3:1 Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed,
3:2 to slander no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing every consideration for all people.
3:3 For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.
3:4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared,
3:5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we did in righteousness, but in accordance with His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,
3:6 whom He richly poured out upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior,
3:7 so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs ①according to the hope of eternal life.
▷ ①Or of eternal life according to hope
3:8 This statement is trustworthy; and concerning these things I want you to speak confidently, so that those who have believed God will be careful to engage in good deeds. These things are good and beneficial for people.
3:9 But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and disputes about the Law, for they are useless and worthless.
3:10 Reject a ①divisive person after a first and second warning,
▷ ①Or factious
3:11 knowing that such a person has deviated from what is right and is sinning, being self-condemned.
3:12 When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, make every effort to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.
3:13 Diligently help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way so that nothing is lacking for them.
3:14 Our people must also learn to engage in good ①deeds to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unproductive.
▷ ①Or occupations
3:15 All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.