who believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, except that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication." 26 Then Paul went with the men, and the next day purifying himself with them, entered into the temple, to show the accomplishment of the days of purification, until an offering would be offered for each of them. 27 And when the seven days were nearly finished, the Jews who were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him, 28 Shouting, "Men of Israel, help, this is the man that teaches all men everywhere against the people, and the law, and this place. And also brought Greeks into the temple, and has polluted this holy place." 29 (For they had previously seen Trophimus, an Ephesian, with him in the city, whom they supposed Paul had brought into the temple.) 30 And the whole city got very worked up, and the people ran together, and they took Paul, and pulled him out of the temple, and immediately the doors were shut. 31 And as they tried to kill him, news came to the commander of the soldiers, that all Jerusalem was rioting. 32 Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down to them, and when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 33 Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains, and demanded who he was and what he had done. 34 And some shouted one thing, some another, among the multitude, and when he couldn't know the certainty because of the rioting, he commanded him to be carried into the castle. 35 And when he came on the stairs, so it was that he was carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the people. 36 For the multitude of the people followed, shouting, "Away with him." 37 And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said to the chief captain, "May I speak to you?" Who said, "Can you speak Greek? 38 Aren't you that Egyptian, who previously started a riot, and led out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?" 39 But Paul said, "I am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no unimportant city, and I ask you please, allow me to speak to the people." 40 And when he had given him permission, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying, ___Acts chapter 22 1 "Men, brothers, and fathers, hear my defense that I make now to you." 2 (And when they heard that he spoke to them in Hebrew, they were quieter, and he said,) 3 "I am truly a man who is a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect ways of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as you all are this day. 4 And I persecuted this way, putting to death, and binding, and delivering into prisons both men and women. 5 As also the high priest can testify, and all the estate of the elders, from whom also I received letters to the brothers, and went to Damascus, to bring those who were bound there to Jerusalem to be punished. 6 And as I made my journey, and had come near Damascus about noon, suddenly a great light from heaven shined around me. 7 And I fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to me, Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? 8 And I answered, Who are you, Lord? And he said to me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you're persecuting. 9 And those who were with me indeed saw the light, and were afraid, but they didn't hear the voice of him that spoke to me. 10 And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said to me, Get up, and go into Damascus, and there you'll be told about all things that are appointed for you to do. 11 And when I couldn't see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand by those who were with me, I came into Damascus. 12 And Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good reputation with all the Jews who lived there, 13 Came to me, and stood, and said to me, Brother Saul, receive your sight. And the same hour I looked up at him. 14 And he said, The God of our fathers has chosen you, that you should know his will, and see that Just One, and should hear the voice of his mouth. 15 For you shall be his witness to all men about what you've seen and heard. 16 And now why do you wait? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord. 17 And when I had come again to Jerusalem, while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance, 18 And saw him saying to me, Hurry up, and get out of Jerusalem quickly, for they won't receive your testimony concerning me. 19 And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue those who believed on you, 20 And when the blood of your martyr Stephen was shed, I was also standing by, and agreeing with his execution, and kept the coats of those who killed him. 21 And he said to me, Depart, for I'll send you far from here to the Gentiles." 22 And they listened to him until he said that, and then lifted up their voices, and said, "Away with such a fellow from the earth, for it's not right that he should live." 23 And as they shouted, and threw off their clothes, and threw dust into the air, 24 The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and ordered that he be examined by whipping, so that he would know why they shouted that way against him. 25 And as they tied him with leather straps, Paul said to the centurion that stood by, "Is it lawful for you to whip a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?" 26 When the centurion heard that, he went and told the chief captain, "Be careful what you do, because this man's a Roman." 27 Then the chief captain came and said to him, "Tell me, are you a Roman?" He said, "Yes." 28 And the chief captain answered, "With a lot of money I obtained this freedom." And Paul said, "But I was born free." 29 Then immediately those who would have whipped him went away, and the chief captain also was afraid, after he learned that he was a Roman, and because he had tied him up. 30 On the next day, because he wanted to know for sure why he'd been accused by the Jews, he untied him, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them." ___Acts chapter 23 1 And Paul, earnestly looking at the council said, "Men and brothers, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day." 2 And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth. 3 Then Paul said to him, "God will strike you, you whitened wall, for do you sit to judge me according to the law, and command me to be struck contrary to the law?" 4 And those who stood by said, "Do you revile God's high priest?" 5 Then Paul said, "I didn't know, brothers, that he was the high priest, for it is written, You shall not speak evil of the ruler of your people." 6 But when Paul perceived that one part was Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he shouted in the council, "Men and brothers, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. Of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being questioned." 7 And when he had said that, an argument arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the multitude was divided, 8 For the Sadducees say there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit, but the Pharisees confess that there are. 9 And a big argument arose, and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part got up, and argued, "We find no evil in this man, but if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him, let us not fight against God." 10 And when a great controversy arose, the chief captain, afraid that Paul might have been pulled in pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle. 11 And the night following, the Lord stood by him and said, "Be of good cheer, Paul, for as you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify at Rome." 12 And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul. 13 And more than forty of them had made this conspiracy. 14 And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, "We have bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we have killed Paul. 15 Now you therefore, with the council, ask the chief captain to bring him down to you tomorrow, as though you would inquire something more perfectly about him, and we, before he ever comes near, are ready to kill him." 16 And when Paul's sister's son heard about their lying in ambush, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul. 17 Then Paul called one of the centurions to him and said, "Bring this young man to the chief captain, for he has a certain thing to tell him." 18 So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain and said, "Paul the prisoner called me to him, and asked me to bring this young man to you, who has something to tell you." 19 Then the chief captain took him by the hand, and went with him aside privately, and asked him, "What is it that you have to tell me?" 20 And he said, "The Jews have agreed to desire you to bring Paul down tomorrow into the council, as though they would inquire something about him more perfectly. 21 But don't yield to them, for there are more than forty men of them lying in ambush for him, who have bound themselves with an oath, that they will neither eat nor drink until they have killed him, and now they're ready, looking for a promise from you." 22 So the chief captain then let the young man go, and ordered him, "Make sure you don't tell anyone that you've shown me these things." 23 And he called two centurions to himself, saying, "Prepare two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen, at the third hour of the night, 24 And provide them animals to set Paul on, and bring him safe to Felix the governor." 25 And he wrote a letter like this: 26 "Claudius Lysias sends greetings to the most excellent governor Felix. 27 This man was taken by the Jews, and would have been killed by them. Then I came with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman. 28 And when I would have known the reason that they accused him, I brought him out into their council, 29 Whom I perceived to be accused of questions regarding their law, but to be accused of nothing worthy of death or of prison. 30 And when I was told how the Jews laid in ambush for the man, I sent immediately to you, and gave commandment to his accusers also to say before you what they had against him. Farewell." 31 Then the soldiers, like they'd been commanded, took Paul, and brought him by night to Antipatris. 32 On the next day they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the castle, 33 Who, when they came to Caesarea, and delivered the letter to the governor, presented Paul also before him. 34 And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia, 35 "I will hear you," he said, "when your accusers have also come." And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall. ___Acts chapter 24 1 And after five days, Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul. 2 And when he was called, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, "Seeing that by you we enjoy great quietness, and that you've done very worthy deeds to this nation, 3 We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness. 4 Anyway, so I won't be further tedious to you, I ask that you would hear us, in your clemency, a few words. 5 For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of rebellion among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes, 6 Who has also profaned the temple, whom we took, and would have judged according to our law. 7 But the chief captain, Lysias, came on us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands, 8 Commanding his accusers to come to you, by questioning whom you'll find out all the things about which we accuse him." 9 And the Jews also agreed, saying that these things were so. 10 Then Paul, after the governor had beckoned to him to speak, answered, "Since I know that you've been for many years a judge to this nation, I answer for myself more cheerfully, 11 Because you'll understand, that there are only twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship. 12 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, nor raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city, 13 Nor can they prove the things about which they now accuse me. 14 But this I confess to you, that after the way that they call false religion, that's how I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things that are written in the law and in the prophets, 15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. 16 And in this I exercise myself, to always have a conscience without offence toward God, nor toward men. 17 Now after many years I came to bring offerings to my nation. 18 When certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with rioting. 19 Who ought to have been here before you and object, if they had anything against me. 20 Or else let these same people here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council, 21 Unless it is for this one voice, that I shouted standing among them, Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am questioned by you this day." 22 And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said, "When Lysias the chief captain comes down, I will know the maximum about your business." 23 And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come to him. 24 And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. 25 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, "Go your way for this time. When I have a convenient time, I'll call for you." 26 He hoped also that money would have been given to him by Paul, so that he would set him free, so he sent for him more often, and talked with him. 27 But after two years Porcius Festus replaced Felix as governor, and Felix, willing to show the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound. ___Acts chapter 25 1 Now when Festus had come into the province, after three days he ascended from Caesarea to Jerusalem. 2 Then the high priest and the chief of the Jews informed him against Paul, and asked him, 3 And desired favor against him, that he would send orders to bring him to Jerusalem, laying in ambush on the way to kill him. 4 But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart soon to go there. 5 "Let them therefore," said he, "who among you are able, go down with me and accuse this man, if there is any wickedness in him." 6 And when he had stayed among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea, and the next day sitting on the judgment seat commanded Paul to be brought. 7 And when he had come, the Jews who came down from Jerusalem stood around, and made many and grievous complaints against Paul, which they couldn't prove. 8 While he answered for himself, "Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor yet against Caesar have I offended anything at all." 9 But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, "Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and be judged before me there about these things?" 10 Then Paul said, "I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged. I have done no wrong to the Jews, as you very well know. 11 For if I am an offender, or have committed anything worthy of death, I don't refuse to die, but if there are none of these things about which they accuse me, no man may deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar." 12 Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, "Have you appealed to Caesar? To Caesar you'll go." 13 And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to greet Festus. 14 And after they had been there many days, Festus told Paul's cause to the king, saying, "There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix, 15 About whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him. 16 To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before the accused has the accusers face to face, and has the right to answer for himself concerning the crime he's accused of. 17 Therefore, when they had come here, without any delay, on the next day, I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought out. 18 Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought no accusation of such things as I supposed, 19 But had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of someone named Jesus, who was dead, whom Paul said is alive. 20 And because I'm not sure about this kind of question, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and be judged there regarding these matters. 21 But when Paul had appealed to be reserved to the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept until I could send him to Caesar." 22 Then Agrippa said to Festus, "I'd like to hear the man myself." "Tomorrow," he said, "you'll hear him." 23 And on the next day, when Agrippa had come, and Bernice, with great fanfare, and had entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and top men of the city, at Festus' commandment Paul was brought out. 24 And Festus said, "King Agrippa, and all men present here with us, you see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Jews have dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, shouting that he ought not to live any longer. 25 But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and that he himself has appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him. 26 About whom I have no certain thing to write to my lord. So I have brought him before you, and especially before you, O king Agrippa, so that after questioning, I'll have something to write. 27 For it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not with him to show the crimes laid against him." ___Acts chapter 26 1 Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You may speak for yourself." Then Paul stretched out his hand, and answered for himself, 2 "I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I'll answer for myself today before you concerning all the things about which I'm accused by the Jews, 3 Especially because I know you to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews, so I ask you to hear me patiently. 4 My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among my own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews know, 5 Who knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the strictest sect of our religion, I lived a Pharisee. 6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise God made to our fathers, 7 To which promise our twelve tribes, constantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope's sake, king Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews. 8 Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God would raise the dead? 9 I truly thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 Which things I also did in Jerusalem, and I sent many of the saints to prison, having received authority from the chief priests. And when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 11 And I punished them often in every synagogue, and forced them to blaspheme, and being quite insane against them, I persecuted them even to foreign cities. 12 And so, as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests, 13 At mid-day, O king, I saw on the way, a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, shining around me and those who traveled with me. 14 And when we'd all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking to me, and saying in the Hebrew language, Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the sharp points. 15 And I said, Who are you, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom you're persecuting. 16 But get up and stand on your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of these things that you've seen, and of the things in which I will appear to you, 17 Giving you deliverance from the people, and from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, 18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they'll receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith that is in me. 19 And so, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, 20 But showed first to those of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works consistent with repentance. 21 For these reasons, the Jews caught me in the temple, and tried to kill me. 22 Having therefore obtained help from God, I continue until this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would come, 23 That Christ would suffer, and that he would be the first that would rise from the dead, and would show light to the people, and to the Gentiles." 24 And as he thus spoke for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, "Paul, you're beside yourself, much learning has made you insane." 25 But he said, "I'm not insane, most noble Festus, but I speak the words of truth and soberness. 26 For the king knows about these things, before whom I also speak freely, for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him, for this thing was not done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you believe." 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You almost persuade me to be a Christian." 29 And Paul said, "I wish to God, that not only you, but also all that hear me today, were not only almost, but completely like I am, except for these shackles." 30 And when he had said that, the king got up, and the governor, and Bernice, and those who sat with them, 31 And when they had gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying, "This man has done nothing worthy of death or of bonds." 32 Then Agrippa said to Festus, "This man could have been set free, if he had not appealed to Caesar." ___Acts chapter 27 1 And when it was determined that we would sail to Italy, Paul and certain other prisoners, were turned over to Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band. 2 And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, intending to sail by the coasts of Asia, this Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us. 3 And the next day we stopped at Zidon. And Julius treated Paul courteously, and gave him freedom to go to his friends to refresh himself. 4 And when we had launched from there, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary. 5 And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. 6 And the centurion found a ship of Alexandria there, sailing to Italy, and he put us in it. 7 And when we had sailed slowly many days, and barely had come opposite Cnidus, the wind not allowing us, we sailed under Crete, opposite Salmone. 8 And hardly passing it, came to a place that is called, "The Fair Havens," near the city of Lasea. 9 Now when much time had been spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul advised them, 10 "Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the cargo and ship, but also of our lives." 11 However the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than the things that were spoken by Paul. 12 And because the haven was not good to winter in, the majority advised to depart from there also, if possibly they could get to Phenice, and spend the winter there, which is a haven of Crete, and lies toward the southwest and northwest. 13 And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, departing from there, they sailed close by Crete. 14 But not long afterward, a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon, arose against it. 15 And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive. 16 And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat, 17 Which when they had taken up, they used helps underneath the ship. And fearing they might fall into the quicksands, took down the sails, and so were driven. 18 And we, being very much tossed by a rough sea, the next day they lightened the ship. 19 And the third day we threw out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. 20 And when neither sun nor stars were visible in many days, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we would be saved was then taken away. 21 But after long silence Paul stood up among them, and said, "Sirs, you should have listened to me, and not have departed from Crete, and to have had this harm and loss. 22 And now I exhort you to be of good cheer, for there'll be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. 23 For the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, stood by me this night, 24 And said, Don't be afraid, Paul, you must be brought before Caesar, and see, God has given you all of those who sail with you. 25 And so, sirs, be of good cheer, for I believe God, that it shall be just like I was told. 26 But we'll be thrown onto a certain island." 27 But when the fourteenth night had come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about midnight, the shipmen figured that they'd come near to some country, 28 And took a depth reading, and found it twenty fathoms, and when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms. 29 Then fearing that we might fall on rocks, they dropped four anchors out of the rear of the ship, and wished for sunrise. 30 And as the sailors were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under cover as though they would have thrown anchors out of the front of the ship, 31 Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, "Unless these remain in the ship, you can't be saved." 32 Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let it fall off. 33 And while the day was coming on, Paul asked them all to eat, saying, "Today is the fourteenth day that you've waited and continued fasting, having taken nothing. 34 And so I ask you to take some food, for this is for your health, for not a hair shall fall from the head of any of you." 35 And when he had said that, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in the presence of them all, and when he had broken it, he began to eat. 36 Then they were all of good cheer, and they also ate. 37 And we were a total of two hundred seventy six souls in the ship. 38 And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, and threw out the wheat into the sea. 39 And when it was day, they didn't know the land, but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into which they were thinking, if possible, to thrust in the ship. 40 And when they had brought up the anchors, they committed themselves to the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoisted the mainsail to the wind, and made toward shore. 41 And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground, and the front stuck tightly and remained unmovable, but the rear of the ship was broken by the violence of the waves. 42 And the soldiers' advice was to kill the prisoners, so that none of them would swim away and escape. 43 But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that those who could swim should jump first into the sea, and get to land, 44 And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safe to land. ___Acts chapter 28 1 And when they had escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita. 2 And the barbarous people showed us no little kindness, for they kindled a fire, and received all of us because of the present rain, and because of the cold. 3 And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, a snake came out of the heat and fastened on his hand. 4 And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, "No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice doesn't allow him to live." 5 And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm. 6 But they watched when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly, but after they had watched a long time, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god. 7 In the same quarters were possessions of the main man of the island, whose name was Publius, who received us, and courteously lodged us three days. 8 And the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux, to whom Paul entered in and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him. 9 So when this was done, others also, who had diseases on the island, came, and were healed, 10 Who also honored us with many honors, and when we departed, they supplied us with the things we needed. 11 And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, that had wintered in the island, whose sign was Castor and Pollux. 12 And landing at Syracuse, we stayed there three days. 13 And from there we circled around, and came to Rhegium, and after one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli, 14 Where we found brothers, and were desired to stay with them seven days, and so we went toward Rome. 15 And from there, when the brothers heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum, and The Three Taverns, whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage. 16 And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard, but Paul was allowed to live by himself with a soldier that kept him. 17 And after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together, and when they had come together, he said to them, "Men and brothers, though I have committed nothing against the people or customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 Who, when they had questioned me, would have let me go, because there was no reason to execute me. 19 But when the Jews spoke against it, I felt I should appeal to Caesar, not that I had anything to accuse my nation of. 20 For this reason, therefore, I've called for you, to see you, and to speak with you, because for the hope of Israel I'm bound with this chain." 21 And they said to him, "We neither received letters out of Judea concerning you, nor did any of the brothers that came show or say anything bad about you. 22 But we desire to hear from you what you think, for concerning this sect, we know that everywhere it is spoken against." 23 And when they had appointed him a day, many came to him into his lodging, to whom he explained and testified about the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning until evening. 24 And some believed the things that were spoken, and some didn't believe. 25 And when they didn't agree among themselves, they departed, after Paul had spoken one word, "The Holy Ghost spoke well by Isaiah the prophet to our fathers, 26 Saying, Go to this people, and say, hearing you'll hear, and not understand, and seeing you'll see, and not perceive, 27 For the heart of this people has grown large, and their ears are dull of hearing, and they've closed their eyes, so they won't see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and be converted, and have me heal them. 28 Be it known therefore to you, that the salvation of God is sent to the Gentiles, and that they will hear it." 29 And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves. 30 And Paul lived two whole years in his own rented house, and received all that came in to him, 31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching the things that concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him. ___Romans chapter 1 1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God, 2 (That he had promised before by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) 3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was made of the descendants of David according to the flesh, 4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the rising from the dead, 5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name, 6 Among whom, you are also the called by Jesus Christ, 7 To all that are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints, grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without stopping, I make mention of you always in my prayers, 10 Making request, if somehow now, after a long time, I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come to you. 11 For I long to see you, so that I can give you some spiritual gift, so that you'll be established, 12 That is, that I'll be comforted together with you by the mutual faith of both you and me. 13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brothers, that I often intended to come to you, (but was hindered until now,) so that I would have some fruit among you also, just as among other Gentiles. 14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians, both to the wise, and to the unwise. 15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation to everyone that believes, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile. 17 For in it, the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith, as it is written, "The just shall live by faith." 18 For the anger of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness, 19 Because that which can be known about God is made clear in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 Because, when they knew God, they didn't glorify him as God, nor were thankful, but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man, and to birds, and four footed animals, and creeping things. 24 So God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves, 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. 26 For this reason God gave them up to filthy affections, for even their women changed the natural use into that which is against nature, 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust toward each other, men with men doing that which is wrong, and receiving in themselves the repayment for their error that was appropriate. 28 And since they didn't want to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a rejected mind, to do the things that are not convenient, 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness, full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity, whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, disagreeable, unmerciful, 32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that those who commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in those who do them. ___Romans chapter 2 1 Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are that judges, for when you judge someone else, you condemn yourself, for you who judges, do the same things. 2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who commit such things. 3 And do you think this, O man, that judges those who do such things, and who does the same, that you'll escape the judgment of God? 4 Or do you despise the riches of his goodness and patience and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? 5 But after your hardness and unrepenting heart, store up for yourself anger for the day of anger and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, 6 Who'll repay every man according to his deeds, 7 To those who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life, 8 But to those who are rebellious, and don't obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and anger, 9 Tribulation and pain, on every soul of man that does evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile. 10 But glory, honor, and peace, to every man that does well, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile, 11 For there is no favoritism with God. 12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also be destroyed without law, and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law, 13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. 14 For when the Gentiles, who don't have the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, not having the law, are a law to themselves, 15 Who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also testifying, and their thoughts the meanwhile accusing or else excusing each other,) 16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel. 17 See, you are called a Jew, and rest in the law, and make your boast of God, 18 And know his will, and approve the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law, 19 And are confident that you yourself are a guide of the blind, a light of those who are in darkness, 20 An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babies, who has the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law. 21 You therefore who teaches someone else, don't you teach yourself? You that preaches a man shouldn't steal, do you steal? 22 You that says a man shouldn't commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You that hates idols, do you commit idolatry? 23 You that makes your boast of the law, through breaking the law, do you dishonor God? 24 For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written. 25 For circumcision truly profits, if you keep the law, but if you're a breaker of the law, your circumcision is turned into uncircumcision. 26 Therefore if the uncircumcision keeps the righteousness of the law, won't his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision? 27 And won't uncircumcision which is natural, if it fulfills the law, judge you, who by the letter and circumcision breaks the law? 28 For he is not a Jew that is one outwardly, nor is that circumcision that is outward in the flesh, 29 But he is a Jew, that is one inwardly, and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter, whose praise is not of men, but of God. ___Romans chapter 3 1 What advantage then does the Jew have? Or what profit is there of circumcision? 2 Much every way, mainly, because to them were committed the oracles of God. 3 For what if some did not believe? Shall their unbelief make the faith of God useless? 4 God forbid, yes, let God be true, but every man a liar, as it is written, "So that you'll be justified in your sayings, and will overcome when you are judged." 5 But if our unrighteousness recommends the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who takes vengeance? (I speak as a man.) 6 God forbid, for then how could God judge the world? 7 For if the truth of God is more abundant through my lie for his glory, why then am I also judged as a sinner? 8 And not rather, (as we are slanderously reported about, and as some affirm that we say,) "Let us do evil, so that good will come?" Whose damnation is just. 9 What then? Are we better than they are? No, in no way, for we have before proven both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin, 10 As it is written, "There is none righteous, no, not one. 11 There is no one that understands, there is no one that seeks for God. 12 They've all gone out of the way, they have together become unprofitable, there's none that does good, no, not one. 13 Their throat is an open tomb. With their tongues they've used deceit. The poison of snakes is under their lips, 14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness. 15 Their feet are swift to shed blood. 16 Destruction and misery are in their ways, 17 And they haven't known the way of peace. 18 There's no fear of God before their eyes." 19 Now we know that whatever things the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so every mouth will be stopped, and all the world will become guilty before God. 20 Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh shall be justified in his sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin. 21 But now, the righteousness of God without the law is made clear, being witnessed by the law and the prophets, 22 Even the righteousness of God that is by faith in Jesus Christ to all and on all of those who believe, for there is no difference, 23 For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God, 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redeeming that is in Christ Jesus, 25 Whom God has made to be a ransom through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the forgiving of sins in the past, through the patience of God, 26 To declare, I say, at this time, his righteousness, so he would be just, and the justifier of those who believe in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? No, but by the law of faith. 28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. 29 Is he the God of the Jews only? Is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also, 30 Seeing it is one God, who'll justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. 31 Do we then cancel the law through faith? God forbid, yes, we establish the law. ___Romans chapter 4 1 What shall we say then that Abraham our father, according to the flesh, has found? 2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he has something to glory about, but not before God. 3 For what does the scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him for righteousness." 4 Now to him that works, the reward is not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that doesn't work, but believes on him that justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 6 Just as David also describes the blessedness of the man, to whom God assigns righteousness without works, 7 Saying, "Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven and covered. 8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not attribute sin." 9 So does this blessedness come on the circumcision only, or on the uncircumcision also? For we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith that he had while still uncircumcised, so that he'd be the father of all those who believe, though they're not circumcised, so that they would be counted as righteous also, 12 And the father of circumcision to those who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of the faith of our father Abraham, that he had while still uncircumcised. 13 For the promise that he'd be the heir of the world was not to Abraham, or to his descendants through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. 14 For if those who are of the law are heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of no effect, 15 Because the law brings anger, for where no law is, there is no violating of the law. 16 Therefore it is of faith, so that it would be by grace, so that the promise would be sure to all the descendants, not to those only who are of the law, but to those also who are of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all, 17 (As it is written, "I've made you a father of many nations,") before him whom he believed, who is God, who makes the dead alive, and calls the things that are not as though they were. 18 Who against hope believed in hope, so that he would become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, "So shall your descendants be." 19 And being not weak in faith, he didn't consider his own body now dead, when he was about a hundred years old, nor yet the deadness of Sara's womb. 20 He didn't stagger at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. 22 And therefore it was counted as righteousness for him. 23 Now it was not written for his sake only, that it was counted that way for him, 24 But for us also, to whom it shall be counted, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, 25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. ___Romans chapter 5 1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also, knowing that tribulation brings patience, 4 And patience, experience, and experience, hope, 5 And hope doesn't make ashamed, because the love of God has been shined into our hearts by the Holy Ghost who has been given to us. 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man would someone die, yet possibly for a good man some might even dare to die. 8 But God commends his love toward us in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from God's anger through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the reconciliation. 12 So, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death came on all men, since all have sinned, 13 (For until the law sin was in the world, but sin is not charged against someone when there is no law. 14 But death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned like Adam's sin, who is the likeness of him that was going to come. 15 But not like the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one, many are dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, has become abundant to many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift, for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences to justification. 17 For if by one man's offence, death ruled by one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore as by the offence of one, judgment came on all men to condemnation, so by the righteousness of one, the free gift came on all men to justification of life. 19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one, many shall be made righteous. 20 Also the law entered, so that the offence would become abundant. But where sin was abundant, grace was much more abundant, 21 So that as sin has reigned resulting in death, so grace would reign through righteousness, resulting in eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. ___Romans chapter 6 1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, so that grace will be abundant? 2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer in it? 3 Don't you know, that as many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death, so that like Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his rising from the dead, 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, so that the body of sin would be destroyed, so that from now on we wouldn't serve sin. 7 For he that is dead has been set free from sin. 8 Now if we are dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him, 9 Knowing that Christ, being raised from the dead, won't die anymore. Death has no more authority over him. 10 For in that he died, he died to sin once, but in that he lives, he lives to God. 11 Likewise, consider yourselves also to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12 Therefore, don't let sin rule in your mortal body. Don't obey its lusts. 13 And don't yield your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but yield yourselves to God, like those who are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you're not under the law, but under grace. 15 What then, shall we sin, because we're not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. 16 Don't you know, that to whom you yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants you are to whom you obey, whether of sin to death, or of obedience to righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that you were the servants of sin, but you've obeyed from the heart the form of doctrine that was delivered to you. 18 Being then made free from sin, you became the servants of righteousness. 19 I speak after the manner of men, because of the weakness of your flesh, for as you've yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to sin resulting in sin, even so now yield your members as servants to righteousness resulting in holiness. 20 For when you were the servants of sin, you were free from righteousness. 21 What fruit did you have then in the things that you are now ashamed of? For the end of those things is death. 22 But now, being made free from sin, and having become servants to God, you have your fruit to holiness, with the end of everlasting life. 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. ___Romans chapter 7 1 Don't you know, brothers, (for I speak to those who know the law,) that the law has dominion over a man as long as he lives? 2 For the woman who has a husband, is bound by the law to her husband as long as he lives, but if the husband is dead, she is loosed by the law from her husband. 3 So then if, while her husband is living, she gets married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress, but if her husband is dead, she is free from that law, so that she's not an adulteress, though she's married to another man. 4 So, my brothers, you also have become dead to the law by the body of Christ, so that you'd be married to someone else: to him who has been raised from the dead, so that we would produce fruit for God. 5 For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, that were by the law, operated in our members to produce fruit that results in death. 6 But now, we are delivered from the law, so that being dead in what had been holding us, we would serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. 7 What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. No, I would not have known sin, except by the law, for I would not have known lust, unless the law had said, "You shall not covet." 8 But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, caused in me all kinds of wrong desires. For without the law sin was dead. 9 For I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. 10 And the commandment, that was ordained to life, I found to be to death. 11 For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it killed me. 12 So the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. 13 So then, was that which is good made death to me? God forbid. But sin, so that it would appear to be sin, working death in me by that which is good, so that sin by the commandment would become very sinful. 14 For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For what I do, I don't want to do, for what I want to do, I don't do, but what I hate is what I do. 16 If then I do what I don't want to do, I consent to the law that it is good. 17 Now then, it is no more I who does it, but sin that lives in me. 18 For I know that no good thing lives in me (that is, in my flesh), for I want to do what's right, but I don't find how to perform what is good. 19 For the good that I want to do, I don't do, but the evil that I don't want to do, I do. 20 Now if I do what I don't want to do, it is no more I who does it, but sin that lives in me. 21 I find then a law, that when I want to do good, evil is present with me. 22 For my inward man delights in the law of God, 23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin that's in my members. 24 O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind, I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh, the law of sin. ___Romans chapter 8 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who don't walk after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law couldn't do, because it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh, 4 So that the righteousness of the law would be fulfilled in us, who don't walk after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 5 For those who are after the flesh think about the things of the flesh, but those who are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is an enemy of God, for it's not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then those who in the flesh can't please God. 9 But you are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. Now if any man doesn't have the Spirit of Christ, he is not one of his. 10 And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead lives in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also make your mortal bodies alive by his Spirit that lives in you. 12 Therefore brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For if you live after the flesh, you'll die, but if, through the Spirit, you kill the deeds of the body, you'll live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For you haven't received the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you've received the Spirit of adoption, by which we cry, "Abba, Father." 16 The Spirit itself testifies with our spirit, that we are the children of God, 17 And if children, then heirs, heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ, if we suffer with him, we'll also be glorified together. 18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time aren't worthy to be compared with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waits for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who has subjected us in hope, 21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation groans and travails in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, that is, the redemption of our body. 24 For we are saved by hope, but hope that is seen is not hope, for what a man sees, why does he yet hope for? 25 But if we hope for what we don't see, then we wait for it with patience. 26 Likewise the Spirit also helps our weaknesses, for we don't know what we should pray for as we ought to, but the Spirit itself makes intercession for us with groanings that can't be uttered in articulate speech. 27 And he that searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because he makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he foreknew, he also predestinated to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he would be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 Also, whom he predestinated, those he also called, and whom he called, those he also justified, and whom he justified, those he also glorified. 31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He that didn't spare his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall accuse God's elect of anything? It is God that justifies. 34 Who is he that condemns? It is Christ that died, yes rather, that has risen again, who is at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written, "For your sake we are killed all day long, we are viewed as sheep for butchering." 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor princedoms, nor powers, nor things present, nor things in the future, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ___Romans chapter 9 1 I say the truth in Christ, I'm not lying, my conscience also testifying about me in the Holy Ghost, 2 That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I were accursed from Christ for my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh, 4 Who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises, 5 Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, blessed by God forever. Amen. 6 Not as though the word of God has been unproductive. For they are not all Israel, who are of Israel, 7 Nor, because they are the descendants of Abraham, are they all children, but, "In Isaac shall your seed be called." 8 That is, those who are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as the descendants. 9 For this is the word of promise, "At this time I will come, and Sarah shall have a son." 10 And not only this, but when Rebecca had also conceived by one, by our father Isaac, 11 (For the children being not yet born, nor having done any good or evil, so that the purpose of God according to election would stand, not of works, but of him that does the calling,) 12 It was said to her, "The elder shall serve the younger." 13 As it is written, "Jacob I've loved, but Esau I've hated." 14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. 15 For he says to Moses, "I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion." 16 So then it is not of him that wills, nor of him that runs, but of God that shows mercy. 17 For the scripture says to Pharaoh, "For this same purpose I've raised you up, so that I could show my power in you, and so that my name would be declared throughout all the earth." 18 Therefore he has mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardens. 19 You will then say to me, "Why does he yet find fault? For who has resisted his will?" 20 No but, O man, who are you that replies against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, "Why have you made me this way?" 21 Doesn't the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one pot to honor, and another to dishonor? 22 What if God, willing to show his anger, and to make his power known, endured with much patience the containers of anger intended for destruction, 23 And that he would make known the riches of his glory on the containers of mercy, which he had before prepared for glory, 24 Even us, whom he has called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? 25 As he says also in Hosea, "I will call them my people who were not my people, and her beloved that was not beloved. 26 And it shall be, that in the place where it was said to them, You are not my people, they shall there be called the children of the living God." 27 Isaiah also shouts concerning Israel, "Though the number of the children of Israel is as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved, 28 For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness, because the Lord will make a short work on the earth." 29 And as Isaiah said before, "Unless the Lord of Sabbath had left us a seed, we would have been like Sodom, and have been made like Gomorrah." 30 What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, who didn't follow after righteousness, have attained righteousness, the righteousness which is of faith. 31 But Israel, that followed after the law of righteousness, has not attained to the law of righteousness. 32 Why? Because they didn't seek it by faith, but by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone, 33 As it is written, "See, I lay in Zion a stumbling stone and rock of offence, and whoever believes on him won't be ashamed." ___Romans chapter 10 1 Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is for them to be saved. 2 For I testify about them that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For they, being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going around trying to establish their own righteousness, haven't submitted themselves to the righteousness of God. 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believes. 5 For Moses describes the righteousness that's of the law, that the man that does those things shall live by them. 6 But the righteousness that is of faith talks like this, "Don't say in your heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above,) 7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)" 8 But what does it say? "The word is near you, even in your mouth, and in your heart, that is, the word of faith, that we preach, 9 That if you confess the Lord Jesus with your mouth, and believe in your heart that God has raised him from the dead, you're saved. 10 For with the heart man believes for righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made for salvation." 11 For the scripture says, "Whoever believes on him shall not be ashamed." 12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Gentile, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call on him. 13 For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. 14 How then shall they call on him in whom they haven't believed? And how shall they believe in him about whom they haven't heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, unless they're sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad news of good things!" 16 But they haven't all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, "Lord, who has believed our report?" 17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. 18 But I say, haven't they heard? Yes truly, their sound went into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world. 19 But I say, didn't Israel know? First Moses says, "I will provoke you to jealousy by those who are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you." 20 But Isaiah is very bold and says, "I was found by those who didn't seek me. I was revealed to those who didn't ask about me." 21 But to Israel he says, "All day long I have stretched out my hands to a disobedient and contradicting people." ___Romans chapter 11 1 I say then, has God thrown away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the descendants of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. 2 God has not thrown away his people that he foreknew. Don't you know what the scripture says about Elijah, how he prays to God against Israel, saying, 3 "Lord, they've killed your prophets, and torn down your altars, and I'm left alone, and they're trying to kill me." 4 But what does God answer him? "I've reserved to myself seven thousand men who haven't bowed the knee to the image of Baal." 5 Even so then, at this present time also, there is a remainder of them according to the election of grace. 6 And if by grace, then is it no more of works, otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it is of works, then is it no more grace, otherwise work is no more work. 7 What then? Israel hasn't obtained what he's looking for, but the elect have obtained it, and the rest were blinded, 8 (As it is written, "God has given them the spirit of sleep, eyes that won't see, and ears that won't hear,") until this day. 9 And David says, "Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumbling block, and a repayment to them. 10 Let their eyes be darkened so they won't see, and bow down their backs always." 11 I say then, have they stumbled so that they'd fall? God forbid, but rather through their fall, salvation has come to the Gentiles, to provoke them to jealousy. 12 Now if the fall of them is the riches of the world, and their being made smaller is the riches of the Gentiles, how much more their fullness? 13 For I speak to you Gentiles, since I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify my office, 14 If by any means I can provoke those who are my flesh to be like me, and might save some of them. 15 For if the throwing away of them is the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? 16 For if the first fruit is holy, the lump is also holy, and if the root is holy, so are the branches. 17 And if some of the branches are broken off, and you, being a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them, and with them partake of the root and fatness of the olive tree, 18 Don't boast against the branches. But if you boast, you don't carry the root, but the root carries you. 19 You will say then, "The branches were broken off, so that I would be grafted in." 20 Well, because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Don't be high minded, but fear, 21 For if God didn't spare the natural branches, be careful so that he doesn't break you off. 22 Therefore observe the goodness and severity of God, on those who fell, severity, but toward you goodness, if you continue in his goodness, otherwise you also shall be cut off. 23 And they also, if they don't remain in unbelief, shall be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24 For if you were cut out of the olive tree that is wild by nature, and were grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree, how much more shall these, who are the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? 25 For I don't want you, brothers, to be ignorant of this mystery, so that you're not wise in your own conceit, that partial blindness has happened to Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. 26 And so, all Israel shall be saved, as it is written, "The Deliverer shall come out of Zion, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob, 27 For this is my covenant with them, when I shall take away their sins." 28 Concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sake, but concerning the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes. 29 For God doesn't change his mind about his gifts and callings. 30 For as you, in times past, have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief, 31 Even so, these have also now not believed, so that through your mercy they also can obtain mercy. 32 For God has concluded them all in unbelief, so that he could have mercy on all. 33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! 34 For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? 35 Or who has first given to Him, and it shall be repaid back to him? 36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen. ___Romans chapter 12 1 Therefore, I ask you please, brothers, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you'll prove what is the good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, according as God has dealt to every man the measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members don't have the same office, 5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and everyone members of each other. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that has been given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith, 7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering, or he that teaches, on teaching, 8 Or he that exhorts, on exhortation, he that gives, let him do it with simplicity, he that rules, with diligence, he that shows mercy, with cheerfulness. 9 Let love be unpretended. Hate that which is evil. Stick to that which is good. 10 Have kind affection toward each other with brotherly love, in honor preferring each other, 11 Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord, 12 Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing instant in prayer, 13 Distributing to the needs of saints, given to hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you, bless, and don't curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and cry with those who cry. 16 Be of the same mind toward each other. Don't mind high things, but spend some time with common people. Don't be wise in your own conceit. 17 Don't repay evil for evil to anyone. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. 18 If possible, as much as lies in you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Dearly beloved, don't avenge yourselves, but rather give place to anger, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." 20 Therefore if your enemy is hungry, feed him, if he's thirsty, give him drink, for in so doing you'll heap coals of fire on his head. 21 Don't be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. ___Romans chapter 13 1 Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. For there is no power but of God, the powers that exist are ordained by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the power, resists the ordinances of God, and those who resist shall receive damnation for themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Do you want to be free from fearing the government? Do that which is good, and you'll have praise from them, 4 For he is the minister of God to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid, for he doesn't carry the sword for nothing, for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute anger on those who do evil. 5 So you must be subject, not only for anger, but also for conscience sake. 6 So, for this reason pay taxes also, for they are God's ministers, always at work on this very thing. 7 Therefore give to everyone what is due, taxes to whom taxes are due, custom to whom custom, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor. 8 Don't owe anyone anything except to love each other, for he that loves someone else has fulfilled the law. 9 For this, "You shall not commit adultery, You shall not kill, You shall not steal, You shall not tell lies, You shall not covet," and if there is any other commandment, it is briefly included in this saying, specifically, "You shall love you neighbor like yourself." 10 Love does no harm to its neighbor, therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. 11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep, for now our salvation is nearer than when we became believers. 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand, let us therefore throw off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. 13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day, not in rioting and drunkenness, not in sex sins and wantonness, not in strife and envying. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and don't make provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts. ___Romans chapter 14 1 Receive him that is weak in the faith, but not for doubtful arguments. 2 For one person believes he can eat all things, another, who is weak, eats vegetables. 3 Let him that eats, not despise him that doesn't eat, and let him who doesn't eat, not judge him that eats, for God has received him. 4 Who are you that judges another man's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Yes, he shall be held upright, for God is able to make him stand. 5 One man esteems one day above another, another esteems every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. 6 He that regards the day, regards it to the Lord, and he that doesn't regard the day, to the Lord he doesn't regard it. He that eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks, and he that doesn't eat, to the Lord he doesn't eat, and gives God thanks. 7 For none of us lives to himself, and no man dies to himself. 8 For whether we live, we live to the Lord, and whether we die, we die to the Lord, whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. 9 For this purpose Christ died, and rose, and revived, so that he would be Lord both of the dead and living. 10 But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you speak ill of your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. 11 For it is written, "As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God." 12 So then everyone of us shall give account of himself to God. 13 Therefore, let us not judge each other anymore, but judge this rather, that no man puts a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. 14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself, but to him that thinks anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean. 15 But if your brother is grieved with your food, you're not walking in love. Don't destroy him with your food, for whom Christ died. 16 So, don't let your good be spoken evil about, 17 For the kingdom of God is not food and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 18 For he that in these things serves Christ is acceptable to God, and approved by men. 19 Let us therefore pursue the things that make for peace, and things with which we edify each other. 20 Don't destroy the work of God for food. All things indeed are pure, but it is evil for that man who eats with offence. 21 It is good to neither eat flesh, nor drink wine, nor anything by which your brother stumbles, or is offended, or is made weak. 22 Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he that doesn't condemn himself in the thing that he allows. 23 And he that doubts is damned if he eats, because he doesn't eat in faith, for whatever is not of faith is sin. ___Romans chapter 15 1 We then that are strong, ought to carry the weaknesses of those who are weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each one of us please his neighbor for his good for building up. 3 For even Christ didn't please himself, but, as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me." 4 For whatever things were written before, were written for our learning, so that through patience and comfort of the scriptures we would have hope. 5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be like-minded toward each other according to Christ Jesus, 6 So that with one mind and one mouth you'll glorify God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 So, receive each other, like Christ also received us to the glory of God. 8 Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made to the fathers, 9 And so that the Gentiles would glorify God for his mercy, as it is written, "For this reason I will confess to you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name." 10 And again he says, "Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people." 11 And again, "Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and applaud him, all you people." 12 And again, Isaiah says, "There shall be a descendant of Jesse, and he that shall rise to rule over the Gentiles, the Gentiles will trust in him." 13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you'll have abundance of hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. 14 And I myself am also persuaded about you, my brothers, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to correct each other. 15 However brothers, I have written the more boldly to you in a way, as reminding you, because of the grace that is given to me by God, 16 So that I would be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, so that the offering up of the Gentiles would be acceptable, being made holy by the Holy Ghost. 17 Therefore, I have something about which I can glory through Jesus Christ in the things that pertain to God. 18 For I will not dare to speak of any of the things that Christ has not done by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed, 19 Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem, and around to Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ. 20 Yes, I have strived to preach the gospel, where Christ wasn't named, so that I wouldn't build on another man's foundation, 21 But as it is written, "To whom he was not spoken about, they shall see, and those who haven't heard shall understand." 22 For which reason also I've been much hindered from coming to you. 23 But now, having no more place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come to you, 24 Whenever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you, for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way there by you, if first I'm somewhat filled by your company. 25 But now, I go to Jerusalem to minister to the saints. 26 For it has pleased those of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints who are at Jerusalem. 27 It has pleased them truly, and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister to them in natural things. 28 Therefore when I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain. 29 And I am sure that when I come to you, I'll come in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. 30 Now I ask you please, brothers, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in your prayers to God for me, 31 So that I'll have deliverance from those who don't believe in Judea, and so my service that I have for Jerusalem will be accepted by the saints, 32 So that I'll come to you with joy by the will of God, and will be refreshed with you. 33 Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen. ___Romans chapter 16 1 I recommend to you Phebe, our sister, who is a servant of the church that is at Cenchrea, 2 So, receive her in the Lord, as saints should do, and assist her in whatever business she needs from you, for she has strengthened many, including me. 3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus, 4 Who have laid down their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. 5 Also, greet the church that is in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the first fruits of Achaia to Christ. 6 Greet Mary, who did a lot of work for us. 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who were also in Christ before me. 8 Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord. 9 Greet Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved. 10 Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of Aristobulus' household. 11 Greet Herodion, my kinsman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus, who are in the Lord. 12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labor in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored a lot in the Lord. 13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. 14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brothers who are with them. 15 Greet Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. 16 Greet each other with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you. 17 Now I ask you please, brothers, identify those who cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine that you've learned, and avoid them. 18 For those who are such don't serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own bellies, and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. 19 For your obedience has come before all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf, but I want you to be wise about that which is good, and simple concerning evil. 20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. 21 Timothy my fellow worker, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, greet you. 22 I, Tertius, who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord. 23 Gaius, my host, and of the whole church, greets you. Erastus, an officer of the city greets you, and Quartus, a brother. 24 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 25 Now to him that is of power to establish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret since the world began, 26 But now is revealed, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith, 27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen. ___1 Corinthians chapter 1 1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, 2 To the church of God that is at Corinth, to those who are made holy in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours, 3 Grace be to you and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God that is given to you by Jesus Christ, 5 So that in everything you are enriched by him, in all speaking, and in all knowledge, 6 Just as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you, 7 So that you come behind in no gift, waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, 8 Who'll also confirm you to the end, so that you'll be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is faithful, by whom you were called to the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. 10 Now I ask you please, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 11 For I've been told about you, my brothers, by those who are of the house of Chloe, that there are arguments among you. 12 Now this I say that each of you says, "I am of Paul, and I of Apollos, and I of Cephas, and I of Christ." 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? 14 I thank God that I baptized none of you, except Crispus and Gaius, 15 So no one would say I had baptized in my own name. 16 And I baptized also the household of Stephanas, besides, I don't know whether I baptized anyone else. 17 For Christ didn't send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with wisdom of words, so that the cross of Christ wouldn't made of no effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is foolishness to those who'll be destroyed, but to us who are saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent." 20 Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this world? Hasn't God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 21 For after, in the wisdom of God, the world by wisdom didn't know God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save those who believe. 22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Gentiles seek for wisdom, 23 But we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block, and to the Gentiles foolishness, 24 But to those who are called, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. 25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. 26 For you see your calling, brothers, how that not many wise men according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are called, 27 But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to confuse the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to confuse the things that are mighty, 28 And inferior things of the world, and things that are despised, has God chosen, yes, and things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29 So that no flesh would glory in his presence. 30 But of him are you in Christ Jesus, who by God is made to us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption, 31 So that, as it is written, "He that boasts, let him boast in the Lord." ___1 Corinthians chapter 2 1 And I, brothers, when I came to you, didn't come with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring to you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined that I wouldn't know anything among you, except Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and with a lot of trembling. 4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, 5 So that your faith wouldn't stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. 6 But we speak wisdom among those who are perfect, yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, who come to nothing, 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, that God ordained before the world to our glory, 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew, for had they known it, they wouldn't have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 But as it is written, "Eye hasn't seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man, the things that God has prepared for those who love him." 10 But God has revealed them to us by his Spirit, for the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knows the things of a man, except the spirit of man that is in him? Even so, no man knows the things of God, except the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit that is of God, so that we'd know the things that are freely given to us by God. 13 Which things we also speak, not in the words that man's wisdom teaches, but that the Holy Ghost teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man doesn't receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, nor can he know them, because they are spiritually understood. 15 But he that is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is judged by no man. 16 For who has known the mind of the Lord, so that he can teach him? But we have the mind of Christ. ___1 Corinthians chapter 3 1 And I, brothers, couldn't speak to you as to the spiritual, but as to the carnal, like Christian babies. 2 I have fed you with milk, not with meat, for until now you weren't able to cope with it, and you're still not able. 3 For you're still carnal, for while there is envying among you, and strife, and divisions, aren't you carnal, and walk like men? 4 For while someone says, "I am of Paul, and another, I am of Apollos," aren't you carnal? 5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom you believed, as the Lord gave to every man? 6 I have planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither is he that plants anything, nor he that waters, but God who gives the increase. 8 Now he that plants and he that waters are one, and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. 9 For we are laborers together with God, you are God's product, you are what God has built. 10 According to the grace of God that's been given to me, as a wise master builder, I've laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let every man be careful how he builds on it. 11 For no man can lay any other foundation than what has been laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man builds on this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble, 13 Every man's work shall be revealed, for the day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test every man's work to see what kind it is. 14 If any man's work remains that he has built on it, he'll receive a reward. 15 If any man's work is burned up, he'll suffer loss, but he himself will be saved, if he passes the fire test. 16 Don't you know that you're the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 If any man defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him, for the temple of God is holy, which temple you are. 18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seems to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, so that he'll be wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, "He takes the wise in their own craftiness." 20 And again, "The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain." 21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours, 22 Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things in the future, all are yours, 23 And you are Christ's, and Christ is God's. ___1 Corinthians chapter 4 1 People should view us as ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Also, it is required in stewards, that a man be found to be honest. 3 But with me it is a very small thing for me to be judged by you, or of man's judgment, yes, I don't judge my own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself, yet I'm not justified by this, but he that judges me is the Lord. 5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will reveal the thoughts of the hearts, and then every man will have praise from God. 6 And these things, brothers, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes, so you'd learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, so that none of you would be puffed up for one, against another. 7 For who makes you to differ from someone else? And what do you have that wasn't given to you? Now if it was given to you, why do you boast, as if you hadn't received it? 8 Now you are full, now you are rich, you have ruled like kings without us, and I do want God to make you rule, so that we can also rule with you. 9 For I think that God has set us the apostles last, as if appointed for death, for we are made a spectacle to the world, and to angels, and to men. 10 We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are wise in Christ, we are weak, but you are strong, you are honorable, but we are despised. 11 Even until this present hour we hunger, and are thirsty, and are naked, and get punched, and have no certain place to live, 12 And labor, working with our own hands, being made fun of, we bless, being persecuted, we endure it, 13 Being defamed, we present our case, we are made like the filth of the world, and are the off-scouring of all things until this day. 14 I don't write these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you. 15 For though you have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you don't have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I have fathered you through the gospel. 16 So I ask you please, be followers of me. 17 For this reason I've sent you Timothy, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who'll remind you of my ways that are in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church. 18 Now some are puffed up, as though I won't come to you. 19 But I will come to you shortly, Lord willing, and will know, not the speech of those who are puffed up, but the power. 20 For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. 21 Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness? ___1 Corinthians chapter 5 1 It is reported commonly that there is sexual sin among you, and such sexual sin as is not even talked about among the Gentiles, that someone would have his father's wife. 2 And you are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, so that he that has done this deed would be taken away from among you. 3 For I truly, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that has done this, 4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when you are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, 5 To deliver that person to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that the spirit will be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. 6 Your glorying is not good. Don't you know that a little yeast leavens the whole lump? 7 Therefore purge out the old leaven, so that you'll be a new lump, as you are unleavened. For Christ our Passover Lamb has been sacrificed for us, 8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of hatred and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 9 I wrote to you in a letter not to keep company with people who commit sexual sins, 10 Yet not entirely with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortionists, or with idolaters, for then you'd have to go out of the world. 11 But now I've written to you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother is a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortionist, with him don't eat. 12 For what business do I have to judge those who are outside? Don't you judge those who are inside? 13 But those who are outside God judges. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person. ___1 Corinthians chapter 6 1 Does any of you dare, having a matter against someone else, to go to law before the unjust, and not before the Christians? 2 Don't you know that the Christians shall judge the world? And if the world shall be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3 Don't you know that we shall judge angels? How much more things that pertain to this life? 4 So if you have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set those to judge who are least esteemed in the church. 5 I speak to your shame. Is it so that there is not a wise man among you? No, not one who's able to judge between his brothers? 6 But brother goes to court with brother, and before the unbelievers. 7 Now therefore there is totally a fault among you, because you go to court with each other. Why don't you rather take wrong? Why don't you rather allow yourselves to be cheated? 8 No, you do wrong, and cheat your brothers. 9 Don't you know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Don't be deceived, neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortionists, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you, but you are washed, but you are made holy, but you are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. 12 All things are lawful to me, but not all things are helpful, all things are lawful for me, but I won't be brought under the power of any. 13 Foods for the belly, and the belly for foods, but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for sexual sin, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. 14 And God has raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power. 15 Don't you know that your bodies are the members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of a prostitute? God forbid. 16 What? Don't you know that he that is joined to a prostitute is one body? For he says, "Two shall be one flesh." 17 But he that is joined to the Lord is one spirit. 18 Run away from sexual sins. Every other sin that a man does is outside the body, but he that commits fornication sins against his own body. 19 What? Don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost that is in you, that you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you've been bought with a price, therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. ___1 Corinthians chapter 7 1 Now concerning the things that you wrote me about, it is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2 However, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. 3 Let the husband show the wife due kindness, and likewise also the wife to the husband. 4 The wife doesn't have power of her own body, but the husband, and likewise the husband doesn't have power of his own body, but the wife. 5 Don't deprive each other unless it's with consent for a time, so you can give yourselves to fasting and prayer, and come together again, so that Satan doesn't tempt you because of your not having normal sexual relations. 6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment. 7 For I'd prefer that all men were like me. But every man has his proper gift from God, one of this kind, and another of that kind. 8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, it is good for them if they live like I do. 9 But if they can't contain, let them marry, for it's better to marry than to burn. 10 And to the married, I command, yet not I, but the Lord, let the wife not depart from her husband, 11 But if she departs, let her remain unmarried, or be reunited with her husband, and let the husband not divorce his wife. 12 But to the rest I speak, not the Lord, if any brother has a wife that doesn't believe, and she is pleased to live with him, let him not divorce her. 13 And the woman who has a husband that doesn't believe, and if he's pleased to live with her, let her not leave him. 14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband, otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they're holy. 15 But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us to peace. 16 For how do you know, O wife, whether you'll get your husband saved? Or how do you know, O man, whether you'll get your wife saved? 17 But as God has distributed to every man, as the Lord has called everyone, so let him walk. And so I ordain in all churches. 18 Is any man called being circumcised? Let him not desire to be uncircumcised. Is any called in uncircumcision? Let him not become circumcised. 19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God. 20 Let every man remain in the same calling in which he was called. 21 Have you been called being a servant? Don't worry about it, but if you can gain your freedom, do so. 22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman, likewise also he that is called being free, is Christ's servant. 23 You are bought with a price, don't be the servants of men. 24 Brothers, let every man live with God in the calling that God has called him to. 25 Now concerning virgins, I have no commandment from the Lord, yet I give my judgment, as someone that has obtained mercy from the Lord, to be faithful. 26 I suppose therefore that this is good for the present distress, I say that it's good for a man to be like he is. 27 Are you married to a wife? Don't seek to be unmarried. Are you unmarried? Don't seek a wife. 28 But if you marry, you haven't sinned, and if a virgin marries, she hasn't sinned. But such shall have trouble in the flesh, but I spare you. 29 But this I say brothers, the time is short, it remains that those who have wives are as though they didn't, 30 And those who that cry, as though they didn't, and those who rejoice, as though they didn't rejoice, and those who buy, as though they didn't possess, 31 And those who use this world, as not abusing it, for the fashion of this world passes away. 32 But I'd like you to be without carefulness. He that is unmarried cares for the things that belong to the Lord, how he can please the Lord, 33 But he that is married cares for the things that are of the world, how he can please his wife. 34 There is a difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares for the things of the Lord, so she will be holy both in body and in spirit, but she that is married cares for the things of the world, how she can please her husband. 35 And this I speak for your own profit, not to throw a snare on you, but for that which is proper, and so that you'll serve the Lord without distraction. 36 But if any man thinks that he's behaving improperly toward his virgin, if she's passing the flower of her age, and there's a need, let him do what he wants to and marry her, it's not sin. 37 But he that stands steady in his heart, having no need, but has power over his own will, and has so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, does well. 38 So then he that gives her in marriage does well, but he that doesn't give her in marriage does better. 39 The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband lives, but if her husband is dead, she is at liberty to be married to the man of her choice, if he's a Christian. 40 But she is happier if she stays single, after my judgment, and I think also that I have the Spirit of God. ___1 Corinthians chapter 8 1 Now concerning things offered to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. 2 And if any man thinks he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know. 3 But if any man loves God, he is known by Him. 4 Therefore, concerning the eating of the things that are offered in sacrifice to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one. 5 For though there are what are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there are many gods, and many lords,) 6 But to us there is only one God, the Father, from whom are all things, and we in him, and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. 7 But not every man knows that, for some with conscience of the idol until this hour eat it as a thing offered to an idol, and their conscience being weak is dirtied. 8 But food doesn't recommend us to God, for neither if we eat are we better, nor if we don't eat, are we worse. 9 But be careful so that this liberty of yours doesn't somehow become a stumbling block to those who are weak. 10 For if any man sees you, who has knowledge, sit to eat in the idol's temple, won't the conscience of him who is weak be emboldened to eat the things that are offered to idols, 11 And through your knowledge shall the weak brother be destroyed, for whom Christ died? 12 But when you sin so against the brothers, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. 13 So, if meat causes my brother to be offended, I won't eat flesh while the world stands, so that I don't cause my brother to be offended. ___1 Corinthians chapter 9 1 Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Haven't I seen Jesus Christ our Lord? Aren't you my work in the Lord? 2 If I'm not an apostle to others, yet surely I am to you, for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. 3 My answer to those who question me is this, 4 Don't we have the right to eat and to drink? 5 Don't we have the right to be accompanied by a sister, a wife, like other apostles, and like the brothers of the Lord, and Peter? 6 Or I only and Barnabas, don't we have the right not to perform manual labor? 7 Who fights a battle any time at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard, and doesn't eat of its fruit? Or who feeds a flock, and doesn't drink of the milk of the flock? 8 Do I say these things as a man? Or doesn't the law say the same also? 9 For it is written in the law of Moses, "You shall not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treads out the corn." Is God taking care of oxen? 10 Or does he say it entirely for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this was written, so that he that plows would plow in hope, and so he that threshes in hope would be partaker of his hope. 11 If we have planted spiritual things with you, is it such a big deal if we reap your carnal things? 12 If others are partakers of this power over you, shouldn't we be rather? But we have not used this power, but endure all things, so we won't hinder the gospel of Christ. 13 Don't you know that those who minister with holy things live of the things of the temple? And that those who wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? 14 Even so, the Lord has ordained that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. 15 But I have used none of these things, nor have I written these things, that it should be so done to me, for it would be better for me to die, than that any man should cause my glorying to count for nothing. 16 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of, for necessity is laid on me, yes, woe to me if I don't preach the gospel! 17 For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward, but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed to me. 18 What is my reward then? Truly, that when I preach the gospel, I can make the gospel of Christ without expense, so that I don't abuse my power in the gospel. 19 For though I am free from all men, yet I've made myself servant to all, so that I'll win more of them. 20 And to the Jews I became like a Jew, so that I would gain the Jews, to those who are under the law, as under the law, so that I would gain those who are under the law, 21 To those who are without law, as without law, (not being without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) so that I would gain those who are without law. 22 To the weak I became as weak, so that I would gain the weak. I am made all things to all men, so that I would by all means save some. 23 And this I do for the gospel's sake, so that I will be partaker of it with you. 24 Don't you know that those who run in a race, they all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you'll obtain. 25 And every man that strives for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore run in such a way, not uncertainly, I don't fight like someone beating the air, 27 But I keep my body under, and bring it into subjection, so that after I've preached to others I won't somehow be a throw away. ___1 Corinthians chapter 10 1 Also brothers, I don't want you to be ignorant, that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, 2 And were all baptized to Moses in the cloud and in the sea, 3 And all ate the same spiritual food, 4 And all drank the same spiritual drink, for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ. 5 But with many of them God was not pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness. 6 Now these things were our examples, so that we wouldn't lust for evil things like they also lusted. 7 And don't be idolaters, as were some of them, as it is written, "The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play." 8 And let us not commit fornication, as some of them committed, and died in one day, twenty three thousand of them. 9 Nor let us tempt Christ, like some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents. 10 And don't murmur, like some of them also murmured, and were destroyed by the destroyer. 11 Now all these things happened to them for examples, and they've been written for our instruction, on whom the end of the world has come. 12 So let him that thinks he stands be careful that he doesn't fall. 13 No temptation has come to you, but such as is normal with mankind, but God is faithful, who won't allow you to be tempted beyond your ability, but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, so you'll be able to cope with it. 14 So, my dearly beloved, run away from idolatry. 15 I speak like to wise men, you judge what I say. 16 The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 17 For we, being many, are one bread and one body, for we are all partakers of that one bread. 18 Look at Israel after the flesh, aren't those who eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar? 19 What do I say then? That the idol is anything, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is anything? 20 But I say that the things that the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to demons, and not to God, and I don't want you to have fellowship with demons. 21 You can't drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons, you can't be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of demons. 22 Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than he is? 23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful, all things are lawful for me, but not all things build up. 24 Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth. 25 Whatever is sold in the marketplace eat, asking no question for conscience sake, 26 For the earth is the Lord's, and the fullness of it. 27 If any of those who don't believe invite you to a dinner, and you decide to go, eat whatever is set before you, asking no question for conscience sake. 28 But if any man says to you, "This is offered in sacrifice to idols," don't eat for his sake that showed it, and for conscience sake, for the earth is the Lord's, and the fullness of it. 29 Conscience, I say, not your own, but the other person's conscience, for why is my liberty judged by another man's conscience? 30 For if by grace I'm a partaker, why am I evil spoken about for that for which I give thanks? 31 Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 32 Offend no one, neither the Jews, nor the Gentiles, nor the church of God, 33 Just as I please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, so they'll be saved. ___1 Corinthians chapter 11 1 Be followers of me, just as I also am of Christ. 2 Now I praise you, brothers, that you remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. 3 But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is the man, and the head of Christ is God. 4 Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head. 5 But every woman that prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is the same as if her head were shaved. 6 For if the woman is not covered, let her also be shaved, but if it is a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered. 7 For a man indeed ought not cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God, but the woman is the glory of the man. 8 For the man is not of the woman, but the woman of the man. 9 Nor was the man created for the woman, but the woman for the man. 10 For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels. 11 But neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord. 12 For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman, but all things are of God. 13 Judge in yourselves, does it look right for a woman pray to God uncovered? 14 Doesn't even nature itself teach you that, if a man has long hair, it is a shame to him? 15 But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her, for her hair has been given to her for a covering. 16 But if any man seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor the churches of God. 17 Now in this that I declare to you, I don't praise you, that you come together not for the better, but for the worse. 18 For first of all, when you come together in the church, I hear that there are divisions among you, and I partly believe it. 19 For there must also be false teachings among you, so that those who are approved will be revealed among you. 20 When you come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper. 21 For in eating, everyone takes in front of someone else his own supper, and someone is hungry, and another is drunk. 22 What? Don't you have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God, and shame those who are poor? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I don't praise you. 23 For I have received from the Lord that which also I delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread, 24 And when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, "Take, eat, this is my body, that is broken for you, this do in remembrance of me." 25 Similarly also he took the cup, when he had eaten, saying, "This cup is the new testament in my blood, do this as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." 26 For as often as you eat this bread, and drink this cup, you show the Lord's death until he comes. 27 So whoever eats this bread, and drinks this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 29 For he that eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. 30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many have died. 31 For if we judge ourselves, we won't be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are spanked by the Lord, so that we won't be condemned with the world. 33 So my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for each other. 34 And if any man is hungry, let him eat at home, so that you don't come together to condemnation. And I will set the rest in order when I come. ___1 Corinthians chapter 12 1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I don't want you to be ignorant. 2 You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these idols that can't speak, like you were taught. 3 So I explain to you that no man speaking by the Spirit of God is calling Jesus accursed, and no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, except by the Holy Ghost. 4 Now there are differences of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are differences of operations, but it is the same God that works all in all. 7 But the operation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit with it. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom, to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit, 9 To another faith by the same Spirit, to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit, 10 To another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another perceiving of spirits, to another various kinds of languages, to another the interpretation of languages, 11 But all of these work the one and the same Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he chooses. 12 For as the body is one, and has many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit we are all baptized into one body, whether we are Jews or Gentiles, whether we are bondmen or free, and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot shall say, "Because I'm not the hand, I'm not of the body," is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, "Because I'm not the eye, I'm not of the body," is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? 18 But now God has set each one of the members in the body, as it has pleased him. 19 And if they were all one member, where would the body be? 20 But now they are many members, yet but one body. 21 And the eye can't say to the hand, "I have no need of you," nor again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you." 22 No, much more, those members of the body that seem to be more feeble, are necessary, 23 And those members of the body that we think to be less honorable, to these we give more abundant honor, and our unattractive parts have more abundant attractiveness. 24 For our attractive parts have no need, but God has tempered the body together, having given more abundant honor to the part that lacked, 25 So that there would be no division in the body, but so that the members would have the same care for each other. 26 And whether one member suffers, all the members suffer with it, or one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now you are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 28 And God has set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that doers of miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, various different languages. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? 30 Do all have the gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? 31 But desire earnestly the best gifts, and yet I show you a more excellent way. ___1 Corinthians chapter 13 1 Though I speak with the languages of men and of angels, and don't have love, I've become like sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge, and though I have all faith so that I can remove mountains, and don't have love, I am nothing. 3 And though I give all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and don't have love, it profits me nothing. 4 Love endures long, and is kind, love doesn't envy, love doesn't boast, is not puffed up, 5 Doesn't behave the wrong way, isn't selfish, isn't easily provoked, thinks no evil, 6 Doesn't rejoice in sin, but rejoices in the truth, 7 Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never fails, but whether there are prophecies, they'll fail, whether there are tongues, they'll stop, whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part shall be done away with. 11 When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I understood like a child, I thought like a child, but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a dark window, but then face to face, now I know in part, but then I'll know just like I'm also known. 13 And now live faith, hope, and love, these three, but the greatest of these is love. ___1 Corinthians chapter 14 1 Follow after love, and desire spiritual gifts, but prefer to prophesy. 2 For he that speaks in an unknown language doesn't speak to men, but to God, for no man understands him, but in the spirit he speaks mysteries. 3 But he that prophesies speaks to men for building up, and exhortation, and comfort. 4 He that speaks in an unknown tongue builds up himself, but he that prophesies builds up the church. 5 I want you all to speak with unknown tongues, but prefer that you prophesy, for greater is he that prophesies than he that speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so the church will be built up. 6 Now brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, what shall I profit you, unless I speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? 7 And even objects without life that make sounds, whether pipe or harp, unless they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? 8 For if the trumpet gives an uncertain sound, who will prepare himself for battle? 9 So likewise you, unless you speak by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? For you'll speak into the air. 10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without meaning. 11 Therefore if I don't know the meaning of the voice, I shall be to him that speaks a barbarian, and he that speaks shall be a barbarian to me. 12 Even so you, since you are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek to excel in building up the church. 13 So let him that speaks in an unknown tongue pray that he'll interpret. 14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also, I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. 16 Otherwise, when you bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupies the room of the unlearned say "Amen" at your giving of thanks, since he doesn't understand what you're saying? 17 For you truly give thanks well, but the other is not built up. 18 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than you all, 19 Yet in the church I'd rather speak five words with my understanding, so that by my voice I can teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. 20 Brothers, don't be children in understanding, but in hatred be children, but in understanding be men. 21 In the law it is written, "With men of other tongues and other lips I will speak to these people, and yet for all that they won't hear me," says the Lord. 22 So tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe, but to those who don't believe, but prophesying doesn't serve the unbelievers, but those who believe. 23 If therefore the whole church has come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and those who are unlearned come in, or unbelievers, won't they say that you're crazy? 24 But if all prophesy, and someone comes in who doesn't believe, or someone unlearned, he is convinced by all, he is judged by all. 25 And thus, the secrets of his heart are revealed, and so, falling down on his face he'll worship God, and report that God is truly in you. 26 How is it then, brothers? When you come together, each one of you has a psalm, has a doctrine, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let everything be done for building up. 27 If any man speaks in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that in due course, and let one interpret. 28 But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church, and let him speak to himself, and to God. 29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the others judge. 30 If anything is revealed to someone else sitting near, let the first be quiet. 31 For all of you may prophesy one by one, so that all will learn, and all will be comforted. 32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. 34 Let your women keep silence in the churches, for it is not permitted to them to speak, but they are commanded to be under obedience, as the law also says. 35 And if they want to learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home, for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. 36 What? Did the word of God originate with you? Or were you the only ones to receive it? 37 If any man thinks himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things I write to you are the commandments of the Lord. 38 But if any man is ignorant, let him be ignorant. 39 So brothers, desire to prophesy, and don't forbid to speak with tongues. 40 Let everything be done decently and in order. ___1 Corinthians chapter 15 1 Also brothers, I declare to you the gospel that I preached to you, that you've also received, and in which you stand, 2 By which also you're saved, if you keep in mind what I preached to you, unless you've believed for nothing. 3 For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures, 5 And that he was seen by Cephas, then by the twelve, 6 After that, he was seen by more than five hundred brothers at once, most of whom remain until now, but some have died. 7 After that, he was seen by James, then by all the apostles. 8 And last of all he was seen by me also, as if by someone born at the wrong time. 9 For I am the least of the apostles, and don't deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and his grace that was bestowed on me was not in vain, but I labored more abundantly than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. 11 Therefore whether it was I or them, so we preach, and so you believed. 12 Now if Christ is preached that he rose from the dead, why are some among you saying that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there's no resurrection of the dead, then Christ hasn't risen, 14 And if Christ hasn't risen, then our preaching is for nothing, and your faith is also for nothing. 15 Yes, and we are found to be lying about God, because we've testified that God raised up Christ, whom he didn't raise, if the dead don't rise. 16 For if the dead don't rise, then Christ hasn't been raised. 17 And if Christ hasn't been raised, your faith is for nothing, you're still in your sins. 18 Then those also who've died in Christ have been destroyed. 19 If we have hope in Christ only in this life, then we are the most miserable of all men. 20 But now Christ has risen from the dead, and has become the first fruits of those who've died. 21 For since death came by man, by man also came the raising of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ, all shall be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order, Christ the first fruits, afterward those who are Christ's when he comes. 24 Then comes the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God the Father, when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must rule, until he has put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27 For he has put all things under his feet. But when he says all things are put under him, it is clear that He’s an exception who is putting all things under him. 28 And when all things shall be subdued to him, then the Son himself shall also be subject to Him that put all things under him, so that God will be all in all. 29 Otherwise what shall they do who are baptized for the dead, if the dead don't rise at all? Why then are they baptized for the dead? 30 And why do we stand in danger every hour? 31 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. 32 If after the manner of men I've fought with animals at Ephesus, what good is it for me, if the dead don't rise? Let us eat and drink, since we'll die tomorrow. 33 Don't be deceived, evil communications corrupt good manners. 34 Awake to righteousness, and don't sin, for some don't have the knowledge of God, I say this to your shame. 35 But someone will say, "How are the dead raised up? And with what body do they come?" 36 You fool, that which you plant doesn't come alive, unless it dies. 37 And that which you plant, you don't plant the body that shall be, but carry grain, it might be of wheat, or of some other grain. 38 But God gives it a body as it has pleased him, and to every seed its own body. 39 All flesh is not the same flesh, but there's one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of animals, another of fish, and another of birds. 40 There are also heavenly bodies, and earthly bodies, but the glory of the heavenly is one, and the glory of the earthly is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars, for one star is different from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is planted in corruption, it is raised in incorruption. 43 It is planted in dishonor, it is raised in glory, it is planted in weakness, it is raised in power. 44 It is planted a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 45 And so it is written, "The first man, Adam, was made a living soul," the last Adam was made a living spirit. 46 But what is spiritual was not first, but what is natural, and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy. The second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are those also that are earthy, and as is the heavenly, such are those also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have carried the image of the earthy, we shall also carry the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say brothers, that flesh and blood can't inherit the kingdom of God, nor does corruption inherit incorruption. 51 See, I show you a mystery. We shall not all die, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the blink of an eye, at the last trumpet, for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, the saying that is written shall happen, "Death is swallowed up in victory." 55 O death, where is your sting? O grave, where is your victory? 56 The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steady, be unmovable, always doing well in the work of the Lord, since you know that your labor is not for nothing in the Lord. ___1 Corinthians chapter 16 1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I’ve told the churches of Galatia, you do the same. 2 On the first day of the week let everyone set aside, as God has prospered him, so there are no gatherings when I come. 3 And when I come, whomever you approve by your letters, I will send those to bring your liberality to Jerusalem. 4 And if it's appropriate that I go also, they'll go with me. 5 Now I will come to you, when I go through Macedonia, for I'm going through Macedonia. 6 And maybe I'll stay and spend the winter with you, so you'll bring me on my journey wherever I go. 7 For I won't see you now on the way, but I trust to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits. 8 But I'll wait at Ephesus until Pentecost. 9 For a large and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries. 10 Now if Timothy comes, make sure he's with you without fear, for he does the work of the Lord, as I also do. 11 Therefore, let no man despise him, but conduct him out in peace, so that he'll come to me, for I look for him with the brothers. 12 Concerning our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come to you with the brothers, but his will was not at all to come at this time, but he'll come when he has a convenient time. 13 Stay awake, stand fast in the faith, finish like men, be strong. 14 Let everything be done with love. 15 I ask you please, brothers, (you know the house of Stephanas that it is the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) 16 To submit yourselves to such, and to everyone that helps with us, and labors. 17 I am glad about the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, for what was lacking from you they've supplied. 18 For they've refreshed my spirit and yours, therefore acknowledge those who are such. 19 The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. 20 All the brothers greet you. Greet each other with a holy kiss. 21 The greeting of me, Paul, by my own hand. 22 If any man doesn't love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema. Maranatha. 23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 24 My love be with all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen. ___2 Corinthians chapter 1 1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the church of God that is at Corinth, with all the saints that are in all Achaia, 2 Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort, 4 Who comforts us in all our tribulation, so that we'll be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, by the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ are abundant in us, so our consolation is also abundant by Christ. 6 And whether we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective in the enduring of the same sufferings that we also suffer, or whether we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. 7 And our hope of you is steady, knowing, that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so you'll also be of the benefits. 8 For we don't want you to be ignorant, brothers, of our trouble that came to us in Asia, such that we were pressed beyond limit, above strength, such that we despaired even of life. 9 But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, so we wouldn't trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead, 10 Who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver, in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us, 11 You also helping together by prayer for us, so that for the gift given to us by the means of many people, thanks will be given by many on our behalf. 12 For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we've had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly toward you. 13 For we write no other things to you, than what you read or acknowledge, and I trust you shall acknowledge even until the end, 14 As also you've acknowledged us partly, that we are your rejoicing, just as you also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus. 15 And in this confidence, I was thinking I'd come to you before, so you'd have a second benefit, 16 And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia to you, and to be brought on my way toward Judea by you. 17 When I therefore was thinking like that, did I kid around? Or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, so that with me there would be yes, yes, and no, no? 18 But as God is true, our word toward you was not yes and no. 19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, whom we preached to you, that is, by me and Silvanus and Timothy, was not yes and no, but in him was yes. 20 For all the promises of God in him are yes, and in him Amen, to the glory of God by us. 21 Now he that establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, is God, 22 Who has also sealed us, and given the down payment of the Spirit in our hearts. 23 Also, I call God to let the record show on my soul, that to spare you I didn't come yet to Corinth. 24 Not because we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy, for by faith you stand. ___2 Corinthians chapter 2 1 But I determined this with myself, that I wouldn't come again to you in heaviness. 2 For if I make you sorry, who is he then that makes me glad? The one that I make sorry. 3 And I wrote this same to you, so that when I come, I won't have sorrow regarding those about whom I ought to rejoice, having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all. 4 For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you with many tears, not that you should be grieved, but so that you would know the love that I have more abundantly for you. 5 But if any has caused grief, he has not grieved me, except a little, so that I will not overburden you all. 6 Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, that was inflicted by many. 7 So that, on the contrary, you should rather forgive him, and comfort him, so he won't be swallowed up by too much sorrow. 8 So I ask you please to confirm your love toward him. 9 Because for this purpose also I wrote, that I would know the proof of you, whether you are obedient in all things. 10 To whom you forgive anything, I forgive also, for if I forgave anything, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes I forgave it in the person of Christ, 11 So that Satan won't get an advantage over us, for we are not ignorant of his devices. 12 Also, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened to me by the Lord, 13 I had no rest in my spirit, because I didn't find Titus my brother, but leaving them, I went from there into Macedonia. 14 Now thanks be to God, who always causes us to triumph in Christ, and makes clear the fragrance of his knowledge by us everywhere. 15 For we are to God a sweet fragrance of Christ, in those who are saved, and in those who are destroyed. 16 To one we are the odor of death to death, and to the other the fragrance of life to life. And who is sufficient for these things? 17 For we are not like many, who corrupt the word of God, but we are sincere, and of God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ. ___2 Corinthians chapter 3 1 Do we begin again to recommend ourselves? Or like some others, do we need letters of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? 2 You are our letter written in our hearts, known and read by all men, 3 Since you are clearly declared to be the letter of Christ ministered by us, not written with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God, not in tablets of stone, but in fleshy tablets of the heart. 4 And we have such trust through Christ toward God, 5 Not that we are sufficient by ourselves to think anything as of ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God, 6 Who also has made us able ministers of the new testament, not of the letter, but of the spirit, for the letter kills, but the spirit gives life. 7 But if the ministration of death, written and engraved in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not steadily look at the face of Moses for the glory of his face, which glory was to be done away with, 8 How shall not the ministration of the spirit be more glorious? 9 For if the ministration of condemnation is glory, much more does the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. 10 For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, because of the glory that excels. 11 For if that which was done away with was glorious, much more that which remains is glorious. 12 Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech, 13 And not like Moses, who put a veil over his face, so that the children of Israel couldn't steadily look to the end of that which is abolished. 14 But their minds were blinded, for until this day the same veil remains untaken away in the reading of the Old Testament, which veil is done away with in Christ. 15 But even until this day, when Moses is read, the veil is on their hearts. 16 But when they turn to the Lord, the veil will be taken away. 17 Now the Lord is that Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 But we all, with open face seeing the glory of the Lord like in a mirror, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, by the Spirit of the Lord. ___2 Corinthians chapter 4 1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we don't faint, 2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by making the truth clear, recommending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 3 But if our gospel is hidden, it is hidden to those who are lost, 4 In whom the god of this world has blinded the minds of those who don't believe, so that the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, won't shine for them. 5 For we don't preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, has shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen containers, so that the excellency of the power will be of God, and not of us. 8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed, we are perplexed, but not in despair, 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken, thrown down, but not destroyed, 10 Always carrying around in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, so that the life also of Jesus will be made clear in our body. 11 For we that live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life also of Jesus would be made clear in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death works in us, but life in you. 13 We, having the same spirit of faith, as it is written, "I believed, and therefore I have spoken," we also believe, and therefore speak, 14 Knowing that he that raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise us up also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. 15 For all things are for your sakes, so that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many increase to the glory of God. 16 That's why we don't faint, but though our outward man dies, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 While we don't look at the things that are seen, but at the things that are not seen, for the things that are seen are temporary, but the things that aren't seen are eternal. ___2 Corinthians chapter 5 1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were to be destroyed, we have a building of God, a house made without hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our house that is from heaven, 3 So that being clothed we won't be found naked. 4 For we that are in this tabernacle groan, being burdened, not that we want to be unclothed, but clothed, so that mortality will be swallowed up by life. 5 Now he that has made us for that purpose is God, who also has given us the down payment of the Spirit. 6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, while we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord, 7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight.) 8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. 9 So we labor, so that whether present or absent, we'll be accepted by him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that everyone will receive for the things done in his body, according to what he has done, whether it is good or bad. 11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men, but we are made clear to God, and I trust are also made clear to your consciences. 12 For we don't recommend ourselves again to you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, so that you'll have something to answer those who glory in appearance, and not in heart. 13 For whether we are beside ourselves, it is to God, or whether we are sober, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ restrains us, because we judge this way, that if someone died for all, then all were dead. 15 And that he died for all, so that those who live should not anymore live to themselves, but to him who died for them, and rose again. 16 So from now on, we don't know any man according to the flesh, yes, though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet from now on we don't know him anymore according to the flesh. 17 Therefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature, old things have passed away, see, all things have become new. 18 And all things are of God, who has reunited us with himself by Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reuniting, 19 So we know that God was in Christ, reuniting the world to himself, not counting their sins against them, and has given to us the word of reuniting. 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God is asking you by us, we ask you instead of Christ, be reunited to God. 21 For he has made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, so we would be made the righteousness of God in him. ___2 Corinthians chapter 6 1 We then, as workers together with him, ask you also not to receive the grace of God to no benefit. 2 (For he says, "I've heard you in an acceptable time, and in the day of salvation I've strengthened you, see, now is the accepted time, see, now is the day of salvation.") 3 Giving no offence in anything, so the ministry won't be blamed, 4 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, 5 In strokes of the whip, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in staying awake, in fastings, 6 By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unpretended, 7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, 8 By honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report, as deceivers, and yet true, 9 As unknown, and yet well known, as dying, and see, we live, as punished, and not killed, 10 As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing, as poor, yet making many rich, as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. 11 O you Corinthians, our mouth is open to you, our heart is enlarged. 12 You're not restricted in us, but you're restricted in your own inward affections. 13 Now for a repayment in the same, (I speak as to my children,) be also enlarged. 14 Don't be unequally yoked together with unbelievers, for what fellowship does righteousness have with unrighteousness? And what communion does light have with darkness? 15 And what agreement does Christ have with Belial? Or what part does the believer have with an unbeliever? 16 And what agreement does the temple of God have with idols? For you are the temple of the living God, as God has said, "I will live in them, and walk in them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people." 17 "So, come out from among them, and be separate," says the Lord, "and don't touch the unclean thing, and I'll receive you, 18 And will be a Father to you, and you'll be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty." ___2 Corinthians chapter 7 1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Receive us. We've wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man. 3 I don't say this to condemn you, for I've said before, that you are in our hearts to die and live with you. 4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying about you. I'm filled with comfort, I'm very joyful in all our tribulation. 5 For, when we had come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side, outside were fightings, inside were fears. 6 But God, who comforts those who are thrown down, comforted us by the coming of Titus, 7 And not by his coming only, but by the comfort with which he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me, so that I rejoiced the more. 8 For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent, for I perceive that the same letter has made you sorry, though just for a short while. 9 Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that you sorrowed to repentance, for you were made sorry in a godly way, so you wouldn't be damaged by us in any way. 10 For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation that is not to be repented of, but the sorrow of the world works death. 11 For look at this same thing, that you sorrowed in a godly way. What carefulness it worked in you, yes, what clearing of yourselves, yes, what indignation, yes, what fear, yes, what strong desire, yes, what zeal, yes, what revenge! In all things you've approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. 12 So, though I wrote to you, I didn't do it because of him that had done wrong, nor because of the one who was wronged, but so that our care for you in the sight of God would be clear to you. 13 Therefore we were comforted in your comfort, yes, and very much more, we rejoiced for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by all of you. 14 For if I've boasted anything to him about you, I am not ashamed, but as we spoke all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, that I made before Titus, is found to be true. 15 And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, while he remembers the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling you received him. 16 I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things. ___2 Corinthians chapter 8 1 Also brothers, we want you to know about the grace of God given to the churches of Macedonia, 2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty became the riches of their liberality. 3 For I testify to their power, yes, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves, 4 Asking us sincerely that we would receive the gift, and take on us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and to us by the will of God. 6 So much that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also. 7 Therefore, as you have abundance in everything, in faith, and speaking, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, make sure that you're abundant in this grace also. 8 I don't speak by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that through his poverty, you would be rich. 10 And in this I give my advice, for this is best for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. 11 Now therefore perform the doing of it, so that as there was a willingness, so there'll be a performance also out of what you have. 12 For if there's first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what a man has, and not according to what he doesn't have. 13 For I don't mean that other men should have it easy, while you're burdened, 14 But by equality, so that now your abundance will supply their needs, so that their abundance also will supply your needs, so there will be equality, 15 As it is written, "He that had gathered much had no surplus, and he that had gathered little had no lack." 16 But thanks be to God, who put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you. 17 For indeed, he accepted the exhortation, but being more forward, by his own choice he went to you. 18 And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches, 19 And not that only, but who was also chosen by the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind, 20 Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance that is administered by us, 21 Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. 22 And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have often proven diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, on the great confidence which I have in you. 23 Whether anyone inquires about Titus, he is my partner and fellow helper concerning you, or if our brothers are inquired about, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ. 24 So show them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting about you. ___2 Corinthians chapter 9 1 For concerning the ministering to the saints, it is unnecessary for me to write to you, 2 For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast about you to those of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago, and your zeal has provoked very many. 3 Yet I've sent the brothers, so that our boasting about you won't be in vain in this behalf, so that, as I said, you'll be ready, 4 So that perhaps, if those of Macedonia come with me, if they find you unprepared, we (so that we don't say you) won't be ashamed in this same confident boasting. 5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brothers, that they would go before to you, and make up, ahead of time, your abundance, about which you had notice before, so that the same would be ready, as a matter of abundance, and not as of covetousness. 6 But this I say, he that plants sparingly shall also reap sparingly, and he that plants abundantly shall also reap abundantly. 7 Let every man give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly, nor because he must, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace to be abundant for you, so that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, will be abundant in every good work, 9 (As it is written, "He has dispersed abroad, he has given to the poor, his righteousness remains forever." 10 Now he that ministers seed to the planter both minister bread for your food, and multiply your planted seed, and increase the fruits of your righteousness,) 11 Being enriched in everything to all abundance, which causes thanksgiving to God through us. 12 For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings to God, 13 While, by the putting into practice of this ministration, they glorify God for your professed subjection to the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution to them, and to all men, 14 And by their prayer for you, who long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you. 15 Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift. ___2 Corinthians chapter 10 1 Now I Paul myself ask you please, by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am lowly among you, but being absent, am bold toward you, 2 But I ask you please, so I won't be bold when I am present with that confidence with which I think to be bold against some, who think of us as if we walked according to the flesh. 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds, 5 Throwing down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ, 6 And having a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.) 7 Do you look at things after the outward appearance? If any man trusts to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that as he is Christ's, even so we are Christ's. 8 For though I would boast somewhat more of our authority, that the Lord has given us for building up, and not for your destruction, I wouldn't be ashamed, 9 So I won't seem as if I would terrify you by letters. 10 "For his letters," they say, "are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible." 11 Let such a person think this, that such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, we will be such also in performance when we are present. 12 For we don't dare make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves, but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. 13 But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule that God has distributed to us, a measure to reach even to you. 14 For we don't stretch ourselves beyond our measure, as though we didn't reach to you, for we have come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ, 15 Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labors, but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we'll be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, 16 To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand. 17 But he that glories, let him glory in the Lord. 18 For not he that commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends. ___2 Corinthians chapter 11 1 I wish to God that you could bear with me a little in my foolishness, and indeed, bear with me. 2 For I'm jealous over you with godly jealousy, for I have married you to one husband, so that I can present you as a pure virgin to Christ. 3 But I fear, so that by no means, like the serpent seduced Eve through his subtlety, would your minds be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 4 For if he that comes preaches another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if you receive another spirit, that you haven't received, or another gospel, that you haven't accepted, you might well bear with him. 5 For I suppose I was not a bit behind the very top apostles. 6 But though I'm rude in speech, yet not in knowledge, but we have been thoroughly made clear to you in all things. 7 Have I committed an offence in bringing myself low, so you would be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely? 8 I robbed other churches, taking wages from them, to do work for you. 9 And when I was present with you, and lacked, I was chargeable to no man, for what was lacking to me the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied, and in all things I've kept myself from being burdensome to you, and I'll keep doing that. 10 As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia. 11 Why? Because I don't love you? God knows. 12 But what I do, I'll do, so that I can cut off occasion from those who desire occasion, so that in what they glory about, they'll be found like us. 13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And that's no surprise, for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no big deal if his ministers also are transformed as the ministers of righteousness, whose end shall be according to their works. 16 I say again, let no man think me a fool, if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, so I can boast myself a little. 17 That which I speak, I don't speak after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting. 18 Seeing that many glory according to the flesh, I will glory also. 19 For you endure fools gladly, seeing you yourselves are wise. 20 For you suffer, if a man brings you into bondage, if a man devours you, if a man takes from you, if a man exalts himself, if a man strikes you on the face. 21 I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. But in whatever way anyone is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also. 22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they the descendants of Abraham? So am I. 23 Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more, in labors more abundant, in strokes of the whip beyond measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths often. 24 From the Jews I received thirty nine stripes, five different times. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I've been in the sea, 26 In journeys often, in dangers of waters, in dangers of robbers, in dangers by my own countrymen, in dangers by the heathen, in dangers in the city, in dangers in the wilderness, in dangers in the sea, in dangers among false brothers, 27 In weariness and pain, in staying awake often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. 28 Beside the things that are outside, that which comes on me daily, the care of all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is offended, and I don't burn? 30 If I must glory, I will glory about the things that concern my infirmities. 31 The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed forever, knows I'm not lying. 32 In Damascus, the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a band of soldiers, wanting to arrest me, 33 And in a basket through a window I was let down by the wall, and escaped his hands. ___2 Corinthians chapter 12 1 Without a doubt, it is not expedient for me to glory. I will talk about visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I knew a man in Christ more than fourteen years ago, (whether in the body I can't tell, or whether out of the body I can't tell, God knows,) who was caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body I can't tell, God knows,) 4 How he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it's not lawful for a man to speak. 5 I will glory of such a person, yet of myself I won't glory, but in my frailties. 6 For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool, for I will say the truth, but now I refrain, so that no man will esteem me to be more than what he sees me to be, or that he hears about me. 7 And so that I wouldn't be exalted beyond measure through the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, the messenger of Satan to punch me, so I wouldn't be exalted beyond measure. 8 I asked the Lord three times to make this thing go away from me. 9 And he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly therefore, I'll rather glory in my frailties, so that the power of Christ will rest on me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake, for when I am weak, then I'm strong. 11 I've become a fool in glorying. You've compelled me, for I ought to have been commended by you, for I am behind the very top apostles in nothing, though I am nothing. 12 Truly the signs of an apostle were performed among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. 13 For what is it in which you were inferior to other churches, except that I myself was not burdensome to you? Forgive me this wrong. 14 See, the third time I am ready to come to you, and I won't be burdensome to you, for I seek not what is yours, but you, for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. 15 And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you, though the more abundantly I love you, the less I am loved. 16 But if it's so, I didn't burden you, anyway, being crafty, I caught you with guile. 17 Did I make a gain of you by any of those whom I sent to you? 18 I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? Didn't we walk in the same spirit? Didn't we walk in the same steps? 19 Again, do you think that we excuse ourselves to you? We speak before God in Christ, but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your building up. 20 For I'm afraid that when I come, I won't find you such as I would prefer, and so that you don't find me as you would like, and that there might be debates, envying, wraths, strife, backbiting, whisperings, swellings, tumults, 21 And so that when I come again, my God won't humble me among you, and so I won't lament many who've sinned already, and haven't repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lust that they've committed. ___2 Corinthians chapter 13 1 This is the third time I am coming to you. Every word shall be established in the mouth of two or three witnesses. 2 I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present the second time, and being absent now, I write to those who've previously sinned, and to all others, that if I come again, I won't spare. 3 Since you seek proof of Christ speaking in me, which toward you is not weak, but is mighty in you. 4 For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we'll live with him by the power of God toward you. 5 Examine yourselves, whether you're in the faith, test your own selves. Don't you know, your own selves, that Jesus Christ is in you, unless you're reprobates? 6 But I trust that you know that we aren't reprobates. 7 Now I pray to God that you do no evil, not so we would appear approved, but so that you will do that which is honest, though we are as reprobates. 8 For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. 9 For we are glad, when we are weak, and you are strong, and this also we wish, your perfection. 10 Therefore I write these things being absent, so that being present, I won't use sharpness, according to the power that the Lord has given me for building up, and not for destruction. 11 Finally brothers, 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. 12 Greet each other with a holy kiss. 13 All the saints greet you. 14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. ___Galatians chapter 1 1 Paul, an apostle, (not of men, nor by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead,) 2 And all the brothers who are with me, to the churches of Galatia, 3 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, 4 Who gave himself for our sins, so that he would give us deliverance from this present evil world, according to the will of God our Father, 5 To whom be glory forever and always. Amen. 6 I'm surprised that you're so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ to another gospel, 7 Which is not another, but there are some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preaches any other gospel to you than that which we've preached to you, let him be under a curse. 9 As we said before, so I say again now, if any man preaches any other gospel to you than what you've received, let him be under a curse. 10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I yet pleased men, I wouldn't be the servant of Christ. 11 But I certify to you brothers, that the gospel that was preached by me is not according to man. 12 For I didn't received it from man, nor was I taught it by man, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. 13 For you've heard of my lifestyle in the past in the Jews' religion, how I greatly persecuted the church of God, and wasted it, 14 And profited in the Jews' religion more than many of my equals in my own nation, being much more zealous of the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, 16 To reveal his Son in me, so that I would preach him among the heathen, I didn't confer with flesh and blood, 17 Nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I immediately went into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and stayed with him fifteen days. 19 But I didn't see any other apostles, except James the Lord's brother. 20 Now the things that I write to you, see, before God, I'm not lying. 21 Afterward I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia, 22 And was unknown by face to the churches of Judea that were in Christ, 23 But they had only heard that he that persecuted us in the past now preaches the faith that he once destroyed. 24 And they glorified God in me. ___Galatians chapter 2 1 Then fourteen years afterward, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. 2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to those who were of reputation, so that I wouldn't somehow run, or wouldn't have run for nothing. 3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised, 4 And that because of false brothers unknowingly brought in, who came in secretly to spy out our liberty that we have in Christ Jesus, so that they could bring us into bondage, 5 To whom we didn't give place by subjection even for an hour, so that the truth of the gospel would continue with you. 6 But of those who seemed to be somewhat, (whatever they were, it doesn't matter to me, God doesn't accept any man's person,) for those who seemed to be somewhat added nothing to me in conference, 7 But to the contrary, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed to me, like the gospel of the Jews was to Peter, 8 (For he that worked effectively in Peter to the apostleship of the Jews, 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 to me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship, so that we should go to the heathen, and they to the Jews. 10 Only they wanted us to remember the poor, which I also wanted to do. 11 But when Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed. 12 For before certain people came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles, but after they arrived, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing the Jews. 13 And the other Jews pretended with him also, so much that Barnabas was also carried away with their pretending. 14 But when I saw that they didn't walk uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all, "If you, being a Jew, live the lifestyle of the Gentiles, and not like the Jews, why do you make the Gentiles live like the Jews?" 15 We who are Jews by nature, and not Gentile sinners, 16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, we have believed in Jesus Christ, so that we would be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law, for by the works of the law, no flesh shall be justified. 17 But if while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves are also found to be sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. 18 For if I build again the things that I destroyed, I make myself a sinner. 19 For I through the law am dead to the law, so that I would live to God. 20 I am crucified with Christ, however I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me, and the life that I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. 21 I do not frustrate the grace of God, for if righteousness comes by the law, then Christ died for nothing. ___Galatians chapter 3 1 O foolish Galatians, who has bewitched you, so that you won't obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ has been evidently set forth crucified among you? 2 Just tell me this, did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now made perfect by the flesh? 4 Have you suffered so many things in to no benefit? If it is now to no benefit? 5 He therefore that ministers to you the Spirit, and works miracles among you, does he do it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 6 Just like Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him as righteousness. 7 Know therefore that those who are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. 8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached the gospel before to Abraham, saying, "In you shall all nations be blessed." 9 So then those who are of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. 10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse, for it is written, "Cursed is every one that doesn't continue in all things that are written in the book of the law to do them." 11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident, for, "The just shall live by faith." 12 And the law is not of faith, but, "The man that does them shall live in them." 13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us, for it is written, "Cursed is everyone that hangs on a tree," 14 So that the blessing of Abraham would come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ, so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. 15 Brothers, I speak in the style of men, though it is but a man's covenant, yet if it's confirmed, no man cancels it, or adds to it. 16 Now to Abraham and his descendants were the promises made. He doesn't say, "And to seeds," as about many, but as of one, "And to your seed," who is Christ. 17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before by God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred thirty years later, can't cancel, so that the promise would be of no effect. 18 For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no more of promise, but God gave it to Abraham by promise. 19 What purpose then does the law serve? It was added because of transgressions, until the descendants would come to whom the promise was made, and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. 20 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. 21 So then, is the law against the promises of God? God forbid, for if there had been a law given that could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law. 22 But the scripture has concluded all under sin, so that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ would be given to those who believe. 23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up to the faith that would afterward be revealed. 24 So the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, so that we'd be justified by faith. 25 But after faith has come, we're no longer under a schoolmaster. 26 For you're all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ's, then you're Abraham's descendants, and heirs according to the promise. ___Galatians chapter 4 1 Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a servant, though he is lord of all, 2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the father. 3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world, 4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, 5 To redeem those who were under the law, so that we'd receive the adoption of sons. 6 And because you're sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, shouting, "Abba, Father." 7 So you are no longer a servant, but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. 8 But then, when you didn't know God, you did service to those who by nature are not gods. 9 But now, after you've known God, or rather are known by God, how can you return to the weak and beggarly elements, to which you desire again to be in bondage? 10 You observe days, and months, and times, and years. 11 I am afraid concerning you that I may have labored to no benefit. 12 Brothers, I beg you, be like I am, for I'm like you are, you haven't injured me at all. 13 You know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel to you at the beginning. 14 And my temptation that was in my flesh you didn't despise, nor reject, but received me like an angel of God, even like Christ Jesus. 15 Where is then the blessedness you spoke about? For I testify that, if it had been possible, you would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. 16 Have I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? 17 They zealously affect you, but not well, yes, they would exclude you, so that you would affect them. 18 But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you. 19 My little children, for whom I travail in birth again until Christ is formed in you, 20 I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice, for I stand in doubt of you. 21 Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, don't you hear the law? 22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. 23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh, but he of the freewoman was by promise. 24 Which things are an example, for these are the two covenants, the one from Mount Sinai produces bondage, which is Agar. 25 For this Agar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to Jerusalem which is now, and is in bondage with her children. 26 But Jerusalem that is above is free, which is the mother of us all. 27 For it is written, "Rejoice, you barren that doesn't bear, break forth and shout, you who doesn't travail, for the desolate has many more children than she that has a husband." 28 Now we, brothers, like Isaac was, are the children of promise. 29 But like then, he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. 30 Anyway what does the scripture say? "Throw out the bondwoman and her son, for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman." 31 So then, brothers, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free woman. ___Galatians chapter 5 1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty with which Christ has made us free, and don't be entangled again with the yoke of bondage. 2 See, I Paul say to you that if you're circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. 3 For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. 4 Christ has become of no effect to you, whoever of you are justified by the law, you've fallen from grace. 5 For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. 6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision avails anything, nor uncircumcision, but faith which works by love. 7 You ran well, who hindered you so that you wouldn't obey the truth? 8 This persuasion doesn't come from him that called you. 9 A little yeast leavens the whole lump. 10 I have confidence in you through the Lord, that you won't be otherwise minded, but he that troubles you shall have his punishment, whoever he is. 11 And I, brothers, if I still preach circumcision, why do I still suffer persecution? Then the offence of the cross has stopped. 12 I would prefer they were completely stopped who trouble you. 13 For brothers, you've been called to liberty, only don't use liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve each other. 14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." 15 But if you bite and devour each other, be careful that you're not consumed by each other. 16 This I say then, walk in the Spirit, and you won't fulfill the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh, and these are contrary to each other, so that you can't do the things that you want to do. 18 But if you're led by the Spirit, you're not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are clear, which are these, adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lustful behavior, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, quarrels, jealousy, wrath, strife, divisions, false doctrine, 21 Envying, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and like that, of which I tell you before, as I've also told you in the past, that those who do such things won't inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance, against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking each other, envying each other. ___Galatians chapter 6 1 Brothers, if a man is overtaken in a fault, you who are spiritual restore him in the spirit of meekness, considering yourself, so that you won't also be tempted. 2 Carry each other's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if a man thinks himself to be something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4 But let every man prove his own work, and then he'll have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in someone else. 5 For every man shall carry his own burden. 6 Let him that is taught in the word give to him that teaches in all good things. 7 Don't be deceived, God is not mocked, for whatever a man plants, that's what he'll harvest. 8 For he that plants for his flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but he that plants to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap life everlasting. 9 And let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we'll reap, if we don't faint. 10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good to all men, especially to those who are of the household of faith. 11 You see how long a letter I've written to you with my own hand. 12 As many as desire to make a fair show in the flesh, they try to get you circumcised, only so they won't suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. 13 For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law, but desire to have you circumcised, so they can glory in your flesh. 14 But God forbid that I should glory, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision avails anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. 16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and on the Israel of God. 17 From now on, let no man trouble me, for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. 18 Brothers, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. ___Ephesians chapter 1 1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints that are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus, 2 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ, 4 Since he has chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, so that we would be holy and without blame before him in love, 5 Having chosen us beforehand to 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, in which he has made us accepted in the beloved. 7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace, 8 In which he has given us an abundance of all wisdom and prudence, 9 Having made known to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he has purposed in himself, 10 So that in the dispensation of the fullness of times he would gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth, even in him, 11 In whom we have also obtained an inheritance, being chosen beforehand, according to the purpose of him who works all things after the counsel of his own will, 12 So that we would be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. 13 In whom you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, in whom also after you believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 Which is the down payment of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of his glory. 15 So I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love to all the saints, 16 Don't stop giving thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers, 17 So that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, will give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him, 18 The eyes of your understanding being illuminated, so that you'll know what is the hope of his calling, and what are the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he accomplished in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all princedoms, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in the world to come, 22 And has put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fullness of him that fills all in all. ___Ephesians chapter 2 1 And he has made you alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 That you walked in, in the past, according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience, 3 Among whom also we all had our lifestyles in the past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of anger, like others. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love with which he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, has made us alive together with Christ, (by grace you are saved,) 6 And has raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 So that in the ages to come he would show the great riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you're saved through faith, and not faith of yourselves, it is the gift of God, 9 Not of works, so that no man will boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to good works, which God has appointed beforehand for us to walk in them. 11 So, remember that you, being in the past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called uncircumcision by that which is called the circumcision in the flesh made by hands, 12 That at that time you 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, 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off are made near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of partition between us, 15 Having abolished in his flesh the hostility, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances, to make in himself from two, one new man, so making peace, 16 And so that he would reconcile both to God in one body by the cross, having killed the hostility by that means, 17 And came and preached peace to you who were far off, and to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father. 19 Now therefore you're no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God, 20 And have been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the main cornerstone, 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together grows up to a holy temple in the Lord, 22 In whom you also are built together for a house of God through the Spirit. ___Ephesians chapter 3 1 For this cause I, Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, 2 If you've heard of the dispensation of the grace of God that has been given to me for you, 3 How by revelation he made known to me the mystery, (as I wrote before in few words, 4 So that when you read, you'll understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ), 5 Which in other ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it is now revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit, 6 So that the Gentiles would be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel, 7 Of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of his power. 8 To me, who am less than the least of all saints, has this grace been given, so that I would preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world has been hidden in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ, 10 So that now to the princedoms and powers in heavenly places would be known by the church the multifaceted wisdom of God, 11 According to the eternal purpose that he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. 13 So I desire that you don't faint at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. 14 For this cause I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 So that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man, 17 So that Christ will live in your hearts by faith, so that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 Will be able to understand with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height, 19 And to know the love of Christ, that passes knowledge, so that you'll be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him that is able to do far above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 To him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. ___Ephesians chapter 4 1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, ask you please to walk worthy of the vocation with which you're called, 2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, patient with each other in love, 3 Trying to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, just as you are called in one hope of your calling, 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. 7 But grace has been given to every one of us, according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 8 So he says, "When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men." 9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, so that he would fill all things.) 11 And he gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the building up of the body of Christ, 13 Until we all come to be united in the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to human perfection, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 So that from now on, we won't anymore be children, tossed back and forth, and carried around by every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, by which they wait in ambush to deceive, 15 But speaking the truth in love, will grow up into him in all things, who is the head, who is Christ, 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplies, according to the effective working in the measure of every part, makes increase of the body to the building up of itself in love. 17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that from now on, don't walk like other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their hearts, 19 Who being past feeling, have given themselves over to lust, to work all uncleanness with greediness. 20 But that's not the Christ you've learned, 21 If you've heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus, 22 That you put off concerning the former lifestyle the old man, that is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 And that you put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. 25 So, putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor, for we are members of each other. 26 Don't be angry, and don't sin, don't let the sun go down on your anger, 27 And don't give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal no more, but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, so that he'll have something to give to the needy. 29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of building up, so that it will minister grace to the hearers. 30 And don't grieve the holy Spirit of God, by which you're sealed until the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all hatred, 32 And be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, like God for Christ's sake has forgiven you. ___Ephesians chapter 5 1 Therefore be followers of God, like dear children, 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us, and has given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling odor. 3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as is right for saints, 4 Nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor kidding around, which are not convenient, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, that no customer of prostitutes, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words, for because of these things the anger of God comes on the children of disobedience. 7 Therefore, don't be partakers with them. 8 For you were sometimes darkness, but now you're light in the Lord, walk like children of light, 9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth,) 10 Proving what is acceptable to the Lord. 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather correct them. 12 For it is a shame even to speak about the things that are done by them in secret. 13 But all things that are reproved are made clear by the light, for whatever makes clear is light. 14 So he says, "Awake you who sleeps, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light." 15 Make sure then that you conduct yourselves looking in all directions, not like fools, but as wise, 16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 So don't be unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. 18 And don't be drunk with wine, in which is excess, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 Submitting yourselves to each other in the fear of God. 22 Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, just as Christ is the head of the church, and he is the savior of the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, love your wives, like Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it, 26 So that he would sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 So that he would 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. 28 Men ought to love their wives like their own bodies. He that loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, like the Lord does with the church, 30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 31 For this reason shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined to his wife, and the two of them shall be one flesh. 32 This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33 Anyway, let every one of you in particular love his wife like himself, and the wife see that she respects her husband. ___Ephesians chapter 6 1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 Honor your father and mother, (which is the first commandment with promise,) 3 So that it will be well with you, and so you'll live long on the earth. 4 And you fathers, don't provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 5 Servants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as to Christ, 6 Not with eye service, as men pleasers, but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7 With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men, 8 Knowing that whatever good thing any man does, he'll receive the same from the Lord, whether he's a bondman or free. 9 And you masters, do the same things to them, without threatening, knowing that your Master also is in heaven, nor is there respect of persons with him. 10 Finally, my brothers, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, so you'll be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we don't wrestle against flesh and blood, but against princedoms, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against wicked spirits in high places. 13 So, take to yourselves the whole armor of God, so that you'll be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your midsections clothed with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 And for shoes, the preparation of the gospel of peace, 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, with which you'll be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and staying awake regarding that, with all perseverance and supplication for all saints, 19 And for me, that a way to speak will be given to me, so that I can open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds, so that in it I can speak boldly, as I ought to speak. 21 But so that you'll also know my affairs, and how I'm doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things, 22 Whom I have sent to you for the same purpose, so that you'll know our affairs, and so that he'll comfort your hearts. 23 Peace be to the bothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all of those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen. ___Philippians chapter 1 1 Paul and Timothy, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons, 2 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 I thank my God at every remembrance of you, 4 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 that has begun a good work in you will perform it, until the day of Jesus Christ, 7 Since it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, since both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you are all partakers of my grace. 8 For God is my witness, how greatly I long after you all in the inward affections of Jesus Christ. 9 And this I pray, that your love will become abundant yet more and more, in knowledge and in all judgment, 10 So that you'll approve things that are excellent, so that you'll be sincere and without offence until the day of Christ, 11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. 12 But I want you to understand, brothers, that the things that happened to me have happened rather for the furtherance of the gospel, 13 So that my shackles in Christ are clear in all the palace, and in all other places, 14 And many of the brothers in the Lord, becoming confident by my shackles, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. 15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife, and some also of good will, 16 The one preach Christ argumentatively, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds, 17 But the others of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel. 18 What then? Anyway, every way, whether in pretense, or in truth, Christ is preached, and I rejoice about that, yes, and will rejoice. 19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 20 According to my earnest expectation and my hope, so that I won't be ashamed in anything, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it is by life, or by death. 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labor, yet what I shall choose I don't know. 23 For I face a difficult decision, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is far better, 24 But, to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. 25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith, 26 So that your rejoicing will be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again. 27 Only let your lifestyle be as is right for the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I'll hear of your affairs, so that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, 28 And in nothing terrified by your adversaries, which is to them an evident token of destruction, but to you of salvation, salvation from God. 29 For to you it is given on behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake, 30 Having the same conflict that you saw in me, and now hear to be in me. ___Philippians chapter 2 1 If there is therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any inward affections and mercies, 2 Fulfill my joy, so that you're like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem the other better than themselves. 4 Don't look every man at his own things, but every man also at the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, that was also in Christ Jesus, 6 Who, being in the form of God, didn't see it as robbery to be equal with God, 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took on himself the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men, 8 And being found to apparently be a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient until death, even the death of the cross. 9 So God also has highly exalted him, and given him a name that is above every name, 10 So that at the name of Jesus every knee would bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth, 11 And so that every tongue would confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 12 So, my beloved, as you've always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 For it is God who works in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. 14 Do all things without murmurings and disputes, 15 So that you'll be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without fault, among a crooked and perverse nation, among whom you shine like lights in the world, 16 Holding out the word of life, so that I'll rejoice in the day of Christ, so that I haven't run for nothing, nor labored in vain. 17 Yes, and if I'm offered on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. 18 For the same cause also do you joy, and rejoice with me. 19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly to you, so that I will also be of good comfort, when I know your condition. 20 For I have no man like-minded, who will naturally care for your condition. 21 For all seek their own, not the things that are Jesus Christ's. 22 But you know the proof of him, that like a son with the father, he has served with me in the gospel. 23 Therefore I hope to send him soon, after I see how it will go with me. 24 But I trust in the Lord that I myself shall also come shortly. 25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my needs. 26 For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because you had heard that he had been sick. 27 For indeed he was sick and near death, but God had mercy on him, and not on him only, but on me also, so I wouldn't have sorrow added to sorrow. 28 I sent him therefore the more carefully, so that, when you see him again, you'll rejoice, and so that I'll be less sorrowful. 29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such in reputation, 30 Because for the work of Christ he was near death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me. ___Philippians chapter 3 1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, doesn't cause any grief to me, but for you it is safe. 2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. 3 For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. 4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinks that he has something about which he can trust in the flesh, I have more, 5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews, concerning the law, a Pharisee, 6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church, concerning the righteousness that is in the law, blameless. 7 But the things that were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 8 Yes doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I've suffered the loss of all things, and do count them simply as manure, so I can win Christ, 9 And be found in him, not having my own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith, 10 So that I'll know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable to his death, 11 If by any means I can obtain the resurrection of the dead. 12 Not as though I've already obtained, or were already perfect, but I pursue, if I can take hold of that for which also I'm taken hold of, by Christ Jesus. 13 Brothers, I don't count myself to have taken hold, but this one thing I do, forgetting the things that are in the past, and reaching out to the things that are ahead, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, be thus minded, and if in anything you are otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this to you. 16 Anyway, to what we've already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. 17 Brothers, be followers together of me, and identify those who walk, compared with our example. 18 (For many walk, about whom I've told you often, and now tell you with tears, 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.) 20 For our lifestyle is in heaven, from where we also look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 Who shall change our dirty body, so it will be fashioned like his glorious body, according to the working by which he is able to subdue all things to himself. ___Philippians chapter 4 1 Therefore, my brothers, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. 2 I ask Euodias please, and ask Syntyche please, to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 And I ask you also, true partners, help those women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with my other fellow laborers, whose names are in the book of life. 4 Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, Rejoice. 5 Let your moderation be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, that passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there's any virtue, and if there's any praise, think about these things. 9 Do the things that you've learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, and the God of peace shall be with you. 10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last, your care of me has flourished again, in which you were also careful, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in respect of want, for I've learned, in whatever condition I'm in, to be content with it. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to enjoy plenty. Everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to have plenty and to be in need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. 14 Anyway, you've done well that you gave for my affliction. 15 Now you Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church gave to me except you. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent once and again for my needs. 17 Not because I desire a gift, but I desire that there be abundant fruit in your account. 18 But I have all, and have plenty, I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things that you sent, a sweet smelling odor, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God. 19 But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now to God our Father be glory forever and always. Amen. 21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, mainly those who are of Caesar's household. 23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. ___Colossians chapter 1 1 Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ who are at Colosse, Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 We give thanks to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love that you have to all the saints, 5 For the hope that is laid up for you in heaven, about which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel, 6 Which has come to you, as it has in all the world, and produces fruit, as it does also in you, since the day you heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth, 7 As you also learned of Epaphras our dear fellow servant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ, 8 Who also declared to us your love in the Spirit. 9 For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, don't stop praying for you, and to desire that you'll be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, 10 So that you'll walk worthy of the Lord to all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God, 11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, to all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness, 12 Giving thanks to the Father, who has made us qualified to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light, 13 Who has given us deliverance from the power of darkness, and has translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son, 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, which is forgiveness of sins, 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature, 16 For by him all things were created that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they are thrones, or dominions, or princedoms, or powers, all things were created by him, and for him, 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things stick together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that in all things he would have the priority. 19 For it pleased the Father that all fullness would live in him, 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things to himself, by him, I say, whether they are things in earth, or things in heaven. 21 And you, that were once alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now he has reconciled, 22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreprovable in his sight, 23 If you continue in the faith grounded and settled, and aren't moved away from the hope of the gospel that you've heard, and that has been preached to every creature under heaven, about which I, Paul, have been made a minister, 24 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, 25 Of which I've been made a minister, according to the dispensation of God that's been given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God, 26 The mystery that's been hidden from ages and from generations, but now is made clear to his saints, 27 To whom God would make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory, 28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, so we can present every man perfect in Christ Jesus, 29 For which I also labor, striving according to his working, who works in me mightily. ___Colossians chapter 2 1 For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you, and for those at Laodicea, and for as many as haven't seen my face in the flesh, 2 So that their hearts would be comforted, being knit together in love, and to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God the Father, and of Christ, 3 In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 And this I say, so that no one will seduce you with enticing words. 5 For though I'm absent in the flesh, yet I'm with you in the spirit, rejoicing and seeing your order, and the steadiness of your faith in Christ. 6 As you've therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 Rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith, as you've been taught, becoming abundant in it with thanksgiving. 8 Beware so that no man spoils you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the elements of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And you are complete in him, who is the head of all princedoms and power, 11 In whom also you are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ, 12 Buried with him in baptism, in which you’ve also risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who has raised him from the dead. 13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, he has made alive together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses, 14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, that was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross, 15 And having spoiled princedoms and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it. 16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of a holy day, or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath days, 17 Which are a shadow of things to come, but the body is of Christ. 18 Let no man cheat you out of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into the things that he hasn't seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increases with the increase of God. 20 So, if you're dead with Christ from the elements of the world, why, as though living in the world, are you subject to ordinances, 21 (Don't touch, don't taste, don't handle, 22 Which all are to be destroyed with the using,) after the commandments and doctrines of men? 23 Which things indeed have the appearance of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body, not in any honor to the satisfying of the flesh. ___Colossians chapter 3 1 So if you've risen with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ sits at the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you are dead, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then you'll also appear with him in glory. 5 Therefore kill your members that are on the earth, fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, lust, and covetousness, which is idolatry, 6 For which things' sake the anger of God comes on the children of disobedience, 7 In which you also once walked, when you lived in them. 8 But now, put off also all of these: anger, hatred, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Don't lie to each other, seeing that you've put off the old man with his deeds, 10 And have put on the new man, who is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him, 11 Where there's neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free, but Christ is all, and in all. 12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, 13 Being patient with each other, and forgiving each other, if any man has a quarrel against any, as Christ forgave you, you forgive too. 14 And above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you're called in one body, and be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ live in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing each other in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father by him. 18 Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands, as is right in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and don't be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. 21 Fathers, don't provoke your children to anger, so they won't be discouraged. 22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye service, as men pleasers, but in singleness of heart, fearing God, 23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not to men, 24 Knowing that from the Lord you'll receive the reward of the inheritance, for you serve the Lord Christ. 25 But he that does wrong shall receive for the wrong that he's done, and there is no respect of persons. ___Colossians chapter 4 1 Masters, give to your servants what is just and equal, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. 2 Continue in prayer, and stay awake in prayer with thanksgiving, 3 Praying also for us, so God would open to us a way to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds, 4 So that I will make it clear, as I ought to speak. 5 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. 6 Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, so you'll know how you ought to answer every man. 7 All my condition shall Tychicus tell you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord, 8 Whom I have sent to you for the same purpose, so he'll know your situation, and comfort your hearts, 9 With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They'll make known to you everything that's happening here. 10 Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner greets you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (concerning whom you received commandments, if he comes to you, receive him,) 11 And Jesus, who is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. Only these are my fellow workers in the kingdom of God, who have been a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, so that you'll stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. 13 For I testify about him, that he has a great zeal for you, and for those who are in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis. 14 Luke, the beloved doctor, and Demas, greet you. 15 Greet the brothers who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church that is in his house. 16 And when this letter is read among you, cause it to be read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you likewise read the letter from Laodicea. 17 And say to Archippus, "Take heed to the ministry that you've received in the Lord, that you fulfill it." 18 The greeting by the hand of me, Paul. Remember my shackles. Grace be with you. Amen. ___1 Thessalonians chapter 1 1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians that is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ, Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, 3 Remembering without stopping your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God our Father, 4 Knowing, beloved brothers, your election from God. 5 For our gospel didn't come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake. 6 And you became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost, 7 So that you were examples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 For the word of the Lord sounded out from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God is spread around, so that we don't need to say anything. 9 For they themselves show about us what kind of arrival we had with you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, who is Jesus, who gave us deliverance from the anger that's coming. ___1 Thessalonians chapter 2 1 For yourselves, brothers, know our entrance in to you, that it was not in vain, 2 But even after we had suffered before, and were shamefully treated, as you know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God with a lot of opposition. 3 For our preaching was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile, 4 But as we were allowed by God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who tests our hearts. 5 For we didn't at any time use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak of covetousness, God is witness, 6 Nor from men did we seek glory, neither from you, nor yet from others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle among you, like a nurse cherishes her children, 8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have given to you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because you were dear to us. 9 For you remember, brothers, our labor and travail, for laboring night and day, because we didn't want to be indebted to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe, 11 As you know how we exhorted and comforted and charged each one of you, like a father does his children, 12 So that you'd walk worthy of God, who has called you to his kingdom and glory. 13 For this reason also, we thank God without stopping, because, when you received the word of God that you heard from us, you received it, not as the word of men, but as it truly is, the word of God, that effectively works also in you that believe. 14 For you, brothers, became followers of the churches of God that in Judea are in Christ Jesus, for you also have suffered similar things from your own countrymen, just as they have from the Jews, 15 Who killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us, and they don't please God, and are contrary to all men, 16 Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles so that they'd be saved, to fill up their sins always, for the anger has come on them to the maximum. 17 But we, brothers, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, tried the more abundantly to see your face with great desire. 18 So we would have come to you, even I, Paul, once and again, but Satan hindered us. 19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Aren't even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? 20 For you are our glory and joy. ___1 Thessalonians chapter 3 1 So when we couldn't wait any longer, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone, 2 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, 3 So that no man would be moved by these afflictions, for you know that we are appointed to them. 4 For truly, when we were with you, we told you before that we would suffer tribulation, just as it has happened, and you know. 5 For this reason, when I could no longer wait, I sent to know your faith, to make sure the tempter didn't successfully tempt you, and that our labor hasn't been for nothing. 6 But now when Timothy came from you to us, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you have good memories about us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you, 7 Therefore brothers, we were comforted about you in all our affliction and distress by your faith, 8 For now we live, if you stand strong in the Lord. 9 For what thanks can we give back to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sakes before our God, 10 Night and day praying exceedingly that we would see your face, and would perfect what is lacking in your faith? 11 Now God himself, our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way to you. 12 And the Lord make you increase and flourish in love toward each other, and toward all men, just as we do toward you, 13 To the end that he will establish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints. ___1 Thessalonians chapter 4 1 Furthermore then, we ask you please, brothers, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as you've received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, so you would flourish more and more. 2 For you know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. 3 For this is the will of God, your being made holy, so that you'll abstain from fornication, 4 So that each one of you knows how to possess his body in holiness and honor, 5 Not in the lust of concupiscence, like the Gentiles who don't know God, 6 So that no man goes beyond and defrauds his brother in any matter, because the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we have also warned you and testified. 7 For God hasn't called us to uncleanness, but to holiness. 8 He therefore that despises, doesn't despise man but God, who has also given us his Holy Spirit. 9 But concerning brotherly love, you don't need me to write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love each other. 10 And indeed you do it toward all the brothers who are in all Macedonia, but we ask you please, brothers, to increase more and more, 11 And to study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, 12 So that you'll walk honestly toward those who are outside, and so that you'll have lack of nothing. 13 But I don't want you to be ignorant, brothers, concerning those who've died, so you don't sorrow, like others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so those also who've died in Jesus, God will bring with him. 15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain at the coming of the Lord won't go ahead of those who have died. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ shall rise first, 17 Then we who 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 always be with the Lord. 18 So, comfort each other with these words. ___1 Thessalonians chapter 5 1 But of the times and the seasons, brothers, you don't need me to write to you. 2 For you know perfectly that the day of the Lord comes like a thief in the night. 3 For when they shall say, "Peace and safety," then sudden destruction comes on them, like birth pangs on a woman with child, and they won't escape. 4 But you, brothers, are not in darkness, so that that day would overtake you like a thief. 5 You are all the children of light, and the children of the day, we are not of the night, nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let's not sleep, like others, but let's stay awake and be sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep in the night, and those who are drunk are drunk in the night. 8 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. 9 For God has not appointed us to anger, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 Who died for us, so that, whether we're awake or asleep, we'll live together with him. 11 So, comfort yourselves together, and build up each other, as you've been doing. 12 And we ask you please brothers, to know those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you, 13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we exhort you brothers, warn those who are unruly, comfort the feeble minded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. 15 Make sure that no one returns evil for evil to any man, but always follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. 16 Rejoice more all the time. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 19 Don't quench the Spirit. 20 Don't despise prophesying. 21 Prove all things, hold tightly what is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace make you completely holy, and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body will be preserved blameless until the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that calls you, who also will do it. 25 Brothers, pray for us. 26 Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss. 27 I charge you by the Lord that this letter be read to all the holy brothers. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. ___2 Thessalonians chapter 1 1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, 2 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith grows very much, and the love of each of you all toward each other is plenteous, 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 you endure, 5 Which is a clear token of the righteous judgment of God, so that you'll be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also suffer, 6 Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to repay troubles to those who trouble you, 7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on those who don't know God, and that don't obey 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, 10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all those who believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. 11 So, we also pray always for you, so that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power, 12 So that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ will be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. ___2 Thessalonians chapter 2 1 Now we ask you please, brothers, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together to him, 2 Don't be soon shaken in mind, nor be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter like from us, as that the day of Christ has arrived. 3 Let no man deceive you by any means, for that day won't come, unless there's a falling away first, and that man of sin is revealed, the son of hell, 4 Who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped, so that he as God sits in the temple of God, representing himself to be God. 5 Don't you remember that when I was still with you, I told you these things? 6 And now, you know what's holding back, so that he'll be revealed in his time. 7 For the mystery of sin is already at work, only he who now restrains will restrain, until he's taken out of the way. 8 And then that wicked one shall be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming, 9 Even him whose coming is after the working of Satan, with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10 And with all deceiving of unrighteousness in those who get destroyed, because they didn't receive the love of the truth, so that they'd be saved. 11 And for this reason God shall send them strong delusion, so that they'll believe a lie, 12 So they'll all be damned who didn't believe the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 13 But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brothers, beloved by the Lord, because God has from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through the making holy by the Spirit, and belief of the truth, 14 To which he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 Therefore brothers, stand strong, and hold the traditions that you've been taught, whether by word, or our letter. 16 Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who has loved us, and has given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, 17 Comfort your hearts, and establish you in every good word and work. ___2 Thessalonians chapter 3 1 Finally brothers, pray for us, so that the word of the Lord will have free course, and be glorified, just as it is with you, 2 And that we'll have deliverance from unreasonable and wicked men, for not all men have faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, who'll establish you, and keep you from evil. 4 And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you're doing and will do the things we command you. 5 And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ. 6 Now we command you brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw yourselves from every brother that walks disorderly, and not after the tradition that he received from us. 7 For yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we didn't behave ourselves disorderly among you, 8 Nor did we eat any man's bread for nothing, but worked with labor and travail night and day, so we wouldn't be indebted to any of you, 9 Not because we don't have authority, but to make ourselves an example to you to follow us. 10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if anyone wouldn't work, he shouldn't eat. 11 For we hear that there are some who walk among you disorderly, not working at all, but are busybodies. 12 Now those who are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. 13 But you brothers, don't be weary in well doing. 14 And if any man doesn't obey our word by this letter, note that man, and have no fellowship with him, so he'll be ashamed. 15 Yet don't count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 16 Now the Lord of peace, himself, give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. 17 The greeting of Paul with my own hand, which is the token in every letter, so I write. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. ___1 Timothy chapter 1 1 Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ, who is our hope, 2 To Timothy, my own son in the faith, Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord. 3 As I asked you to stay at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, so that you would instruct some that they teach no other doctrine, 4 And not pay attention to fables and endless genealogies that raise questions rather than godly edifying which is in faith, do that. 5 Now the end of the commandment is love out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unpretended, 6 From which some having swerved, have turned aside to vain babbling, 7 Desiring to be teachers of the law, understanding neither what they say, nor about what they affirm. 8 But we know that the law is good, if a man uses 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, 10 For customers of prostitutes, for those who defile themselves with mankind, for kidnappers, for liars, for false witnesses, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine, 11 According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, that was committed to my trust. 12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has enabled me, because he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, 13 Who was previously a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious, but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord was quite abundant with faith and love that is in Christ Jesus. 15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 16 But for this reason I obtained mercy, so that in me first, Jesus Christ would demonstrate all patience, for a pattern to those who would afterward believe on him for life everlasting. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory, forever and always. Amen. 18 I commit this charge to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies that went before on you, so that by them you'll fight a good warfare, 19 Holding faith, and a good conscience, which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck, 20 Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have delivered to Satan, so they'll learn not to blaspheme. ___1 Timothy chapter 2 1 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, so that we can lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 Who wants all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified about in due time. 7 To whom I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and don't lie,) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 Therefore, I want men to pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without anger and doubting. 9 Likewise also, that women adorn themselves in modest clothes, with modesty and staying sober, not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array, 10 But (which is right for women professing godliness) with good works. 11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12 But I don't allow a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15 But anyway, she shall be saved when she bears children, if they continue in faith and love and holiness with soberness. ___1 Timothy chapter 3 1 This is a true saying, If a man desires the office of a bishop, he desires a good work. 2 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 bribes, but patient, not a brawler, not covetous, 4 Someone who rules his own house well, having his children in subjection with all honesty, 5 (For if a man doesn't know how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 6 Not a novice, so he won't be lifted up with pride and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Also, he must have a good report from those who are outside, so he won't fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. 8 Likewise, the deacons must be grave, not double tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy bribes, 9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 And let these also be proven first, then let them use the office of a deacon, if they're found blameless. 11 Even so, their wives must be honest, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 12 Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For those who've used the office of a deacon well, purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. 14 These things I write to you, hoping to come to you shortly, 15 But if I don't come soon, so that you'll know how you ought to behave yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness, God was presented in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached to the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. ___1 Timothy chapter 4 1 Now the Spirit speaks specifically that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils, 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their conscience seared with a hot iron, 3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to not eat meats, which God has created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it's received with thanksgiving, 5 For it's made holy by the word of God and prayer. 6 If you remind the brothers of these things, you'll be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, to which you've attained. 7 But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself rather to godliness. 8 For bodily exercise is of little profit, but godliness is profitable to all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. 10 For therefore we labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. 11 Command these things and teach them. 12 Let no man despise your youth, but be an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 13 Until I come, pay attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 14 Don't neglect the gift that is in you, that was given to you by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the elders. 15 Meditate on these things, give yourself completely to them, so that your profiting will appear to all. 16 Take heed to yourself, and to the doctrine, continue in it, for in doing this you'll save yourself and those who hear you. ___1 Timothy chapter 5 1 Don't scold an elder, but reason with him like a father, and the younger men like brothers, 2 The elder women like mothers, the younger like sisters, with all purity. 3 Honor widows that are widows indeed. 4 But if any widow has children or nephews, let them learn first to show godliness at home, and to help their parents, for that is good and acceptable before God. 5 Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusts in God, and continues in supplications and prayers night and day. 6 But she that lives in pleasure is dead while she lives. 7 And these things give in charge, so that they'll be blameless. 8 But if any man doesn't provide for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever. 9 Don't let a widow be added to the membership list who's less than sixty years old, having been the wife of one man, 10 Well reported about for good works, if she has raised children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints' feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work. 11 But the younger widows refuse, for when they've begun to grow wanton against Christ, they'll marry, 12 Having damnation, because they have thrown off their first faith. 13 And with that, they learn to be idle, wandering around from house to house, and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things that they ought not. 14 Therefore, I want the younger women to marry, have children, guide the house, give no occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully. 15 For some have already turned aside to follow Satan. 16 If any man or woman that believes has widows, let them relieve them, so the church won't have to do it, so that it can relieve those who are widows indeed. 17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture says, "You shall not muzzle the ox that treads out the corn." And, "The laborer is worthy of his reward." 19 Don't receive an accusation against an elder except before two or three witnesses. 20 Scold before all those who sin, so that others will also fear. 21 I charge you before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that you observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by favoritism. 22 Don't lay hands suddenly on any man, nor be partaker of other men's sins, keep yourself pure. 23 Drink no longer just water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and your frequent infirmities. 24 Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment, and some men they follow afterward. 25 Likewise also the good works of some are clear beforehand, and those who are otherwise can't be hidden. ___1 Timothy chapter 6 1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and his doctrine isn't blasphemed. 2 And those who have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brothers, but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort. 3 If any man teaches otherwise, and doesn't agree with wholesome words, the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine that is according to godliness, 4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strife of words, from which come envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5 Perverse disputes by men of corrupt minds, who don't have the truth, supposing that gain is godliness, from such withdraw yourself. 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing let's be content with that. 9 But those who want to be rich fall into temptation and a trap, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and hell. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil, which while some coveted for, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 But you, O man of God, flee those things, and follow righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, take hold on eternal life, to which you're also called, and have professed a good profession before many witnesses. 13 I give you commandment in the sight of God, who makes all things alive, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession, 14 That you keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 Who in his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords, 16 Who only has immortality, living in the light that no man can approach, whom no man has seen, nor can see, to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen. 17 Charge those who are rich in this world not to be high minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy, 18 So that they do good, so that they are rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate, 19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation for the future, so that they'll take hold on eternal life. 20 O Timothy, keep that which has been committed to your trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science, falsely so called, 21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with you. Amen. ___2 Timothy chapter 1 1 Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, 2 To Timothy, my dearly beloved son, grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with a pure conscience, that without stopping, I remember you in my prayers night and day, 4 Greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears, so that I'll be filled with joy, 5 When I remember the unpretended faith that is in you, that lived first in your grandmother Lois, and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded that in you also. 6 So I remind you to stir up the gift of God that is in you by the putting on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 8 Therefore, don't be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but be partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God, 9 Who has saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, that was given to us in Christ Jesus before the world began, 10 But is now made clear by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has destroyed death, and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, 11 To which I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. 12 For which reason I also suffer these things, but anyway, I'm not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I’ve committed to him against that day. 13 Hold tightly the form of sound words that you've heard from me, in faith and love that is in Christ Jesus. 14 The good thing that was committed to you, keep by the Holy Ghost that lives in us. 15 This you know, that all of those who are in Asia have turned away from me, of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. 16 The Lord give mercy to the house of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chains, 17 But when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. 18 The Lord grant to him that he'll find mercy from the Lord in that day, and in how many things he ministered to me at Ephesus, you know very well. ___2 Timothy chapter 2 1 You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that you've heard from me among many witnesses, commit to faithful men, who'll be able to teach others also. 3 Therefore endure hardship, like a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No soldier entangles himself with the affairs of this life, so that he'll please him who has chosen him to be a soldier. 5 And if a man also strives for masteries, yet he's not crowned, unless he strives legally. 6 The farmer that labors must be first partaker of the fruits. 7 Consider what I say, and the Lord give you understanding in all things. 8 Remember that Jesus Christ, of the descendants of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel, 9 In which I suffer trouble, like a criminal, even as far as shackles, but the word of God is not shackled. 10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, so that they'll also obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 11 It is a faithful saying, for if we're dead with him, we'll also live with him, 12 If we suffer, we'll also reign with him, if we deny him, he will also deny us, 13 If we don't believe, yet he remains faithful, he can't deny himself. 14 Remind them about these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. 15 Study to show yourself approved to God, a workman that doesn't need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and vain babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness. 17 And their word will eat like a canker, of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection has already happened, and overthrow the faith of some. 19 Anyway, the foundation of God stands sure, having this seal, "The Lord knows those who are his." And, let everyone that names the name of Christ depart from sin. 20 But in a great house there are not only containers of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of clay, and some to honor, and some to dishonor. 21 If a man therefore purges himself from these, he'll be a container to honor, made holy, and ready for the master's use, and prepared for every good work. 22 Flee also youthful lusts, but follow righteousness, faith, love, peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they cause strife. 24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive, but be gentle to all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those who oppose themselves, if God will perhaps give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth, 26 And so they'll recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him whenever he wants. ___2 Timothy chapter 3 1 Know this also, that in the last days dangerous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of themselves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, without self-control, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, high minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God, 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power of it, from such turn away. 6 For of this sort are those who sneak into houses, and lead captive silly women loaded with sins, led away by various lusts, 7 Always learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 8 Now like Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth, men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. 9 But they shall proceed no further, for their foolishness shall be made clear to all men, as theirs also was. 10 But you have fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, patience, 11 Persecutions, afflictions, that came to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra, what persecutions I endured, but the Lord gave me deliverance out of them all. 12 Yes, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and seducers shall grow worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 14 But continue in the things that you've learned and have been assured of, knowing from whom you've learned them, 15 And that from a child you've known the holy scriptures, that are able to make you wise for salvation through faith that is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 So that the man of God will be perfect, thoroughly furnished to all good works. ___2 Timothy chapter 4 1 I charge you therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the alive and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, 2 Preach the word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, scold, exhort with all patience and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they won't endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts, they'll heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears, 4 And they'll turn away their ears from the truth, and will turn to fairy tales. 5 But stay awake in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of your ministry. 6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith, 8 From now on, a crown of righteousness has been laid up for me, that the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day, and not to me only, but to all of those also who love his appearing. 9 Make a good effort to come shortly to me, 10 For Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world, and has departed to Thessalonica, Crescens to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with you, for he is profitable to me for the ministry. 12 And I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. 13 When you come, bring with you the cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, and the books, but especially the parchments. 14 Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil, the Lord repay him according to his works, 15 Of whom you beware also, for he has greatly withstood our words. 16 At my first answer, no man stood with me, but all men forsook me, I pray God that it won't be held against them. 17 Anyway, the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me, so that by me, the preaching would be fully known, and so all the Gentiles would hear, and I was given deliverance out of the mouth of the lion. 18 And the Lord shall give me deliverance from every evil work, and will preserve me until his heavenly kingdom, to whom be glory forever and always. Amen. 19 Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. 20 Erastus stayed at Corinth, but I've left Trophimus sick at Miletum. 21 Make a good effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brothers. 22 The Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Grace be with you. Amen. ___Titus chapter 1 1 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 that is according to godliness, 2 In hope of eternal life, that God, who can't lie, promised before the world began, 3 But has in due times made clear his word through preaching, that has been committed to me according to the commandment of God our Savior, 4 To Titus, my own son after the common faith, Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior. 5 For this reason, I left you in Crete, so that you'd set in order the things that are lacking, and ordain elders in every city, like I appointed you, 6 If someone is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. 7 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 bribes, 8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate, 9 Holding tightly the faithful word as he has been taught, so that he'll be able by sound doctrine to exhort and to convince those who contradict. 10 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, 11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things that they ought not for the sake of filthy bribes. 12 One of themselves, a prophet of their own, said, "The Cretians are always liars, evil beasts, slow bellies." 13 This witness is true. So, scold them sharply, so that they'll be sound in the faith, 14 Not paying attention to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. 15 To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure, but even their mind and conscience is defiled. 16 They profess that they know God, but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and to every good work reprobate. ___Titus chapter 2 1 But speak the things that are part of sound doctrine, 2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience. 3 The aged women likewise, so that they are in behavior in agreement with holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things, 4 So that they teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 To be discreet, pure, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, so that the word of God isn't blasphemed. 6 Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. 7 In all things showing yourself a pattern of good works, in doctrine showing incorruptness, honesty, sincerity, 8 Sound speech, that can't be condemned, so that he that is of the contrary part will be ashamed, having nothing bad to say about you. 9 Exhort servants to be obedient to their own masters, and to please them well in all things, not answering back, 10 Not stealing, but showing all good fidelity, so they'll adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things. 11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 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 Savior Jesus Christ, 14 Who gave himself for us, to redeem us from all sin, and purify to himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise you. ___Titus chapter 3 1 Remind them to be subject to princedoms and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready for every good work, 2 To speak evil about no man, to not be brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness to all men. 3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in hatred and envy, hateful, and hating each other. 4 But after the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man appeared, 5 Not by works of righteousness that we've done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost, 6 That he gave to us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 So that being justified by his grace, we'd be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8 This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, so that those who've believed in God would be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men. 9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings regarding the law, for they are unprofitable and vain. 10 Reject a man that embraces bad teachings after the first and second scoldings, 11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sins, being condemned from himself. 12 When I shall send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me at Nicopolis, for I've decided to spend the winter there. 13 Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, so that nothing is lacking to them. 14 And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, so that they aren't unfruitful. 15 All that are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen. ___Philemon 1 Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, to Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow laborer, 2 And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in your house, 3 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 4 I thank my God, making mention of you always in my prayers, 5 Hearing of your love and faith, that you have toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints, 6 So that the communication of your faith will become effective by the acknowledging of every good thing that is in you in Christ Jesus. 7 For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the inward affections of the saints are refreshed by you, brother. 8 So, though I might be quite bold in Christ to command you that which is convenient, 9 Yet for love's sake I rather ask you please, being Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. 10 I ask you please for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my shackles, 11 Who in the past was unprofitable to you, but now profitable to you and to me, 12 Whom I have sent back to you, therefore receive him, that is, my own inward affections, 13 Whom I would have retained with me, so that instead of you he could have ministered to me in the bonds of the gospel, 14 But without your mind I wouldn't do anything, so that your benefit wouldn't be because you had to, but willingly. 15 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, so that you'd receive him forever, 16 Not now as a servant, but more than a servant, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? 17 If you count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. 18 If he has wronged you, or owes you anything, put that on my account, 19 I Paul have written it with my own hand, I will repay it, although I don't say to you how you owe me even your own self besides. 20 Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord, refresh my inward affections in the Lord. 21 Having confidence in your obedience I wrote to you, knowing that you'll also do more than I say. 22 But also, prepare me also a lodging, for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given to you. 23 Epaphras greets you, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, 24 Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellow laborers. 25 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. ___Hebrews chapter 1 1 God, who at various times and in different ways spoke in the past to the fathers by the prophets, 2 Has in these last days spoken to us by his Son, whom he has appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds, 3 Who, being the brightness of his glory, and the specific image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. 5 For to which of the angels did he ever say, "You're my Son, this day I've begotten you?" And again, "I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?" 6 And again, when he brings in the first person that was fathered into the world, he says, "And let all the angels of God worship him." 7 And about the angels he says, "Who makes his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire." 8 But to the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, is forever and always, a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of your kingdom. 9 You've loved righteousness, and hated sin, therefore God, even your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness more than your fellows." 10 And, "You, Lord, in the beginning, have laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the works of your hands, 11 They shall be destroyed, but you remain, and they'll all grow old like a piece of clothing does, 12 And like a vesture you'll fold them up, and they'll be changed, but you're the same, and your years won't fail." 13 But to which of the angels did he ever say, "Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool?" 14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent out to minister for those who shall be heirs of salvation? ___Hebrews chapter 2 1 Therefore we ought to pay more earnest attention to the things that we've heard, so we won't ever let them slip. 2 For if the word spoken by angels was solid, and every transgression and disobedience received a proper punishment, 3 How shall we escape, if we neglect such great salvation, which at first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard him, 4 God also bearing them witness, with signs and wonders, and with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? 5 For he hasn't put the world to come in subjection to the angels, about which we speak. 6 But someone in a certain place testified, "What is man, that you are mindful of him? Or the son of man, that you visit him? 7 You made him a little lower than the angels, you crowned him with glory and honor, and did set him over the works of your hands, 8 You've put all things in subjection under his feet." For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that hasn't been put under him. But now, we don't yet see all things put under him. 9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor, so that he by the grace of God would taste death for every man. 10 For it was fitting for him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. 11 For he that sanctifies and those who are sanctified are all of one, which is why he's not ashamed to call them brothers, 12 Saying, "I will declare your name to my brothers, I'll sing praise to you in the church." 13 And again, "I will put my trust in him." And again, "See, I and the children that God has given me." 14 So, since the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same, so that through death he would destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 And give deliverance to those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 16 For truly he didn't take on himself the nature of angels, but he took on himself the descendancy from Abraham. 17 So in all things it was necessary for him to be made like his brothers, so that he would be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. 18 For in that he himself has suffered being tempted, he is able to strengthen those who are tempted. ___Hebrews chapter 3 1 So, holy brothers, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus, 2 Who was faithful to him that appointed him, like Moses was also faithful in all his house. 3 For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, since he who built the house has more honor than the house. 4 For every house has been built by some man, but the builder of all things is God. 5 And Moses truly was faithful in all his house, like a servant, for a testimony of the things that were to be spoken afterward, 6 But Christ as a son over his own house, whose house are we, if we hold tightly the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end. 7 So (as the Holy Ghost says, "Today if you'll hear his voice, 8 Don't harden your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness, 9 When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years. 10 So I was grieved with that generation, and said, They always err in their heart, and they haven't known my ways. 11 So I swore in my anger, They won't enter into my rest.)" 12 Pay attention, brothers, so there won't be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. 13 But exhort each other daily, while it is called today, so that none of you will be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steady until the end, 15 While it is said, "Today if you'll hear his voice, don't harden your hearts, as in the provocation." 16 For some, when they had heard, did provoke, but not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. 17 But with whom was he grieved forty years? Was it not with those who had sinned, whose dead bodies fell in the wilderness? 18 And to whom did he promise that they would not enter into his rest, but to those who didn't believe? 19 So we see that they couldn't enter in because of unbelief. ___Hebrews chapter 4 1 Let us therefore fear, so that a promise being left us of entering into his rest, none of you will seem to come short of it. 2 For the gospel was preached to us, as well as to them, but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. 3 For we that have believed enter into rest, as he said, "As I have sworn in my anger, if they shall enter into my rest," although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. 4 For he spoke in a certain place about the seventh day like this, "And God rested the seventh day from all his works." 5 And in this place again, "If they shall enter into my rest." 6 Therefore seeing it remains that some must enter into it, and those to whom it was first preached didn't enter in because of unbelief, 7 Again, he limits a certain day, saying in David, today, after such a long a time, as it is said, "Today if you'll hear his voice, don't harden your hearts." 8 For if Jesus had given them rest, then he wouldn't afterward have spoken of another day. 9 There remains therefore a rest to the people of God. 10 For he that has entered into his rest, has also stopped from his own works, like God did from his. 11 Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, so that no man will fall after the same example of unbelief. 12 For the word of God is alive, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the separating of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13 Nor is there any creature that is not clearly visible in his sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of him with whom we have to do. 14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that has passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold tightly our profession. 15 For we don't have a high priest who can't be touched by the feeling of our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted like we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, so we can obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. ___Hebrews chapter 5 1 For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, so that he can offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins, 2 Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on those who are on the wrong road, because he himself also is surrounded by weakness. 3 And because of that, he ought, like for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins. 4 And no man takes this honor to himself, but he that has been called by God, as was Aaron. 5 So also, Christ didn't glorify himself to be made a high priest, but he that said to him, "You're my Son, today I've begotten you." 6 As he says also in another place, "You're a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek." 7 Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears to him that was able to save him from death, and was heard because he feared, 8 Though he was a Son, yet he learned obedience by the things he suffered, 9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation to all those who obey him, 10 Called by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek. 11 About whom we have many things to say, and hard to be said, seeing you are dull of hearing. 12 For when for the time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again what are the first principles of the oracles of God, and have become those who need milk, not strong meat. 13 For everyone that uses milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness, for he is a baby. 14 But strong meat belongs to those who are of full age, those who, because of use, have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. ___Hebrews chapter 6 1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, 2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of rising from the dead, and of eternal judgment. 3 And we'll do this, if God permits. 4 For it is impossible for those who were once illuminated, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, 5 And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, 6 If they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify to themselves the Son of God again, and put him to an open shame. 7 For the earth that drinks in the rain that often comes on it, and produces vegetables appropriate for the farmers, receives blessing from God, 8 But that which produces thorns and briers is rejected, and is near cursing, whose end is to be burned. 9 But beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we talk like this. 10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love that you've shown toward his name, in that you've ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you shows the same diligence to the full assurance of hope to the end, 12 So that you're not slothful, but followers of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. 13 For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he swore by himself, 14 "Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you." 15 And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. 16 For men truly swear by the greater, and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. 17 In which God, willing more abundantly to show to the heirs of promise the indestructability of his advice, confirmed it by an oath, 18 So that by two unchangeable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we would have a strong consolation, who've fled for refuge to take hold on the hope set before us, 19 Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters into that inside the veil, 20 Where the one running ahead has entered for us, Jesus, made a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. ___Hebrews chapter 7 1 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, 2 To whom also Abraham gave one tenth of all, first being by interpretation "King of righteousness," and after that also "King of Salem," which is, "King of peace," 3 Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, lives a priest continually. 4 Now consider how great this man was, to whom even the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils. 5 And truly those who are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take ten percent from the people according to the law, that is, of their brothers, though they come out of the loins of Abraham, 6 But he whose descent is not counted from them received ten percent from Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises. 7 And without all contradiction the lesser is blessed by the greater. 8 And here men that die receive ten percent, but there he receives it, about whom it is witnessed that he lives. 9 And as I may so say, Levi also, who receives tenths, paid tenths in Abraham. 10 For he was still in the loins of his father, when Melchizedek met him. 11 If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there for another priest to rise after the order of Melchizedek, and not be called after the order of Aaron? 12 For the priesthood being changed, there is necessarily a change made also of the law. 13 For he about whom these things are spoken pertains to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. 14 For it is evident that our Lord came out of Judah, of which tribe Moses spoke nothing concerning priesthood. 15 And it is yet far more evident, that after the likeness of Melchizedek another priest arises, 16 Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life. 17 For he testifies, "You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek." 18 For there is truly a cancellation of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitability of it. 19 For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did, by which we draw near to God. 20 And since with an oath he was made priest, 21 (For those priests were made without an oath, but this with an oath by him that said to him, "The Lord swore and won't go back on it, You're a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek,") 22 By so much was Jesus made a surety bond of a better testament. 23 And they truly were many priests, because they were not allowed to continue because of death, 24 But this man, because he continues always, has an unchangeable priesthood. 25 So he is able also to save to the maximim those who come to God by him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. 26 For such a high priest was appropriate for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens, 27 Who doesn't need daily, like 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. 28 For the law makes men high priests who have weakness, but the word of the oath, which was more recent than the law, makes the Son, who is dedicated forever. ___Hebrews chapter 8 1 Now here is the summation of the things that we have spoken. We have such a high priest, who sits at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, 2 A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, that the Lord pitched, and not man. 3 For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices, so it is necessary that this man have somewhat also to offer. 4 For if he were on earth, he wouldn't be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law, 5 Who serve in the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished by God when he was about to make the tabernacle, for "See," he said, "that you make all things according to the pattern shown to you on the mountain." 6 But now he has obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises. 7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for the second. 8 For finding fault with them, he said, "See, the days come, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, 9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers, in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, because they didn't continue in my covenant, and I didn't pay attention to them, says the Lord. 10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord, I'll put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts, and I'll be to them a God, and they'll be to me a people, 11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord, for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. 12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and I will no more remember their sins and their iniquities." 13 In that he says, "A new covenant," he has made the first old. Now that which decays and grows old is ready to vanish away. ___Hebrews chapter 9 1 Then truly, the first covenant also had ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary. 2 For there was a tabernacle made, the first, in which was the candlestick, and the table, and the showbread, which is called the sanctuary. 3 And after the second veil, the tabernacle that is called the Holiest of all, 4 Which had the golden censer, and the gold-plated ark of the covenant, in which was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant, 5 And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercy seat, about which we can't now speak particularly. 6 Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. 7 But into the second, the high priest went by himself once every year, not without blood, that he offered for himself and for the errors of the people, 8 The Holy Ghost thus signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made clear, while the first tabernacle was yet standing, 9 Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertains to the conscience, 10 Which stood only in meats and drinks, and various washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. 11 But Christ having become a high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building, 12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. 13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling the unclean make them holy, purifying the flesh, 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this purpose, he is the mediator of the new testament, so that by means of death, for the redemption of the sins that were under the first testament, those who are called would receive the promise of eternal inheritance. 16 For where a testament is, there must necessarily also be the death of the testator. 17 For a testament is of force after men are dead, otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. 18 And so, the first testament wasn't dedicated without blood, either. 19 For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and red wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, 20 Saying, "This is the blood of the testament that God has commanded to you." 21 Also he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the containers of the ministry. 22 And by the law, almost all things are purged with blood, and without shedding of blood is no forgiveness of sin. 23 It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 24 For Christ hasn't entered into the holy places made by hands, which are the likenesses of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us, 25 Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest enters into the holy place every year with blood of others, 26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world, but now once in the end of the world he has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. 27 And as it is appointed to men once to die, but after this the judgment, 28 So Christ was once offered to carry the sins of many, and to those who look for him he'll appear the second time without sin for salvation. ___Hebrews chapter 10 1 For the law, having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices that they offered year by year, continually, make the comers to it perfect. 2 For then would they not have stopped being offered? Because the worshippers once purged would have had no more conscience of sins. 3 But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. 4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats can take away sins. 5 So when he comes into the world, he says, "Sacrifice and offering you didn't want, but you've prepared a body for me, 6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin you've had no pleasure. 7 Then I said, See, I come (in the volume of the book it is written about me,) to do your will, Oh God." 8 Above when he said, "Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin you didn't want, nor had pleasure in that, which are offered by the law," 9 Then he said, "See, I come to do your will, O God." He takes away the first, so he can establish the second. 10 By which will we are made holy through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all. 11 And every priest stands daily ministering and offering often the same sacrifices, that can never take away sins, 12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God, 13 From then on expecting, until his enemies would be made his footstool. 14 For by one offering he has perfected forever those who are sanctified. 15 About which the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us, for after he had said before, 16 "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and I'll write them in their minds, 17 And their sins and iniquities I won't remember anymore." 18 Now where forgiveness of these is, there is no more offering for sin. 19 Having therefore, brothers, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, 20 By a new and living way, that he has consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh, 21 And having a high priest over the house of God, 22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold tightly the profession of our faith without wavering, (for he is faithful that promised,) 24 And let us consider each other to provoke to love and to good works, 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhorting each other, and so much the more as you see the day approaching. 26 For if we sin willfully after we've received the knowledge of the truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sins, 27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. 28 He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses, 29 Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, shall he be thought worthy, who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has counted the blood of the covenant, with which he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and has insulted the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know him that has said, "Vengeance belongs to me, I will repay, says the Lord." And again, "The Lord shall judge his people." 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. 32 But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great fight of afflictions, 33 Partly, while you were made a gazing stock both by reproaches and afflictions, and partly, while you became companions of those who were treated that way. 34 For you had compassion on me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that you have in heaven a better and an enduring substance. 35 Therefore, don't throw away your confidence, which has great payment of reward. 36 For you need patience, so that after you've done the will of God, you'll receive the promise. 37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not wait. 38 Now "The just shall live by faith," but if any man draws back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. 39 But we are not of those who draw back to hell, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul. ___Hebrews chapter 11 1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good report. 3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things that are seen were not made from things that appear. 4 By faith, Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts, and by it he, being dead, spoke anyway. 5 By faith Enoch was translated so that he didn't see death, and was not found, because God had translated him, for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he that comes to God must believe that he is, and that he's a rewarder of those who diligently seek him. 7 By faith Noah, being warned by God of things not seen as yet, moved by fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his family, by which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness that is by faith. 8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place that he would afterward receive for an inheritance, obeyed, and he went out, not knowing where he was going. 9 By faith he was a visitor in the land of promise, like in a strange country, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise, 10 For he looked for a city that has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. 11 Through faith also, Sarah herself received strength to conceive seed, and received deliverance from a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. 12 Therefore there sprang from one, and him as good as dead, as many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and like the sand that is by the sea shore uncountable. 13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14 For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. 15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country that they had come out of, they might have had opportunity to have returned. 16 But now, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly, so then God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city. 17 By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, 18 About whom it had been said, "In Isaac shall your descendants be called," 19 Counting that God was able to raise him up even from the dead, from where he'd also received him, sort-of. 20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. 21 By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph, and worshipped, leaning on the top of his staff. 22 By faith, Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel, and gave commandment concerning his bones. 23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents, because they saw he was a proper child, and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. 24 By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter, 25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season, 26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt, for he had respect to the payment of the reward. 27 By faith, he forsook Egypt, not fearing the anger of the king, for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. 28 Through faith, he kept the Passover, and the sprinkling of blood, so that he that destroyed the firstborn wouldn't touch them. 29 By faith, they passed through the Red sea on dry land, which the Egyptians trying to do were drowned. 30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were circled seven days. 31 By faith, the prostitute Rahab didn't die with those who didn't believe, when she had received the spies with peace. 32 And what shall I say more? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthah, of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets, 33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, 34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. 35 Women received their dead raised to life again, and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, so that they'd obtain a better resurrection, 36 And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yes, also of bonds and imprisonment, 37 They were stoned, they were sawed in pieces, were tempted, were killed by the sword, they wandered around in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented, 38 (Of whom the world was not worthy,) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. 39 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, didn't receive the promise, 40 God having provided some better thing for us, so that they without us wouldn't be made perfect. ___Hebrews chapter 12 1 So, seeing we are also surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin that so easily besets us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, so you won't be wearied and faint in your minds. 4 You haven't yet resisted as far as bleeding, striving against sin. 5 And you've forgotten the exhortation that speaks to you as to children, "My son, don't despise the spanking of the Lord, and don't faint when you're scolded by him, 6 For whom the Lord loves he chastens, and spanks every son whom he receives." 7 If you endure spanking, God deals with you as with sons, for what son is he whom the father doesn't spank? 8 But if you're without spanking, of which all are partakers, then you're bastards, and not sons. 9 Furthermore, we have had fathers of our flesh who corrected us, and we gave them respect. Shall we not much rather be in subjection to the Father of spirits, and live? 10 For they, truly for a few days, spanked us as they saw fit, but he for our profit, so we'd be partakers of his holiness. 11 Now no spanking for the present seems to be joyous, but grievous, but afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who are exercised by it. 12 So lift up the hands that hang down, and the feeble knees, 13 And make straight paths for your feet, so that which is lame isn't turned out of the way, but let it rather be healed. 14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord, 15 Looking diligently so that no man loses any of the grace of God, so that no root of bitterness springing up troubles you, and many are defiled by that, 16 So that there's no fornicator, or profane person, like Esau, who for one bit of food sold his birthright. 17 For you know that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears. 18 For you haven't come to the mountain that can be touched, and that burned with fire, nor to blackness, and darkness, and tempest, 19 And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words, which voice those who heard asked that the word wouldn't be spoken to them anymore, 20 (For they could not endure that which was commanded, "And if so much as an animal touches the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart," 21 And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, "I very much fear and shake.") 22 But you've come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an uncountable multitude of angels, 23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, that are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, 24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaks better things than that of Abel. 25 See that you don't refuse him that speaks. For if they didn't escape who refused him that spoke on earth, much more, we won't escape, if we turn away from him that speaks from heaven, 26 Whose voice then shook the earth, but now he has promised, "Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven." 27 And this word, "Yet once more," signifies the removing of the things that are shaken, as about things that are made, so that the things that can't be shaken will remain. 28 So, we receiving a kingdom that can't be moved, let us have grace, by which we can serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear, 29 For our God is a consuming fire. ___Hebrews chapter 13 1 Let brotherly love continue. 2 Don't be forgetful to entertain strangers, for by doing that, some have unknowingly entertained angels. 3 Remember those who are in shackles, as bound with them, and those who suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. 4 Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled, but God will judge customers of prostitutes, and adulterers. 5 Let your conversation be without covetousness, and be content with such things as you have, for he has said, "I'll never leave you, nor forsake you." 6 So that we can boldly say, "The Lord is my helper, and I won't fear what man can do to me." 7 Remember those who have the rule over you, who have spoken to you the word of God, whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. 8 Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and forever. 9 Don't be carried around by various and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace. Not with foods, that haven't profited those who've been occupied with that. 10 We have an altar, of which those who serve the tabernacle have no right to eat. 11 For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned outside the camp. 12 So Jesus also, so that he'd make the people holy with his own blood, suffered outside the gate. 13 Therefore let's go out to him outside the camp, carrying his reproach. 14 For we have no continuing city here, but we seek one to come. 15 By him therefore, let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. 16 But don't forget to do good and to give, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. 17 Obey those who have the rule over you, and submit yourselves, for they watch for your souls, like those who must give account, so that they can do it with joy, and not with grief, for that is unprofitable for you. 18 Pray for us, for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things desiring to live honestly. 19 But I ask you please rather to do this, so I'll be returned to you sooner. 20 Now the God of peace, that brought back our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 21 Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and always. Amen. 22 And I ask you please, brothers, allow the word of exhortation, for I have written a letter to you in few words. 23 Know that our brother Timothy has been set free, with whom, if he comes shortly, I'll see you. 24 Greet all those who have the rule over you, and all the saints. Those of Italy greet you. 25 Grace be with you all. Amen. ___James chapter 1 1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes that are dispersed around, greetings. 2 My brothers, count it all joy when you fall into various temptations, 3 Knowing this, that the testing of your faith works patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, so you'll be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God for it, who gives to all men liberally, and won't find fault, and it shall be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavers is like a wave of the sea driven by the wind and tossed. 7 For let that man not think that he'll receive anything from the Lord. 8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. 9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted, 10 But the rich, in that he is made low, because as the flower of the grass he'll pass away. 11 For the sun has no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withers the grass, and the flower of it falls, and the grace of the fashion of it perishes, so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. 12 Blessed is the man that endures temptation, for after he's been tested, he'll receive the crown of life, that the Lord has promised to those who love him. 13 Let no man say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God," for God can't be tempted with evil, nor does he tempt any man, 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away by his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it produces sin, and sin when it's finished, produces death. 16 Do not err, my beloved brothers. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, nor shadow of turning. 18 He chose to father us with the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits of his creatures. 19 So, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, 20 For the anger of man doesn't accomplish the righteousness of God. 21 So, lay apart all filthiness and the unnecessary naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like a man seeing his natural face in a mirror, 24 For he sees himself, and goes his way, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But whoever looks into the perfect law of liberty, and continues in it, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. 26 If any man among you seems to be religious, and doesn't bridle his tongue, but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is for nothing. 27 Pure religion and undefiled before God the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. ___James chapter 2 1 My brothers, don't have the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. 2 For if a man with a gold ring comes to your assembly in fancy clothes, and a poor man in dirty clothes comes in also, 3 And you have respect to him that wears the fancy clothes, and say to him, "Sit here in a good place," and say to the poor, "Stand there, or sit here under my footstool," 4 Aren't you then partial in yourselves, and have become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my beloved brothers, hasn't God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom that he has promised to those who love him? 6 But you have despised the poor. Don't rich men oppress you, and bring you before the judgment seats? 7 Don't they blaspheme that worthy name by which you're called? 8 If you fulfill the royal law according to the scripture, "You shall love your neighbor like yourself," you do well, 9 But if you have respect of persons, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as sinners. 10 For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. 11 For he that said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not kill." Now if you don't commit adultery, yet if you kill, you've become a breaker of the law. 12 Speak in such a way, and do, as those who'll be judged by the law of liberty. 13 For he shall have judgment without mercy that has shown no mercy, and mercy rejoices against judgment. 14 What does it profit, my brothers, though a man says he has faith, and doesn't have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister needs clothes, and lacks daily food, 16 And one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you don't give them the things that are needed for the body, what good is that? 17 Even so faith, if it doesn't have works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yes, a man could say, "You have faith, and I have works, show me your faith without your works, and I'll show you my faith by my works." 19 You believe that there is one God, you do well, the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But don't you know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? 21 Wasn't Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son on the altar? 22 Do you see how faith worked with his deeds, and by works faith was made perfect? 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness, and he was called the friend of God." 24 You see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. 25 Likewise also wasn't Rahab the prostitute justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? 26 For like the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. ___James chapter 3 1 My brothers, don't be many masters, knowing that we'll receive the greater condemnation. 2 For in many things we offend all. If any man doesn't offend in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. 3 See, we put bits in the horses' mouths, so they'll obey us, and we turn around their whole bodies. 4 Look also at the ships, which though they're so large, and are driven by fierce winds, yet they're turned around by a very small helm, wherever the captain wants. 5 Even so, the tongue is a little member, and boasts great things. See how great a matter a little fire kindles! 6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of sin, so is the tongue among our members that it makes dirty the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature, and it is set on fire by hell. 7 For every kind of animals, and of birds, and of snakes, and of things in the sea, gets tamed, and has been tamed by mankind, 8 But no man can tame the tongue, it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless God, the Father, and with it we curse men, who are made after the likeness of God. 10 Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be. 11 Does a fountain send out at the same place sweet water and bitter? 12 Can the fig tree, my brothers, produce olive berries? Or a vine, figs? So no fountain can yield both salt water and fresh. 13 Who is a wise man, possessing knowledge among you? Let him show out of a good lifestyle his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, don't glory, and don't lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom doesn't descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be reasoned with, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is planted in peace by those who make peace. ___James chapter 4 1 Where do wars and fightings among you come from? Don't they come from your lusts that war in your members? 2 You lust, and don't have, you kill, and desire to have, and can't obtain, you fight and war, yet you don't have, because you don't ask. 3 You ask, and don't receive, because you ask wrongly, so you can consume it on your lusts. 4 You adulterers and adulteresses, don't you know that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world is an enemy of God. 5 Do you think that the scripture says for nothing, "The spirit that lives in us lusts to envy?" 6 But he gives more grace. So he says, "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he'll run away from you. 8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and cry, let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he'll lift you up. 11 Don't speak evil about each other, brothers. He that speaks evil about his brother, and judges his brother, speaks evil about the law, and judges the law, but if you judge the law, you're not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy, who are you that judges someone else? 13 Go on now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we'll go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and make a profit," 14 Actually, you don't know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is a puff of steam, that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away. 15 For you ought to say, "Lord willing, we'll live, and do this, or that." 16 But now you rejoice in your boastings, all such rejoicing is evil. 17 Therefore to him that knows to do good, and doesn't do it, to him it is sin. ___James chapter 5 1 Go on now, you rich men, cry and howl for your miseries that shall come on you. 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your clothes are moth eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are rusted, and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh like fire. You've heaped treasure together for the last days. 4 See, the wages of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which you've kept back by fraud, shouts, and the shouts of those who've reaped have entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabbath. 5 You've lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton, you've nourished your hearts, like in a day of slaughter. 6 You've condemned and killed the just, and he doesn't resist you. 7 Be patient therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See, the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, and has long patience for it, until he receives the early and latter rain. 8 You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is getting near. 9 Don't grudge against each other, brothers, so you won't be condemned, see, the judge stands at the door. 10 Take, my brothers, the prophets, who've spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. 11 See, we count them happy that endure. You've heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord, that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy. 12 But above all things, my brothers, don't swear, not by heaven, nor by the earth, nor by any other oath, but let your yes be yes, and your no, no, so that you don't fall into condemnation. 13 Is anyone among you afflicted? Let him pray. Is anyone merry? Let him sing psalms. 14 Is anyone sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord, 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up, and if he has committed sins, he'll be forgiven. 16 Confess your faults to each other, and pray for each other so you'll be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man accomplishes a lot. 17 Elijah was a man subject to the same kind of passions that we are, and he prayed earnestly that it wouldn't rain, and it didn't rain on the earth for three years and six months. 18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit. 19 Brothers, if any of you strays from the truth, and someone converts him, 20 Let him know, that he that converts the sinner from the error of his ways shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins. ___1 Peter chapter 1 1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, 2 Elect according to the knowing ahead-of-time by God the Father, through making holy by the Spirit, to obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ, grace to you, and peace, be multiplied. 3 Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy has fathered us again to a living hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that doesn't fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith to salvation ready to be revealed in the end times. 6 In which you greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if necessary, you're in heaviness through many temptations, 7 So that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it's tested by fire, will be found to praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ, 8 Whom having not seen, you love, in whom, though now you don't see him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory, 9 Receiving the result of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 10 About which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied about the grace that would come to you, 11 Searching what, or what kind of time the Spirit of Christ that was in them meant, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that would follow. 12 To whom it was revealed, that not to themselves, but to us they ministered the things that are now reported to you by those who've preached the gospel to you, with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven, which things the angels desire to look into. 13 So, strengthen your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ, 14 Like obedient children, not building yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance, 15 But like he that has called you is holy, so you be holy in every aspect of living, 16 Because it is written, "You be holy, for I am holy." 17 And if you call on the Father, who without respect of persons, judges according to every man's work, pass the time of your temporary residence here in fear, 18 Since you know that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver and gold, from your wrong lifestyle, received by tradition from your fathers, 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot, 20 Who truly was preordained before the foundation of the world, but was made clearly visible in these last times for you, 21 Who by him, believe in God, who raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope would be in God. 22 Since you've purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit to unpretended love of the brothers, make sure you love each other with a pure heart fervently, 23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, that lives and remains forever. 24 For all flesh is like grass, and all the glory of man like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower of it falls away, 25 But the word of the Lord endures forever. And this is the word that by the gospel is preached to you. ___1 Peter chapter 2 1 So, laying aside all hatred, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envying, and all evil speaking, 2 Like newborn babies, desire the sincere milk of the word, so you'll grow by it, 3 If you've tasted that the Lord is gracious. 4 To whom coming, like to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God, and precious, 5 You also, like living stones, are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 6 Also it is contained in the scripture, "See, I lay in Zion a main cornerstone, elect, precious, and he that believes on him won't be put to shame." 7 To you therefore who believe, he is precious, but to those who are disobedient, the stone that the builders rejected, has become the cornerstone, 8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to those who stumble at the word, being disobedient, to which also they were appointed. 9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people, so that you will show forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light, 10 Who previously were not a people, but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. 11 Dearly beloved, I ask you please, as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts that war against the soul, 12 Having your lifestyle honest among the Gentiles, so that, while they speak against you as evildoers, they will, by your good works that they'll see, glorify God on the day of visitation. 13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether it's to the king, as supreme, 14 Or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of those who do well. 15 For this is the will of God, that with well-doing you'll put to silence the ignorance of foolish men, 16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of hatred, but as the servants of God. 17 Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. 18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the difficult. 19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endures grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what glory is it if when you're chided for your faults, you take it patiently? But if when you do well, and suffer for it, you take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. 21 For even to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow his steps, 22 Who did no sin, nor was deceit found in his mouth, 23 Who, when he was scoffed at, didn't scoff back, when he suffered, he didn't threaten, but committed himself to him that judges righteously, 24 Who his own self bore our sins in his own body on the tree, so that we, being dead to sins, would live to righteousness, by whose stripes you were healed. 25 For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. ___1 Peter chapter 3 1 Likewise you wives, be in subjection to your own husbands, so that, if any doesn't obey the word, they also without the word will be won by the lifestyle of the wives, 2 While they see your pure living coupled with fear. 3 Let your adorning not be the outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of wearing fancy clothes, 4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is of great price in the sight of God. 5 For that's how the holy women did also in old times, who trusted in God, adorning themselves, being in subjection to their own husbands, 6 Like Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are, as long as you do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. 7 Likewise you husbands, live with them according to knowledge, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker container, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, so that your prayers won't be hindered. 8 Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion on each other, love like brothers, be pitiful, be courteous, 9 Not returning evil for evil, or railing for railing, but to the contrary, blessing, knowing that you are called to that, so that you'll inherit a blessing. 10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips so they speak no deceit, 11 Let him hate evil, and do good, let him seek peace, and pursue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayers, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil. 13 And who is he that will harm you, if you're followers of what is good? 14 But if you suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are you, and don't be afraid of their terror, nor be troubled, 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give an answer to every man that asks you for a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear, 16 Having a good conscience, so that, although they speak evil about you, like about evildoers, they will be ashamed that falsely accuse your good lifestyle in Christ. 17 For it is better, if it's the will of God, that you suffer for well-doing, than for evil doing. 18 For Christ also has once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, so that he would bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but made alive by the Spirit, 19 By which also he went and preached to the spirits in prison, 20 Who once were disobedient, when previously the patience of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. 21 The similar figure to which baptism also now saves us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 Who has gone into heaven, and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers being made subject to him. ___1 Peter chapter 4 1 Since Christ has suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind, for he that has suffered in the flesh has stopped sinning, 2 So that he no longer would live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. 3 For what's in the past of our lives should be enough in doing the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, riotous living, excessive eating, and filthy idolatries, 4 In which they think it strange that you don't run with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil about you, 5 Who'll give account to him that is ready to judge the alive and the dead. 6 That's why the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, so that they'd be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. 7 But the end of all things is near, therefore be sober, and stay awake for prayer. 8 And above all things have fervent love among yourselves, for love shall cover the multitude of sins. 9 Use hospitality toward each other without grudging. 10 As every man has received the gift, minister the same to each other, as good stewards of the multifaceted grace of God. 11 If any man speaks, let him speak like the oracles of God, if any man ministers, let him do it as of the ability that God gives, so that God, in all things, will be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion forever and always. Amen. 12 Beloved, don't think it strange concerning the fiery trial that is to test you, as though some strange thing happened to you, 13 But rejoice, since you are partakers of Christ's sufferings, so that, when his glory shall be revealed, you'll be glad also with great joy. 14 If you're reproached for the name of Christ, happy are you, for the spirit of glory and of God rests on you. On their part he is spoken evil about, but on your part he is glorified. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. 16 Yet if any man suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God because of this. 17 For the time has come that judgment must begin at the house of God, and if it first begins at us, what shall be the end of those who don't obey the gospel of God? 18 And if the righteous just barely get saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? 19 So let those who suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as to a faithful Creator. ___1 Peter chapter 5 1 I exhort the elders who are among you. I'm also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed, 2 Feed the flock of God that is among you, taking the oversight of it, not because you must, but willingly, not for filthy bribes, but with a ready mind, 3 Nor as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, you'll receive a crown of glory that doesn't fade away. 5 Likewise you younger, submit yourselves to the elder. Yes, all of you be subject to each other, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, and gives grace to the humble. 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so he'll lift you up in due time, 7 Casting all your care on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, like a roaring lion, walks around, seeking whom he can devour, 9 Whom resist, steady in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brothers that are in the world. 10 But the God of all grace, who has called us to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you've suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you. 11 To him be glory and dominion forever and always. Amen. 12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother to you, as I suppose, I've written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand. 13 The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, greets you, and so does Marcus, my son. 14 Greet each other with a kiss of love. Peace be with you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen. ___2 Peter chapter 1 1 Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Savior Jesus Christ, 2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, 3 According as his divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that has called us to glory and virtue, 4 By which are given to us very great and precious promises, so that by these you'll be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge, 6 And to knowledge temperance, and to temperance patience, and to patience godliness, 7 And to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. 8 For if these things are in you, and are plentiful, they'll keep you from being barren or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacks these things is blind, and can't see far off, and has forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. 10 So rather, brothers, give diligence to make your calling and election sure, for if you do these things, you'll never fall, 11 That's how an entrance shall be ministered to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 12 So, I won't be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and are established in the present truth. 13 Yes, I think it's appropriate, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by reminding you, 14 Knowing that soon, I must put off this body that I have, as our Lord Jesus Christ has shown me. 15 Also I will try to arrange that you'll be able to have these things always in remembrance, after my death. 16 For we haven't followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received from God the Father honor and glory, when such a voice came to him from the excellent glory and said, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." 18 And we heard this voice that came from heaven, when we were with him in the holy mountain. 19 We also have a more sure word of prophecy, to which you do well to pay attention to, like to a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns, and the day star arises in your hearts, 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy didn't come in old time by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. ___2 Peter chapter 2 1 But there were false prophets also among the people, just as there'll be false teachers among you, who secretly shall bring in damnable false teachings, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. 2 And many shall follow their wicked ways, because of whom the way of truth shall be spoken evil about. 3 And through covetousness, they'll make merchandise of you with pretended words, whose judgment now after a long time doesn't wait, and their damnation doesn't sleep. 4 For if God didn't spare the angels that sinned, but threw them down to hell, and delivered them to chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment, 5 And didn't spare the old world, but saved Noah, the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly, 6 And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an example to those who afterward would live in ungodly ways, 7 And gave deliverance to just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked, 8 (For that righteous man living among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds,) 9 The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust until the day of judgment to be punished, 10 But mainly those who walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. They're presumptuous, self-willed, they aren't afraid to speak evil of dignities. 11 But angels, who are greater in power and might, don't bring railing accusation against them before the Lord. 12 But these, like natural brute animals, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil about the things that they don't understand, and shall completely perish in their own corruption, 13 And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, like those who that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. They are spots and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you, 14 Having eyes full of adultery, and that can't stop sinning, corrupting unstable souls, they have exercised their hearts with covetous practices, cursed children, 15 Who've forsaken the right way, and have gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness, 16 But was scolded for his sin, the dumb donkey speaking with man's voice spoke against the insanity of the prophet. 17 These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest, to whom the mist of darkness is reserved forever. 18 For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they seduce through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those who were completely escaped from those who live in error. 19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption, for by whom a man is overcome, that’s how he is brought into bondage. 20 For if after they’ve escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the end is worse for them than the beginning. 21 For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandments delivered to them. 22 But it has happened to them according to the true proverb, "The dog has turned to his own vomit again, and the pig that was washed to her wallowing in the mire." ___2 Peter chapter 3 1 This second letter, beloved, I now write to you, in both of which I stir up your pure minds by reminding you, 2 So that you'll be thinking about the words that were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Savior, 3 Knowing this first, that in the last days, scoffers shall come, walking according to their own lusts, 4 And saying, "Where is the promise of his coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue like they were from the beginning of the creation." 5 For this they are willingly ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water, 6 By which, the world that was then, being submerged in water, was destroyed, 7 But the heavens and the earth that are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved for fire until the day of judgment and hell for ungodly men. 8 But beloved, don't be ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness, but is patient toward us, not willing for anyone to perish, but that all would come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night, in which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are in it shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what kind of people ought you to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hurrying toward the coming of the day of God, in which the heavens, being on fire, shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 However we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness lives. 14 So beloved, seeing that you look for such things, be diligent so you'll be found by him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15 And consider that the patience of our Lord is salvation, like our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given to him has written to you, 16 As also in all his letters, speaking in them about these things, in which are some things difficult to understand, which those who are unlearned and unstable tear, as they do also the other scriptures, to their own destruction. 17 You therefore, beloved, seeing you know these things before, beware so you won't also be led away with the error of the wicked, and fall from your own steadiness. 18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory now and forever. Amen. ___1 John chapter 1 1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life, 2 (For the life was made clear, and we've seen it, and testify, and show you that eternal life, that was with the Father, and was made clear to us.) 3 That which we've seen and heard we tell you, so that you also will have fellowship with us, and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things we write to you, so that your joy will be full. 5 This then is the message that we've heard from him, and tell you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we're lying, and not doing the truth, 7 But if we walk in the light, like he is in the light, we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we haven't sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. ___1 John chapter 2 1 My little children, these things I write to you, so that you won't sin. And if any man sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 And he is the payment for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. 3 And by this we know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 He that says, "I know him," and doesn't keep his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoever keeps his word, the love of God is truly perfected in him. By this we know that we are in him. 6 He that says he lives in him ought to walk like He walked. 7 Brothers, I write no new commandment to you, but an old commandment that you've had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word that you've heard from the beginning. 8 Again, I write a new commandment to you, which thing is true in him and in you, because the darkness has past, and the true light now shines. 9 He that says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness even until now. 10 He that loves his brother lives in the light, and there is no occasion of stumbling in him. 11 But he that hates his brother is in darkness, and walks in darkness, and doesn't know where he's going, because that darkness has blinded him. 12 I write to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name's sake. 13 I write to you, fathers, because you've known him that is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you've overcome the wicked one. I write to you, little children, because you've known the Father. 14 I've written to you, fathers, because you've known him that is from the beginning. I've written to you, young men, because you're strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you've overcome the wicked one. 15 Don't love the world, nor the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passes away and its lust, but he that does the will of God lives forever. 18 Little children, it is the last time, and as you've heard that antichrist shall come, even now there are many antichrists, by which we know that it is the last time. 19 They went out from us, but they were not of us, for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us, but they went out, so that they'd be made clear that they were not all of us. 20 But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things. 21 I haven't written to you because you don't know the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth. 22 Who is a liar but he that denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist that denies the Father and the Son. 23 Whoever denies the Son doesn't have the Father, but he that acknowledges the Son has the Father also. 24 Let that therefore live in you that you've heard from the beginning. If that which you've heard from the beginning remains in you, you'll also continue in the Son, and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise that he has promised us, eternal life. 26 I've written these things to you concerning those who try to seduce you. 27 But the anointing that you've received from him lives in you, and you don't need any man to teach you, but as the same anointing teaches you about all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and just as it has taught you, you'll live in him. 28 And now, little children, live in him, so that, when he appears, we'll have confidence, and not be ashamed in his presence when he comes. 29 If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone that does righteousness is born of him. ___1 John chapter 3 1 Observe what kind of love the Father has loved us with, that we should be called the sons of God, therefore the world doesn't know us, because it didn't know him. 2 Beloved, we are now the sons of God, and it doesn't yet appear what we'll be, but we know that when he appears, we'll be like him, for we'll see him as he is. 3 And every man that has this hope in himself purifies himself, just as he is pure. 4 Whoever commits sin also violates the law, for sin is the violation of the law. 5 And you know that he was revealed to take away our sins, and in him there's no sin. 6 Whoever lives in him doesn't sin, whoever sins hasn't seen him, nor known him. 7 Little children, let no man deceive you, he that does righteousness is righteous, just as he is righteous. 8 He that commits sin is of the devil, for the devil sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was revealed, so that he'd destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whoever is born of God doesn't commit sin, for his seed remains in him, and he can't sin, because he is born of God. 10 In this, the children of God are made clear, and the children of the devil, whoever doesn't do righteousness is not of God, nor he that doesn't love his brother. 11 For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love each other. 12 Not like Cain, who was of that wicked one, and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous. 13 Don't be surprised, my brothers, if the world hates you. 14 We know that we've passed from death to life, because we love the brothers. He that doesn't love his brother remains in death. 15 Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life living in him. 16 By this we perceive the love of God, because he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. 17 But whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and won't show compassion on him, how does the love of God live in him? 18 My little children, let's not love in word, nor in tongue, but in deed and in truth. 19 And by this we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 20 For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. 21 Beloved, if our heart doesn't condemn us, then we have confidence toward God. 22 And whatever we ask, we receive from him, because we keep his commandments, and do the things that are pleasing in his sight. 23 And this is his commandment, that we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love each other, like he commanded us to do. 24 And he that keeps his commandments lives in Him, and He in him. And by this we know that he lives in us, by the Spirit that he has given us. ___1 John chapter 4 1 Beloved, don't believe every spirit, but test the spirits whether they are of God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 By this you know the Spirit of God, every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, 3 And every spirit that doesn't confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God, and this is that spirit of antichrist, about which you've heard that it would come, and even now already it's in the world. 4 You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world, therefore they speak about the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are of God. He that knows God listens to us, he that is not of God doesn't listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. 7 Beloved, let us love each other, for love is of God, and everyone that loves is born of God, and knows God. 8 He that doesn't love, doesn't know God, for God is love. 9 In this, the love of God was made clear toward us, because God sent his only begotten Son into the world, so that we would live through him. 10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the payment for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love each other. 12 No man has seen God at any time. If we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us. 13 By this we know that we live in him, and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him, and he in God. 16 And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he that lives in love, lives in God, and God in him. 17 In this, our love is made perfect, so that we'll have boldness on the day of judgment, because as he is, so are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love throws out fear, because fear has torment. He that's in fear hasn't been made perfect in love. 19 We love him, because he first loved us. 20 If a man says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar, for he that doesn't love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he hasn't seen? 21 And we have this commandment from him, that he that loves God should love his brother also. ___1 John chapter 5 1 Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone that loves him that fathered loves him also who was fathered by him. 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments, and his commandments don't cause grief. 4 For whoever is born of God overcomes the world, and this is the victory that overcomes the world: our faith. 5 Who is he that overcomes the world, but he that believes that Jesus is the Son of God? 6 He's the one that came by water and blood, Jesus Christ, not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that testifies, because the Spirit is truth. 7 For there are three that testify in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three are one. 8 And there are three that testify on earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood, and these three agree in one. 9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater, for this is the witness of God that he has testified about his Son. 10 He that believes on the Son of God has the witness in himself, he that doesn't believe God has made him a liar, because he doesn't believe the record that God gave about his Son. 11 And this is the record, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that has the Son has life, and he that doesn't have the Son of God doesn't have life. 13 I've written these things to you who believe on the name of the Son of God so that you'll know that you have eternal life, and so that you'll believe on the name of the Son of God. 14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us, 15 And if we know that he hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have what we requested from him. 16 If any man sees his brother sin a sin that's not to death, he shall ask, and he'll give him life for those who don't sin to death. There is a sin to death, I don't say that he should pray for it. 17 All unrighteousness is sin, and there is sin not to death. 18 We know that whoever is born of God doesn't sin, but he that's begotten by God keeps himself, and that wicked one doesn't touch him. 19 And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lies in wickedness. 20 And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding, so that we'll know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. 21 Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen. ___2 John 1 The elder to the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth, and not I only, but also all of those who've known the truth. 2 For the truth's sake, that lives in us, and shall be with us forever. 3 Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love. 4 I rejoiced greatly that I found some of your children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father. 5 And now I ask you please, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment to you, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love each other. 6 And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments. This is the commandment, that, as you've heard from the beginning, you should walk in it. 7 For many deceivers have entered into the world, who don't confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8 Watch yourselves, so that we don't lose the things that we have earned, but so that we receive a full reward. 9 Whoever transgresses, and doesn't remain in the doctrine of Christ, doesn't have God. He that lives in the doctrine of Christ, he has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you, and doesn't bring this doctrine, don't receive him into your house, nor wish him God speed, 11 For he that wishes him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. 12 Having many things to write to you, I don't want to write with paper and ink, but I trust to come to you, and speak face to face, so that our joy will be full. 13 The children of your elect sister greet you. Amen. ___3 John 1 The elder to the well beloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. 2 Beloved, I wish above all things that you prosper and be in health, like your soul prospers. 3 For I rejoiced greatly, when the brothers came and testified about the truth that is in you, as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. 5 Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do to the brothers, and to strangers, 6 Who have testified about your love before the church, whom if you help along on their journey in a godly way, you'll do well, 7 Because for his name's sake, they went out, taking nothing from the Gentiles. 8 We therefore ought to receive such, so that we would be fellow helpers to the truth. 9 I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to have the top position among them, wouldn't receive us. 10 So if I come, I'll remember his deeds that he does, slandering us with malicious words, and not content with that, he also doesn't receive the brothers, and forbids those who would, and throws them out of the church. 11 Beloved, don't follow that which is evil, but that which is good. He that does good is of God, but he that does evil hasn't seen God. 12 Demetrius has a good report from all men, and of the truth itself, yes, and we also testify, and you know that our record is true. 13 I had many things to write, but I don't want to write to you with ink and pen, 14 But I trust I shall shortly see you, and we'll speak face to face. Peace be to you. Our friends greet you. Greet the friends by name. ___Jude 1 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to those who are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called, 2 Mercy to you, and peace, and love, be multiplied. 3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write to you about the common salvation, it was necessary for me to write to you, and exhort you to earnestly argue for the faith that was once delivered to the saints. 4 For there are certain men crept in secretly, who of old were ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lust, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. 5 I will therefore remind you, though you once knew this, that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who didn't believe. 6 And the angels who didn't keep their first condition, but left their own dwelling place, he has reserved in everlasting chains under darkness until the judgment of the great day. 7 Like Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them similarly, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set out as an example, suffering the payback of eternal fire. 8 Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. 9 Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil, he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, "The Lord rebuke you." 10 But these speak evil about the things that they don't know, but what they know naturally, as brute animals, in those things they corrupt themselves. 11 Woe to them! For they've gone the way of Cain, and have run greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the rebellion of Korah. 12 These are spots in your feasts of love, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear, they are clouds without water, carried around by winds, trees whose fruit withers, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up roots and all, 13 Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame, wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever. 14 And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these, "See, the Lord comes with ten thousands of his saints, 15 To execute judgment on all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds that they've sinfully committed, and of all their hard speeches that ungodly sinners have spoken against him." 16 These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts, and their mouth speaks great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage. 17 But beloved, remember the words that were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ, 18 How they told you there would be mockers in the last time, who'd walk after their own ungodly lusts. 19 These are those who separate themselves, sensual, not having the Spirit. 20 But you, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ until eternal life. 22 And on some have compassion, making a difference, 23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. 24 Now to him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and always. Amen. ___Revelation chapter 1 1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, that God gave him, to show to his servants things that must soon occur, and he sent and signified it by his angel to his servant John, 2 Who testified of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. 3 Blessed is he that reads, and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep the things that are written in it, for the time is near. 4 John, to the seven churches that are in Asia, Grace be to you, and peace, from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits that are in front of his throne, 5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten from the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. To him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 6 And has made us kings and priests to God his Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and always. Amen. 7 See, he comes with clouds, and every eye shall see him, and those also who pierced him, and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. 8 "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end," says the Lord, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty." 9 I John, who am also your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the island that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a loud voice, like a trumpet, 11 Saying, "I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last," and, "What you see, write in a book, and send it to the seven churches that are in Asia, to Ephesus, and to Smyrna, and to Pergamos, and to Thyatira, and to Sardis, and to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea." 12 And I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks. 13 And among the seven candlesticks someone like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and clothed around the chest with a golden vest. 14 His head and his hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like a flame of fire, 15 And his feet like fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace, and his voice like the sound of many waters. 16 And he had seven stars in his right hand, and a sharp two-edged sword went out of his mouth, and his face was like the sun shines in its strength. 17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. And he laid his right hand on me, saying to me, "Don't be afraid, I'm the first and the last, 18 I am he that lives, and was dead, and see, I'm alive forever, amen, and have the keys of hell and of death. 19 Write the things that you've seen, and the things that are, and the things that shall come later, 20 The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven candlesticks that you saw are the seven churches." ___Revelation chapter 2 1 "To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, These things says he that holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden candlesticks, 2 I know your works, and your labor, and your patience, and how you can't stand those who are evil, and you've tested those who say they are apostles, and are not, and have found them to be liars, 3 And have carried, and have had patience, and for my name's sake have labored, and haven't fainted. 4 However, I have somewhat against you, because you've left your first love. 5 Remember therefore from where you've fallen, and repent, and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly, and will remove your candlestick out of its place, unless you repent. 6 But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. 7 He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches, to him that overcomes I will give to eat of the tree of life, that is in the middle of the paradise of God. 8 And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, These things says the first and the last, who was dead, and is alive, 9 I know your works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but you are rich) and I know the blasphemy of those who say they're Jews, and aren't, but are the synagogue of Satan. 10 Don't fear any of the things that you'll suffer, see, the devil shall throw some of you into prison, so that you'll be tested, and you'll have tribulation ten days, be faithful until death, and I'll give you a crown of life. 11 He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He that overcomes won't be hurt by the second death. 12 And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write, these things says he that has the sharp sword with two edges, 13 I know your works, and where you live, where Satan's seat is, and you hold tightly my name, and haven't denied my faith, even in the days in which Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was killed among you, where Satan lives. 14 But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to throw a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit fornication. 15 So do you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, a thing I hate. 16 Repent, or else I'll come to you quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. 17 He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches, to him that overcomes I'll give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written that no man knows except he that receives it. 18 And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write, These things says the Son of God, who has his eyes like a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass, 19 I know your works, and love, and service, and faith, and your patience, and your works, the last more than the first. 20 But I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed to idols. 21 And I gave her time to repent of her fornication, and she didn't repent. 22 See, I will throw her into a bed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds. 23 And I will kill her children with death, and all the churches shall know that I am he who searches the reins and hearts, and I will give to each of you according to your works. 24 But to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as don't have this doctrine, and who haven't known what they call the depths of Satan, I will put on you no other burden. 25 But what you have already, hold tightly until I come. 26 And he that overcomes, and keeps my works to the end, to him I'll give power over the nations, 27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron, they'll be broken to pieces like a potter's pottery, like I received from my Father. 28 And I will give him the morning star. 29 He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." ___Revelation chapter 3 1 "And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, These things says he that has the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars, I know your works, that you have a name that you live, and are dead. 2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things that remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. 3 Remember therefore how you've received and heard, and hold tightly, and repent. If therefore you won't watch, I'll come to you like a thief, and you won't know what hour I'll come to you. 4 You have a few names even in Sardis that haven't defiled their garments, and they shall walk with me in white, for they are worthy. 5 He that overcomes, shall be clothed in white clothing, and I won't erase his name from the book of life, but I'll confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. 6 He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. 7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, These things says he that is holy, he that is true, he that has the key of David, he that opens, and no man shuts, and shuts, and no man opens, 8 I know your works, see, I've set before you an open door, and no man can shut it, for you have a little strength, and have kept my word, and haven't denied my name. 9 See, I'll make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they're Jews, and are not, but they're lying, see, I'll make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I've loved you. 10 Because you've kept the word of my patience, I also will keep you from the hour of temptation that shall come on all the world, to test those who live on the earth. 11 See, I come quickly, hold tightly what you have, so that no man takes your crown. 12 Him that overcomes, I'll make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he'll go no more out, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, that comes down out of heaven from my God, and I'll write on him my new name. 13 He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. 14 And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, These things says the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God, 15 I know your works, that you're neither cold nor hot, I'd rather you were cold or hot. 16 So then because you're lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of my mouth. 17 Because you say, I'm rich, and increased with goods, and don't need anything, and don't know that you're wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked, 18 I advise you to buy from me gold tested in the fire, so you'll be rich, and white clothing, so you'll be clothed, and so that the shame of your nakedness won't be seen, and anoint your eyes with eye salve, so you'll see. 19 As many as I love, I scold and spank, be zealous therefore, and repent. 20 See, I stand at the door, and knock, if any man hears my voice, and opens the door, I'll come in to him, and will eat with him, and he with me. 21 To him that overcomes I'll grant to sit with me in my throne, just as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. 22 He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." ___Revelation chapter 4 1 After this I looked, and see, a door was opened in heaven, and the first voice that I heard was like a trumpet talking with me, which said, "Come up here, and I will show you things that must come later." 2 And immediately I was in the spirit, and see, a throne was set in heaven, and someone sat on the throne. 3 And he that sat was to look at like a jasper and a sardine stone, and there was a rainbow around the throne, in sight like an emerald. 4 And around the throne were twenty four seats, and on the seats I saw twenty four elders sitting, clothed in white clothes, and they had crowns of gold on their heads. 5 And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices, and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. 6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass like crystal, and in the middle of the throne, and around the throne, were four beasts full of eyes in front and in back. 7 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face like a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle. 8 And the four beasts each had six wings around him, and they were full of eyes inside, and they don't rest day and night, saying, "Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." 9 And when those beasts give glory and honor and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who lives forever and always, 10 The twenty four elders fell down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that lives forever and always, and threw their crowns before the throne, saying, 11 "You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power, for you've created all things, and for your pleasure they are and were created." ___Revelation chapter 5 1 And I saw, in the right hand of him that sat on the throne, a book written inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals. 2 And I saw a strong angel say with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to open the book, and to undo the seals of it?" 3 And no man in heaven, nor in earth, nor under the earth, was able to open the book, nor to look at it. 4 And I cried a lot, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, nor to look at it. 5 And one of the elders said to me, "Don't cry, see, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the book, and to undo the seven seals of it." 6 And I saw, and see, in the middle of the throne and of the four beasts, and among the elders, a Lamb stood that had been killed, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth. 7 And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat on the throne. 8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and twenty four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having harps, and golden vials full of odors, which are the prayers of saints. 9 And they sang a new song, "You are worthy to take the book, and to open the seals of it, for you were killed, and have redeemed us to God by your blood out of every kindred, and language, and people, and nation, 10 And have made us to our God kings and priests, and we'll reign on the earth." 11 And I saw, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne and the beasts and the elders, and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands, 12 Saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb that was killed to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." 13 And every creature that is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, I heard saying, "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be to him that sits on the throne, and to the Lamb forever and always. 14 And the four beasts said, "Amen." And the twenty four elders fell down and worshipped him that lives forever and always. ___Revelation chapter 6 1 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard like the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, "Come and see." 2 And I saw a white horse, and he that sat on him had a bow, and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering, and to conquer. 3 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, "Come and see." 4 And another horse that was red went out, and power was given to him that sat on it to take peace away from the earth, and that they should kill each other, and a large sword was given to him. 5 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, "Come and see." And I saw, and see, a black horse, and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. 6 And I heard a voice among the four beasts say, "A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny, and make sure you don't hurt the oil and the wine." 7 And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, "Come and see." 8 And I looked, and there was a pale horse, and the name of him that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given to them over one fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, and by hunger, and by death, and by the animals of the earth. 9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been killed for the word of God, and for the testimony that they held, 10 And they shouted with a loud voice, "For how long, O Lord, holy and true, won't you judge and avenge our blood against those who live on the earth?" 11 And white robes were given to each of them, and they were told that they should rest for a little while yet, until their fellow servants also, and their brothers, that would be killed like they were, would be fulfilled. 12 And I saw when he had opened the sixth seal, and see, there was a great earthquake, and the sun became black like sackcloth made of hair, and the moon became like blood, 13 And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, like a fig tree throws its untimely figs, when it's shaken by a strong wind. 14 And the heaven departed like a scroll when it's rolled together, and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. 15 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the top captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains, 16 And said to the mountains and rocks, "Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sits on the throne, and from the anger of the Lamb, 17 For the great day of his anger has come, and who shall be able to stand?" ___Revelation chapter 7 1 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, so that the wind wouldn't blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. 2 And I saw another angel rising from the east, having the seal of the living God, and he shouted with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, 3 Saying, "Don't hurt the earth, nor the sea, nor the trees, until we've sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads." 4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed, and one hundred forty four thousand were sealed of all the tribes of the children of Israel. 5 Twelve thousand of the tribe of Judah were sealed. Twelve thousand of the tribe of Reuben were sealed. Twelve thousand of the tribe of Gad were sealed. 6 Twelve thousand of the tribe of Asher were sealed. Twelve thousand of the tribe of Naphtali were sealed. Twelve thousand of the tribe of Manasseh were sealed. 7 Twelve thousand of the tribe of Simeon were sealed. Twelve thousand of the tribe of Levi were sealed. Twelve thousand of the tribe of Issachar were sealed. 8 Twelve thousand of the tribe of Zebulun were sealed. Twelve thousand of the tribe of Joseph were sealed. Twelve thousand of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed. 9 After this I saw a great multitude, which no man could count, from all nations, and kindreds, and peoples, and languages, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands, 10 And shouted with a loud voice, "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." 11 And all the angels stood around the throne, and around the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, 12 Saying, "Amen, Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might, be to our God forever and always. Amen." 13 And one of the elders answered, saying to me, "What are these who are arrayed in white robes? And where did they come from?" 14 And I said to him, "Sir, you know." And he said to me, "These are those who came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 Therefore, they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple, and he that sits on the throne shall live among them. 16 They shall hunger no more, nor thirst anymore, nor shall the sun shine on them, nor any heat. 17 For the Lamb who is in the middle of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them to living fountains of waters, and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." ___Revelation chapter 8 1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. 2 And I saw the seven angels who stood before God, and seven trumpets were given to them. 3 And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer, and a lot of incense was given to him, so that he would offer it with the prayers of all saints on the golden altar that was before the throne. 4 And the smoke of the incense, that came with the prayers of the saints, rose up before God out of the angel's hand. 5 And the angel took the censer, and filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it into the earth, and there were voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake. 6 And the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound. 7 The first angel sounded, and hail and fire mixed with blood followed, and they were thrown on the earth, and one third of the trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up. 8 And the second angel sounded, and like a large mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea, and one third of the sea became blood, 9 And one third of the creatures that were in the sea, and had life died, and one third of the ships was destroyed. 10 And the third angel sounded, and a large star from heaven fell, burning like a lamp, and it fell on one third of the rivers, and on the fountains of waters, 11 And the name of the star is called Wormwood, and one third of the waters became wormwood, and many men died from the waters, because they were made bitter. 12 And the fourth angel sounded, and one third of the sun was struck, and one third of the moon, and one third of the stars, so that one third of them was darkened, and the day didn't shine for one third of it, and the night likewise. 13 And I saw, and heard an angel flying through the middle of heaven, saying with a loud voice, "Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabitants of the earth because of the other voices of the trumpets of the three angels that are yet to sound!" ___Revelation chapter 9 1 And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven to the earth, and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. 2 And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit, like the smoke of a large furnace, and the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke of the pit. 3 And out of the smoke, locusts came on the earth, and power was given to them, like the scorpions of the earth have power. 4 And they were commanded not to hurt the grass of the earth, nor any green thing, nor any tree, but only the men who don't have the seal of God in their foreheads. 5 And it was given to them not to kill them, but to torment them five months, and their torment was like the torment of a scorpion, when it strikes a man. 6 And in those days men shall seek death, and won't find it, and shall desire to die, and death shall run away from them. 7 And the locusts were shaped like horses prepared for battle, and on their heads were like gold crowns, and their faces were like men's faces. 8 And they had hair like women's hair, and their teeth were like the teeth of lions. 9 And they had breastplates, like breastplates of iron, and the sound of their wings was like the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle. 10 And they had tails like scorpions, and there were stings in their tails, and their power was to hurt men five months. 11 And they had a king over them, who is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew language is Abaddon, but in the Greek language has the name Apollyon. 12 One woe is past, and see, two woes more come afterward. 13 And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar that is before God, 14 Saying to the sixth angel that had the trumpet, "Loose the four angels that are bound in the great river Euphrates." 15 And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, to kill one third of men. 16 And the number of the army of the horsemen was two hundred million, and I heard the number of them. 17 And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and those who sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone, and the heads of the horses were like the heads of lions, and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone. 18 One third of men was killed by these three, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone that flowed out of their mouths. 19 For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails, for their tails were like snakes, and had heads, and they did hurt with them. 20 And the rest of the men that weren't killed by these plagues still didn't repent of the works of their hands, so that they wouldn't worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood, that can neither see, nor hear, nor walk, 21 Nor did they repent of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts. ___Revelation chapter 10 1 And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud, and a rainbow was on his head, and his face was like the sun, and his feet were like pillars of fire, 2 And he had a little book that was open in his hand, and he set his right foot on the sea, and his left foot on the earth, 3 And shouted with a loud voice, like when a lion roars, and when he had shouted, seven thunders spoke their voices. 4 And when the seven thunders had spoken their voices, I was about to write, and I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, "Seal up the things that the seven thunders spoke, and don't write them." 5 And the angel that I saw stand on the sea and on the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, 6 And swore by him that lives forever and always, who created heaven, and the things that are in it, and the earth, and the things that are in it, and the sea, and the things that are in it, that there would no longer be time. 7 But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he begins to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, like he has told his servants the prophets. 8 And the voice that I heard from heaven spoke to me again, and said, "Go and take the little book that is open in the hand of the angel that stands on the sea and on the earth." 9 And I went to the angel, and said to him, "Give me the little book." And he said to me, "Take it, and eat it up, and it shall make your belly bitter, but it shall be in your mouth sweet as honey." 10 And I took the little book out of the angel's hand, and ate it up, and it was sweet as honey in my mouth, and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter. 11 And he said to me, "You must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and languages, and kings." ___Revelation chapter 11 1 And a piece of bamboo like a rod was given to me, and the angel stood and said, "Get up, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and those who worship in it. 2 But the court that is outside the temple leave out, and don't measure it, for it is given to the Gentiles, and they'll tread the holy city under foot, for forty two months. 3 And I'll give power to my two witnesses, and they'll prophesy a thousand two hundred sixty days, clothed in sackcloth. 4 These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth. 5 And if any man wants to hurt them, fire proceeds out of their mouth, and devours their enemies, and if any man wants to hurt them, he must be killed that way. 6 These have power to shut heaven, so that it doesn't rain in the days of their prophecy, and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they want to. 7 And when they've finished their testimony, the beast that rises out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. 8 And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, that spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. 9 And those of the people and kindreds and languages and nations shall see their dead bodies three and a half days, and won't allow their dead bodies to be put in graves. 10 And those who live on the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts to each other, because these two prophets tormented those who lived on the earth. 11 And after three and a half days, the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them. 12 And they heard a great voice from heaven saying to them, "Come up here." And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud, and their enemies watched them. 13 And the same hour, there was a great earthquake, and one tenth of the city fell, and in the earthquake seven thousand men were killed, and the remainder were afraid, and gave glory to the God of heaven. 14 The second woe is past, and see, the third woe comes quickly." 15 And the seventh angel sounded, and there were great voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and always." 16 And the twenty four elders, who sat before God on their seats, fell on their faces, and worshipped God, 17 Saying, "We give you thanks, O Lord God Almighty, who is, and was, and is to come, because you've taken to yourself your great power, and have reigned. 18 And the nations were angry, and your anger has come, and the time of the dead, for them to be judged, and that you should reward your servants the prophets, and to the saints, and those who fear your name, small and great, and should destroy those who destroy the earth." 19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of his testament was seen in his temple, and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail. ___Revelation chapter 12 1 And a great wonder appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars, 2 And she, being with child, cried, travailing in birth, and was in pain desiring deliverance. 3 And another wonder appeared in heaven, and see, a large red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns on his heads. 4 And his tail drew one third of the stars of heaven, and threw them to the earth, and the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to receive deliverance, to devour her child as soon as it was born. 5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron, and her child was caught up to God, and to his throne. 6 And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, so that they'll feed her there a thousand two hundred sixty days. 7 And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon fought and his angels, 8 And didn't prevail, nor was their place found anymore in heaven. 9 And the large dragon was thrown out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, who deceives the whole world, he was thrown out into the earth, and his angels were thrown out with him. 10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, "Salvation has now come, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accused them before our God day and night. 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they didn't love their lives until death. 12 Therefore rejoice, you heavens, and you that live in them. Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and of the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great anger, because he knows that he only has a short time. 13 And when the dragon saw that he was thrown to the earth, he persecuted the woman who brought forth the man child. 14 And two wings of a large eagle were given to the woman, so that she'd fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent. 15 And the serpent vomited water out of his mouth, like a flood, after the woman, so that he'd cause her to be carried away by the flood. 16 And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth, and swallowed up the flood that the dragon vomited out of his mouth. 17 And the dragon was angry with the woman, and went to make war with the remainder of her children, who keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. ___Revelation chapter 13 1 And I stood on the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads the name of blasphemy. 2 And the beast that I saw was like a leopard, and his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion, and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. 3 And I saw one of his heads like wounded to death, and his deadly wound was healed, and all the world wondered concerning the beast. 4 And they worshipped the dragon who gave power to the beast, and they worshipped the beast, saying, "Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?" 5 And a mouth was given to him speaking great things and blasphemies, and power was given to him to continue forty two months. 6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and those who live in heaven. 7 And it was given to him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them, and he was given power over all kindreds, and languages, and nations. 8 And all that live on the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb killed from the foundation of the world. 9 If any man has an ear, let him hear. 10 He that leads into captivity shall go into captivity, he that kills with the sword must be killed by the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints. 11 And I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. 12 And he exercises all the power of the first beast before him, and causes the earth and those who live in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. 13 And he does great wonders, so that he makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, 14 And deceives those who live on the earth by the means of the miracles that he had power to do in the sight of the beast, saying to those who live on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, who had the wound by a sword, and lived. 15 And he had power to give life to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast would speak, and would cause that as many as wouldn't worship the image of the beast would be killed. 16 And he causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads, 17 And that no man could buy or sell, except he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. 18 Here is wisdom. Let him that has understanding count the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is six hundred sixty six. ___Revelation chapter 14 1 And I looked, and see, a Lamb stood on Mount Zion, and with him one hundred forty four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads. 2 And I heard a voice from heaven, like the voice of many waters, and like the voice of a great thunder, and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps, 3 And they sang like a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders, and no man could learn that song but the hundred forty four thousand, who were redeemed from the earth. 4 These are those who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are those who follow the Lamb wherever he goes. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits to God and to the Lamb. 5 And in their mouth was found no guile, for they are without fault before the throne of God. 6 And I saw another angel fly in the middle of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who live on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and language, and people, 7 Saying with a loud voice, "Fear God, and give glory to him, for the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters." 8 And another angel followed, saying, "Babylon has fallen, has fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the anger of her fornication." 9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, "If any man worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 10 He shall drink of the wine of the anger of God, that is poured out undiluted into the cup of his indignation, and he'll be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb, 11 And the smoke of their torment rises up forever and always, and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name. 12 Here is the patience of the saints, here are those who keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." 13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, "Write, Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on, yes, says the Spirit, so that they can rest from their labors, and their works follow them." 14 And I looked, and see, a white cloud, and on the cloud someone sat like the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, shouting with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, "Thrust in your sickle, and reap, for the time has come for you to reap, for the harvest of the earth is ripe." 16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth, and the earth was reaped. 17 And another angel came out of the temple that is in heaven, also having a sharp sickle. 18 And another angel came out from the altar, who had power over fire, and shouted with a loud shout to him that had the sharp sickle, "Thrust in your sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, for her grapes are fully ripe." 19 And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and threw it into the great winepress of the anger of God. 20 And the winepress was trampled outside the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even up to the horse bridles, for a distance of a thousand six hundred furlongs. ___Revelation chapter 15 1 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvelous, seven angels having the seven last plagues, for the anger of God is filled up in them. 2 And I saw like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those who'd gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. 3 And they sang the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, "Great and marvelous are your works, Lord God Almighty, just and true are your ways, you King of saints. 4 Who shall not fear you, O Lord, and glorify your name? For only you are holy, for all nations shall come and worship before you, for your judgments are made clear." 5 And after that I looked, and see, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened, 6 And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts clothed with golden vests. 7 And one of the four beasts gave to the seven angels seven golden bottles full of the anger of God, who lives forever and always. 8 And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power, and no man was able to enter into the temple, until the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled. ___Revelation chapter 16 1 And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, "Go your ways, and pour out the bottles of the anger of God on the earth." 2 And the first went, and poured out his bottle on the earth, and a severe, and grief-causing sore fell on the men who had the mark of the beast, and on those who worshipped his image. 3 And the second angel poured out his bottle on the sea, and it became like the blood of a dead man, and every living soul died in the sea. 4 And the third angel poured out his bottle on the rivers and fountains of waters, and they became blood. 5 And I heard the angel of the waters say, "You are righteous, O Lord, who is, and was, and shall be, because you've judged this. 6 For they've shed the blood of saints and prophets, and you've given them blood to drink, for they deserve it." 7 And I heard another out of the altar say, "Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are your judgments." 8 And the fourth angel poured out his bottle on the sun, and power was given to him to scorch men with fire. 9 And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, who has power over these plagues, and they didn't repent to give him glory. 10 And the fifth angel poured out his bottle on the seat of the beast, and his kingdom was full of darkness, and they bit their tongues because of the pain, 11 And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and didn't repent of their deeds. 12 And the sixth angel poured out his bottle on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, so that the way of the kings of the east would be prepared. 13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. 14 For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, who go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 15 See, I come like a thief. Blessed is he that stays awake, and keeps his garments, so he doesn't walk naked, and they see his shame. 16 And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew language Armageddon. 17 And the seventh angel poured out his bottle into the air, and a great voice came out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, "It is done." 18 And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings, and there was a great earthquake, such as has never been since men were on the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great. 19 And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell, and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give to her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his anger. 20 And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. 21 And a great hail fell on men out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent, and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail, for the plague of it was very severe. ___Revelation chapter 17 1 And one of the seven angels came, who had the seven bottles, and talked with me, saying to me, "Come here, I'll show you the judgment of the great whore that sits on many waters, 2 With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication." 3 So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness, and I saw a woman sit on a red beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. 4 And the woman was arrayed in purple and red, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication, 5 And on her forehead was a name written, "Mystery, Babylon the Great, The Mother of Whores and Abominations of the Earth," 6 And I saw the woman drunk with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus, and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration. 7 And the angel said to me, "Why were you impressed? I'll tell you the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carries her, that has the seven heads and ten horns. 8 The beast that you saw was, and is not, and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into hell, and those who live on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they see the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. 9 And here is the mind that has wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sits. 10 And there are seven kings, five have fallen, and one is, and the other hasn't yet come, and when he comes, he must continue a short time. 11 And the beast that was, and is not, he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goes into hell. 12 And the ten horns that you saw are ten kings, who've received no kingdom yet, but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. 13 These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength to the beast. 14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them, for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings, and those who are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful." 15 And he said to me, "The waters that you saw, where the whore sits, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and languages. 16 And the ten horns that you saw on the beast, shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire. 17 For God has put in their hearts to fulfill his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom to the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled. 18 And the woman that you saw is that great city, that rules over the kings of the earth." ___Revelation chapter 18 1 And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power, and the earth was illuminated with his glory. 2 And he shouted mightily with a strong voice, "Babylon the great has fallen, has fallen, and has become the dwelling place of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. 3 For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have grown rich through the abundance of her delicacies." 4 And I heard another voice from heaven, "Come out of her, my people, so that you're not partakers of her sins, and so you're not a victim of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached to heaven, and God has remembered her sins. 6 Reward her as she rewarded you, and double to her double according to her works, in the cup that she has filled, fill to her double. 7 As much as she has glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her, for she says in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and will see no sorrow. 8 Therefore her plagues shall come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine, and she shall be completely burned with fire, for strong is the Lord God who judges her. 9 And the kings of the earth, who've committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for her, when they see the smoke of her burning, 10 Standing far off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! For in one hour your judgment has come. 11 And the merchants of the earth shall cry and mourn over her, for no man buys their merchandise anymore, 12 The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and red cloth, and all thyine wood, and all kinds of containers of ivory, and all kinds of containers of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble, 13 And cinnamon, and odors, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and animals, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men. 14 And the fruits that your soul lusted for have departed from you, and all things that were dainty and good have departed from you, and you'll find them no more at all. 15 The merchants of these things, who were made rich by her, shall stand far off for the fear of her torment, crying and wailing, 16 And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and red cloth, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls! 17 For in one hour such great riches has come to nothing. And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood far off, 18 And when they saw the smoke of her burning, shouted, What city is like this great city! 19 And they threw dust on their heads, and shouted, crying and wailing, saying, Alas, alas, that great city, in which all that had ships in the sea were made rich because of her costliness! For in one hour she's made desolate. 20 Rejoice over her, you heaven, and you holy apostles and prophets, for God has avenged you against her." 21 And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and threw it into the sea, saying, "Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all. 22 And the voice of harpers, and musicians, and of flutists, and trumpeters, shall be heard no more at all in you, and no craftsman, of whatever craft he is, shall be found anymore in you, and the sound of a millstone shall be heard no more at all in you, 23 And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in you, and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in you, for your merchants were the great men of the earth, for by your sorceries all nations were deceived. 24 And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were killed on the earth." ___Revelation chapter 19 1 And after these things I heard a great voice of many people in heaven, "Halelujah, Salvation, and glory, and honor, and power, to the Lord our God, 2 For true and righteous are his judgments, for he has judged the great whore, who corrupted the earth with her fornication, and has avenged the blood of his servants at her hand." 3 And again they said, "Halelujah." And her smoke rose up forever and always. 4 And the twenty four elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, "Amen, Halelujah." 5 And a voice came out of the throne, "Praise our God, all you his servants, and you that fear him, both small and great." 6 And I heard like the voice of a great multitude, and like the voice of many waters, and like the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, "Halelujah, for the Lord God all powerful reigns. 7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him, for the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his wife has made herself ready." 8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white, for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 9 And he said to me, "Write, Blessed are those who are called to the wedding supper of the Lamb." And he said to me, "These are the true sayings of God." 10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said to me, "Make sure you don't do it, I am your fellow servant, and of your brothers that have the testimony of Jesus, worship God, for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." 11 And I saw heaven opened, and see, a white horse, and he that sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. 12 His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns, and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 13 And he was clothed with a coat dipped in blood, and his name is called "The Word of God." 14 And the armies that were in heaven followed him on white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. 15 And out of his mouth goes a sharp sword, so that with it he'll strike the nations, and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, and he treads the winepress of the fierceness and anger of Almighty God. 16 And he has a name written on his coat and on his thigh, "King of Kings, and Lord of Lords." 17 And I saw an angel standing in the sun, and he shouted with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the sky, "Come and gather yourselves together to the supper of the great God, 18 So you can eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of those who sit on them, and the flesh of all men, both free and bond, both small and great." 19 And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army. 20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that worked miracles before him, with which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast, and those who worshipped his image. These were both thrown alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. 21 And the remainder were killed by the sword of him that sat on the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth, and all the fowls were filled with their flesh. ___Revelation chapter 20 1 And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a large chain in his hand. 2 And he took hold of the dragon, that old serpent, who is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, 3 And threw him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he wouldn't deceive the nations anymore, until the thousand years had ended, and after that he must be loosed a short time. 4 And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was given to them, and I saw the souls of those who were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and who hadn't worshipped the beast, nor his image, nor had received his mark on their foreheads, or in their hands, and they lived and ruled with Christ a thousand years. 5 But the rest of the dead didn't live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is he that has part in the first resurrection, on such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. 7 And when the thousand years are over, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison, 8 And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, the number of whom is like the sand of the sea. 9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and surrounded the camp of the saints, and the beloved city, and fire came down from God out of heaven, and consumed them. 10 And the devil that deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night forever and always. 11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away, and no place was found for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God, and the books were opened, and another book was opened, which is the book of life, and the dead were judged out of the things that were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and hell delivered up the dead that were in them, and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whoever was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire. ___Revelation chapter 21 1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there were no more oceans. 2 And I, John, saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared like a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice out of heaven, "See, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will live with them, and they'll be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, nor shall there be any more pain, for the former things have passed away." 5 And he that sat on the throne said, "See, I make all things new." And he said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful." 6 And he said to me, "It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to him that is thirsty from the fountain of the water of life freely. 7 He that overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and customers of prostitutes, and sorcerers, and worshipers of idols, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death." 9 And one of the seven angels that had the seven bottles full of the seven last plagues came to me, and talked with me, saying, "Come here, I will show you the bride, the Lamb's wife." 10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, 11 Having the glory of God, and her light was like a stone most precious, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal, 12 And had a great and high wall, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written on them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel, 13 On the east three gates, on the north three gates, on the south three gates, and on the west three gates. 14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. 15 And he that talked with me had a golden piece of bamboo to measure the city, and the gates of it, and the wall of it. 16 And the city lies foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth, and he measured the city with the bamboo, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. 17 And he measured the wall of it, two hundred sixteen feet, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. 18 And the building of the wall of it was of jasper, and the city was pure gold, like clear glass. 19 And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all kinds of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper, the second, sapphire, the third, a chalcedony, the fourth, an emerald, 20 The fifth, sardonyx, the sixth, sardius, the seventh, chrysolite, the eighth, beryl, the ninth, a topaz, the tenth, a chrysoprasus, the eleventh, a jacinth, the twelfth, an amethyst. 21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each of the gates was of one pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass. 22 And I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. 23 And the city had no need of the sun, nor of the moon, to shine in it, for the glory of God illuminated it, and the Lamb is the light of it. 24 And the nations of those who are saved shall walk in the light of it, and the kings of the earth bring their glory and honor into it. 25 And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day, for there shall be no night there. 26 And they shall bring the glory and honor of the nations into it. 27 And there shall in no way enter into it anything that defiles, nor whatever works abomination, or makes a lie, but those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. ___Revelation chapter 22 1 And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. 2 In the middle of the street of it, and on either side of the river, there was the tree of life, that produced twelve kinds of fruits, and yielded its fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3 And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and his servants shall serve him, 4 And they shall see his face, and his name shall be in their foreheads. 5 And there shall be no night there, and they need no candle, nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light, and they shall reign forever and always. 6 And he said to me, "These sayings are faithful and true, and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to show to his servants the things that must shortly be done. 7 See, I come quickly, blessed is he that keeps the sayings of the prophecy of this book." 8 And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel that showed me these things. 9 Then he said to me, "Make sure you don't do it, for I am your fellow servant, and of your brothers the prophets, and of those who keep the sayings of this book, worship God." 10 And he said to me, "Don't seal the sayings of the prophecy of this book, for the time is near. 11 He that is unjust, let him remain unjust, and he that is filthy, let him remain filthy, and he that is righteous, let him remain righteous, and he that is holy, let him remain holy. 12 And see, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, to give every man according to his work. 13 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. 14 Blessed are those who do his commandments, so that they'll have right to the tree of life, and can enter in through the gates into the city. 15 For outside are dogs, and sorcerers, and customers of prostitutes, and murderers, and worshipers of idols, and whoever loves and makes a lie. 16 I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, and the bright and morning star. 17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that hears say, Come. And let him that is thirsty come. And whoever desires to, let him take the water of life freely. 18 For I testify to every man that hears the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add to these things, God shall add to him the plagues that are written in this book, 19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things that are written in this book. 20 He that testifies these things says, surely I come quickly. Amen." Even so, come, Lord Jesus. 21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.