[1] I don't need to write you about the time or date when all this will happen. [2] You surely know that the Lord's return will be as a thief coming at night. [3] People will think they are safe and secure. But destruction will suddenly strike them like the pains of a woman about to give birth. And they won't escape. [4] My dear friends, you don't live in darkness, and so that day won't surprise you like a thief. [5] You belong to the light and live in the day. We don't live in the night or belong to the dark. [6] Others may sleep, but we should stay awake and be alert. [7] People sleep during the night, and some even get drunk. [8] But we belong to the day. So we must stay sober and let our faith and love be like a suit of armor. Our firm hope that we will be saved is our helmet. [9] God doesn't intend to punish us, but wants us to be saved by our Lord Jesus Christ. [10] Christ died for us, so that we could live with him, whether we are alive or dead when he comes. [11] That's why you must encourage and help each other, just as you are already doing. [12] My friends, we ask you to be thoughtful of your leaders who work hard and tell you how to live for the Lord. [13] Show them great respect and love because of their work. Try to get along with each other. [14] My friends, we beg you to warn anyone who isn't living right. Encourage anyone who feels left out, help all who are weak, and be patient with everyone. [15] Don't be hateful to people, just because they are hateful to you. Rather, be good to each other and to everyone else. [16] Always be joyful [17] and never stop praying. [18] Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do. [19] Don't turn away God's Spirit [20] or ignore prophecies. [21] Put everything to the test. Accept what is good [22] and don't have anything to do with evil. [23] I pray that God, who gives peace, will make you completely holy. And may your spirit, soul, and body be kept healthy and faultless until our Lord Jesus Christ returns. [24] The one who chose you can be trusted, and he will do this. [25] Friends, please pray for us. [26] Give the Lord's followers a warm greeting. [27] In the name of the Lord I beg you to read this letter to all his followers. [28] I pray that our Lord Jesus Christ will be kind to you!
