⁹ So we make it our goal to please him,^(A) whether we are at home in the body or away from it.

¹⁰ For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us^(A) for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

¹¹ For the grace^(A) of God has appeared^(B) that offers salvation to all people.^{(C) 12} It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions,^(D) and to live self-controlled,^(E) upright and godly lives^(F) in this present age, ¹³ while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing^(G) of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ,^(H)

²⁴ And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,^(A)

²⁵ not giving up meeting together,^(A) as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another^(B)—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.^(C)

Patience in Suffering

⁷ Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming.^(A) See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting^(B) for the autumn and spring rains.^(C)

⁸ You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming^(A) is near.^(B)

⁷ The end of all things is near.^(A) Therefore be alert and of sober mind^(B) so that you may pray. ⁸ Above all, love each other deeply,^(C) because love covers over a multitude of sins.^{(D) 9} Offer hospitality^(E) to one another without grumbling.^{(F) 10} Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others,^(G) as faithful^(H) stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. ¹¹ If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God.^(I) If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides,^(J) so that in all things God may be praised^(K) through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.^(L)

¹¹ Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives ¹² as you look forward^(A) to the day of God and speed its coming.^[a](B) That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat.^{(C) 13} But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth,^(D) where righteousness dwells.

¹⁴ So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless^(E) and at peace with him.