⁴ For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.^(A)

The True Wisdom of God

⁶ Yet among the mature we do speak wisdom, though it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are being destroyed.^(A)

⁷ But we speak God’s wisdom, a hidden mystery, which God decreed before the ages for our glory

⁷ Now as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you^[a]—so we want you to excel also in this generous undertaking.^[b](A)