He is far above every ruler, authority, power, dominion, and every name that can be named, not only in the present age, but also in the one to come.

For by such grace you have been saved through faith. This does not come from you; it is the gift of God

and not the result of actions, to put a stop to all boasting.

which in previous generations was not made known to human beings as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets. This is that secret:

So then, I ask you not to become discouraged because of my troubles on your behalf, which work toward your glory.

Therefore, I tell you and insist on in the Lord not to live any longer like the gentiles live, thinking worthless thoughts.

However, that is not the way you came to know the Messiah.

"Be angry, yet do not sin." Do not let the sun set while you are still angry,

and do not give the Devil an opportunity to work.

Let no filthy talk be heard from your mouths, but only what is good for building up people and meeting the need of the moment. This way you will administer grace to those who hear you.

Do not grieve the Holy Spirit, by whom you were marked with a seal for the day of redemption.

Do not let sexual sin, impurity of any kind, or greed even be mentioned among you, as is proper for saints.

Do not let anyone deceive you with meaningless words, for it is because of these things that God becomes angry with those who disobey.

So do not be partners with them.

So, then, be careful how you live. Do not be unwise but wise,

Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up by training and instructing them about the Lord.

Do not do this only while you're being watched in order to please them, but be like slaves of the Messiah, who are determined to obey God's will.

Serve willingly, as if you were serving the Lord and not merely people,

Masters, treat your slaves the same way. Do not threaten them, for you know that both of you have the same Master in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.

For our struggle is not against human opponents, but against rulers, authorities, cosmic powers in the darkness around us, and evil spiritual forces in the heavenly realm.