1 Remind your people to obey the rulers and authorities and not to be rebellious. They must always be ready to do something helpful
2 and not say cruel things or argue. They should be gentle and kind to everyone.
3 We used to be stupid, disobedient, and foolish, as well as slaves of all sorts of desires and pleasures. We were evil and jealous. Everyone hated us, and we hated everyone.
4 God our Saviour showed ushow good and kind he is.
5 He saved us becauseof his mercy,and not becauseof any good thingsthat we have done.God washed us by the powerof the Holy Spirit.He gave us new birthand a fresh beginning.
6 God sent Jesus Christour Saviourto give us his Spirit.
7 Jesus treated us much betterthan we deserve.He made us acceptable to Godand gave us the hopeof eternal life.