It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you in regard to the things that have now been announced to you by those who brought you the good news through the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. These are things that even the angels desire to look into.

For you know that it was not with perishable things like silver or gold that you have been ransomed from the worthless way of life handed down to you by your ancestors,

but with the precious blood of the Messiah, like that of a lamb without blemish or defect.

For "All human life is like grass, and all its glory is like a flower in the grass. The grass dries up and the flower drops off,

Like newborn babies, thirst for the pure milk of the word so that by it you may grow in your salvation.

This is why it says in Scripture: "Look! I am laying a chosen, precious cornerstone in Zion. The one who believes in him will never be ashamed."

Live like free people, and do not use your freedom as an excuse for doing evil. Instead, be God's servants.

You were "like sheep that kept going astray," but now you have returned to the shepherd and overseer of your souls.

For you spent enough time in the past doing what the gentiles like to do, living in sensuality, sinful desires, drunkenness, wild celebrations, drinking parties, and detestable idolatry.

Indeed, this is why the gospel was proclaimed even to those who have died, so that they could be judged in their mortal flesh like all humans and live in the spiritual realm like God.

Be clear-minded and alert. Your opponent, the Devil, is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.