Grace and Perseverance
(Hebrews 12:1–3)

1Thou therefore, my child, be strong in the grace which is in Christ Jesus. 2And what thou hast heard from me by many witnesses, these things lay by for faithful men, who will be sufficient to teach others also. 3Thou therefore suffer ill treatment, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4None making war is entangled with the affairs of life: that he may please him having enlisted him. 5And also if any contend for a prize, he is not crowned, except he contend for a prize lawfully. 6The farmer toiling must first participate in the fruits. 7Observe what I say; for may the Lord give to thee understanding in all things.

8Remember Jesus Christ raised from the dead, of the seed of David, according to my good news: 9In which I suffer ill treatment, to bonds, as an evil doer; but the word of God has not been bound. 10For this I endure all things for the chosen, that they also might attain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

11Faithful the word: For if we died together, we shall also live together:

12If we endure, we shall also reign together: if we deny, he will also deny us:

13If we believe not, he remains faithful: he cannot deny himself.

The Lord’s Approved Workman

14Put these things in mind, calling to witness before the Lord not to wrangle for nothing useful, to the subversion of them hearing. 15Be earnest to present thyself acceptable to God, a worker without shame, dividing rightly the word of truth. 16And avoid profane, empty discourses: for they will proceed to more of profanation. 17And this word as a gangrene, will have an eating ulcer: of whom is Hymeneus and Philetus; 18Who concerning the truth missed their aim, saying the rising up has already been; and they subvert the faith of some. 19Truly the firm foundation of God has stood, having this seal, The Lord knows them being his. And, Let every one naming the name of Christ remove from iniquity.

20And in a great house there is not only gold and silver vessels, but also wood and earthen; and some truly for honour, and some for dishonour. 21If therefore any cleanse himself from these, he shall be a vessel for honour, consecrated, and useful for the master, prepared for every good work. 22And flee youthful, eager desires: and follow justice, faith, love, peace, with them calling upon the Lord from a pure heart. 23And silly and ignorant questions refuse, knowing that they produce strifes. 24And the servant of the Lord must not contend; but be gentle to all, giving instruction, enduring evil, 25In meekness instructing them being in a contrary state; lest perhaps God may give them repentance to the acknowledgment of the truth; 26That they may return to a state of sobriety from the snare of the devil, being taken alive by him at his will.