Chapter 5

The day of the Lord shall come, when least expected. Exhortations to several duties.

1. 1

   But of the times and moments, brethren, you need not that we should write to you.

2. 2

   For yourselves know perfectly, that the day of the Lord shall so come, as a thief in the night.

3. 3

   For when they shall say, peace and security, then shall sudden destruction come upon them, as the pains upon her that is with child, and they shall not escape.

4. 4

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

5. 5

   For all you are the children of light, and children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

6. 6

   Therefore let us not sleep, as others do: but let us watch and be sober.

7. 7

   For they who sleep, sleep in the night: and they who are drunk, are drunk in the night.

8. 8

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

9. 9

   For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to the purchasing of salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

10. 10

    Who died for us: that whether we watch or sleep, we may live together with him.

11. 11

    Wherefore comfort one another: and edify one another, as you also do.

12. 12

    And we beseech you, brethren, to know them who labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you,

13. 13

    That you esteem them more abundantly in charity for their work: have peace with them.

14. 14

    And we beseech you, brethren, rebuke the unquiet, comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak, be patient towards all men.

15. 15

    See that none render evil for evil to any one: but always follow that which is good towards each other, and towards all men.

16. 16

    Always rejoice.

17. 17

    Pray without ceasing.

18. 18

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

19. 19

    Extinguish not the Spirit.

20. 20

    Despise not prophecies.

21. 21

    But prove all things: hold that which is good.

22. 22

    From all appearance of evil refrain yourselves.

23. 23

    And may the God of peace himself sanctify you in all things: that your whole spirit, and soul, and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

24. 24

    He is faithful who hath called you: who will also perform.

25. 25

    Brethren, pray for us.

26. 26

    Salute all the brethren with a holy kiss.

27. 27

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

28. 28

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