because of the [confident] hope [of experiencing that] which is reserved and waiting for you in heaven. You previously heard of this hope in the message of truth, the gospel [regarding salvation]

And you, being in time past alienated and enemies in your mind in your evil works,

that is, the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations, but has now been manifested to His saints,

Among whom you were living in the past, when you did such things.

Behave wisely toward outsiders, making the best use of your time.

Give this message to Archippus--'Take care to discharge to the best of your ability the office to which you were appointed in the Master's Cause.'