The Day of the Lord

(Zephaniah 1:7-18; 2 Peter 3:10-13)

1But of the times and the seasons, brothers, you have no need that I write to you. 2For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction comes on them, as travail on a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 4But you, brothers, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. 5You are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. 6Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. 7For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. 8But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. 9For God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 10Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. 11Why comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also you do.

Christian Living

12And we beseech you, brothers, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 13And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. 14Now we exhort you, brothers, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. 15See that none render evil for evil to any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. 16Rejoice ever more. 17Pray without ceasing. 18In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 19Quench not the Spirit. 20Despise not prophesyings. 21Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22Abstain from all appearance of evil.

Final Blessings

23And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24Faithful is he that calls you, who also will do it.

25Brothers, pray for us.

26Greet all the brothers with an holy kiss. 27I charge you by the Lord that this letter be read to all the holy brothers.

28The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.