55:001:001 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,
55:001:002 To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
55:001:003 I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;
55:001:004 Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy;
55:001:005 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.
55:001:006 Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
55:001:007 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
55:001:008 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;
55:001:009 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
55:001:010 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:
55:001:011 Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
55:001:012 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
55:001:013 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
55:001:014 That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.
55:001:015 This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.
55:001:016 The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:
55:001:017 But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.
55:001:018 The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.
55:002:001 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
55:002:002 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
55:002:003 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
55:002:004 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
55:002:005 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
55:002:006 The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.
55:002:007 Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.
55:002:008 Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:
55:002:009 Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.
55:002:010 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
55:002:011 It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:
55:002:012 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
55:002:013 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
55:002:014 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
55:002:015 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
55:002:016 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
55:002:017 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
55:002:018 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
55:002:019 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
55:002:020 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
55:002:021 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
55:002:022 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
55:002:023 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
55:002:024 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
55:002:025 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
55:002:026 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
55:003:001 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
55:003:002 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
55:003:003 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
55:003:004 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
55:003:005 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
55:003:006 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
55:003:007 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
55:003:008 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
55:003:009 But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as their's also was.
55:003:010 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
55:003:011 Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.
55:003:012 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
55:003:013 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
55:003:014 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
55:003:015 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
55:003:016 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
55:003:017 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
55:004:001 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
55:004:002 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
55:004:003 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
55:004:004 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
55:004:005 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
55:004:006 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
55:004:007 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
55:004:008 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
55:004:009 Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me:
55:004:010 For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.
55:004:011 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.
55:004:012 And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.
55:004:013 The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.
55:004:014 Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:
55:004:015 Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.
55:004:016 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.
55:004:017 Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
55:004:018 And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
55:004:019 Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.
55:004:020 Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick.
55:004:021 Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.
55:004:022 The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen.
56:001:001 Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;
56:001:002 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
56:001:003 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;
56:001:004 To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.
56:001:005 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:
56:001:006 If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.
56:001:007 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;
56:001:008 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;
56:001:009 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
56:001:010 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision:
56:001:011 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.
56:001:012 One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.
56:001:013 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;
56:001:014 Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.
56:001:015 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.
56:001:016 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.
56:002:001 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:
56:002:002 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.
56:002:003 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;
56:002:004 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,
56:002:005 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
56:002:006 Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.
56:002:007 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
56:002:008 Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.
56:002:009 Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again;
56:002:010 Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.
56:002:011 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
56:002:012 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
56:002:013 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
56:002:014 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
56:002:015 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.
56:003:001 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
56:003:002 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.
56:003:003 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
56:003:004 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
56:003:005 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
56:003:006 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;
56:003:007 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
56:003:008 This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.
56:003:009 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
56:003:010 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;
56:003:011 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.
56:003:012 When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.
56:003:013 Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.
56:003:014 And let our's also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.
56:003:015 All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.
57:001:001 Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,
57:001:002 And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:
57:001:003 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
57:001:004 I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,
57:001:005 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;
57:001:006 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.
57:001:007 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.
57:001:008 Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,
57:001:009 Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.
57:001:010 I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:
57:001:011 Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:
57:001:012 Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:
57:001:013 Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:
57:001:014 But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.
57:001:015 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;
57:001:016 Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?
57:001:017 If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.
57:001:018 If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account;
57:001:019 I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.
57:001:020 Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.
57:001:021 Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.
57:001:022 But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.
57:001:023 There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;
57:001:024 Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.
57:001:025 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
58:001:001 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
58:001:002 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
58:001:003 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high:
58:001:004 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.
58:001:005 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
58:001:006 And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.
58:001:007 And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire.
58:001:008 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.
58:001:009 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.
58:001:010 And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:
58:001:011 They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment;
58:001:012 And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail.
58:001:013 But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?
58:001:014 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?
58:002:001 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.
58:002:002 For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward;
58:002:003 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
58:002:004 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?
58:002:005 For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.
58:002:006 But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man that thou visitest him?
58:002:007 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands:
58:002:008 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.
58:002:009 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.
58:002:010 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.
58:002:011 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,
58:002:012 Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee.
58:002:013 And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.
58:002:014 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;
58:002:015 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
58:002:016 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.
58:002:017 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.
58:002:018 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.
58:003:001 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;
58:003:002 Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house.
58:003:003 For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house.
58:003:004 For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God.
58:003:005 And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after;
58:003:006 But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.
58:003:007 Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice,
58:003:008 Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:
58:003:009 When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years.
58:003:010 Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.
58:003:011 So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)
58:003:012 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
58:003:013 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
58:003:014 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;
58:003:015 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.
58:003:016 For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses.
58:003:017 But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?
58:003:018 And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?
58:003:019 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.
58:004:001 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.
58:004:002 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.
58:004:003 For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.
58:004:004 For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
58:004:005 And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest.
58:004:006 Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief:
58:004:007 Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
58:004:008 For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day.
58:004:009 There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.
58:004:010 For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.
58:004:011 Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.
58:004:012 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
58:004:013 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
58:004:014 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.
58:004:015 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
58:004:016 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
58:005:001 For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:
58:005:002 Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.
58:005:003 And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.
58:005:004 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.
58:005:005 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.
58:005:006 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
58:005:007 Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;
58:005:008 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
58:005:009 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;
58:005:010 Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.
58:005:011 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
58:005:012 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
58:005:013 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
58:005:014 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
58:006:001 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
58:006:002 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
58:006:003 And this will we do, if God permit.
58:006:004 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,
58:006:005 And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
58:006:006 If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
58:006:007 For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:
58:006:008 But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.
58:006:009 But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.
58:006:010 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
58:006:011 And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:
58:006:012 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
58:006:013 For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself,
58:006:014 Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.
58:006:015 And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.
58:006:016 For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife.
58:006:017 Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:
58:006:018 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
58:006:019 Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;
58:006:020 Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
58:007:001 For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;
58:007:002 To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;
58:007:003 Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.
58:007:004 Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils.
58:007:005 And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham:
58:007:006 But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.
58:007:007 And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.
58:007:008 And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.
58:007:009 And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham.
58:007:010 For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him.
58:007:011 If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?
58:007:012 For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.
58:007:013 For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.
58:007:014 For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.
58:007:015 And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,
58:007:016 Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life.
58:007:017 For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
58:007:018 For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof.
58:007:019 For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
58:007:020 And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest:
58:007:021 (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)
58:007:022 By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.
58:007:023 And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death:
58:007:024 But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood.
58:007:025 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.
58:007:026 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
58:007:027 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.
58:007:028 For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.
58:008:001 Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;
58:008:002 A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.
58:008:003 For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.
58:008:004 For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:
58:008:005 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.
58:008:006 But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.
58:008:007 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.
58:008:008 For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah:
58:008:009 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.
58:008:010 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:
58:008:011 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.
58:008:012 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.
58:008:013 In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.
58:009:001 Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary.
58:009:002 For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary.
58:009:003 And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all;
58:009:004 Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
58:009:005 And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly.
58:009:006 Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
58:009:007 But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people:
58:009:008 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
58:009:009 Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
58:009:010 Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
58:009:011 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
58:009:012 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.
58:009:013 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:
58:009:014 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
58:009:015 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
58:009:016 For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator.
58:009:017 For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.
58:009:018 Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.
58:009:019 For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people,
58:009:020 Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you.
58:009:021 Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry.
58:009:022 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.
58:009:023 It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
58:009:024 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
58:009:025 Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others;
58:009:026 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.
58:009:027 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:
58:009:028 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
58:010:001 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
58:010:002 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
58:010:003 But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year.
58:010:004 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
58:010:005 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
58:010:006 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
58:010:007 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.
58:010:008 Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law;
58:010:009 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.
58:010:010 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
58:010:011 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
58:010:012 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;
58:010:013 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
58:010:014 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
58:010:015 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before,
58:010:016 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;
58:010:017 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
58:010:018 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
58:010:019 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
58:010:020 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
58:010:021 And having an high priest over the house of God;
58:010:022 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
58:010:023 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
58:010:024 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
58:010:025 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
58:010:026 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
58:010:027 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
58:010:028 He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
58:010:029 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
58:010:030 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
58:010:031 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
58:010:032 But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;
58:010:033 Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used.
58:010:034 For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.
58:010:035 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.
58:010:036 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
58:010:037 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.
58:010:038 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
58:010:039 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
58:011:001 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
58:011:002 For by it the elders obtained a good report.
58:011:003 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
58:011:004 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
58:011:005 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
58:011:006 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
58:011:007 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
58:011:008 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
58:011:009 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
58:011:010 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
58:011:011 Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.
58:011:012 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.
58:011:013 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
58:011:014 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.
58:011:015 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.
58:011:016 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
58:011:017 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,
58:011:018 Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:
58:011:019 Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.
58:011:020 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.
58:011:021 By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.
58:011:022 By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
58:011:023 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment.
58:011:024 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;
58:011:025 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
58:011:026 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.
58:011:027 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
58:011:028 Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.
58:011:029 By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.
58:011:030 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.
58:011:031 By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.
58:011:032 And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:
58:011:033 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions.
58:011:034 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
58:011:035 Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
58:011:036 And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:
58:011:037 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;
58:011:038 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.
58:011:039 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:
58:011:040 God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.
58:012:001 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
58:012:002 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
58:012:003 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
58:012:004 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.
58:012:005 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
58:012:006 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
58:012:007 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
58:012:008 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
58:012:009 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?
58:012:010 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.
58:012:011 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
58:012:012 Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;
58:012:013 And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.
58:012:014 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
58:012:015 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;
58:012:016 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.
58:012:017 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.
58:012:018 For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest,
58:012:019 And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more:
58:012:020 (For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart:
58:012:021 And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake:)
58:012:022 But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,
58:012:023 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,
58:012:024 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things that that of Abel.
58:012:025 See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven:
58:012:026 Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven.
58:012:027 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.
58:012:028 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:
58:012:029 For our God is a consuming fire.
58:013:001 Let brotherly love continue.
58:013:002 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
58:013:003 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
58:013:004 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
58:013:005 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
58:013:006 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
58:013:007 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.
58:013:008 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.
58:013:009 Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.
58:013:010 We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle.
58:013:011 For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp.
58:013:012 Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.
58:013:013 Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.
58:013:014 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
58:013:015 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
58:013:016 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
58:013:017 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
58:013:018 Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.
58:013:019 But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner.
58:013:020 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
58:013:021 Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
58:013:022 And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words.
58:013:023 Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you.
58:013:024 Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you.
58:013:025 Grace be with you all. Amen.