[1] Concerning the times and the seasons, brothers, you have no need that I write to you. [2] For you know perfectly that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. [3] When they say, "Peace and safety!" then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor upon a woman with child, and they shall not escape. [4] But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. [5] You are all the sons of light and the sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. [6] Therefore let us not sleep as others do. But let us be alert and sober. [7] For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, are drunk at night. [8] But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. [9] For God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, [10] who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we should live together with Him. [11] So comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, just as you are doing. [12] We ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those who labor among you, and are appointed over you in the Lord, and instruct you. [13] Esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. [14] Now we exhort you, brothers, warn those who are unruly, comfort the faint-hearted, support the weak, and be patient toward everyone. [15] See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone. But always seek to do good to one another and to all. [16] Rejoice always. [17] Pray without ceasing. [18] In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. [19] Do not quench the Spirit. [20] Do not despise prophecies. [21] Examine all things. Firmly hold onto what is good. [22] Abstain from all appearances of evil. [23] May the very God of peace sanctify you completely. And I pray to God that your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. [24] Faithful is He who calls you, who also will do it. [25] Brothers, pray for us. [26] Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss. [27] I command you by the Lord that this letter be read to all the holy brothers. [28] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
