that has come to you. Just as in the entire world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, so it has also been bearing fruit and growing among you from the first day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth.

He is the head of the body, the church, as well as the beginning, the firstborn from among the dead, so that he himself may become first in all things.

And you were at one time strangers and enemies in your minds as expressed through your evil deeds,

Therefore, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him,

rooted and built up in him and firm in your faith just as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

If you have died with Christ to the elemental spirits of the world, why do you submit to them as though you lived in the world?

These are all destined to perish with use, founded as they are on human commands and teachings.

But now, put off all such things as anger, rage, malice, slander, abusive language from your mouth.

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,

bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if someone happens to have a complaint against anyone else. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also forgive others.

Let the peace of Christ be in control in your heart (for you were in fact called as one body to this peace), and be thankful.

Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.

Whatever you are doing, work at it with enthusiasm, as to the Lord and not for people,

because you know that you will receive your inheritance from the Lord as the reward. Serve the Lord Christ.

Pray that I may make it known as I should.

Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, sends you greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (about whom you received instructions; if he comes to you, welcome him).

And after you have read this letter, have it read to the church of Laodicea. In turn, read the letter from Laodicea as well.