The Day of the Lord

(Zephaniah 1:7-18; 2 Peter 3:10-13)

1But of the times and moments, brethren, you need not, that we should write to you: 2For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord shall so come as a thief in the night. 3For when they shall say: Peace and security; then shall sudden destruction come upon them, as the pains upon her that is with child, and they shall not escape. 4But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief. 5For all you are the children of light and children of the day: we are not of the night nor of darkness. 6Therefore, let us not sleep, as others do: but let us watch, and be sober. 7For they that sleep, sleep in the night; and they that are drunk, are drunk in the night. 8But let us, who are of the day, be sober, having on the breast plate of faith and charity and, for a helmet, the hope of salvation. 9For God hath not appointed us unto wrath: but unto the purchasing of salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 10Who died for us: that, whether we watch or sleep, we may live together with him. 11For which cause comfort one another and edify one another, as you also do.

Christian Living

12And we beseech you, brethren, to know them who labour among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you; 13That you esteem them more abundantly in charity, for their work's sake. Have peace with them. 14And we beseech you, brethren, rebuke the unquiet: comfort the feeble minded: support the weak: be patient towards all men. 15See that none render evil for evil to any man: but ever follow that which is good towards each other and towards all men. 16Always rejoice. 17Pray without ceasing. 18In all things give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all. 19Extinguish not the spirit. 20Despise not prophecies. 21But prove all things: hold fast that which is good. 22From all appearance of evil refrain yourselves.

Final Blessings

23And may the God of peace himself sanctify you in all things: that your whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless in the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24He is faithful who hath called you, who also will do it.

25Brethren, pray for us.

26Salute all the brethren with a holy kiss. 27I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren.

28The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.