1 B ut concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you.

2 F or you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.

3 F or when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.

4 B ut you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief.

5 Y ou are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness.

6 T herefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober.

7 F or those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night.

8 B ut let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation.

9 F or God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ,

10 w ho died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.

11 T herefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing. Various Exhortations

12 A nd we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,

13 a nd to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.

14 N ow we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.

15 S ee that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.

16 R ejoice always,

17 p ray without ceasing,

18 i n everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

19 D o not quench the Spirit.

20 D o not despise prophecies.

21 T est all things; hold fast what is good.

22 A bstain from every form of evil. Blessing and Admonition

23 N ow may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

24 H e who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.

25 B rethren, pray for us.

26 G reet all the brethren with a holy kiss.

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

28 T he grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.