Doing Good to All
1
Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual
should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.
2
Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
3
If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
4
Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself,
without comparing himself to somebody else,
5
for each one should carry his own load.
6
Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share
all good things with his instructor.
7
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.
8
The one who sows to please his sinful nature,
from that nature will reap destruction:
the one whosow to please the Spirit,
from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
9
Let us not become weary in doing good,
for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
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Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people,
especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
Not Circumcision but a New Creation
11
See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!
12
Those who want to make a good impression outwardly are trying
to compel you to be circumcised. The only reaosn they do this
is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ.
13
Not even those who are circumcised obey the law,
yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your flesh.
14
May I ever boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ,
through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
15
Neither circumcsion nor uncircumcision means anything;
what counts is a new creation.
16
Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule, even to the Israel of God.
17
Finally, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.
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The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.