But the Scripture describes all mankind as the prisoners of sin, so that the promised blessing might on the ground of faith in Jesus Christ be given to those who have faith.

For the physical cravings are against the Spirit, and the cravings of the Spirit are against the physical; the two are in opposition, so that you cannot do anything you please.

If we say, "We are without any sin," we are deceiving ourselves, and there is no truth in our hearts.

If

So the tongue is a little organ and yet very boastful. What a great forest a spark will set on fire!

If anyone thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue, but deceives himself, his religious observances are of no account.

For "Let him who would enjoy life And see happy days, Keep his tongue from evil, And his lips from uttering deceit.

A perfect

and steadfastness must have full play, so that you may be fully and perfectly developed without any defects.

For it is by your words that you will be acquitted, or by your words that you will be condemned."

And in spreading the news of him, we warn everyone and teach everyone all our wisdom, in order to bring everyone to Christian perfection.

Epaphras, one of your own number, a slave of Christ Jesus, wishes to be remembered to you. He is always standing up for you in his prayers that you may stand fast, like men of mature convictions, whatever God's will for you may be.

fit you by every blessing to do his will, and through Jesus Christ carry out in us what will please him. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.

And God, the giver of all mercy, who through your union with Christ has called you to his eternal glory, after you have suffered a little while will himself make you perfect, steadfast, and strong.

To bridle

But I beat and bruise my body and make it my slave, so that after I have called others to the contest I may not be disqualified myself.