God’s Wisdom Revealed by the Spirit

⁶ We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature,^(A) but not the wisdom of this age^(B) or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.^(C)

⁷ No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery^(A) that has been hidden^(B) and that God destined for our glory before time began.

¹⁶ Therefore I urge you to imitate me.^(A)

11 ¹ Follow my example,^(A) as I follow the example of Christ.^(B)

⁶ You became imitators of us^(A) and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering^(B) with the joy^(C) given by the Holy Spirit.^(D)

⁴ On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel.^(A) We are not trying to please people^(B) but God, who tests our hearts.^(C)

⁹ How can we thank God enough for you^(A) in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?^(B)

¹² I plead with you, brothers and sisters,^(A) become like me, for I became like you. You did me no wrong.

¹⁷ Join together in following my example,^(A) brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.^(B)