17
So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer1 live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking.218
They are darkened in their understanding3 and separated from the life of God4 because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts.519
Having lost all sensitivity,6 they have given themselves over7 to sensuality8 so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.
20
That, however, is not the way of life you learned
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when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.
22
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off9 your old self,10 which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires;1123
to be made new in the attitude of your minds;1224
and to put on13 the new self,14 created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.1525
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully16 to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.1726
"In your anger do not sin"a:18 Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,
27
and do not give the devil a foothold.1928
Those who have been stealing must steal no longer, but must work,20 doing something useful with their own hands,21 that they may have something to share with those in need.2229
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths,23 but only what is helpful for building others up24 according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
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And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God,25 with whom you were sealed26 for the day of redemption.2731
Get rid of28 all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.2932
Be kind and compassionate to one another,30 forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.31
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