and for the hope of what is stored up for you in heaven. You first heard of it long ago when the true message of the gospel

came among you, to thrive and bear its fruit among you, as it does all over the world, from the time when you first heard about the mercy of God,

when in your baptism you were buried with him, and raised to life with him through your faith in the power of God who raised him from the dead.

canceled the bond which stood against us, with its requirements, and put it out of our way when he nailed it to the cross.

When Christ, who is our true life, shall make his appearance, then you also will appear glorified with him.

And you once practiced them as others do, when you lived that old earthly life.

Be persistent in prayer and wide awake about it when you give thanks.

When this letter has been read to you, have it read to the church at Laodicea also, and see that you read the letter that is coming from there.