Chapter 5

But of the times and seasons, brethren, you have no need that we write to you,

for you yourselves know well that the day of the Lord is to come as a thief in the night.

For when they shall say, "Peace and security," even then sudden destruction will come upon them, as birth pangs upon her who is with child, and they will not escape. Be Always Prepared

But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief;

for you are all children of the light and children of the day. We are not of night, nor of darkness.

Therefore, let us not sleep as do the rest, but let us be wakeful and sober.

For they who sleep, sleep at night, and they who are drunk, are drunk at night.

But let us, who are of the day, be sober. Let us put on the breastplate of faith and charity, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.

For God has not destined us unto wrath, but to gain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ,

who died for us in order that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

Wherefore, comfort one another and edify one another, even as indeed you do. Obedience, Patience and Charity

Now we beseech you, brethren, to appreciate those who labor among you, and who are over you in the Lord and admonish you.

Esteem them with a more abundant love on account of their work. Be at peace with them.

And we exhort you, brethren, reprove the irregular, comfort the faint-hearted, support the weak, be patient towards all men.

See that no one renders evil for evil to any man; but always strive after good towards one another and towards all men.

Rejoice always.

Pray without ceasing.

In all things give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus regarding you all.

Do not extinguish the Spirit.

Do not despise prophecies.

But test all things; hold fast that which is good.

Keep yourselves from every kind of evil. Final Blessing and Greeting

And may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved sound, blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

He who called you is faithful and will do this.

Brethren, pray for us.

Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss.

I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.