1 Thessalonians, 5
The day of the Lord shall come when least expected. Exhortations to several duties.
[1] But of the times and moments, brethren, you need not, that we should write to you: •
[2] For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord shall so come as a thief in the night. •
[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] But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief. •
[5] For all you are the children of light and children of the day: we are not of the night nor of darkness. •
[6] Therefore, let us not sleep, as others do: but let us watch, and be sober.
[7] For they that sleep, sleep in the night; and they that are drunk, are drunk in the night.
[8] But let us, who are of the day, be sober, having on the breast plate of faith and charity and, for a helmet, the hope of salvation. •
[9] For God hath not appointed us unto wrath: but unto the purchasing of salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
[10] Who died for us: that, whether we watch or sleep, we may live together with him. •
[11] For which cause comfort one another and edify one another, as you also do.
[12] And we beseech you, brethren, to know them who labour among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you;
[13] That you esteem them more abundantly in charity, for their work's sake. Have peace with them.
[14] And we beseech you, brethren, rebuke the unquiet 1: comfort the feeble minded: support the weak: be patient towards all men. •
The unquiet: That is, such as are irregular and disorderly.
[15] See that none render evil for evil to any man: but ever follow that which is good towards each other and towards all men. •
[16] Always rejoice. •
[17] Pray without ceasing. •
[18] In all things give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all.
[19] Extinguish not the spirit. •
[20] Despise not prophecies.
[21] But prove all things: hold fast that which is good. •
[22] From all appearance of evil refrain yourselves. •
[23] And may the God of peace himself sanctify you in all things: that your whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless in the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. •
[24] He is faithful who hath called you, who also will do it. •
[25] Brethren, pray for us.
[26] Salute 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] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.