that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine.

Although they know God's just requirement that those who practice such things deserve to die they not only do these things but even applaud others who practice them.

as you teach others, do you fail to teach yourself? As you preach against stealing, do you steal?

do not boast about being better than the other branches. If you boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you.

In the same way, even though we are many people, we are one body in the Messiah and individual parts connected to each other.

If your gift is serving, devote yourself to serving others. If it is teaching, devote yourself to teaching others.

If it is encouraging, devote yourself to encouraging others. If it is sharing, share generously. If it is leading, lead enthusiastically. If it is helping, help cheerfully.

Be devoted to each other with mutual affection. Excel at showing respect for each other.

Live in harmony with each other. Do not be arrogant, but associate with humble people. Do not think that you are wiser than you really are.

For the commandments, "You must not commit adultery; you must not murder; you must not steal; you must not covet," and every other commandment are summed up in this statement: "You must love your neighbor as yourself."

Therefore, let's no longer criticize each other. Instead, make up your mind not to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.

Now may God, the source of endurance and encouragement, allow you to live in harmony with each other as you follow the Messiah Jesus,

I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are filled with goodness and full of all the knowledge you need to be able to instruct each other.