This, too, is a reason why we, on our part, are continually thanking God--because, in receiving the teaching that you had from us, you accepted it, not as the teaching of man, but as what it really is--the teaching of God, which is even now doing its work within you who believe in Christ.

For this is God's purpose--that you should be pure; abstaining from all immorality;

Therefore he who disregards this warning disregards, not man, but God who gives you his Holy Spirit.

And indeed you do act in this spirit towards all the Brethren throughout Macedonia. Yet, Brothers, we urge you to still further efforts.

This we tell you on the authority of the Lord--that those of us who are still living at the Coming of the Lord will not anticipate those who have passed to their rest.

Under all circumstances give thanks to God. For this is his will for you as made known in Christ Jesus.

I adjure you in the Lord's name to have this letter read to all the Brethren.