if indeed you remain grounded and steadfast in the faith and are not shifted away from the hope of the gospel that you heard. This gospel has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and I, Paul, have become a servant of it.

For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you, for those in Laodicea, and for all who have not seen me in person.

Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elemental forces of the world, and not based on Christ.

You were also circumcised in Him with a circumcision not done with hands, by putting off the body of flesh, in the circumcision of the Messiah.

Although these have a reputation of wisdom by promoting ascetic practices, humility, and severe treatment of the body, they are not of any value in curbing self-indulgence.

Set your minds on what is above, not on what is on the earth.

Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old self with its practices

In Christ there is not Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all.

Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so they won’t become discouraged.

Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men,