Through him we received grace and a commission as an apostle to bring about faithful obedience among all the gentiles for the sake of his name.

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.

For if, through one man, death ruled because of that man's offense, how much more will those who receive such overflowing grace and the gift of righteousness rule in life because of one man, Jesus the Messiah!

As it is written, "For your sake we are being put to death all day long. We are thought of as sheep headed for slaughter."

for I could wish that I myself were condemned and cut off from the Messiah for the sake of my brothers, my own people,

As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake, but as far as election is concerned, they are loved for the sake of their ancestors.

Never be lazy in showing such devotion. Be on fire with the Spirit. Serve the Lord.

But if you do what is wrong, you should be afraid, for it is not without reason that they bear the sword. Indeed, they are God's servants to administer punishment to anyone who does wrong. Therefore, it is necessary for you to be acquiescent to the authorities, not only for the sake of God's punishment, but also for the sake of your own conscience.

Do not destroy God's action for the sake of food. Everything is clean, but it is wrong to make another person stumble because of what you eat.

because such people are not serving the Messiah our Lord, but their own desires. By their smooth talk and flattering words they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.