far above every rule and authority and power and dominion and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.

But God, being rich in mercy, because of his great love with which he loved us,

But now in Christ Jesus you who used to be far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

So then you are no longer foreigners and noncitizens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of God's household,

But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

But practicing the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ, who is the head.

But you did not learn about Christ like this,

You must let no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but only what is beneficial for the building up of the one in need, that it may give grace to those who hear.

But among you there must not be either sexual immorality, impurity of any kind, or greed, as these are not fitting for the saints.

Neither should there be vulgar speech, foolish talk, or coarse jesting -- all of which are out of character -- but rather thanksgiving.

for you were at one time darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of the light --

Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.

But all things being exposed by the light are made evident.

Therefore be very careful how you live -- not as unwise but as wise,

For this reason do not be foolish, but be wise by understanding what the Lord's will is.

And do not get drunk with wine, which is debauchery, but be filled by the Spirit,

But as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

so that he may present the church to himself as glorious -- not having a stain or wrinkle, or any such blemish, but holy and blameless.

For no one has ever hated his own body but he feeds it and takes care of it, just as Christ also does the church,

This mystery is great -- but I am actually speaking with reference to Christ and the church.

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but raise them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

not like those who do their work only when someone is watching -- as people-pleasers -- but as slaves of Christ doing the will of God from the heart.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.