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Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules:
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These rules, which have to do with things that are all destined to perish with use, are based on merely human commands and teachings.
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Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
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Living as Those Made Alive in Christ
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
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For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
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When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
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Because of these, the wrath of God is coming.
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You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived.
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Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices
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Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
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Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
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Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
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And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
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Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
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Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.
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Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,
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Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.
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And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.
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Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
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He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here.
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Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me.
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Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.
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I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.
