In Christ we too have been claimed as God's own possession, since we were predestined according to the one purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to the counsel of his will

who is the down payment of our inheritance, until the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of his glory.

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

if indeed you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you,

I became a servant of this gospel according to the gift of God's grace that was given to me by the exercise of his power.

and to enlighten everyone about God's secret plan -- a secret that has been hidden for ages in God who has created all things.

and to put on the new man who has been created in God's image -- in righteousness and holiness that comes from truth.

Let nobody deceive you with empty words, for because of these things God's wrath comes on the sons of disobedience.

Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

For this reason, take up the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand your ground on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand.