# verses

book: John
contenido:
So they said to one another, “Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it, to decide whose it will be.” This was to fulfill the Scripture, “They divided My outer clothing among them, and for My clothing they cast lots.”


book: John
contenido:
So the soldiers did these things. But standing by the cross of Jesus were His mother, His mother’s sister [Salome], Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.


book: John
contenido:
So Jesus, seeing His mother, and the disciple whom He loved (esteemed) standing near, said to His mother, “[Dear] woman, look, [here is] your son!”


book: John
contenido:
Then He said to the disciple (John), “Look! [here is] your mother [protect and provide for her]!” From that hour the disciple took her into his own home.


book: John
contenido:
After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said in fulfillment of the Scripture, “I am thirsty.”


book: John
contenido:
A jar full of sour wine was placed there; so they put a sponge soaked in the sour wine on [a branch of] hyssop and held it to His mouth.


book: John
contenido:
When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And He bowed His head and [voluntarily] gave up His spirit.


book: John
contenido:
Care of the Body of Jesus Since it was the day of Preparation [for the Sabbath], in order to prevent the bodies from hanging on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high holy day) the Jews asked Pilate to have their legs broken [to hasten death] and the bodies taken away.


book: John
contenido:
So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first man, and of the other who had been crucified with Him.


book: John
contenido:
But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came [flowing] out.


book: John
contenido:
And he (John, the eyewitness) who has seen it has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you also [who read this] may believe.


book: John
contenido:
And after this, Joseph of Arimathea—a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews—asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away His body.


book: John
contenido:
Nicodemus, who had first come to Him at night, also came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, [weighing] about a hundred [Roman] pounds.


book: John
contenido:
So they took Jesus’ body and bound it in linen wrappings with the fragrant spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews.


book: John
contenido:
Now there was a garden at the place where He was crucified, and in the garden a new tomb [cut out of solid rock] in which no one had yet been laid.


book: John
contenido:
Therefore, because of the Jewish day of Preparation, and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.


book: John
contenido:
The Empty Tomb Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw the stone [already] removed from the [groove across the entrance of the] tomb.


book: John
contenido:
So she ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple (John), whom Jesus loved (esteemed), and said to them, “They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him!”


book: John
contenido:
And the two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and arrived at the tomb first.


book: John
contenido:
Stooping down and looking in, he saw the linen wrappings [neatly] lying there; but he did not go in.


book: John
contenido:
Then Simon Peter came up, following him, and went into the tomb and saw the linen wrappings [neatly] lying there;


book: John
contenido:
and the [burial] face-cloth which had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the [other] linen wrappings, but rolled up in a place by itself.


book: John
contenido:
So the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, went in too; and he saw [the wrappings and the face-cloth] and believed [without any doubt that Jesus had risen from the dead].


book: John
contenido:
But Mary [who had returned] was standing outside the tomb sobbing; and so, as she wept, she stooped down and looked into the tomb;


book: John
contenido:
and she saw two angels in white sitting there, one at the head and one at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.


book: John
contenido:
And they said to her, “Woman, why are you crying?” She told them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.”


book: John
contenido:
After saying this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus.


book: John
contenido:
Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you crying? For whom are you looking?” Supposing that He was the gardener, she replied, “Sir, if you are the one who has carried Him away from here, tell me where you have put Him, and I will take Him away.”


book: John
contenido:
Jesus said to her, “Do not hold Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’”


book: John
contenido:
Mary Magdalene came, reporting to the disciples that she had seen the Lord and that He had said these things to her.


book: John
contenido:
Jesus among His Disciples So when it was evening on that same day, the first day of the week, though the disciples were [meeting] behind barred doors for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them, and said, “Peace to you.”


book: John
contenido:
After He said this, He showed them His hands and His side. When the disciples saw the Lord, they were filled with great joy.


book: John
contenido:
Then Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you [as My representatives].”


book: John
contenido:
If you forgive the sins of anyone they are forgiven [because of their faith]; if you retain the sins of anyone, they are retained [and remain unforgiven because of their unbelief].”


book: John
contenido:
But Thomas, one of the twelve [disciples], who was called Didymus (the twin), was not with them when Jesus came.


book: John
contenido:
So the other disciples kept telling him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see in His hands the marks of the nails, and put my finger into the nail prints, and put my hand into His side, I will never believe.”


book: John
contenido:
Eight days later His disciples were again inside the house, and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, though the doors had been barred, and stood among them and said, “Peace to you.”


book: John
contenido:
Then He said to Thomas, “Reach here with your finger, and see My hands; and put out your hand and place it in My side. Do not be unbelieving, but [stop doubting and] believe.”


book: John
contenido:
Jesus said to him, “Because you have seen Me, do you now believe? Blessed [happy, spiritually secure, and favored by God] are they who did not see [Me] and yet believed [in Me].”


book: John
contenido:
Purpose of Writing this Gospel There are also many other signs (attesting miracles) that Jesus performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book;


book: John
contenido:
but these have been written so that you may believe [with a deep, abiding trust] that Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed), the Son of God; and that by believing [and trusting in and relying on Him] you may have life in His name.


book: John
contenido:
Jesus Appears at the Sea of Galilee After this Jesus revealed Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias (Galilee). And He did it in this way:


book: John
contenido:
Simon Peter, and Thomas who is called Didymus (the twin), and Nathanael from Cana of Galilee, as well as [John and James] the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together.


book: John
contenido:
Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said, “And we are coming with you.” So they went out and got into the boat; and that night they caught nothing.


book: John
contenido:
As morning was breaking, Jesus [came and] stood on the beach; however, the disciples did not know that it was Jesus.


book: John
contenido:
So Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish [to eat along with your bread]?” They answered, “No.”


book: John
contenido:
And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right-hand side of the boat (starboard) and you will find some.” So they cast [the net], and then they were not able to haul it in because of the great catch of fish.


book: John
contenido:
Then that disciple (John) whom Jesus loved (esteemed) said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” So when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer tunic (for he was stripped for work) and threw himself into the sea [and swam ashore].


book: John
contenido:
But the other disciples came in the small boat, for they were not far from shore, only about a hundred yards away, dragging the net full of fish.


book: John
contenido:
So when they got out on the beach, they saw a charcoal fire set up and fish on it cooking, and bread.


book: John
contenido:
So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net to land, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three [of them]; and although there were so many, the net was not torn.


book: John
contenido:
Jesus Provides Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared to ask Him, “Who are You?” They knew [without any doubt] that it was the Lord.


book: John
contenido:
The Love Motivation So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these [others do—with total commitment and devotion]?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You [with a deep, personal affection, as for a close friend].” Jesus said to him, “Feed My lambs.”


book: John
contenido:
Again He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me [with total commitment and devotion]?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You [with a deep, personal affection, as for a close friend].” Jesus said to him, “Shepherd My sheep.”


book: John
contenido:
He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me [with a deep, personal affection for Me, as for a close friend]?” Peter was grieved that He asked him the third time, “Do you [really] love Me [with a deep, personal affection, as for a close friend]?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know everything; You know that I love You [with a deep, personal affection, as for a close friend].” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep.


book: John
contenido:
Our Times Are in His Hand I assure you and most solemnly say to you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and walked wherever you wished; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands and arms, and someone else will dress you, and carry you where you do not wish to go.”


book: John
contenido:
Now He said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. And after saying this, He said to him, “Follow Me [walk the same path of life that I have walked]!”


book: John
contenido:
Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them; the one who also had leaned back on His chest at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray You?”


book: John
contenido:
Jesus said to him, “If I want him to stay alive until I come [again], what is that to you? You follow Me!”


book: John
contenido:
So this word went out among the brothers that this disciple (John) was not going to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not going to die, but only, “If I want him to stay alive until I come [again], what is that to you?”


book: John
contenido:
This is the same disciple who is testifying to these things and has recorded them; and we know [without any doubt] that his testimony is true.


book: John
contenido:
And there are also many other things which Jesus did, which if they were recorded one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.


book: Acts
contenido:
Introduction The first account I made, Theophilus, was [a continuous report] about all the things that Jesus began to do and to teach


book: Acts
contenido:
until the day when He ascended to heaven, after He had by the Holy Spirit given instruction to the apostles (special messengers) whom He had chosen.


book: Acts
contenido:
To these [men] He also showed Himself alive after His suffering [in Gethsemane and on the cross], by [a series of] many infallible proofs and unquestionable demonstrations, appearing to them over a period of forty days and talking to them about the things concerning the kingdom of God.


book: Acts
contenido:
While being together and eating with them, He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for what the Father had promised, “Of which,” He said, “you have heard Me speak.


book: Acts
contenido:
For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized and empowered and united with the Holy Spirit, not long from now.”


book: Acts
contenido:
So when they had come together, they asked Him repeatedly, “Lord, are You at this time reestablishing the kingdom and restoring it to Israel?”


book: Acts
contenido:
He said to them, “It is not for you to know the times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority.


book: Acts
contenido:
But you will receive power and ability when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be My witnesses [to tell people about Me] both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and even to the ends of the earth.”


book: Acts
contenido:
The Ascension And after He said these things, He was caught up as they looked on, and a cloud took Him up out of their sight.


book: Acts
contenido:
While they were looking intently into the sky as He was going, two men in white clothing suddenly stood beside them,


book: Acts
contenido:
who said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This [same] Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will return in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.”


book: Acts
contenido:
The Upper Room Then the disciples returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet (Olive Grove), which is near Jerusalem, [only] a Sabbath day’s journey (less than one mile) away.


book: Acts
contenido:
When they had entered the city, they went upstairs to the upper room where they were staying [indefinitely]; that is, Peter, and John and [his brother] James, and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew (Nathanael) and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas (Thaddaeus) the son of James.


book: Acts
contenido:
All these with one mind and one purpose were continually devoting themselves to prayer, [waiting together] along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now on one of these days Peter stood up among the brothers and sisters (a gathering of about a hundred and twenty believers was there) and he said,


book: Acts
contenido:
“Brothers and sisters, it was necessary that the Scripture be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit foretold by the lips of David [king of Israel] about Judas [Iscariot], who acted as guide to those who arrested Jesus.


book: Acts
contenido:
(Now Judas Iscariot acquired a piece of land [indirectly] with the [money paid him as a] reward for his treachery, and falling headlong, his body burst open in the middle and all his intestines poured out.


book: Acts
contenido:
All the people in Jerusalem learned about this, so in their own dialect—Aramaic—they called the piece of land Hakeldama, that is, Field of Blood.)


book: Acts
contenido:
“For in the book of Psalms it is written, ‘Let his place of residence become desolate, And let there be no one to live in it’; and [again], ‘Let another take his position as overseer.’


book: Acts
contenido:
beginning with the baptism by John [at the outset of Jesus’ ministry] until the day when He was taken up from us—one of these men must become a witness with us [to testify] of His resurrection.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And they put forward two men, Joseph, the one called Barsabbas (who was surnamed Justus), and Matthias.


book: Acts
contenido:
They prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know all hearts [their thoughts, motives, desires], show us which one of these two You have chosen


book: Acts
contenido:
and suddenly a sound came from heaven like a rushing violent wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.


book: Acts
contenido:
There appeared to them tongues resembling fire, which were being distributed [among them], and they rested on each one of them [as each person received the Holy Spirit].


book: Acts
contenido:
And they were all filled [that is, diffused throughout their being] with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues (different languages), as the Spirit was giving them the ability to speak out [clearly and appropriately].


book: Acts
contenido:
And when this sound was heard, a crowd gathered, and they were bewildered because each one was hearing those in the upper room speaking in his own language or dialect.


book: Acts
contenido:
[Among us there are] Parthians, Medes and Elamites, and people of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia [Minor],


book: Acts
contenido:
Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the districts of Libya around Cyrene, and the visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes (Gentile converts to Judaism),


book: Acts
contenido:
And they were beside themselves with amazement and were greatly perplexed, saying one to another, “What could this mean?”


book: Acts
contenido:
But others were laughing and joking and ridiculing them, saying, “They are full of sweet wine and are drunk!”


book: Acts
contenido:
Peter’s Sermon But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all you who live in Jerusalem, let this be explained to you; listen closely and pay attention to what I have to say.


book: Acts
contenido:
These people are not drunk, as you assume, since it is [only] the third hour of the day (9:00 a.m.);


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘And it shall be in the last days,’ says God, ‘That I will pour out My Spirit upon all mankind; And your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, And your young men shall see [divinely prompted] visions, And your old men shall dream [divinely prompted] dreams;


book: Acts
contenido:
 Even on My bond-servants, both men and women, I will in those days pour out My Spirit And they shall prophesy.


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘And I will bring about wonders in the sky above And signs (attesting miracles) on the earth below, Blood and fire and smoking vapor.


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘The sun shall be turned into darkness And the moon into blood, Before the great and glorious day of the Lord comes.


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘And it shall be that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord [invoking, adoring, and worshiping the Lord Jesus] shall be saved (rescued spiritually).’


book: Acts
contenido:
“Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man accredited and pointed out and attested to you by God with [the power to perform] miracles and wonders and signs which God worked through Him in your [very] midst, just as you yourselves know—


book: Acts
contenido:
this Man, when handed over [to the Roman authorities] according to the predetermined decision and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross and put to death by the hands of lawless and godless men.


book: Acts
contenido:
But God raised Him up, releasing Him and bringing an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in death’s power.


book: Acts
contenido:
For David says of Him, ‘I saw the Lord constantly before me; For He is at my right hand, so that I will not be shaken [from my state of security].


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘Therefore my heart rejoiced and my tongue exulted exceedingly; Moreover my flesh also will live in hope [that is, will encamp in anticipation of the resurrection];


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘For You will not forsake me and abandon my soul to Hades (the realm of the dead), Nor let Your Holy One undergo decay [after death].


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘You have made known to me the ways of life; You will fill me [infusing my soul] with joy with Your presence.’


book: Acts
contenido:
“Brothers, I may confidently and freely say to you regarding the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day.


book: Acts
contenido:
And so, being a prophet and knowing fully that God had sworn to him with an oath that He would seat one of his descendants on his throne,


book: Acts
contenido:
he foresaw and spoke [prophetically] of the resurrection of the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed), that He was not abandoned [in death] to Hades (the realm of the dead), nor did His body undergo decay.


book: Acts
contenido:
Therefore having been exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He has poured out this [blessing] which you both see and hear.


book: Acts
contenido:
For David did not ascend into the heavens, yet he himself says, ‘The Lord [the Father] said to my Lord [the Son], “Sit at My right hand,


book: Acts
contenido:
Therefore let all the house of Israel recognize beyond all doubt that God has made Him both Lord and Christ (Messiah, Anointed)—this Jesus whom you crucified.”


book: Acts
contenido:
The Ingathering Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart [with remorse and anxiety], and they said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what are we to do?”


book: Acts
contenido:
And Peter said to them, “Repent [change your old way of thinking, turn from your sinful ways, accept and follow Jesus as the Messiah] and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ because of the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.


book: Acts
contenido:
For the promise [of the Holy Spirit] is for you and your children and for all who are far away [including the Gentiles], as many as the Lord our God calls to Himself.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And Peter solemnly testified and continued to admonish and urge them with many more words, saying, “Be saved from this crooked and unjust generation!”


book: Acts
contenido:
So then, those who accepted his message were baptized; and on that day about 3,000 souls were added [to the body of believers].


book: Acts
contenido:
They were continually and faithfully devoting themselves to the instruction of the apostles, and to fellowship, to eating meals together and to prayers.


book: Acts
contenido:
A sense of awe was felt by everyone, and many wonders and signs (attesting miracles) were taking place through the apostles.


book: Acts
contenido:
And all those who had believed [in Jesus as Savior] were together and had all things in common [considering their possessions to belong to the group as a whole].


book: Acts
contenido:
And they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing the proceeds with all [the other believers], as anyone had need.


book: Acts
contenido:
Day after day they met in the temple [area] continuing with one mind, and breaking bread in various private homes. They were eating their meals together with joy and generous hearts,


book: Acts
contenido:
praising God continually, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord kept adding to their number daily those who were being saved.


book: Acts
contenido:
Healing the Lame Beggar Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour (3:00 p.m.),


book: Acts
contenido:
and a man who had been unable to walk from birth was being carried along, whom they used to set down every day at that gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, so that he could beg alms from those entering the temple.


book: Acts
contenido:
But Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have; but what I do have I give to you: In the name (authority, power) of Jesus Christ the Nazarene—[begin now to] walk and go on walking!”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then he seized the man’s right hand with a firm grip and raised him up. And at once his feet and ankles became strong and steady,


book: Acts
contenido:
and with a leap he stood up and began to walk; and he went into the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God.


book: Acts
contenido:
and they recognized him as the very man who usually sat begging for coins at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, and they were filled with wonder and amazement and were mystified at what had happened to him.


book: Acts
contenido:
Peter’s Second Sermon Now while he was still holding on to Peter and John, all the people, utterly amazed, ran together and crowded around them at the covered porch called Solomon’s portico.


book: Acts
contenido:
And Peter, seeing this, said to the people, “You men of Israel, why are you amazed at this? Why are you staring at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?


book: Acts
contenido:
The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified His Servant and Son Jesus [doing Him this honor], the One whom you handed over and disowned and rejected before Pilate, when he had decided to release Him.


book: Acts
contenido:
But you disowned and denied the Holy and Righteous One and asked for [the pardon of] a murderer to be granted to you.


book: Acts
contenido:
But you killed the Prince (Author, Originator, Source) of life, whom God raised [bodily] from the dead. To this [fact] we are witnesses [for we have seen the risen Christ].


book: Acts
contenido:
And on the basis of faith in His name, it is the name of Jesus which has strengthened this man whom you see and know; and the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect health and complete wholeness in your presence.


book: Acts
contenido:
“Now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance [not fully aware of what you were doing], just as your rulers did also.


book: Acts
contenido:
And so God has fulfilled what He foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that His Christ (Messiah, Anointed) would suffer.


book: Acts
contenido:
So repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins] and return [to God—seek His purpose for your life], so that your sins may be wiped away [blotted out, completely erased], so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord [restoring you like a cool wind on a hot day];


book: Acts
contenido:
whom heaven must keep until the time for the [complete] restoration of all things about which God promised through the mouth of His holy prophets from ancient time.


book: Acts
contenido:
Moses said, ‘The Lord God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your countrymen; you shall listen to Him and obey everything He tells you.


book: Acts
contenido:
And it will be that every person that does not listen to and heed that Prophet will be utterly destroyed from among the people.’


book: Acts
contenido:
Indeed, all the prophets who have spoken, from Samuel and those who came after him, also announced these days.


book: Acts
contenido:
You are the sons (descendants) of the prophets and [heirs] of the covenant which God made with your fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your seed (descendant) all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’


book: Acts
contenido:
It was for you first of all that God raised up His Servant and Son [Jesus], and sent Him to bless you by turning every one of you from your wicked ways.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Peter and John Arrested And while Peter and John were talking to the people, the priests and the captain [who was in charge of the temple area and] of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to them,


book: Acts
contenido:
being extremely disturbed and thoroughly annoyed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in [the case of] Jesus the resurrection of the dead.


book: Acts
contenido:
But many of those who heard the message [of salvation] believed [in Jesus and accepted Him as the Christ]. And the number of the men came to be about 5,000.


book: Acts
contenido:
On the next day, their magistrates and elders and scribes (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court) were gathered together in Jerusalem;


book: Acts
contenido:
and Annas the high priest was there, and Caiaphas and John and Alexander, and all others who were of high-priestly descent.


book: Acts
contenido:
When they had put the men in front of them, they repeatedly asked, “By what sort of power, or in what name [that is, by what kind of authority], did you do this [healing]?”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Peter, filled with [the power of] the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers and elders of the people [members of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish High Court],


book: Acts
contenido:
if we are being put on trial today [to interrogate us] for a good deed done to [benefit] a disabled man, as to how this man has been restored to health,


book: Acts
contenido:
let it be known and clearly understood by all of you, and by all the people of Israel, that in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you [demanded be] crucified [by the Romans and], whom God raised from the dead—in this name [that is, by the authority and power of Jesus] this man stands here before you in good health.


book: Acts
contenido:
This Jesus is the stone which was despised and rejected by you, the builders, but which became the chief Cornerstone.


book: Acts
contenido:
And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among people by which we must be saved [for God has provided the world no alternative for salvation].”


book: Acts
contenido:
Threat and Release Now when the men of the Sanhedrin (Jewish High Court) saw the confidence and boldness of Peter and John, and grasped the fact that they were uneducated and untrained [ordinary] men, they were astounded, and began to recognize that they had been with Jesus.


book: Acts
contenido:
But after ordering them to step out of the Council [chamber], they began to confer among themselves,


book: Acts
contenido:
saying, “What are we to do with these men? For the fact that an extraordinary miracle has taken place through them is public knowledge and clearly evident to all the residents of Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.


book: Acts
contenido:
But to keep it from spreading further among the people and the nation, let us [sternly] warn them not to speak again to anyone in this name.”


book: Acts
contenido:
So they sent for them, and commanded them not to speak [as His representatives] or teach at all in the name of Jesus [using Him as their authority].


book: Acts
contenido:
But Peter and John replied to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you and obey you rather than God, you must judge [for yourselves];


book: Acts
contenido:
When the rulers and Council members had threatened them further, they let them go, finding no way to punish them because [of their fear] of the people, for they were all praising and glorifying and honoring God for what had happened;


book: Acts
contenido:
for the man to whom this sign (attesting miracle) of healing had happened was more than forty years old.


book: Acts
contenido:
After Peter and John were released, they returned to their own [people] and reported everything that the chief priests and elders had said to them.


book: Acts
contenido:
And when they heard it, they raised their voices together to God and said, “O Sovereign Lord [having complete power and authority], it is You who made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything that is in them,


book: Acts
contenido:
who by the Holy Spirit, through the mouth of our father David, Your servant, said, ‘Why did the nations (Gentiles) become arrogant and rage, And the peoples devise futile things [against the Lord]?


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘The kings of the earth took their stand [to attack], And the rulers were assembled together Against the Lord and against His Anointed (the Christ, the Messiah).’


book: Acts
contenido:
For in this city there were gathered together against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel,


book: Acts
contenido:
to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose predestined [before the creation of the world] to occur [and so without knowing it, they served Your own purpose].


book: Acts
contenido:
And now, Lord, observe their threats [take them into account] and grant that Your bond-servants may declare Your message [of salvation] with great confidence,


book: Acts
contenido:
while You extend Your hand to heal, and signs and wonders (attesting miracles) take place through the name [and the authority and power] of Your holy Servant and Son Jesus.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And when they had prayed, the place where they were meeting together was shaken [a sign of God’s presence]; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness and courage.


book: Acts
contenido:
Sharing among Believers Now the company of believers was of one heart and soul, and not one [of them] claimed that anything belonging to him was [exclusively] his own, but everything was common property and for the use of all.


book: Acts
contenido:
And with great ability and power the apostles were continuously testifying to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace [God’s remarkable lovingkindness and favor and goodwill] rested richly upon them all.


book: Acts
contenido:
There was not a needy person among them, because those who were owners of land or houses were selling them, and bringing the proceeds of the sales


book: Acts
contenido:
and placing the money down at the apostles’ feet. Then it was distributed to each as anyone had need.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now Joseph, a Levite and native of Cyprus, who was surnamed Barnabas by the apostles (which translated means Son of Encouragement),


book: Acts
contenido:
Fate of Ananias and Sapphira Now a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property,


book: Acts
contenido:
and with his wife’s full knowledge [and complicity] he kept back some of the proceeds, bringing only a portion of it, and set it at the apostles’ feet.


book: Acts
contenido:
But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and [secretly] keep back for yourself some of the proceeds [from the sale] of the land?


book: Acts
contenido:
As long as it remained [unsold], did it not remain your own [to do with as you pleased]? And after it was sold, was the money not under your control? Why is it that you have conceived this act [of hypocrisy and deceit] in your heart? You have not [simply] lied to people, but to God.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And hearing these words, Ananias fell down suddenly and died; and great fear and awe gripped those who heard of it.


book: Acts
contenido:
And the young men [in the congregation] got up and wrapped up the body, and carried it out and buried it.


book: Acts
contenido:
Peter asked her, “Tell me whether you sold your land for so much?” And she said, “Yes, for so much.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Peter said to her, “How could you two have agreed together to put the Spirit of the Lord to the test? Look! The feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And at once she fell down at his feet and died; and the young men came in and found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband.


book: Acts
contenido:
At the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders (attesting miracles) were continually taking place among the people. And by common consent they all met together [at the temple] in [the covered porch called] Solomon’s portico.


book: Acts
contenido:
But none of the rest [of the people, the non-believers] dared to associate with them; however, the people were holding them in high esteem and were speaking highly of them.


book: Acts
contenido:
More and more believers in the Lord, crowds of men and women, were constantly being added to their number,


book: Acts
contenido:
to such an extent that they even carried their sick out into the streets and put them on cots and sleeping pads, so that when Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on one of them [with healing power].


book: Acts
contenido:
And the people from the towns in the vicinity of Jerusalem were coming together, bringing the sick and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all being healed.


book: Acts
contenido:
Imprisonment and Release But the high priest stood up, along with all his associates (that is, the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with jealousy and resentment.


book: Acts
contenido:
“Go, stand and continue to tell the people in the temple [courtyards] the whole message of this Life [the eternal life revealed by Christ and found through faith in Him].”


book: Acts
contenido:
When they heard this, they went into the temple [courtyards] about daybreak and began teaching. Now when the high priest and his associates arrived, they called together the Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court), even all the council of elders of the sons of Israel, and sent word to the prison for the apostles to be brought [before them].


book: Acts
contenido:
But when the officers arrived, they did not find them in the prison; and they came back and reported,


book: Acts
contenido:
“We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened [the doors], we found no one inside.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Now when the captain of the temple guard and the chief priests heard these things, they were greatly perplexed, wondering what would come of this.


book: Acts
contenido:
But someone came and told them, “The men whom you put in prison are standing [right here] in the temple [area], teaching the people!”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then the captain went with the officers and brought them back, without hurting them (because they were afraid of the people, worried that they might be stoned).


book: Acts
contenido:
So they brought them and presented them before the Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court). The high priest questioned them,


book: Acts
contenido:
saying, “We gave you strict orders not to continue teaching in this name, and yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you intend to bring this Man’s blood on us [by accusing us as His murderers].”


book: Acts
contenido:
The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you had put to death by hanging Him on a cross [and you are responsible].


book: Acts
contenido:
God exalted Him to His right hand as Prince and Savior and Deliverer, in order to grant repentance to Israel, and [to grant] forgiveness of sins.


book: Acts
contenido:
And we are witnesses of these things; and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has bestowed on those who obey Him.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Gamaliel’s Counsel Now when they heard this, they were infuriated and they intended to kill the apostles.


book: Acts
contenido:
But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the Law [of Moses], highly esteemed by all the people, stood up in the Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court) and ordered that the men be taken outside for a little while.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then he said to the Council, “Men of Israel, be careful in regard to what you propose to do to these men.


book: Acts
contenido:
For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody [of importance], and a group of about four hundred men allied themselves with him. But he was killed, and all who followed him were scattered and came to nothing.


book: Acts
contenido:
After this man, Judas the Galilean rose up, [and led an uprising] during the time of the census, and drew people after him; he was also killed, and all his followers were scattered.


book: Acts
contenido:
So in the present case, I say to you, stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action is of men [merely human in origin], it will fail and be destroyed;


book: Acts
contenido:
but if it is of God [and it appears that it is], you will not be able to stop them; or else you may even be found fighting against God!”


book: Acts
contenido:
The Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court) took his advice; and after summoning the apostles, they flogged them and ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and released them.


book: Acts
contenido:
So they left the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy [dignified by indignity] to suffer shame for [the sake of] His name.


book: Acts
contenido:
And every single day, in the temple [area] and in homes, they did not stop teaching and telling the good news of Jesus as the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed).


book: Acts
contenido:
Choosing of the Seven Now about this time, when the number of disciples was increasing, a complaint was made by the Hellenists (Greek-speaking Jews) against the [native] Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food.


book: Acts
contenido:
So the Twelve called the disciples together and said, “It is not appropriate for us to neglect [teaching] the word of God in order to serve tables and manage the distribution of food.


book: Acts
contenido:
Therefore, brothers, choose from among you seven men with good reputations [men of godly character and moral integrity], full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task.


book: Acts
contenido:
But we will [continue to] devote ourselves [steadfastly] to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”


book: Acts
contenido:
The suggestion pleased the whole congregation; and they selected Stephen, a man full of faith [in Christ Jesus], and [filled with and led by] the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas (Nikolaos), a proselyte (Gentile convert) from Antioch.


book: Acts
contenido:
They brought these men before the apostles; and after praying, they laid their hands on them [to dedicate and commission them for this service].


book: Acts
contenido:
And the message of God kept on growing and spreading, and the number of disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem; and a large number of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith [accepting Jesus as Messiah and acknowledging Him as the Source of eternal salvation].


book: Acts
contenido:
Now Stephen, full of grace (divine blessing, favor) and power, was doing great wonders and signs (attesting miracles) among the people.


book: Acts
contenido:
However, some men from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen (freed Jewish slaves), both Cyrenians and Alexandrians, and some from Cilicia and [the province of] Asia, rose up and questioned and argued with Stephen.


book: Acts
contenido:
But they were not able to successfully withstand and cope with the wisdom and the intelligence [and the power and inspiration] of the Spirit by whom he was speaking.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then [to attack him another way] they secretly instructed men to say, “We have heard this man [Stephen] speak blasphemous (slanderous, sacrilegious, abusive) words against Moses and against God.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And they provoked and incited the people, as well as the elders and the scribes, and they came up to Stephen and seized him and brought him before the Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court).


book: Acts
contenido:
They presented false witnesses who said, “This man never stops speaking against this holy place and the Law [of Moses];


book: Acts
contenido:
for we have heard him say that this Jesus the Nazarene will tear down this place and will change the traditions and customs which Moses handed down to us.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then all those who were sitting in the Council, stared [intently] at him, and they saw that Stephen’s face was like the face of an angel.


book: Acts
contenido:
And he answered, “Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory [the Shekinah, the radiance of God] appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran,


book: Acts
contenido:
and He said to him, ‘Leave your country and your relatives, and come to the land that I will show you.’


book: Acts
contenido:
Then he left the land of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. And from there, after his father died, God sent him to this country in which you now live.


book: Acts
contenido:
But He did not give him inheritable property, not even enough ground to take a step on, yet He promised that He would give it to Him as a possession, and to his descendants after him.


book: Acts
contenido:
And this is, in effect, what God spoke [to him]: That his descendants would be aliens (strangers) in a foreign land, and that they would be enslaved and mistreated for four hundred years.


book: Acts
contenido:
‘And I will judge any nation to whom they will be in bondage,’ said God, ‘and after that they will come out and serve Me [in worship] in this place.’


book: Acts
contenido:
And God gave Abraham a covenant [a formal agreement to be strictly observed] of [which] circumcision [was the sign]; and so [under these circumstances] Abraham became the father of Isaac, and circumcised him on the eighth day; and Isaac [became the father] of Jacob, and Jacob [became the father] of the twelve patriarchs.


book: Acts
contenido:
“The [ten elder] patriarchs, overwhelmed with jealousy, sold [their younger brother] Joseph into [slavery in] Egypt; but God was with him,


book: Acts
contenido:
and He rescued him from all his suffering, and gave him favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and he made Joseph governor over Egypt and over his entire household.


book: Acts
contenido:
“Now a famine came over all Egypt and Canaan, bringing great distress and our fathers could not find food [for their households and livestock].


book: Acts
contenido:
And on the second visit Joseph identified himself to his brothers, and Joseph’s family and background were revealed to Pharaoh.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Joseph sent and invited Jacob his father and all his relatives to come to him, seventy-five persons in all.


book: Acts
contenido:
and [from Egypt] their bodies were taken back to Shechem and placed in the tomb which Abraham had purchased for a sum of money from the sons of Hamor in Shechem.


book: Acts
contenido:
“But as the time [for the fulfillment] of the promise which God had made to Abraham was approaching, the [Hebrew] people increased and multiplied in Egypt,


book: Acts
contenido:
until [the time when] there arose another king over egypt who did not know joseph [nor his history and the merit of his service to Egypt].


book: Acts
contenido:
He shrewdly exploited our race and mistreated our fathers, forcing them to expose their [male] babies so that they would die.


book: Acts
contenido:
It was at this [critical] time that Moses was born; and he was lovely in the sight of God, and for three months he was nourished in his father’s house.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then when he was set outside [to die], Pharaoh’s daughter rescued him and claimed him for herself, and cared for him as her own son.


book: Acts
contenido:
So Moses was educated in all the wisdom and culture of the Egyptians, and he was a man of power in words and deeds.


book: Acts
contenido:
But when he reached the age of forty, it came into his heart to visit his brothers, the sons of Israel.


book: Acts
contenido:
And when he saw one [of them] being treated unfairly, he defended the oppressed man and avenged him by striking and killing the Egyptian.


book: Acts
contenido:
He expected his countrymen to understand that God was granting them freedom through him [assuming that they would accept him], but they did not understand.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then on the next day he suddenly appeared to two of them as they were fighting, and he tried to reconcile them, saying, ‘Men, you are brothers; why do you wrong one another?’


book: Acts
contenido:
But the man who was injuring his neighbor pushed Moses away, saying, ‘Who appointed you ruler and judge over us?


book: Acts
contenido:
“After forty years had passed, an angel appeared to him in the wilderness of Mount Sinai, in the flame of a burning thorn bush.


book: Acts
contenido:
When Moses saw it, he was astonished at the sight; but as he went near to look more closely, the voice of the Lord came [to him, saying]:


book: Acts
contenido:
‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob.’ Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then the Lord said to him, ‘Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy ground [worthy of reverence and respect].


book: Acts
contenido:
I have most certainly seen the oppression of My people in Egypt and have heard their groaning, and I have come down to rescue them. Now come, and I will send you to Egypt [as My messenger].’


book: Acts
contenido:
“This Moses whom they rejected, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’ is the very one whom God sent to be both a ruler and a deliverer, with the [protecting and helping] hand of the Angel who appeared to him in the thorn bush.


book: Acts
contenido:
This man led them out [of Egypt] after performing wonders and signs in the land of Egypt and at the Red Sea and in the wilderness for forty years.


book: Acts
contenido:
This is the Moses who said to the children of Israel, ‘God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your countrymen.’


book: Acts
contenido:
This is the one who was in the congregation in the wilderness together with the Angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and who was with our fathers; and he received living oracles [divine words that still live] to be handed down to you.


book: Acts
contenido:
Our fathers were unwilling to be subject to him [and refused to listen to him]. They rejected him, and in their hearts turned back to Egypt.


book: Acts
contenido:
They said to Aaron, ‘Make for us gods who will go before us; for this Moses who led us out of the land of Egypt, we do not know what has happened to him.’


book: Acts
contenido:
In those days they made a calf and brought a sacrifice to the idol, and rejoiced and celebrated over the works of their hands.


book: Acts
contenido:
But God turned away [from them] and handed them over to serve the host of heaven. As it is written and forever remains written in the book of the prophets, ‘It was not [really] to Me that you offered victims and sacrifices for forty years in the wilderness, was it, O house of Israel?


book: Acts
contenido:
You also took along the tabernacle (portable temple) of Moloch and the star of the god Rompha, the images which you made to worship; and I will remove you beyond Babylon [carrying you away into exile].’


book: Acts
contenido:
“Our fathers had the tabernacle of testimony in the wilderness, just as God directed Moses to make it according to the pattern which he had seen.


book: Acts
contenido:
Our fathers also brought it in [with them into the land] with Joshua when they dispossessed the nations whom God drove out before our fathers, [and so it remained here] until the time of David,


book: Acts
contenido:
who found favor (grace, spiritual blessing) in the sight of God and asked that he might [be allowed to] find a dwelling place for the God of Jacob.


book: Acts
contenido:
However, the Most High [the One infinitely exalted above humanity] does not dwell in houses made by human hands; as the prophet [Isaiah] says,


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘Heaven is My throne, And the earth is the footstool for My feet; What kind of house will you build for Me?’ says the Lord, ‘Or what place is there for My rest?


book: Acts
contenido:
“You stiff-necked and stubborn people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you are always actively resisting the Holy Spirit. You are doing just as your fathers did.


book: Acts
contenido:
Which one of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? They killed those who proclaimed beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whose betrayers and murderers you have now become;


book: Acts
contenido:
Stephen Put to Death Now when they heard this [accusation and understood its implication], they were cut to the heart, and they began grinding their teeth [in rage] at him.


book: Acts
contenido:
But he, being full of the Holy Spirit and led by Him, gazed into heaven and saw the glory [the great splendor and majesty] of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God;


book: Acts
contenido:
and he said, “Look! I see the heavens opened up [in welcome] and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”


book: Acts
contenido:
But they shouted with loud voices, and covered their ears and together rushed at him [considering him guilty of blasphemy].


book: Acts
contenido:
Then they drove him out of the city and began stoning him; and the witnesses placed their outer robes at the feet of a young man named Saul.


book: Acts
contenido:
They continued stoning Stephen as he called on the Lord and said, “Lord Jesus, receive and accept and welcome my spirit!”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then falling on his knees [in worship], he cried out loudly, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them [do not charge them]!” When he had said this, he fell asleep [in death].


book: Acts
contenido:
Saul Persecutes the Church Saul wholeheartedly approved of Stephen’s death. And on that day a great and relentless persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem; and the believers were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except for the apostles.


book: Acts
contenido:
But Saul began ravaging the church [and assaulting believers]; entering house after house and dragging off men and women, putting them in prison.


book: Acts
contenido:
Philip in Samaria Now those [believers] who had been scattered went from place to place preaching the word [the good news of salvation through Christ].


book: Acts
contenido:
Philip [the evangelist] went down to the city of Samaria and began proclaiming Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed) to them.


book: Acts
contenido:
The crowds gathered and were paying close attention to everything Philip said, as they heard [the message] and saw the [miraculous] signs which he was doing [validating his message].


book: Acts
contenido:
For unclean spirits (demons), shouting loudly, were coming out of many who were possessed; and many who had been paralyzed and lame were healed.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now there was a man named Simon, who previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, claiming to be someone great.


book: Acts
contenido:
They all paid [a great deal of] attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is what is called the Great Power of God!”


book: Acts
contenido:
They were paying attention to him because for a long time he had mystified and dazzled them with his magic.


book: Acts
contenido:
But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were being baptized, both men and women.


book: Acts
contenido:
Even Simon believed [Philip’s message of salvation]; and after being baptized, he continued on with Philip, and as he watched the attesting signs and great miracles taking place, he was constantly amazed.


book: Acts
contenido:
When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that [the people of] Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them.


book: Acts
contenido:
for He had not yet fallen on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus [as His possession].


book: Acts
contenido:
Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money,


book: Acts
contenido:
saying, “Give me this authority and power too, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”


book: Acts
contenido:
But Peter said to him, “May your money be destroyed along with you, because you thought you could buy the [free] gift of God with money!


book: Acts
contenido:
You have no part or share in this matter, because your heart (motive, purpose) is not right before God.


book: Acts
contenido:
So repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, this thought of your heart may be forgiven you.


book: Acts
contenido:
But Simon answered, “Pray to the Lord for me both of you, so that nothing of what you have said will come upon me.”


book: Acts
contenido:
An Ethiopian Receives Christ So, when Peter and John had given their testimony and preached the word of the Lord, they started back to Jerusalem, preaching the good news [about salvation] in many Samaritan villages [along the way].


book: Acts
contenido:
But an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Get up and go south to the road that runs from Jerusalem down to Gaza.” (This is a desert road).


book: Acts
contenido:
So he got up and went; and there was an Ethiopian eunuch [a man of great authority], a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure. He had come to Jerusalem to worship,


book: Acts
contenido:
Philip ran up and heard the man reading the prophet Isaiah, and asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?”


book: Acts
contenido:
And he said, “Well, how could I [understand] unless someone guides me [correctly]?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now this was the passage of Scripture which he was reading: “Like a sheep He was led to the slaughter; And as a lamb before its shearer is silent, So He does not open His mouth.


book: Acts
contenido:
 “In humiliation His judgment was taken away [justice was denied Him]. Who will describe His generation? For His life is taken from the earth.”


book: Acts
contenido:
The eunuch replied to Philip, “Please tell me, about whom does the prophet say this? About himself or about someone else?”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Philip spoke and beginning with this Scripture he preached Jesus to him [explaining that He is the promised Messiah and the source of salvation].


book: Acts
contenido:
As they continued along the road, they came to some water; and the eunuch exclaimed, “Look! Water! What forbids me from being baptized?”


book: Acts
contenido:
[Philip said to him, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he replied, “I do believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”]


book: Acts
contenido:
And he ordered that the chariot be stopped; and both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and Philip baptized him.


book: Acts
contenido:
When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord [suddenly] took Philip [and carried him] away [to a different place]; and the eunuch no longer saw him, but he went on his way rejoicing.


book: Acts
contenido:
But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he preached the good news [of salvation] to all the cities, until he came to Caesarea [Maritima].


book: Acts
contenido:
The Conversion of Saul Now Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord [and relentless in his search for believers], went to the high priest,


book: Acts
contenido:
and he asked for letters [of authority] from him to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any men or women there belonging to the Way [believers, followers of Jesus the Messiah], men and women alike, he could arrest them and bring them bound [with chains] to Jerusalem.


book: Acts
contenido:
As he traveled he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him [displaying the glory and majesty of Christ];


book: Acts
contenido:
and he fell to the ground and heard a voice [from heaven] saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting and oppressing Me?”


book: Acts
contenido:
The men who were traveling with him [were terrified and] stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one.


book: Acts
contenido:
Saul got up from the ground, but though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now in Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias; and the Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he answered, “Here I am, Lord.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And the Lord said to him, “Get up and go to the street called Straight, and ask at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus named Saul; for he is praying [there],


book: Acts
contenido:
and in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come in and place his hands on him, so that he may regain his sight.”


book: Acts
contenido:
But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many people about this man, especially how much suffering and evil he has brought on Your saints (God’s people) at Jerusalem;


book: Acts
contenido:
and here [in Damascus] he has authority from the high priests to put in chains all who call on Your name [confessing You as Savior].”


book: Acts
contenido:
But the Lord said to him, “Go, for this man is a [deliberately] chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel;


book: Acts
contenido:
So Ananias left and entered the house, and he laid his hands on Saul and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came [to Damascus], has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit [in order to proclaim Christ to both Jews and Gentiles].”


book: Acts
contenido:
Immediately something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized;


book: Acts
contenido:
and he took some food and was strengthened. Saul Begins to Preach Christ For several days [afterward] Saul remained with the disciples who were at Damascus.


book: Acts
contenido:
And immediately he began proclaiming Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “This Man is the Son of God [the promised Messiah]!”


book: Acts
contenido:
All those who heard him continued to be amazed and said, “Is this not the man who in Jerusalem attacked those who called on this name [of Jesus], and had come here [to Damascus] for the express purpose of bringing them bound [with chains] before the chief priests?”


book: Acts
contenido:
But Saul increased in strength more and more, and continued to perplex the Jews who lived in Damascus by examining [theological evidence] and proving [with Scripture] that this Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed).


book: Acts
contenido:
After considerable time had passed [about three years or so], the Jews plotted together to kill him,


book: Acts
contenido:
but their plot became known to Saul. They were also watching the city’s gates day and night so they could kill him;


book: Acts
contenido:
but his disciples took him at night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a large basket.


book: Acts
contenido:
When he arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple.


book: Acts
contenido:
However, Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles, and described to them how Saul had seen the Lord on the road [to Damascus], and how He had spoken to him, and how at Damascus Saul had preached openly and spoken confidently in the name of Jesus.


book: Acts
contenido:
So he was with them, moving around freely [as one among them] in Jerusalem, speaking out boldly in the name of the Lord.


book: Acts
contenido:
He was talking and arguing with the Hellenists (Greek-speaking Jews); but they were attempting to kill him.


book: Acts
contenido:
When the brothers found out [about the plot], they brought him down to Caesarea [Maritima] and sent him off to Tarsus [his home town].


book: Acts
contenido:
So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace [without persecution], being built up [in wisdom, virtue, and faith]; and walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort and encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it continued to grow [in numbers].


book: Acts
contenido:
Peter’s Ministry Now as Peter was traveling throughout the land, he went down to [visit] the saints (God’s people) who lived at Lydda.


book: Acts
contenido:
Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and make your bed.” Immediately Aeneas got up.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then all who lived at Lydda and the plain of Sharon saw [what had happened to] him, and they turned to the Lord.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, (which translated into Greek means Dorcas). She was rich in acts of kindness and charity which she continually did.


book: Acts
contenido:
During that time it happened that she became sick and died; and when they had washed her body, they laid it in an upstairs room.


book: Acts
contenido:
Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Come to us without delay.”


book: Acts
contenido:
So Peter got up [at once] and went with them. When he arrived, they brought him into the upstairs room; and all the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing [him] all the tunics and robes that Dorcas used to make while she was with them.


book: Acts
contenido:
But Peter sent them all out [of the room] and knelt down and prayed; then turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise!” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up.


book: Acts
contenido:
And he gave her his hand and helped her up; and then he called in the saints (God’s people) and the widows, and he presented her [to them] alive.


book: Acts
contenido:
This became known all over Joppa, and many came to believe in the Lord [that is, to adhere to and trust in and rely on Jesus as Christ and Savior].


book: Acts
contenido:
Cornelius’ Vision Now at Caesarea [Maritima] there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Regiment,


book: Acts
contenido:
a devout man and one who, along with all his household, feared God. He made many charitable donations to the Jewish people, and prayed to God always.


book: Acts
contenido:
About the ninth hour (3:00 p.m.) of the day he clearly saw in a vision an angel of God who had come to him and said, “Cornelius!”


book: Acts
contenido:
Cornelius was frightened and stared intently at him and said, “What is it, lord (sir)?” And the angel said to him, “Your prayers and gifts of charity have ascended as a memorial offering before God [an offering made in remembrance of His past blessings].


book: Acts
contenido:
Now send men to Joppa and have them call for a man named Simon, who is also called Peter [and invite him here];


book: Acts
contenido:
When the angel who was speaking to him had gone, Cornelius called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among his own personal attendants;


book: Acts
contenido:
The next day, as they were on their way and were approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof of the house about the sixth hour (noon) to pray,


book: Acts
contenido:
but he became hungry and wanted something to eat. While the meal was being prepared he fell into a trance;


book: Acts
contenido:
and he saw the sky opened up, and an object like a great sheet descending, lowered by its four corners to the earth,


book: Acts
contenido:
and it contained all kinds of four-footed animals and crawling creatures of the earth and birds of the air.


book: Acts
contenido:
But Peter said, “Not at all, Lord, for I have never eaten anything that is common (unholy) and [ceremonially] unclean.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And the voice came to him a second time, “What God has cleansed and pronounced clean, no longer consider common (unholy).”


book: Acts
contenido:
Now Peter was still perplexed and completely at a loss as to what his vision could mean when the men who had been sent by Cornelius, having asked directions to Simon’s house, arrived at the gate.


book: Acts
contenido:
While Peter was thoughtfully considering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Now listen, three men are looking for you.


book: Acts
contenido:
Get up, go downstairs and go with them without hesitating or doubting, because I have sent them Myself.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for. For what reason have you come?”


book: Acts
contenido:
They said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man well spoken of by all the Jewish people, was divinely instructed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and hear what you have to say.”


book: Acts
contenido:
So Peter invited them in and gave them lodging [for the night]. Peter at Caesarea The next day Peter got up and left with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa went with him.


book: Acts
contenido:
On the following day he [and the others] entered Caesarea. Cornelius was waiting for them, and had called together his relatives and close friends.


book: Acts
contenido:
He said to them, “You know that it is unlawful for a Jewish man to associate with or befriend a Gentile, or to visit him; and yet God has shown me that I am not to call anyone common or [ceremonially] unclean.


book: Acts
contenido:
Therefore when I was sent for, I came without raising an objection. So I ask for what reason have you sent for me?”


book: Acts
contenido:
Cornelius said, “Four days ago to this hour, I was praying in my house during the ninth hour (3:00-4:00 p.m.); and a man [dressed] in bright, dazzling clothing suddenly stood before me,


book: Acts
contenido:
and he said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your acts of charity have been remembered before God [so that He is about to help you].


book: Acts
contenido:
Therefore send word to Joppa and invite Simon, who is also called Peter, to come to you. He is staying at the house of Simon the tanner by the sea.’


book: Acts
contenido:
So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now then, we are all here present before God to listen to everything that you have been instructed by the Lord [to say].”


book: Acts
contenido:
Gentiles Hear Good News Opening his mouth, Peter said: “Most certainly I understand now that God is not one to show partiality [to people as though Gentiles were excluded from God’s blessing],


book: Acts
contenido:
but in every nation the person who fears God and does what is right [by seeking Him] is acceptable and welcomed by Him.


book: Acts
contenido:
You know the message which He sent to the sons of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all—


book: Acts
contenido:
you know the things that have taken place throughout Judea, starting in Galilee after the baptism preached by John—


book: Acts
contenido:
how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with great power; and He went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, because God was with Him.


book: Acts
contenido:
We are [personally] eyewitnesses of everything that He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem [in particular]. They also put Him to death by hanging Him on a cross;


book: Acts
contenido:
not to all the people, but to witnesses who were chosen and designated beforehand by God, that is, to us who ate and drank together with Him after He rose from the dead.


book: Acts
contenido:
He commanded us to preach to the people [both Jew and Gentile], and to solemnly testify that He is the One who has been appointed and ordained by God as Judge of the living and the dead.


book: Acts
contenido:
All the prophets testify about Him, that through His name everyone who believes in Him [whoever trusts in and relies on Him, accepting Him as Savior and Messiah] receives forgiveness of sins.”


book: Acts
contenido:
While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who were listening to the message [confirming God’s acceptance of Gentiles].


book: Acts
contenido:
All the circumcised believers who came with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles.


book: Acts
contenido:
For they heard them talking in [unknown] tongues (languages) and exalting and magnifying and praising God. Then Peter said,


book: Acts
contenido:
“Can anyone refuse water for these people to be baptized, since they have received the Holy Spirit just as we did?”


book: Acts
contenido:
And he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to stay there for a few days.


book: Acts
contenido:
Peter Reports at Jerusalem Now the apostles and the believers who were throughout Judea heard [with astonishment] that the Gentiles also had received and accepted the word of God [the message concerning salvation through Christ].


book: Acts
contenido:
So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision [certain Jewish believers who followed the Law] took issue with him [for violating Jewish customs],


book: Acts
contenido:
“I was in the city of Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision of an object coming down from heaven, like a huge sheet being lowered by the four corners; and [it descended until] it came right down to me,


book: Acts
contenido:
and looking closely at it, I saw all kinds of the four-footed animals of the earth and the wild beasts and the crawling creatures and the birds of the air [both clean and unclean according to the Law],


book: Acts
contenido:
But I said, ‘Not at all, Lord; for nothing common (unholy) or [ceremonially] unclean has ever entered my mouth.’


book: Acts
contenido:
But the voice from heaven answered a second time, ‘What God has cleansed and pronounced clean, no longer consider common (unholy).’


book: Acts
contenido:
And right then the three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea arrived at the house where we were staying.


book: Acts
contenido:
The Spirit told me to go with them without the slightest hesitation. So these six brothers also went with me and we went to the man’s house.


book: Acts
contenido:
And Cornelius told us how he had seen the angel standing in his house, saying, ‘Send word to Joppa and have Simon, who is also called Peter, brought here;


book: Acts
contenido:
he will bring a message to you by which you will be saved [and granted eternal life], you and all your household.’


book: Acts
contenido:
When I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them just as He did on us at the beginning [at Pentecost].


book: Acts
contenido:
Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He used to say, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’


book: Acts
contenido:
So, if God gave Gentiles the same gift [equally] as He gave us after we accepted and believed and trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ [as Savior], who was I to interfere or stand in God’s way?”


book: Acts
contenido:
When they heard this, they quieted down and glorified and praised God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance that leads to eternal life [that is, real life after earthly death].”


book: Acts
contenido:
The Church at Antioch So then [since they were unaware of these developments] those who were scattered because of the persecution that occurred in connection with [the stoning of] Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, without telling the message [of salvation through Christ] to anyone except Jews.


book: Acts
contenido:
But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who came to Antioch and began speaking to the Greeks as well, proclaiming [to them] the good news about the Lord Jesus.


book: Acts
contenido:
And the hand (the power and presence) of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord [for salvation, accepting and drawing near to Jesus as Messiah and Savior].


book: Acts
contenido:
When he arrived and saw the grace of God [that was bestowed on them], he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with an unwavering heart to stay true and devoted to the Lord.


book: Acts
contenido:
For Barnabas was a good man [privately and publicly—his godly character benefited both himself and others] and he was full of the Holy Spirit and full of faith [in Jesus the Messiah, through whom believers have everlasting life]. And a great number of people were brought to the Lord.


book: Acts
contenido:
and when he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. For an entire year they met [with others] in the church and instructed large numbers; and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.


book: Acts
contenido:
One of them named Agabus stood up and prophesied through the [Holy] Spirit that a severe famine would come on the entire world. And this did happen during the reign of Claudius.


book: Acts
contenido:
So the disciples decided to send a contribution, each according to his individual ability, to the believers who lived in Judea.


book: Acts
contenido:
Peter’s Arrest and Escape Now at that time Herod [Agrippa I] the king [of the Jews] arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to harm them.


book: Acts
contenido:
and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to have Peter arrested as well. This was during the days of Unleavened Bread [the Passover week].


book: Acts
contenido:
When he had seized Peter, he put him in prison, turning him over to four squads of soldiers of four each to guard him [in rotation throughout the night], planning after the Passover to bring him out before the people [for execution].


book: Acts
contenido:
So Peter was kept in prison, but fervent and persistent prayer for him was being made to God by the church.


book: Acts
contenido:
The very night before Herod was to bring him forward, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries were in front of the door guarding the prison.


book: Acts
contenido:
Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared [beside him] and a light shone in the cell. The angel struck Peter’s side and awakened him, saying, “Get up quickly!” And the chains fell off his hands.


book: Acts
contenido:
The angel said to him, “Prepare yourself and strap on your sandals [to get ready for whatever may happen].” And he did so. Then the angel told him, “Put on your robe and follow me.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And Peter went out following the angel. He did not realize that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision.


book: Acts
contenido:
When they had passed the first guard and the second, they came to the iron gate that leads into the city. Of its own accord it swung open for them; and they went out and went along one street, and at once the angel left him.


book: Acts
contenido:
When Peter came to his senses, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel and has rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting [to do to me].”


book: Acts
contenido:
When he realized what had happened, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, who was also called Mark, where many [believers] were gathered together and were praying continually [and had been praying all night].


book: Acts
contenido:
Recognizing Peter’s voice, in her joy she failed to open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter was standing in front of the gateway.


book: Acts
contenido:
They said to her, “You are out of your mind!” But she kept insisting that it was so. They kept saying, “It is his angel!”


book: Acts
contenido:
But [meanwhile] Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were completely amazed.


book: Acts
contenido:
But motioning to them with his hand to be quiet and listen, he described how the Lord had led him out of the prison. And he said, “Report these things to James and the brothers and sisters.” Then he left and went to another place.


book: Acts
contenido:
When Herod had searched for him and could not find him, he interrogated the guards and commanded that they be led away to execution. Then he went down from Judea to Caesarea [Maritima] and spent some time there.


book: Acts
contenido:
Death of Herod Now Herod [Agrippa I] was extremely angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon; and their delegates came to him in a united group, and after persuading Blastus, the king’s chamberlain [to support their cause], they asked for peace, because their country was fed by [imports of grain and other goods from] the king’s country.


book: Acts
contenido:
On an appointed day Herod dressed himself in his royal robes, sat on his throne (tribunal, rostrum) and began delivering a speech to the people.


book: Acts
contenido:
And at once an angel of the Lord struck him down because he did not give God the glory [and instead permitted himself to be worshiped], and he was eaten by worms and died [five days later].


book: Acts
contenido:
But the word of the Lord [the good news about salvation through Christ] continued to grow and spread [increasing in effectiveness].


book: Acts
contenido:
Barnabas and Saul came back from Jerusalem when they had completed their mission, bringing with them John, who was also called Mark.


book: Acts
contenido:
First Missionary Journey Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets [who spoke a new message of God to the people] and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod [Antipas] the tetrarch, and Saul.


book: Acts
contenido:
While they were serving the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for the work to which I have called them.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then after fasting and praying, they laid their hands on them [in approval and dedication] and sent them away [on their first journey].


book: Acts
contenido:
So then, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.


book: Acts
contenido:
When Barnabas and Saul arrived at Salamis, they began to preach the word of God [proclaiming the message of eternal salvation through faith in Christ] in the synagogues of the Jews; and they also had John [Mark] as their assistant.


book: Acts
contenido:
When they had traveled through the entire island [of Cyprus] as far as Paphos, they found a sorcerer, a Jewish false prophet named Bar-Jesus,


book: Acts
contenido:
who was [closely associated] with the proconsul [of the province], Sergius Paulus, an intelligent and sensible man. He called for Barnabas and Saul and wanted to hear the word of God [concerning eternal salvation through faith in Christ].


book: Acts
contenido:
But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is how his name is translated) opposed them, trying to turn the proconsul away from accepting the faith.


book: Acts
contenido:
But Saul, who was also known as Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit and led by Him, looked steadily at Elymas,


book: Acts
contenido:
and said, “You [Elymas] who are full of every [kind of] deceit, and every [kind of] fraud, you son of the devil, enemy of everything that is right and good, will you never stop perverting the straight paths of the Lord?


book: Acts
contenido:
Now, watch! The hand of the Lord is on you, and you will be blind, [so blind that you will be] unable to see the sun for a time.” Immediately a mist and darkness fell upon him, and he groped around, seeking people to lead him by the hand.


book: Acts
contenido:
The proconsul believed [the message of salvation] when he saw what had happened, being astonished at the teaching concerning the Lord.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now Paul and his companions sailed from Paphos and came to Perga in Pamphylia; but John [Mark] left them and went back to Jerusalem.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now they went on from Perga and arrived at Antioch in Pisidia, and on the Sabbath day they went into the synagogue and sat down.


book: Acts
contenido:
After the reading of the Law and the [writings of the] Prophets, the officials of the synagogue sent word to them, saying, “Brothers (kinsmen), if you have any word of encouragement for the people, say it.”


book: Acts
contenido:
So Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand, he said, “Men of Israel, and you who fear God, listen!


book: Acts
contenido:
The God of this people Israel chose our fathers and made the people great and numerous during their stay [as foreigners] in the land of Egypt, and then with an uplifted arm He led them out of there.


book: Acts
contenido:
When He had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, He gave their land [to our ancestors] as an inheritance—this took about four hundred and fifty years.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then they asked for a king, and God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years.


book: Acts
contenido:
And when He had removed him, He raised up David to be their king: of him He testified and said, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart [conforming to My will and purposes], who will do all My will.’


book: Acts
contenido:
From this man’s descendants God has brought to Israel a Savior, [in the person of] Jesus, according to His promise.


book: Acts
contenido:
Before His coming John [the Baptist] had preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.


book: Acts
contenido:
And as John was finishing his course [of ministry], he kept saying, ‘What or who do you think that I am? I am not He [the Christ]; but be aware, One is coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie [even as His slave]!’


book: Acts
contenido:
“Brothers, sons of Abraham’s family, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation [obtained through faith in Jesus Christ].


book: Acts
contenido:
For those who live in Jerusalem, and their rulers, who failed to recognize or understand both Jesus and the voices of the prophets which are read every Sabbath, have fulfilled these [very prophecies] by condemning Him.


book: Acts
contenido:
And when they had finished carrying out everything that was written [in Scripture] about Him, they took Him down from the cross and laid Him in a tomb.


book: Acts
contenido:
and for many days (forty) He appeared to those who came up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, the very ones who are now His witnesses to the people.


book: Acts
contenido:
that God has completely fulfilled this promise to our children by raising up Jesus, as it is also written in the second Psalm, ‘You are My Son; today I have begotten (fathered) You.’


book: Acts
contenido:
And [as for the fact] that He raised Him from the dead, never again to return to decay [in the grave], He has spoken in this way: ‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings of David [those blessings and mercies that were promised to him].’


book: Acts
contenido:
For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep and was buried among his fathers and experienced decay [in the grave];


book: Acts
contenido:
So let it be clearly known by you, brothers, that through Him forgiveness of sins is being proclaimed to you;


book: Acts
contenido:
and through Him everyone who believes [who acknowledges Jesus as Lord and Savior and follows Him] is justified and declared free of guilt from all things, from which you could not be justified and freed of guilt through the Law of Moses.


book: Acts
contenido:
Therefore be careful, so that the thing spoken of in the [writings of the] Prophets does not come upon you:


book: Acts
contenido:
 ‘Look, you mockers, and marvel, and perish and vanish away; For I am doing a work in your days, A work which you will never believe, even if someone describes it to you [telling you about it in detail].’”


book: Acts
contenido:
As Paul and Barnabas were leaving [the synagogue], the people kept begging that these things might be spoken to them on the next Sabbath.


book: Acts
contenido:
When the congregation of the synagogue had been dismissed, many of the Jews and the devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who, talking to them were urging them to continue in the grace of God.


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul Turns to the Gentiles On the next Sabbath almost the entire city gathered together to hear the word of the Lord [about salvation through faith in Christ].


book: Acts
contenido:
But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began contradicting the things said by Paul, and were slandering him.


book: Acts
contenido:
And [at the same time] Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and confidently, saying, “It was necessary that God’s message [of salvation through faith in Christ] be spoken to you [Jews] first. Since you repudiate it and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, now we turn to the Gentiles.


book: Acts
contenido:
For that is what the Lord has commanded us, saying, ‘I have placed You as a light for the Gentiles, So that You may bring [the message of eternal] salvation to the end of the earth.’”


book: Acts
contenido:
When the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying [praising and giving thanks for] the word of the Lord; and all those who had been appointed (designated, ordained) to eternal life [by God] believed [in Jesus as the Christ and their Savior].


book: Acts
contenido:
But the Jews incited the devout, prominent women and the leading men of the city, and instigated persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them forcibly out of their district.


book: Acts
contenido:
And the disciples were continually filled [throughout their hearts and souls] with joy and with the Holy Spirit.


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Acceptance and Opposition Now in Iconium Paul and Barnabas went into the Jewish synagogue together and spoke in such a way [with such power and boldness] that a large number of Jews as well as Greeks believed [and confidently accepted Jesus as Savior];


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contenido:
but the unbelieving Jews [who rejected Jesus as Messiah] stirred up and embittered the minds of the Gentiles against the believers.


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contenido:
So Paul and Barnabas stayed for a long time, speaking boldly and confidently for the Lord, who continued to testify to the word of His grace, granting that signs and wonders (attesting miracles) be done by them.


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contenido:
But the people of the city were divided; some were siding with the Jews, and some with the apostles.


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contenido:
When there was an attempt by both the Gentiles and the Jews, together with their rulers, to shamefully mistreat and to stone them,


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contenido:
they, aware of the situation, escaped to Lystra and Derbe, [taking refuge in the] cities of Lycaonia, and the neighboring region;


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contenido:
Now at Lystra a man sat who was unable to use his feet, for he was crippled from birth and had never walked.


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contenido:
This man was listening to Paul as he spoke, and Paul looked intently at him and saw that he had faith to be healed,


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contenido:
And the crowds, when they saw what Paul had done, raised their voices, shouting in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!”


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contenido:
They began calling Barnabas, Zeus [chief of the Greek gods], and Paul, Hermes [messenger of the Greek gods], since he took the lead in speaking.


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contenido:
The priest of Zeus, whose temple was at the entrance of the city, brought bulls and garlands to the city gates, and wanted to offer sacrifices with the crowds.


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contenido:
But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard about it, they tore their robes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting,


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contenido:
“Men, why are you doing these things? We too are only men of the same nature as you, bringing the good news to you, so that you turn from these useless and meaningless things to the living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything that is in them.


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yet He did not leave Himself without some witness [as evidence of Himself], in that He kept constantly doing good things and showing you kindness, and giving you rains from heaven and productive seasons, filling your hearts with food and happiness.”


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contenido:
Even saying these words, with difficulty they prevented the people from offering sacrifices to them.


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contenido:
But Jews arrived from Antioch and Iconium, and having won over the crowds, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead.


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contenido:
But the disciples formed a circle around him, and he got up and went back into the city; and the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe.


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contenido:
They preached the good news to that city and made many disciples, then they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch,


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contenido:
strengthening and establishing the hearts of the disciples; encouraging them to remain firm in the faith, saying, “It is through many tribulations and hardships that we must enter the kingdom of God.”


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contenido:
When they had appointed elders for them in every church, having prayed with fasting, they entrusted them to the Lord in whom they believed [and joyfully accepted as the Messiah].


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contenido:
When they had spoken the word [of salvation through faith in Christ] in Perga, they went down to Attalia.


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contenido:
From there they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been entrusted to the grace of God for the work which they had now completed.


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contenido:
Arriving there, they gathered the church together and began to report [in great detail] everything that God had done with them and how He had opened to the Gentiles a door of faith [in Jesus as the Messiah and Savior].


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contenido:
The Council at Jerusalem Some men came down from Judea and began teaching the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised in accordance with the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.”


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contenido:
Paul and Barnabas disagreed greatly and debated with them, so it was determined that Paul and Barnabas and some of the others from their group would go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders [and confer with them] concerning this issue.


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So, after being supplied and sent on their way by the church, they went through both Phoenicia and Samaria telling in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and they brought great joy to all the believers.


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contenido:
When they arrived in Jerusalem, they were received warmly by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they reported to them all the things that God had accomplished through them.


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contenido:
But some from the sect of the Pharisees who had believed [in Jesus as the Messiah] stood up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise the Gentile converts and to direct them to observe the Law of Moses.”


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contenido:
After a long debate, Peter got up and said to them, “Brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles would hear the message of the gospel and believe.


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And God, who knows and understands the heart, testified to them, giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He also did to us;


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contenido:
Now then, why are you testing God by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we have been able to endure?


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But we believe that we are saved through the [precious, undeserved] grace of the Lord Jesus [which makes us free of the guilt of sin and grants us eternal life], in just the same way as they are.”


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All the people remained silent, and they listened [attentively] to Barnabas and Paul as they described all the signs and wonders (attesting miracles) that God had done through them among the Gentiles.


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contenido:
Simeon (Simon Peter) has described how God first concerned Himself about taking from among the Gentiles a people for His name [to honor Him and be identified with Him].


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contenido:
 ‘After these things I will return, And I will rebuild the tent of David which has fallen; I will rebuild its ruins, And I will restore it,


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contenido:
 So that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, And all the Gentiles upon whom My name has been invoked,’


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contenido:
Therefore it is my judgment that we do not trouble and make it difficult for those who are turning to God among the Gentiles [by putting obstacles in their way],


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but that we write to them that they are to abstain from anything that has been contaminated by [being offered to] idols and from sexual impurity and from [eating the meat of] what has been strangled and from [the consumption of] blood.


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For from ancient generations [the writing of] Moses has been preached in every city, since he is read aloud in the synagogues every Sabbath.”


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Then the apostles and the elders, together with the whole church, decided to select some of their men to go to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas—Judas, who was called Barsabbas, and Silas [also called Silvanus, both], leading men among the brothers.


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With them they sent the following letter: “The apostles and the brothers who are the elders, to the brothers and sisters who are from the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia, Greetings.


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Since we have heard that some of our men have troubled you with their teachings, causing distress and confusion—men to whom we gave no such orders or instructions—


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contenido:
it has been decided by us, having met together, to select men and send them to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,


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So we have sent Judas and Silas, who will report by word of mouth the same things [that we decided in our meeting].


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contenido:
For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to place on you any greater burden than these essentials:


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that you abstain from things sacrificed to idols, and from [consuming] blood, and from [eating the meat of] things that have been strangled, and from sexual impurity. If you keep yourselves from these things, you will do well. Farewell.”


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So when they were sent off, they went down to Antioch; and after assembling the congregation, they delivered the letter.


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And when they had read it, the people rejoiced greatly at the encouragement and comfort [it brought them].


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contenido:
Judas and Silas, who were themselves prophets (divinely inspired spokesmen), encouraged and strengthened the believers with many words.


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contenido:
After spending some time there, they were sent back by the brothers with [the greeting of] peace to those who had sent them.


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contenido:
But Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, and with many others also continued teaching and proclaiming the good news, the word of the Lord [concerning eternal salvation through faith in Christ].


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contenido:
Paul’s Second Missionary Journey After some time Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the brothers and sisters (believers) in every city where we preached the message of the Lord, and see how they are doing.”


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But Paul kept insisting that they should not take along with them the one who had quit and deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone on with them to the work.


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And it became such a sharp disagreement that they separated from one another, and Barnabas took [John] Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus.


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But Paul chose Silas [who was again in Antioch] and set out [on his second journey], commended by the brothers to the grace and favor of the Lord.


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contenido:
The Macedonian Vision Now Paul traveled to Derbe and also to Lystra. A disciple named Timothy was there, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer [in Christ], however, his father was a Greek.


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Paul wanted Timothy to go with him [as a missionary]; and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, since they all knew that his father was a Greek.


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As they traveled from town to town, they delivered the decrees decided on by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem, for the churches to observe.


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So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they continually increased in number day after day.


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contenido:
Now they passed through the territory of Phrygia and Galatia, after being forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in [the west coast province of] Asia [Minor];


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contenido:
and after they came to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them;


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contenido:
Then a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man from [the Roman province of] Macedonia was standing and pleading with him, saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!”


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contenido:
And when he had seen the vision, we (including Luke) tried to go on into Macedonia at once, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.


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So setting sail from Troas, we ran a direct course to Samothrace, and the next day [went on] to Neapolis;


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contenido:
and from there [we came] to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district of Macedonia, a Roman colony. We stayed on in this city for several days;


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and on the Sabbath day we went outside the city gate to the bank of the [Gangites] river, where we thought there would be a place of prayer, and we sat down and began speaking to the women who had come there.


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First Convert in Europe A woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a dealer in purple fabrics who was [already] a worshiper of God, listened to us; and the Lord opened her heart to pay attention and to respond to the things said by Paul.


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And when she was baptized, along with her household, she pleaded with us, saying, “If you have judged me and decided that I am faithful to the Lord [a true believer], come to my house and stay.” And she persuaded us.


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It happened that as we were on our way to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave-girl who had a spirit of divination [that is, a demonic spirit claiming to foretell the future and discover hidden knowledge], and she brought her owners a good profit by fortune-telling.


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She followed after Paul and us and kept screaming and shouting, “These men are servants of the Most High God! They are proclaiming to you the way of salvation!”


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She continued doing this for several days. Then Paul, being greatly annoyed and worn out, turned and said to the spirit [inside her], “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ [as His representative] to come out of her!” And it came out at that very moment.


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But when her owners saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them before the authorities in the market place [where trials were held],


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and when they had brought them before the chief magistrates, they said, “These men, who are Jews, are throwing our city into confusion and causing trouble.


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Paul and Silas Imprisoned The crowd also joined in the attack against them, and the chief magistrates tore their robes off them and ordered that Paul and Silas be beaten with rods.


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After striking them many times [with the rods], they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to guard them securely.


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He, having received such a [strict] command, threw them into the inner prison (dungeon) and fastened their feet in the stocks [in an agonizing position].


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But about midnight when Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them;


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contenido:
suddenly there was a great earthquake, so [powerful] that the very foundations of the prison were shaken and at once all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened.


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contenido:
When the jailer, shaken out of sleep, saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, thinking that the prisoners had escaped.


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contenido:
Then the jailer called for torches and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas,


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The Jailer Converted And they answered, “Believe in the Lord Jesus [as your personal Savior and entrust yourself to Him] and you will be saved, you and your household [if they also believe].”


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And they spoke the word of the Lord [concerning eternal salvation through faith in Christ] to him and to all who were in his house.


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And he took them that very hour of the night and washed their bloody wounds, and immediately he was baptized, he and all his household.


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Then he brought them into his house and set food before them, and rejoiced greatly, since he had believed in God with his entire family [accepting with joy what had been made known to them about the Christ].


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And the jailer repeated the words to Paul, saying, “The chief magistrates have sent word to release you; so come out now and go in peace.”


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But Paul said to them, “They have beaten us in public without a trial, men who are Romans, and have thrown us into prison; and now they are sending us out secretly? No! Let them come here themselves and bring us out!”


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The officers reported this message to the chief magistrates, and when they heard that the prisoners were Romans, they were frightened;


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so they came [to the prison] and appealed to them [with apologies], and when they brought them out, they kept begging them to leave the city.


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contenido:
So they left the prison and went to Lydia’s house; and when they had seen the brothers and sisters, they encouraged and comforted them, and left.


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contenido:
Paul at Thessalonica Now after Paul and Silas had traveled through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews.


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And Paul entered the synagogue, as was his custom, and for three Sabbaths he engaged in discussion and friendly debate with them from the Scriptures,


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explaining and pointing out [scriptural evidence] that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and rise from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus, whom I am proclaiming to you, is the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed).”


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And some of them were persuaded to believe and joined Paul and Silas, along with a large number of the God-fearing Greeks and many of the leading women.


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But the [unbelieving] Jews became jealous, and taking along some thugs from [the lowlifes in] the market place, they formed a mob and set the city in an uproar; and then attacking Jason’s house tried to bring Paul and Silas out to the people.


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But when they failed to find them, they dragged Jason and some brothers before the city authorities, shouting, “These men who have turned the world upside down have come here too;


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and Jason has welcomed them [into his house and protected them]! And they all are saying things contrary to the decrees of Caesar, [actually] claiming that there is another king, Jesus.”


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contenido:
Paul at Berea The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea; and when they arrived, they entered the Jewish synagogue.


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Now these people were more noble and open-minded than those in Thessalonica, so they received the message [of salvation through faith in the Christ] with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.


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But when the Jews of Thessalonica learned that the word of God [concerning eternal salvation through faith in Christ] had also been preached by Paul at Berea, they came there too, agitating and disturbing the crowds.


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contenido:
So at that time the brothers immediately sent Paul away to go as far as the sea; but Silas and Timothy remained there [at Berea].


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Those who escorted Paul brought him to Athens; and [after] receiving instructions [from Paul] for Silas and Timothy to join him as soon as possible, they left.


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contenido:
Paul at Athens Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was greatly angered when he saw that the city was full of idols.


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So he had discussions in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Gentiles, and in the market place day after day with any who happened to be there.


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And some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to engage in conversation with him. And some said, “What could this idle babbler [with his eclectic, scrap-heap learning] have in mind to say?” Others said, “He seems to be a proclaimer of strange deities”—because he was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection.


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They took him and brought him to the Areopagus (Hill of Ares, the Greek god of war), saying, “May we know what this [strange] new teaching is which you are proclaiming?


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For you are bringing some startling and strange things to our ears; so we want to know what they mean.”


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(Now all the Athenians and the foreigners visiting there used to spend their [leisure] time in nothing other than telling or hearing something new.)


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Sermon on Mars Hill So Paul, standing in the center of the Areopagus, said: “Men of Athens, I observe [with every turn I make throughout the city] that you are very religious and devout in all respects.


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Now as I was going along and carefully looking at your objects of worship, I came to an altar with this inscription: ‘TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.’ Therefore what you already worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you.


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The God who created the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands;


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nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, because it is He who gives to all [people] life and breath and all things.


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And He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands and territories.


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This was so that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grasp for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us.


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For in Him we live and move and exist [that is, in Him we actually have our being], as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His children.’


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So then, being God’s children, we should not think that the Divine Nature (deity) is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination or skill of man.


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contenido:
Therefore God overlooked and disregarded the former ages of ignorance; but now He commands all people everywhere to repent [that is, to change their old way of thinking, to regret their past sins, and to seek God’s purpose for their lives],


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contenido:
because He has set a day when He will judge the inhabited world in righteousness by a Man whom He has appointed and destined for that task, and He has provided credible proof to everyone by raising Him from the dead.”


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contenido:
Now when they heard [the term] resurrection from the dead, some mocked and sneered; but others said, “We will hear from you again about this matter.”


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But some men joined him and believed; among them were Dionysius, [a judge] of the Council of Areopagus, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.


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There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife, Priscilla, because [the Roman Emperor] Claudius had issued an edict that all the Jews were to leave Rome. Paul went to see them,


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and because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them; and they worked together for they were tent-makers.


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but when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia (northern Greece), Paul began devoting himself completely to [preaching] the word, and solemnly testifying to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed).


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But since the Jews kept resisting and opposing him, and blaspheming [God], he shook out his robe and said to them, “Your blood (damnation) be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”


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Then he moved on from there and went to the house of a man named Titius Justus, who worshiped God and whose house was next door to the synagogue.


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Crispus, the leader of the synagogue, believed in the Lord together with his entire household [joyfully acknowledging Him as Messiah and Savior]; and many of the Corinthians who heard [Paul’s message] were believing and being baptized.


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contenido:
One night the Lord said to Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid anymore, but go on speaking and do not be silent;


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for I am with you, and no one will attack you in order to hurt you, because I have many people in this city.”


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contenido:
So he settled there for a year and six months, teaching them the word of God [concerning eternal salvation through faith in Christ].


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contenido:
But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia (southern Greece), the Jews made a united attack on Paul and brought him before the judgment seat,


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contenido:
But when Paul was about to reply, Gallio said to the Jews, “If it were a matter of some misdemeanor or serious crime, O Jews, I would have reason to put up with you;


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contenido:
but since it is merely a question [of doctrine within your religion] about words and names and your own law, see to it yourselves; I am unwilling to judge these matters.”


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Then the Greeks all seized Sosthenes, the leader of the synagogue, and began beating him right in front of the judgment seat; but Gallio paid no attention to any of this.


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contenido:
Paul stayed for a while longer, and then told the brothers and sisters goodbye and sailed for Syria; and he was accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. At Cenchrea [the southeastern port of Corinth] he had his hair cut, because he was keeping a [Nazirite] vow [of abstention].


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Then they arrived in Ephesus, and he left the others there; but he entered the synagogue and reasoned and debated with the Jews.


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but after telling them goodbye and saying, “I will return again if God is willing,” he set sail from Ephesus.


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contenido:
When he had landed at Caesarea, he went up and greeted the church [at Jerusalem], and then went down to Antioch.


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul’s Third Missionary Journey After spending some time there, he left and traveled through the territory of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening and encouraging all the disciples.


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contenido:
Now a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent and cultured man, and well versed in the [Hebrew] Scriptures.


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This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and being spiritually impassioned, he was speaking and teaching accurately the things about Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John;


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and he began to speak boldly and fearlessly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained more accurately to him the way of God [and the full story of the life of Christ].


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contenido:
And when Apollos wanted to go across to Achaia (southern Greece), the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples, [urging them] to welcome him gladly. When he arrived, he was a great help to those who, through grace, had believed and had followed Jesus as Lord and Savior,


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for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public discussions, proving by the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed).


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contenido:
Paul at Ephesus It happened that while Apollos was in Corinth, Paul went through the upper [inland] districts and came down to Ephesus, and found some disciples.


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He asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed [in Jesus as the Christ]?” And they said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”


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contenido:
Paul said, “John performed a baptism of repentance, continually telling the people to believe in Him who was coming after him, that is, [to confidently accept and joyfully believe] in Jesus [the Messiah and Savior].”


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And when Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in [unknown] tongues (languages) and prophesying.


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And he went into the synagogue and for three months spoke boldly, reasoning and arguing and persuading them about the kingdom of God.


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But when some were becoming hardened and disobedient [to the word of God], discrediting and speaking evil of the Way (Jesus, Christianity) before the congregation, Paul left them, taking the disciples with him, and went on holding daily discussions in the lecture hall of Tyrannus [instead of in the synagogue].


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This continued for two years, so that all the inhabitants of [the west coast province of] Asia [Minor], Jews as well as Greeks, heard the word of the Lord [concerning eternal salvation through faith in Christ].


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so that even handkerchiefs or face-towels or aprons that had touched his skin were brought to the sick, and their diseases left them and the evil spirits came out [of them].


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contenido:
Then some of the traveling Jewish exorcists also attempted to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “I implore you and solemnly command you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches!”


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But the evil spirit retorted, “I know and recognize and acknowledge Jesus, and I know about Paul, but as for you, who are you?”


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contenido:
Then the man, in whom was the evil spirit, leaped on them and subdued all of them and overpowered them, so that they ran out of that house [in terror, stripped] naked and wounded.


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contenido:
This became known to all who lived in Ephesus, both Jews and Greeks. And fear fell upon them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified and exalted.


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contenido:
Many of those who had become believers were coming, confessing and disclosing their [former sinful] practices.


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contenido:
And many of those who had practiced magical arts collected their books and [throwing book after book on the pile] began burning them in front of everyone. They calculated their value and found it to be 50,000 pieces of silver.


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So the word of the Lord [concerning eternal salvation through faith in Christ] was growing greatly and prevailing.


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contenido:
Now after these events, Paul determined in the Spirit that he would travel through Macedonia and Achaia (most of the Greek mainland), and go to Jerusalem, saying, “After I have been there, I must also see Rome [and preach the good news of salvation].”


book: Acts
contenido:
And after sending two of his assistants, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia [ahead of him], he stayed on in [the west coast province of] Asia [Minor] for a while.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now a man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of [the goddess] Artemis (Diana), was bringing no small profit to the craftsmen.


book: Acts
contenido:
These [craftsmen] he called together, along with the workmen of similar trades, and said, “Men, you are well aware that we make a good living from this business.


book: Acts
contenido:
You see and hear that not only at Ephesus, but almost all over [the province of] Asia, this Paul has persuaded [people to believe his teaching] and has misled a large number of people, claiming that gods made by [human] hands are not really gods at all.


book: Acts
contenido:
Not only is there danger that this trade of ours will be discredited, but also that the [magnificent] temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited, and that she whom all Asia and the world worship will even be dethroned and lose her glorious magnificence.”


book: Acts
contenido:
When they heard this, they were filled with rage, and they began shouting, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then the city was filled with confusion; and people rushed together [as a group] into the amphitheater, dragging along with them Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians who were Paul’s traveling companions.


book: Acts
contenido:
Even some of the Asiarchs (officials) who were his friends sent word to him and repeatedly warned him not to venture into the amphitheater.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now some shouted one thing and some another, for the gathering was in confusion and most of the people did not know why they had come together.


book: Acts
contenido:
Some of the crowd advised Alexander [to speak], since the Jews had pushed him forward; and Alexander motioned with his hand [for attention] and intended to make a defense to the people.


book: Acts
contenido:
But when they realized that he was a Jew, a single outcry went up from the crowd as they shouted for about two hours, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!”


book: Acts
contenido:
After the town clerk had quieted the crowd, he said, “Men of Ephesus, what person is there who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is the guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of that [sacred stone image of her] which fell from the sky?


book: Acts
contenido:
So, since these things cannot be denied, you ought to be quiet and stay calm and not do anything rash.


book: Acts
contenido:
So then, if Demetrius and the craftsmen who are with him have a complaint against anyone, the courts are in session and proconsuls are available; let them bring charges against one another there.


book: Acts
contenido:
For we are running the risk of being accused of rioting in regard to today’s events, and since there is no reason for it, we will be unable to give an account and justify this disorderly gathering.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul in Macedonia and Greece After the uproar had ended, Paul sent for the disciples, and when he had encouraged them he told them goodbye, and set off to go to Macedonia.


book: Acts
contenido:
And he stayed three months, and when a plot was formed against him by the Jews as he was about to set sail for Syria, he decided to return through Macedonia (northern Greece).


book: Acts
contenido:
He was accompanied by Sopater of Berea, the son of Pyrrhus, and by Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, and by Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia.


book: Acts
contenido:
We sailed from Philippi after the days of Unleavened Bread (Passover week), and within five days we reached them at Troas, where we stayed for seven days.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now on the first day of the week (Sunday), when we were gathered together to break bread (share communion), Paul began talking with them, intending to leave the next day; and he kept on with his message until midnight.


book: Acts
contenido:
and there was a young man named Eutychus (“Lucky”) sitting on the window sill. He was sinking into a deep sleep, and as Paul kept on talking longer and longer, he was completely overcome by sleep and fell down from the third story; and he was picked up dead.


book: Acts
contenido:
But Paul went down and threw himself on him and embraced him, and said [to those standing around him], “Do not be troubled, because he is alive.”


book: Acts
contenido:
When Paul had gone back upstairs and had broken the bread and eaten, he talked [informally and confidentially] with them for a long time—until daybreak [in fact]—and then he left.


book: Acts
contenido:
Troas to Miletus But we went on ahead to the ship and set sail for Assos, intending to take Paul on board there; for that was what he had arranged, intending himself to go [a shorter route] by land.


book: Acts
contenido:
Sailing from there, we arrived the next day [at a point] opposite Chios; the following day we crossed over to Samos, and the next day we arrived at Miletus [about 30 miles south of Ephesus].


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul had decided to sail on past Ephesus so that he would not end up spending time [unnecessarily] in [the province of] Asia (modern Turkey); for he was in a hurry to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost.


book: Acts
contenido:
Farewell to Ephesus However, from Miletus he sent word to Ephesus and summoned the elders of the church [to meet him there].


book: Acts
contenido:
And when they arrived he said to them: “You know well how I [lived when I] was with you, from the first day that I set foot in Asia [until now],


book: Acts
contenido:
serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and trials which came on me because of the plots of the Jews [against me];


book: Acts
contenido:
[you know] how I did not shrink back in fear from telling you anything that was for your benefit, or from teaching you in public meetings, and from house to house,


book: Acts
contenido:
solemnly [and wholeheartedly] testifying to both Jews and Greeks, urging them to turn in repentance to God and [to have] faith in our Lord Jesus Christ [for salvation].


book: Acts
contenido:
And now, compelled by the Spirit and obligated by my convictions, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there,


book: Acts
contenido:
except that the Holy Spirit solemnly [and emphatically] affirms to me in city after city that imprisonment and suffering await me.


book: Acts
contenido:
But I do not consider my life as something of value or dear to me, so that I may [with joy] finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify faithfully of the good news of God’s [precious, undeserved] grace [which makes us free of the guilt of sin and grants us eternal life].


book: Acts
contenido:
“And now, listen carefully: I know that none of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will see me again.


book: Acts
contenido:
For that reason I testify to you on this [our parting] day that I am innocent of the blood of all people.


book: Acts
contenido:
Take care and be on guard for yourselves and for the whole flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as overseers, to shepherd (tend, feed, guide) the church of God which He bought with His own blood.


book: Acts
contenido:
I know that after I am gone, [false teachers like] ferocious wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock;


book: Acts
contenido:
even from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse and distorted things, to draw away the disciples after themselves [as their followers].


book: Acts
contenido:
Therefore be continually alert, remembering that for three years, night or day, I did not stop admonishing and advising each one [of you] with tears.


book: Acts
contenido:
And now I commend you to God [placing you in His protective, loving care] and [I commend you] to the word of His grace [the counsel and promises of His unmerited favor]. His grace is able to build you up and to give you the [rightful] inheritance among all those who are sanctified [that is, among those who are set apart for God’s purpose—all believers].


book: Acts
contenido:
You know personally that these hands ministered to my own needs [working in manual labor] and to [those of] the people who were with me.


book: Acts
contenido:
In everything I showed you [by example] that by working hard in this way you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed [and brings greater joy] to give than to receive.’”


book: Acts
contenido:
grieving and distressed especially over the word which he had spoken, that they would not see him again. And they accompanied him to the ship.


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul Sails from Miletus When we had torn ourselves away from them and set sail, we ran a straight course and came to Cos, and on the next day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara;


book: Acts
contenido:
After we came in sight of Cyprus, leaving it on our left (port side), we sailed on to Syria and put in at Tyre; for there the ship was to unload her cargo.


book: Acts
contenido:
After looking up the disciples [in Tyre], we stayed there [with them] seven days; and they kept telling Paul through the [Holy] Spirit not to set foot in Jerusalem.


book: Acts
contenido:
When our days there came to an end, we left and proceeded on our journey, while all of the disciples, with their wives and children, escorted us on our way until we were outside the city. After kneeling down on the beach and praying, we told one another goodbye.


book: Acts
contenido:
When we had completed the voyage from Tyre, we landed [twenty miles to the south] at Ptolemais, and after greeting the believers, we stayed with them for one day.


book: Acts
contenido:
On the next day we left and came to Caesarea, and we went to the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven [deacons], and stayed with him.


book: Acts
contenido:
And coming to [see] us, he took Paul’s [wide] band (belt, sash) and bound his own feet and hands, and said, “This is what the Holy Spirit says: ‘In this same way the Jews in Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this band, and they will hand him over to the Gentiles (pagans).’”


book: Acts
contenido:
Now when we had heard this, both we and the local residents began pleading with Paul trying to persuade him not to go up to Jerusalem.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Paul replied, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart [like this]? For I am ready not only to be bound and imprisoned, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And since he would not be dissuaded, we stopped pleading and fell silent, saying, “The Lord’s will be done!”


book: Acts
contenido:
Some of the disciples from Caesarea also came with us, taking us to [the house of] Mnason, a man from Cyprus, a disciple of long standing with whom we were to lodge.


book: Acts
contenido:
After greeting them, Paul began to give a detailed account of the things that God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.


book: Acts
contenido:
And when they heard it, they began glorifying and praising God; and they said to him, “You see, brother, how many thousands of believers there are among the Jews, and they are all enthusiastic supporters of the Law [of Moses].


book: Acts
contenido:
Now they have been told about you, that you are teaching all the Jews who are living among the Gentiles to turn away from [the Law of] Moses, advising them not to circumcise their children or to live according to the [Mosaic] customs.


book: Acts
contenido:
take these men and purify yourself along with them, and pay their expenses [for the temple offerings] so that they may shave their heads. Then everyone will know that there is nothing to the things they have been told about you, but that you yourself also follow and keep the Law.


book: Acts
contenido:
But with regard to the Gentiles who have believed [in Christ], we have sent them a letter with our decision that they should abstain from meat sacrificed to idols and from [consuming] blood and from [the meat of] what has been strangled and from sexual immorality.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Paul took the [four] men, and the next day he purified himself along with them [by submitting to the ritual]. He went into the temple to give notice of [the time] when the days of purification [ending each vow] would be fulfilled and the usual offering could be presented on behalf of each one.


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul Seized in the Temple When the seven days [required to complete the ritual] were almost over, [some] Jews from [the province of] Asia [Minor], caught sight of him in the temple, and began to stir up the crowd, and they seized him,


book: Acts
contenido:
shouting, “Men of Israel, help us! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against our people and the Law and this place. And besides, he has brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.”


book: Acts
contenido:
For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with Paul, and they assumed that he had brought the man into the temple [beyond the court of the Gentiles].


book: Acts
contenido:
Then the whole city was provoked and confused, and the people rushed together. They seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple, and immediately the gates were closed.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now while they were trying to kill him, word came to the commander of the [Roman] garrison that all Jerusalem was in a state of upheaval.


book: Acts
contenido:
So he immediately took soldiers and centurions and ran down among them. When the people saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then the commander came up and arrested Paul, and ordered that he be bound with two chains. Then he asked who he was and what he had done.


book: Acts
contenido:
But some in the crowd were shouting one thing and others something else; and since he could not determine the facts because of the uproar, he ordered that Paul be taken to the barracks [in the tower of Antonia].


book: Acts
contenido:
Just as Paul was about to be taken into the barracks, he asked the commander, “May I say something to you?” And the man replied, “Do you know Greek?


book: Acts
contenido:
Then you are not [as I assumed] the Egyptian who some time ago stirred up a rebellion and led those 4,000 men of the Assassins out into the wilderness?”


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia (Mersin Province, Turkey), a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.”


book: Acts
contenido:
When the commander had given him permission, Paul, standing on the steps, gestured with his hand to the people; and when there was a great hush, he spoke to them in the Hebrew dialect (Jewish Aramaic), saying,


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul’s Defense before the Jews “Brethren and fathers (kinsmen), hear my defense which I now offer to you.”


book: Acts
contenido:
When they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew dialect, they became even more quiet. And he continued,


book: Acts
contenido:
“I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strictness of the law of our fathers, being ardent and passionate for God just as all of you are today.


book: Acts
contenido:
I persecuted and pursued the followers of this Way to the death, binding them with chains and putting [followers of Jesus] both men and women into prisons,


book: Acts
contenido:
as the high priest and all the Council of the elders (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court) can testify; because from them I received letters to the brothers, and I was on my way to Damascus in order to bring those [believers] who were there to Jerusalem in chains to be punished.


book: Acts
contenido:
“But as I was on my way, approaching Damascus about noontime, a great blaze of light suddenly flashed from heaven and shone around me.


book: Acts
contenido:
And I replied, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus the Nazarene, whom you are persecuting.’


book: Acts
contenido:
Now those who were with me saw the light, but did not understand the voice of the One who was speaking to me.


book: Acts
contenido:
And I asked, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord answered me, ‘Get up and go into Damascus. There you will be told all that is appointed and destined for you to do.’


book: Acts
contenido:
But since I could not see because of the [glorious intensity and dazzling] brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me and came into Damascus.


book: Acts
contenido:
“And one Ananias, a devout man according to the standard of the Law, and well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there,


book: Acts
contenido:
came to [see] me, and standing near, he said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight!’ And at that very moment I [recovered my sight and] looked up at him.


book: Acts
contenido:
And he said, ‘The God of our fathers has appointed you to know His will, [and to progressively understand His plan with clarity and power] and to see the Righteous One [Jesus Christ, the Messiah] and to hear a message from His [own] mouth.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now, why do you delay? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins by calling on His name [for salvation].’


book: Acts
contenido:
“Then it happened when I had returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple [enclosure], that I fell into a trance (vision);


book: Acts
contenido:
and I saw Him saying to me, ‘Hurry and get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept your testimony about Me.’


book: Acts
contenido:
And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves know [without any doubt] that in one synagogue after another I used to imprison and beat those who believed in You [and Your message of salvation].


book: Acts
contenido:
And when the blood of Your witness Stephen was being shed, I also was standing nearby approving and consenting [to his death], and guarding the coats of those who were killing him.’


book: Acts
contenido:
They listened to Paul until [he made] this [last] statement, but now they raised their voices and shouted, “Away with such a man from the earth! He is not fit to live!”


book: Acts
contenido:
And as they were shouting and throwing off their coats [getting ready to stone Paul] and tossing dust into the air [expressing their anger],


book: Acts
contenido:
the commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, stating that he was to be interrogated with a whip in order to learn why the people were shouting against him that way.


book: Acts
contenido:
But when they had stretched him out with the leather straps [in preparation for the whip], Paul said to the centurion who was standing by, “Is it legal for you to whip a man who is a Roman citizen and uncondemned [without a trial]?”


book: Acts
contenido:
When the centurion heard this, he went to the commander and said to him, “What are you about to do? This man is a Roman!”


book: Acts
contenido:
The commander replied, “I purchased this citizenship [of mine] for a large sum of money [so how did you acquire yours?].” Paul said, “But I was actually born a citizen.”


book: Acts
contenido:
So those who were about to interrogate him by torture immediately let him go; and the commander was also afraid when he realized that Paul was a Roman and he had put him in chains.


book: Acts
contenido:
But on the next day, wanting to know the real reason why Paul was being accused by the Jews, he released him and ordered the chief priests and the whole Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court) to assemble; and brought Paul down and presented him before them.


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul before the Council Then Paul, looking intently at the Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court), said, “Kinsmen, I have lived my life before God with a perfectly good conscience until this very day.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Paul said to him, “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! Do you actually sit to judge me according to the Law, and yet in violation of the Law order me to be struck?”


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul said, “I was not aware, brothers, that he was high priest; for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’”


book: Acts
contenido:
But recognizing that one group were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, Paul began affirming loudly in the Council chamber, “Kinsmen, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees; I am on trial for the hope and resurrection of the dead!”


book: Acts
contenido:
When he said this, an angry dispute erupted between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the [whole crowded] assembly was divided [into two factions].


book: Acts
contenido:
For the Sadducees say that there is no [such thing as a] resurrection, nor an angel, nor a spirit, but the Pharisees [speak out freely and] acknowledge [their belief in] them all.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then a great uproar occurred, and some of the scribes of the Pharisees’ party stood up and began to argue heatedly [in Paul’s favor], saying, “We find nothing wrong with this man; suppose a spirit or an angel has [really] spoken to him?”


book: Acts
contenido:
And as the dissension became even greater, the commander, fearing that Paul would be torn to pieces by them, ordered the troops to go down and forcibly take him from them, and bring him to the barracks.


book: Acts
contenido:
On the following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Be brave; for as you have solemnly and faithfully witnessed about Me at Jerusalem, so you must also testify at Rome.”


book: Acts
contenido:
A Conspiracy to Kill Paul Now when day came, the Jews formed a conspiracy and bound themselves under an oath (curse), saying that they would not eat or drink until they had killed Paul.


book: Acts
contenido:
They went to the chief priests and elders and said, “We have bound ourselves under a solemn oath not to taste anything [neither food nor drink] until we have killed Paul.


book: Acts
contenido:
So now you, along with the Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court), notify the commander to bring Paul down to you, as if you were going to investigate his case more thoroughly. But we are ready to kill him before he comes near [the place].”


book: Acts
contenido:
But the son of Paul’s sister heard of their [planned] ambush, and he went to the barracks and told Paul.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Paul, calling in one of the centurions, said, “Take this young man to the commander, for he has something to tell him.”


book: Acts
contenido:
So he took him and led him to the commander and said, “Paul the prisoner called for me and asked me to bring this young man to you, because he has something to tell you.”


book: Acts
contenido:
The commander took him by the hand and stepping aside, began to ask him privately, “What is it that you have to tell me?”


book: Acts
contenido:
And he said, “The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul down to the Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court) tomorrow, as if they were going to interrogate him more thoroughly.


book: Acts
contenido:
But do not listen to them, for more than forty of them are lying in wait for him, and they have bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they have killed him. Even now they are ready, just waiting for your promise.”


book: Acts
contenido:
So the commander let the young man leave, instructing him, “Do not tell anyone that you have given me this information.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul Moved to Caesarea Maritima Then summoning two of the centurions, he said, “Have two hundred soldiers ready by the third hour of the night (9:00 p.m.) to go as far as Caesarea, with seventy horsemen and two hundred spearmen;


book: Acts
contenido:
“This man was seized [as a prisoner] by the Jews and was about to be killed by them, when I came upon him with the troops and rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman citizen.


book: Acts
contenido:
And wanting to know the exact charge which they were making against him, I brought him down to their Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court);


book: Acts
contenido:
and I discovered that he was accused in regard to questions and issues in their Law, but [he was] under no accusation that would call for the penalty of death or [even] for imprisonment.


book: Acts
contenido:
“When I was told that there would be a plot against the man, I sent him to you immediately, also directing his accusers to bring their charges against him before you.”


book: Acts
contenido:
So the soldiers, in compliance with their orders, took Paul and brought him to Antipatris during the night.


book: Acts
contenido:
When these [horsemen] reached Caesarea, they delivered the letter to the governor, and also presented Paul to him.


book: Acts
contenido:
After reading the letter, he asked which province Paul was from, and when he learned that he was from Cilicia [an imperial province],


book: Acts
contenido:
he said, “I will hear your case when your accusers have arrived,” giving orders that Paul be kept under guard in Herod’s Praetorium (the governor’s official residence).


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul before Felix Five days later, the high priest Ananias came down [from Jerusalem to Caesarea] with some elders and an attorney named Tertullus [acting as spokesman and counsel]. They presented to the governor their [formal] charges against Paul.


book: Acts
contenido:
After Paul had been summoned, Tertullus began the complaint [against him], saying to the governor: “Since through you we have attained great peace, and since by your foresight reforms are being carried out for this nation,


book: Acts
contenido:
For we have found this man to be a public menace and one who instigates dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the [heretical] sect of the Nazarenes.


book: Acts
contenido:
He even tried to desecrate the temple, but we took him into custody [and we intended to judge him by our Law,


book: Acts
contenido:
and ordered his accusers to come before you.] By interrogating him yourself concerning all these matters you will be able to determine [the truth about] these things with which we charge him.”


book: Acts
contenido:
When the governor nodded for him to speak, Paul answered, “Knowing that for many years you have been a judge over this nation, I make my defense cheerfully and with good courage.


book: Acts
contenido:
As you can easily verify, it has been no more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship.


book: Acts
contenido:
Neither in the temple, nor in the synagogues, nor elsewhere in the city did they find me carrying on a discussion or disputing with anybody or causing a crowd to gather.


book: Acts
contenido:
But I confess this to you, that according to the Way, which they call a [divisive and heretical] sect, I do worship and serve the God of our fathers, [confidently] believing everything that is in accordance with the Law [of Moses] and that is written in the Prophets;


book: Acts
contenido:
having [the same] hope in God which these men cherish themselves, that there shall certainly be a resurrection of [the dead], both of the righteous and of the wicked.


book: Acts
contenido:
In view of this, I also do my best and strive always to have a clear conscience before God and before men.


book: Acts
contenido:
Now after several years I came [to Jerusalem] to bring to my people charitable contributions and offerings.


book: Acts
contenido:
They found me in the temple presenting these offerings, after I had undergone [the rites of] purification, without any crowd or uproar. But there were some Jews from [the west coast province of] Asia [Minor],


book: Acts
contenido:
Or else let these men tell what crime they found [me guilty of] when I stood before the Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court),


book: Acts
contenido:
other than for this one statement which I had shouted out as I stood among them, ‘For the resurrection of the dead I am on trial before you today.’”


book: Acts
contenido:
But Felix, having a rather accurate understanding about the Way, put them off, saying, “When Lysias the commander comes down, I will decide your case.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then he ordered the centurion to keep Paul in custody, but to let him have some freedom, and [he told the centurion] not to stop any of his friends from providing for his needs.


book: Acts
contenido:
Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him talk about faith in Christ Jesus.


book: Acts
contenido:
But as he was discussing righteousness, self-control [honorable behavior, personal integrity], and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened and said, “Go away for now, and when I find [a convenient] time I will send for you.”


book: Acts
contenido:
At the same time he was also hoping to get money from Paul [as a bribe]; so he continued to send for him quite often and talked with him.


book: Acts
contenido:
But after two years had passed, Felix was succeeded [in office] by Porcius Festus; and wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul imprisoned.


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul before Festus Now Festus arrived in the province, and three days later he went up to Jerusalem from Caesarea [Maritima].


book: Acts
contenido:
And [there in Jerusalem] the chief priests and the leading men of the Jews brought charges against Paul [before Festus], and they repeatedly pleaded with him,


book: Acts
contenido:
asking as a concession against Paul, that he would have him brought to Jerusalem; (meanwhile planning an ambush to kill him on the way).


book: Acts
contenido:
Festus answered that Paul was being held in custody in Caesarea [Maritima] and that he himself was about to leave shortly.


book: Acts
contenido:
“So,” he said, “let those who are in a position of authority among you go there with me, and if there is anything criminal about the man, let them bring charges against him.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Now after Festus had spent no more than eight or ten days among them, he went down to Caesarea, and on the next day he took his seat on the tribunal (the judicial bench), and ordered Paul to be brought [before him].


book: Acts
contenido:
After Paul arrived, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood around him, bringing many serious charges against him which they were not able to prove,


book: Acts
contenido:
while Paul declared in his own defense, “I have done no wrong and committed no offense either against the Law of the Jews or against the temple or against Caesar.”


book: Acts
contenido:
But Festus, wishing to do the Jews a favor, answered Paul, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and stand trial there in my presence [before the Jewish Sanhedrin] on these charges?”


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul said, “I am standing before Caesar’s tribunal, where I ought to be tried. I have done nothing wrong to the Jews, as you also very well know.


book: Acts
contenido:
Therefore, if I am guilty and have committed anything worthy of death, I do not try to escape death; but if there is nothing to the accusations which these men are bringing against me, no one can hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar (Emperor Nero).”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Festus, after conferring with [the men who formed] his council, answered, “You have appealed to Caesar; to Caesar you shall go.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Now several days later, Agrippa [II] the king and Bernice [his sister] arrived at Caesarea and paid their respects to Festus [the new governor].


book: Acts
contenido:
While they were spending many days there, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, “There is a man here who was left as a prisoner by Felix.


book: Acts
contenido:
When I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews [told me about him and] brought charges against him, petitioning for a sentence of condemnation against him.


book: Acts
contenido:
I told them that it was not the custom of the Romans to hand over any man [for punishment] before the accused meets his accusers face to face and has the opportunity to defend himself against the charges.


book: Acts
contenido:
So after they arrived together here, I did not delay, but on the next day took my place on the tribunal and ordered that the man be brought before me.


book: Acts
contenido:
When his accusers stood up, they brought no charges against him of crimes that I was expecting [neither civil nor criminal actions],


book: Acts
contenido:
instead they had some points of disagreement with him about their own religion and about one Jesus, a man who had died, but whom Paul kept asserting and insisting [over and over] to be alive.


book: Acts
contenido:
And I, being at a loss as to how to investigate these things, asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there regarding these matters.


book: Acts
contenido:
But when Paul appealed to be held in custody for a decision by the Emperor [Nero], I ordered him to be kept in custody until I could send him to Caesar.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I would like to hear the man myself.” “Tomorrow,” Festus replied, “you will hear him.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul before Agrippa So the next day Agrippa and [his sister] Bernice came with great pageantry, and they went into the auditorium accompanied by the military commanders and the prominent men of the city. At the command of Festus, Paul was brought in.


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Festus said, “King Agrippa and all you gentlemen present with us, you see this man [Paul] about whom all the Jewish people appealed to me, both at Jerusalem and here, loudly insisting that he ought not to live any longer.


book: Acts
contenido:
But I found that he had done nothing worthy of death; however, since he appealed to the Emperor [Nero], I decided to send him [to Rome].


book: Acts
contenido:
But I have nothing specific about him to write to my lord. So I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the investigation has taken place, I will have something to put in writing.


book: Acts
contenido:
For it seems absurd and unreasonable to me to send a prisoner [to Rome] without indicating the charges against him.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul’s Defense before Agrippa Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You are [now] permitted to speak on your own behalf.” At that, Paul stretched out his hand [as an orator] and made his defense [as follows]:


book: Acts
contenido:
“I consider myself fortunate, King Agrippa, since it is before you that I am to make my defense today regarding all the charges brought against me by the Jews,


book: Acts
contenido:
especially because you are an expert [fully knowledgeable, experienced and unusually conversant] in all the Jewish customs and controversial issues; therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently.


book: Acts
contenido:
“So then, all the Jews know my manner of life from my youth up, which from the beginning was spent among my own nation [the Jewish people], and in Jerusalem.


book: Acts
contenido:
They have known me for a long time, if they are willing to testify to it, that according to the strictest sect of our religion, I have lived as a Pharisee.


book: Acts
contenido:
Which hope [of the Messiah and the resurrection] our twelve tribes [confidently] expect to realize as they serve and worship God in earnest night and day. And for this hope, O King, I am being accused by Jews!


book: Acts
contenido:
“So then, I [once] thought to myself that it was my duty to do many things in opposition to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.


book: Acts
contenido:
And this is just what I did in Jerusalem; I not only locked up many of the saints (God’s people) in prison after receiving authority from the chief priests, but also when they were being condemned to death, I cast my vote against them.


book: Acts
contenido:
And I often punished them [making them suffer] in all the synagogues and tried to force them to blaspheme; and in my extreme rage at them, I kept hunting them even to foreign cities [harassing and persecuting them].


book: Acts
contenido:
“While so engaged, as I was traveling to Damascus with the authority and commission and full power of the chief priests,


book: Acts
contenido:
at midday, O King, I saw on the way a light from heaven surpassing the brightness of the sun, shining all around me and those who were traveling with me.


book: Acts
contenido:
And when we all had fallen to the ground, I heard a voice in the Hebrew dialect (Jewish Aramaic) saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? It is hard for you to kick [repeatedly] against the goads [offering pointless resistance].’


book: Acts
contenido:
Get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you [to serve] as a minister and as a witness [to testify, with authority,] not only to the things which you have seen, but also to the things in which I will appear to you,


book: Acts
contenido:
[choosing you for Myself and] rescuing you from the Jewish people and from the Gentiles, to whom I am sending you,


book: Acts
contenido:
to open their [spiritual] eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness and release from their sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified (set apart, made holy) by faith in Me.’


book: Acts
contenido:
but I openly proclaimed first to those at Damascus, then at Jerusalem and throughout the region of Judea, and even to the Gentiles, that they should repent [change their inner self—their old way of thinking] and turn to God, doing deeds and living lives which are consistent with repentance.


book: Acts
contenido:
But I have had help from God to this day, and I stand [before people] testifying to small and great alike, stating nothing except what the Prophets and Moses said would come to pass—


book: Acts
contenido:
that the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed) was to suffer, and that He by being the first to rise from the dead [with an incorruptible body] would proclaim light (salvation) both to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.”


book: Acts
contenido:
While Paul was making this defense, Festus said loudly, “Paul, you are out of your mind! Your great education is turning you toward madness.”


book: Acts
contenido:
But Paul replied, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent and noble Festus, but [with a sound mind] I am uttering rational words of truth and reason.


book: Acts
contenido:
For [your majesty] the king understands these things, and [therefore] I am also speaking to him with confidence and boldness, since I am convinced that none of these things escape his notice; for this has not been done in a corner [hidden from view, in secret].


book: Acts
contenido:
King Agrippa, do you believe the [writings of the] Prophets [their messages and words]? I know that you do.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time [and with so little effort] you [almost] persuade me to become a Christian.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And Paul replied, “Whether in a short time or long, I wish to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become such as I am, except for these chains.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Then the king stood up, and [with him] the governor and Bernice, and those who were sitting with them;


book: Acts
contenido:
and after they had gone out, they began saying to one another, “This man is not doing anything worthy of death or [even] of imprisonment.”


book: Acts
contenido:
And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar (Emperor Nero).”


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul Is Sent to Rome Now when it was determined that we (including Luke) would sail for Italy, they turned Paul and some other prisoners over to a centurion of the Augustan Regiment named Julius.


book: Acts
contenido:
And going aboard a ship from Adramyttian which was about to sail for the ports along the [west] coast [province] of Asia [Minor], we put out to sea; and Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, accompanied us.


book: Acts
contenido:
The next day we landed at Sidon; and Julius, treating Paul with [thoughtful] consideration, allowed him to go to his friends there and be cared for and refreshed.


book: Acts
contenido:
From there we put out to sea and sailed to the leeward (sheltered) side of Cyprus [for protection from weather] because the winds were against us.


book: Acts
contenido:
When we had sailed across the sea along the coasts of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we landed at Myra in Lycia [on the south coast of Asia Minor].


book: Acts
contenido:
There the centurion [Julius] found an Alexandrian ship [a grain ship of the Roman fleet] sailing for Italy, and he put us aboard it.


book: Acts
contenido:
For a number of days we sailed slowly and arrived with difficulty off Cnidus; then, because the wind did not allow us to go farther, we sailed under the leeward (sheltered) side of Crete, off Salmone;


book: Acts
contenido:
and hugging the shore with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near the city of Lasea [on the south side of Crete].


book: Acts
contenido:
Now much time had been lost, and navigation was dangerous, because even [the time for] the fast (Day of Atonement) was already over, so Paul began to strongly warn them,


book: Acts
contenido:
saying, “Men, I sense [after careful thought and observation] that this voyage will certainly be a disaster and with great loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives.”


book: Acts
contenido:
However, the centurion [Julius, ranking officer on board] was persuaded by the pilot and the owner of the ship rather than by what Paul said.


book: Acts
contenido:
Because the harbor was not well situated for wintering, the majority [of the sailors] decided to put to sea from there, hoping somehow to reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete facing southwest and northwest, and spend the winter there.


book: Acts
contenido:
So when the south wind blew softly, thinking that they had obtained their goal, they weighed anchor and sailed along Crete, hugging the coast.


book: Acts
contenido:
Shipwreck But soon afterward a violent wind, called Euraquilo [a northeaster, a tempestuous windstorm like a typhoon], came rushing down from the island;


book: Acts
contenido:
and when the ship was caught in it and could not head against the wind [to gain stability], we gave up and [letting her drift] were driven along.


book: Acts
contenido:
We ran under the shelter of a small island [twenty-five miles south of Crete] called Clauda, and with great difficulty we were able to get the ship’s skiff on the deck and secure it.


book: Acts
contenido:
After hoisting the skiff [on board], they used support lines [for frapping] to undergird and brace the ship’s hull; and fearing that they might run aground on the shallows of Syrtis [off the north coast of Africa], they let down the sea anchor and lowered the sails and were driven along [backwards with the bow into the wind].


book: Acts
contenido:
On the next day, as we were being violently tossed about by the storm [and taking on water], they began to jettison the cargo;


book: Acts
contenido:
and on the third day they threw the ship’s tackle (spare lines, blocks, miscellaneous equipment) overboard with their own hands [to further reduce the weight].


book: Acts
contenido:
Since neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small storm kept raging about us, from then on all hope of our being saved was [growing worse and worse and] gradually abandoned.


book: Acts
contenido:
After they had gone a long time without food [because of seasickness and stress], Paul stood up before them and said, “Men, you should have followed my advice and should not have set sail from Crete, and brought on this damage and loss.


book: Acts
contenido:
But even now I urge you to keep up your courage and be in good spirits, because there will be no loss of life among you, but only loss of the ship.


book: Acts
contenido:
and said, ‘Stop being afraid, Paul. You must stand before Caesar; and behold, God has given you [the lives of] all those who are sailing with you.’


book: Acts
contenido:
So keep up your courage, men, for I believe God and have complete confidence in Him that it will turn out exactly as I have been told;


book: Acts
contenido:
The fourteenth night had come and we were drifting and being driven about in the Adriatic Sea, when about midnight the sailors began to suspect that they were approaching some land.


book: Acts
contenido:
So they took soundings [using a weighted line] and found [the depth to be] twenty fathoms (120 feet); and a little farther on they sounded again and found [the depth to be] fifteen fathoms (90 feet).


book: Acts
contenido:
Then fearing that we might run aground somewhere on the rocks, they dropped four anchors from the stern [to slow the ship] and kept wishing for daybreak to come.


book: Acts
contenido:
But as the sailors were trying to escape [secretly] from the ship and had let down the skiff into the sea, pretending that they were going to lay out anchors from the bow,


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men remain on the ship, you cannot be saved.”


book: Acts
contenido:
While they waited for the day to dawn, Paul encouraged them all [and told them] to have some food, saying, “This is the fourteenth day that you have been constantly on watch and going without food, having eaten nothing.


book: Acts
contenido:
So I urge you to eat some food, for this is for your survival; for not a hair from the head of any of you will perish.”


book: Acts
contenido:
Having said this, he took bread and gave thanks to God in front of them all, and he broke it and began to eat.


book: Acts
contenido:
After they had eaten enough, they began to lighten the ship by throwing the wheat [from Egypt] overboard into the sea.


book: Acts
contenido:
When day came, they did not recognize the land, but they noticed a bay with a beach, and they decided to run the ship ashore there if they could.


book: Acts
contenido:
So they cut the cables and severed the anchors and left them in the sea while at the same time unlashing the ropes of the rudders; and after hoisting the foresail to the wind, they headed steadily for the beach.


book: Acts
contenido:
But striking a reef with waves breaking in on either side, they ran the ship aground. The prow (forward point) stuck fast and remained immovable, while the stern began to break up under the [violent] force of the waves.


book: Acts
contenido:
The soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, so that none of them would dive overboard and swim [to land] and escape;


book: Acts
contenido:
but the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from [carrying out] their plan. He commanded those who could swim to jump overboard first and get to the shore;


book: Acts
contenido:
and [he commanded] the rest to follow, some on [floating] planks, and others on various things from the ship. And so it was that all of them were brought safely to land.


book: Acts
contenido:
And the natives showed us extraordinary kindness and hospitality; for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all, since it had begun to rain and was cold.


book: Acts
contenido:
But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper crawled out because of the heat and fastened itself on his hand.


book: Acts
contenido:
When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they began saying to one another, “Undoubtedly this man is a murderer, and though he has been saved from the sea, Justice [the avenging goddess] has not permitted him to live.”


book: Acts
contenido:
But they stood watching and expecting him to swell up or suddenly drop dead. But after they had waited a long time and had seen nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and began saying that he was a god.


book: Acts
contenido:
In the vicinity of that place there were estates belonging to the leading man of the island, named Publius, who welcomed and entertained us hospitably for three days.


book: Acts
contenido:
And it happened that the father of Publius was sick [in bed] with recurring attacks of fever and dysentery; and Paul went to him, and after he had prayed, he laid his hands on him and healed him.


book: Acts
contenido:
After this occurred, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases were coming to him and being healed.


book: Acts
contenido:
They also gave us many honors [gifts and courtesies expressing respect]; and when we were setting sail, they supplied us with all the things we needed.


book: Acts
contenido:
Paul Arrives at Rome At the end of three months we set sail on a ship which had wintered at the island, an Alexandrian ship with the Twin Brothers [Castor and Pollux] as its figurehead.


book: Acts
contenido:
From there we sailed around and arrived at Rhegium [on Italy’s southern tip]; and a day later a south wind came up, and on the second day we arrived at Puteoli.


book: Acts
contenido:
There we found some believers and were invited to stay with them for seven days. And so we came to Rome.


book: Acts
contenido:
And the brothers and sisters, having heard news about us, came from as far away as the Forum of Appius and Three Inns to meet us. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and was encouraged.


book: Acts
contenido:
When we entered Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself [in rented quarters] with the soldier who was guarding him.


book: Acts
contenido:
Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews; and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Kinsmen, though I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our fathers, yet I was turned over as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.


book: Acts
contenido:
After they had interrogated me, they were ready to release me because I was not guilty of any offense deserving death.


book: Acts
contenido:
But when the Jews objected [to my release], I was forced to appeal to Caesar (Emperor Nero), not because I had any charge to make against my nation.


book: Acts
contenido:
For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you, since it is for the sake of the hope of Israel (the Messiah, the resurrection) that I am bound with this chain.”


book: Acts
contenido:
They said to him, “We have not received [any] letters about you from Judea, nor have any of the [Jewish] brothers come here and reported or said anything bad about you.


book: Acts
contenido:
But we would like to hear from you what your views are [that is, exactly what you believe]; for in regard to this sect (Christianity), we are fully aware that it is denounced everywhere.”


book: Acts
contenido:
When they had set a day for Paul, they came to his lodging in large numbers. And he carefully explained [Christianity] to them from morning until evening, solemnly testifying about the kingdom of God and trying to persuade them concerning Jesus, both from the Law of Moses and from the [writings of the] Prophets.


book: Acts
contenido:
They disagreed among themselves and they began to leave after Paul had made one last statement: “The Holy Spirit rightly spoke through Isaiah the prophet to your fathers, saying,


book: Acts
contenido:
‘Go to this people and say, “You will keep on hearing, but will not understand, You will keep on seeing, but will not perceive;


book: Acts
contenido:
 “For the heart (the understanding, the soul) of this people has become dull (calloused), And with their ears they scarcely hear, And they have shut their eyes [to the truth]; Otherwise they might see with their eyes, And hear with their ears, And understand with their heart and return [to Me], And I would heal them.”’


book: Acts
contenido:
Therefore let it be known to you that [this message of] the salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they indeed will listen!”


book: Acts
contenido:
And Paul lived there for two full years [at his own expense] in his own rented lodging and welcomed all who came to him,


book: Acts
contenido:
preaching and proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness and boldness, unhindered and unrestrained.


book: Rom
contenido:
The Gospel Exalted Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative), set apart for [preaching] the gospel of God [the good news of salvation],


book: Rom
contenido:
[the good news] regarding His Son, who, as to the flesh [His human nature], was born a descendant of David [to fulfill the covenant promises],


book: Rom
contenido:
and [as to His divine nature] according to the Spirit of holiness was openly designated to be the Son of God with power [in a triumphant and miraculous way] by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.


book: Rom
contenido:
It is through Him that we have received grace and [our] apostleship to promote obedience to the faith and make disciples for His name’s sake among all the Gentiles,


book: Rom
contenido:
[I am writing] to all who are beloved of God in Rome, called to be saints (God’s people) and set apart for a sanctified life, [that is, set apart for God and His purpose]: Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being] from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.


book: Rom
contenido:
First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith [your trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness] is being proclaimed in all the world.


book: Rom
contenido:
For God, whom I serve with my spirit by preaching the gospel of His Son, is my witness as to how continuously I mention you


book: Rom
contenido:
For I long to see you so that I may share with you some spiritual gift, to strengthen and establish you;


book: Rom
contenido:
that is, that we may be mutually encouraged and comforted by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.


book: Rom
contenido:
I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that many times I have planned to come to you, (and have been prevented so far) so that I may have some fruit [of my labors] among you, even as I have among the rest of the Gentiles.


book: Rom
contenido:
I have a duty to perform and a debt to pay both to Greeks and to barbarians [the cultured and the uncultured], both to the wise and to the foolish.


book: Rom
contenido:
I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation [from His wrath and punishment] to everyone who believes [in Christ as Savior], to the Jew first and also to the Greek.


book: Rom
contenido:
For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed, both springing from faith and leading to faith [disclosed in a way that awakens more faith]. As it is written and forever remains written, “The just and upright shall live by faith.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Unbelief and Its Consequences For [God does not overlook sin and] the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who in their wickedness suppress and stifle the truth,


book: Rom
contenido:
because that which is known about God is evident within them [in their inner consciousness], for God made it evident to them.


book: Rom
contenido:
For ever since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through His workmanship [all His creation, the wonderful things that He has made], so that they [who fail to believe and trust in Him] are without excuse and without defense.


book: Rom
contenido:
For even though they knew God [as the Creator], they did not honor Him as God or give thanks [for His wondrous creation]. On the contrary, they became worthless in their thinking [godless, with pointless reasonings, and silly speculations], and their foolish heart was darkened.


book: Rom
contenido:
and exchanged the glory and majesty and excellence of the immortal God for an image [worthless idols] in the shape of mortal man and birds and four-footed animals and reptiles.


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their own hearts to [sexual] impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them [abandoning them to the degrading power of sin],


book: Rom
contenido:
because [by choice] they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen.


book: Rom
contenido:
For this reason God gave them over to degrading and vile passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural [a function contrary to nature],


book: Rom
contenido:
and in the same way also the men turned away from the natural function of the woman and were consumed with their desire toward one another, men with men committing shameful acts and in return receiving in their own bodies the inevitable and appropriate penalty for their wrongdoing.


book: Rom
contenido:
And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God or consider Him worth knowing [as their Creator], God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do things which are improper and repulsive,


book: Rom
contenido:
until they were filled (permeated, saturated) with every kind of unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malice and mean-spiritedness. They are gossips [spreading rumors],


book: Rom
contenido:
slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors [of new forms] of evil, disobedient and disrespectful to parents,


book: Rom
contenido:
Although they know God’s righteous decree and His judgment, that those who do such things deserve death, yet they not only do them, but they even [enthusiastically] approve and tolerate others who practice them.


book: Rom
contenido:
The Impartiality of God Therefore you have no excuse or justification, everyone of you who [hypocritically] judges and condemns others; for in passing judgment on another person, you condemn yourself, because you who judge [from a position of arrogance or self-righteousness] are habitually practicing the very same things [which you denounce].


book: Rom
contenido:
And we know that the judgment of God falls justly and in accordance with truth on those who practice such things.


book: Rom
contenido:
But do you think this, O man, when you judge and condemn those who practice such things, and yet do the same yourself, that you will escape God’s judgment and elude His verdict?


book: Rom
contenido:
Or do you have no regard for the wealth of His kindness and tolerance and patience [in withholding His wrath]? Are you [actually] unaware or ignorant [of the fact] that God’s kindness leads you to repentance [that is, to change your inner self, your old way of thinking—seek His purpose for your life]?


book: Rom
contenido:
But because of your callous stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are [deliberately] storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed.


book: Rom
contenido:
to those who by persistence in doing good seek [unseen but certain heavenly] glory, honor, and immortality, [He will give the gift of] eternal life.


book: Rom
contenido:
But for those who are selfishly ambitious and self-seeking and disobedient to the truth but responsive to wickedness, [there will be] wrath and indignation.


book: Rom
contenido:
There will be tribulation and anguish [torturing confinement] for every human soul who does [or permits] evil, to the Jew first and also to the Greek,


book: Rom
contenido:
but glory and honor and inner peace [will be given] to everyone who habitually does good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.


book: Rom
contenido:
For God shows no partiality [no arbitrary favoritism; with Him one person is not more important than another].


book: Rom
contenido:
For all who have sinned without the Law will also perish without [regard to] the Law, and all who have sinned under the Law will be judged and condemned by the Law.


book: Rom
contenido:
For it is not those who merely hear the Law [as it is read aloud] who are just or righteous before God, but it is those who [actually] obey the Law who will be justified [pronounced free of the guilt of sin and declared acceptable to Him].


book: Rom
contenido:
When Gentiles, who do not have the Law [since it was given only to Jews], do instinctively the things the Law requires [guided only by their conscience], they are a law to themselves, though they do not have the Law.


book: Rom
contenido:
They show that the essential requirements of the Law are written in their hearts; and their conscience [their sense of right and wrong, their moral choices] bearing witness and their thoughts alternately accusing or perhaps defending them


book: Rom
contenido:
on that day when, as my gospel proclaims, God will judge the secrets [all the hidden thoughts and concealed sins] of men through Christ Jesus.


book: Rom
contenido:
The Jew Is Condemned by the Law But if you bear the name “Jew” and rely on the Law [for your salvation] and boast in [your special relationship to] God,


book: Rom
contenido:
and [if you claim to] know His will and approve the things that are essential or have a sense of what is excellent, based on your instruction from the Law,


book: Rom
contenido:
and [if you] are confident that you are a [qualified] guide to the blind [those untaught in theology], a light to those who are in darkness,


book: Rom
contenido:
and [that you are] a corrector of the foolish, a teacher of the [spiritually] childish, having in the Law the embodiment of knowledge and of the truth—


book: Rom
contenido:
well then, you who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal [in ways that are discrete, but just as sinful]?


book: Rom
contenido:
You who say that one must not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who detest idols, do you rob [pagan] temples [of valuable idols and offerings]?


book: Rom
contenido:
For, “the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you,” just as it is written [in Scripture].


book: Rom
contenido:
Circumcision [the sign of the covenant of Abraham] is indeed of value if you practice the Law; but if you habitually break the Law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision [it is meaningless in God’s sight].


book: Rom
contenido:
So if the uncircumcised man keeps the requirements of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded [by God] as circumcision?


book: Rom
contenido:
Then he who is physically uncircumcised but keeps [the spirit of] the Law will judge you who, even though you have the written code and circumcision, break the Law.


book: Rom
contenido:
For he is not a [real] Jew who is only one outwardly, nor is [true] circumcision something external and physical.


book: Rom
contenido:
But he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and [true] circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by [the fulfillment of] the letter [of the Law]. His praise is not from men, but from God.


book: Rom
contenido:
Great in every respect. To begin with, the Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God [His very words].


book: Rom
contenido:
What then? If some did not believe or were unfaithful [to God], their lack of belief will not nullify and make invalid the faithfulness of God and His word, will it?


book: Rom
contenido:
Certainly not! Let God be found true [as He will be], though every person be found a liar, just as it is written [in Scripture], “That You may be justified in Your words, And prevail when You are judged [by sinful men].”


book: Rom
contenido:
But if our unrighteousness demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? God is not wrong to inflict His wrath [on us], is He? (I am speaking in purely human terms.)


book: Rom
contenido:
But [as you might say] if through my lie God’s truth was magnified and abounded to His glory, why am I still being judged as a sinner?


book: Rom
contenido:
And why not say, (as some slanderously report and claim that we teach) “Let us do evil so that good may come of it”? Their condemnation [by God] is just.


book: Rom
contenido:
Well then, are we [Jews] better off than they? Not at all; for we have already charged that both Jews and Greeks (Gentiles) are under the control of sin and subject to its power.


book: Rom
contenido:
As it is written and forever remains written, “There is none righteous [none that meets God’s standard], not even one.


book: Rom
contenido:
 “All have turned aside, together they have become useless; There is none who does good, no, not one.”


book: Rom
contenido:
 “Their throat is an open grave; They [habitually] deceive with their tongues.” “The venom of asps is beneath their lips.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Now we know that whatever the Law [of Moses] says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, so that [the excuses of] every mouth may be silenced [from protesting] and that all the world may be held accountable to God [and subject to His judgment].


book: Rom
contenido:
For no person will be justified [freed of guilt and declared righteous] in His sight by [trying to do] the works of the Law. For through the Law we become conscious of sin [and the recognition of sin directs us toward repentance, but provides no remedy for sin].


book: Rom
contenido:
Justification by Faith But now the righteousness of God has been clearly revealed [independently and completely] apart from the Law, though it is [actually] confirmed by the Law and the [words and writings of the] Prophets.


book: Rom
contenido:
This righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ for all those [Jew or Gentile] who believe [and trust in Him and acknowledge Him as God’s Son]. There is no distinction,


book: Rom
contenido:
and are being justified [declared free of the guilt of sin, made acceptable to God, and granted eternal life] as a gift by His [precious, undeserved] grace, through the redemption [the payment for our sin] which is [provided] in Christ Jesus,


book: Rom
contenido:
whom God displayed publicly [before the eyes of the world] as a [life-giving] sacrifice of atonement and reconciliation (propitiation) by His blood [to be received] through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness [which demands punishment for sin], because in His forbearance [His deliberate restraint] He passed over the sins previously committed [before Jesus’ crucifixion].


book: Rom
contenido:
It was to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the One who justifies those who have faith in Jesus [and rely confidently on Him as Savior].


book: Rom
contenido:
Then what becomes of [our] boasting? It is excluded [entirely ruled out, banished]. On what principle? On [the principle of good] works? No, but on the principle of faith.


book: Rom
contenido:
For we maintain that an individual is justified by faith distinctly apart from works of the Law [the observance of which has nothing to do with justification, that is, being declared free of the guilt of sin and made acceptable to God].


book: Rom
contenido:
Or is God the God of Jews only? Is He not also the God of Gentiles [who were not given the Law]? Yes, of Gentiles also,


book: Rom
contenido:
since indeed it is one [and the same] God who will justify the circumcised by faith [which began with Abraham] and the uncircumcised through [their newly acquired] faith.


book: Rom
contenido:
Do we then nullify the Law by this faith [making the Law of no effect, overthrowing it]? Certainly not! On the contrary, we confirm and establish and uphold the Law [since it convicts us all of sin, pointing to the need for salvation].


book: Rom
contenido:
Justification by Faith Evidenced in Old Testament What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather humanly speaking, has found? [Has he obtained a favored standing?]


book: Rom
contenido:
For if Abraham was justified [that is, acquitted from the guilt of his sins] by works [those things he did that were good], he has something to boast about, but not before God.


book: Rom
contenido:
For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed in (trusted, relied on) God, and it was credited to his account as righteousness (right living, right standing with God).”


book: Rom
contenido:
Now to a laborer, his wages are not credited as a favor or a gift, but as an obligation [something owed to him].


book: Rom
contenido:
But to the one who does not work [that is, the one who does not try to earn his salvation by doing good], but believes and completely trusts in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited to him as righteousness (right standing with God).


book: Rom
contenido:
And in this same way David speaks of the blessing on the one to whom God credits righteousness apart from works:


book: Rom
contenido:
 “Blessed and happy and favored are those whose lawless acts have been forgiven, And whose sins have been covered up and completely buried.


book: Rom
contenido:
 “Blessed and happy and favored is the man whose sin the Lord will not take into account nor charge against him.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Is this blessing only for the circumcised, or also for the uncircumcised? For we say, “Faith was credited to Abraham as righteousness.”


book: Rom
contenido:
How then was it credited [to him]? Was it after he had been circumcised, or before? Not after, but while [he was] uncircumcised.


book: Rom
contenido:
He received the sign of circumcision, a seal or confirmation of the righteousness which he had by faith while [he was still] uncircumcised—this was so that he would be the [spiritual] father of all who believe without being circumcised—so that righteousness would be credited to them,


book: Rom
contenido:
and [that he would be] the [spiritual] father of those circumcised who are not only circumcised, but who also walk in the steps of the faith of our father Abraham which he had before he was circumcised.


book: Rom
contenido:
For the promise to Abraham or to his descendants that he would be heir of the world was not through [observing the requirements of] the Law, but through the righteousness of faith.


book: Rom
contenido:
If those who are [followers] of the Law are [the true] heirs [of Abraham], then faith [leading to salvation] is of no effect and void, and the promise [of God] is nullified.


book: Rom
contenido:
For the Law results in [God’s] wrath [against sin], but where there is no law, there is no violation [of it either].


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore, [inheriting] the promise depends entirely on faith [that is, confident trust in the unseen God], in order that it may be given as an act of grace [His unmerited favor and mercy], so that the promise will be [legally] guaranteed to all the descendants [of Abraham]—not only for those [Jewish believers] who keep the Law, but also for those [Gentile believers] who share the faith of Abraham, who is the [spiritual] father of us all—


book: Rom
contenido:
(as it is written [in Scripture], “I have made you a father of many nations”) in the sight of Him in whom he believed, that is, God who gives life to the dead and calls into being that which does not exist.


book: Rom
contenido:
In hope against hope Abraham believed that he would become a father of many nations, as he had been promised [by God]: “So [numberless] shall your descendants be.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Without becoming weak in faith he considered his own body, now as good as dead [for producing children] since he was about a hundred years old, and [he considered] the deadness of Sarah’s womb.


book: Rom
contenido:
But he did not doubt or waver in unbelief concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and empowered by faith, giving glory to God,


book: Rom
contenido:
but for our sake also—to whom righteousness will be credited, as those who believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead—


book: Rom
contenido:
who was betrayed and crucified because of our sins, and was raised [from the dead] because of our justification [our acquittal—absolving us of all sin before God].


book: Rom
contenido:
Results of Justification Therefore, since we have been justified [that is, acquitted of sin, declared blameless before God] by faith, [let us grasp the fact that] we have peace with God [and the joy of reconciliation with Him] through our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed).


book: Rom
contenido:
Through Him we also have access by faith into this [remarkable state of] grace in which we [firmly and safely and securely] stand. Let us rejoice in our hope and the confident assurance of [experiencing and enjoying] the glory of [our great] God [the manifestation of His excellence and power].


book: Rom
contenido:
And not only this, but [with joy] let us exult in our sufferings and rejoice in our hardships, knowing that hardship (distress, pressure, trouble) produces patient endurance;


book: Rom
contenido:
and endurance, proven character (spiritual maturity); and proven character, hope and confident assurance [of eternal salvation].


book: Rom
contenido:
Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.


book: Rom
contenido:
While we were still helpless [powerless to provide for our salvation], at the right time Christ died [as a substitute] for the ungodly.


book: Rom
contenido:
Now it is an extraordinary thing for one to willingly give his life even for an upright man, though perhaps for a good man [one who is noble and selfless and worthy] someone might even dare to die.


book: Rom
contenido:
But God clearly shows and proves His own love for us, by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore, since we have now been justified [declared free of the guilt of sin] by His blood, [how much more certain is it that] we will be saved from the wrath of God through Him.


book: Rom
contenido:
For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, it is much more certain, having been reconciled, that we will be saved [from the consequences of sin] by His life [that is, we will be saved because Christ lives today].


book: Rom
contenido:
Not only that, but we also rejoice in God [rejoicing in His love and perfection] through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received and enjoy our reconciliation [with God].


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, so death spread to all people [no one being able to stop it or escape its power], because they all sinned.


book: Rom
contenido:
Sin was [committed] in the world before the Law [was given], but sin is not charged [against anyone] when there is no law [against it].


book: Rom
contenido:
Yet death ruled [over mankind] from Adam to Moses [the Lawgiver], even over those who had not sinned as Adam did. Adam is a type of Him (Christ) who was to come [but in reverse—Adam brought destruction, Christ brought salvation].


book: Rom
contenido:
But the free gift [of God] is not like the trespass [because the gift of grace overwhelms the fall of man]. For if many died by one man’s trespass [Adam’s sin], much more [abundantly] did God’s grace and the gift [that comes] by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, overflow to [benefit] the many.


book: Rom
contenido:
Nor is the gift [of grace] like that which came through the one who sinned. For on the one hand the judgment [following the sin] resulted from one trespass and brought condemnation, but on the other hand the free gift resulted from many trespasses and brought justification [the release from sin’s penalty for those who believe].


book: Rom
contenido:
For if by the trespass of the one (Adam), death reigned through the one (Adam), much more surely will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in [eternal] life through the One, Jesus Christ.


book: Rom
contenido:
So then as through one trespass [Adam’s sin] there resulted condemnation for all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men.


book: Rom
contenido:
For just as through one man’s disobedience [his failure to hear, his carelessness] the many were made sinners, so through the obedience of the one Man the many will be made righteous and acceptable to God and brought into right standing with Him.


book: Rom
contenido:
But the Law came to increase and expand [the awareness of] the trespass [by defining and unmasking sin]. But where sin increased, [God’s remarkable, gracious gift of] grace [His unmerited favor] has surpassed it and increased all the more,


book: Rom
contenido:
so that, as sin reigned in death, so also grace would reign through righteousness which brings eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.


book: Rom
contenido:
Believers Are Dead to Sin, Alive to God What shall we say [to all this]? Should we continue in sin and practice sin as a habit so that [God’s gift of] grace may increase and overflow?


book: Rom
contenido:
Or are you ignorant of the fact that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?


book: Rom
contenido:
We have therefore been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory and power of the Father, we too might walk habitually in newness of life [abandoning our old ways].


book: Rom
contenido:
For if we have become one with Him [permanently united] in the likeness of His death, we will also certainly be [one with Him and share fully] in the likeness of His resurrection.


book: Rom
contenido:
We know that our old self [our human nature without the Holy Spirit] was nailed to the cross with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin.


book: Rom
contenido:
because we know [the self-evident truth] that Christ, having been raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has power over Him.


book: Rom
contenido:
For the death that He died, He died to sin [ending its power and paying the sinner’s debt] once and for all; and the life that He lives, He lives to [glorify] God [in unbroken fellowship with Him].


book: Rom
contenido:
Even so, consider yourselves to be dead to sin [and your relationship to it broken], but alive to God [in unbroken fellowship with Him] in Christ Jesus.


book: Rom
contenido:
Do not go on offering members of your body to sin as instruments of wickedness. But offer yourselves to God [in a decisive act] as those alive [raised] from the dead [to a new life], and your members [all of your abilities—sanctified, set apart] as instruments of righteousness [yielded] to God.


book: Rom
contenido:
For sin will no longer be a master over you, since you are not under Law [as slaves], but under [unmerited] grace [as recipients of God’s favor and mercy].


book: Rom
contenido:
What then [are we to conclude]? Shall we sin because we are not under Law, but under [God’s] grace? Certainly not!


book: Rom
contenido:
Do you not know that when you continually offer yourselves to someone to do his will, you are the slaves of the one whom you obey, either [slaves] of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness (right standing with God)?


book: Rom
contenido:
But thank God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient with all your heart to the standard of teaching in which you were instructed and to which you were committed.


book: Rom
contenido:
And having been set free from sin, you have become the slaves of righteousness [of conformity to God’s will and purpose].


book: Rom
contenido:
I am speaking in [familiar] human terms because of your natural limitations [your spiritual immaturity]. For just as you presented your bodily members as slaves to impurity and to [moral] lawlessness, leading to further lawlessness, so now offer your members [your abilities, your talents] as slaves to righteousness, leading to sanctification [that is, being set apart for God’s purpose].


book: Rom
contenido:
When you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness [you had no desire to conform to God’s will].


book: Rom
contenido:
So what benefit did you get at that time from the things of which you are now ashamed? [None!] For the outcome of those things is death!


book: Rom
contenido:
But now since you have been set free from sin and have become [willing] slaves to God, you have your benefit, resulting in sanctification [being made holy and set apart for God’s purpose], and the outcome [of this] is eternal life.


book: Rom
contenido:
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God [that is, His remarkable, overwhelming gift of grace to believers] is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.


book: Rom
contenido:
Believers United to Christ Or do you not know, brothers and sisters (for I am speaking to those who know the Law), that the Law has jurisdiction [to rule] over a person as long as he lives?


book: Rom
contenido:
For the married woman [as an example] is bound and remains bound by law to her husband while he lives; but if her husband dies, she is released and exempt from the law concerning her husband.


book: Rom
contenido:
Accordingly, she will be designated as an adulteress if she unites herself to another man while her husband is alive. But if her husband dies, she is free from the law [regarding marriage], so that she is not an adulteress if she marries another man.


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore, my fellow believers, you too died to the Law through the [crucified] body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God.


book: Rom
contenido:
When we were living in the flesh [trapped by sin], the sinful passions, which were awakened by [that which] the Law [identifies as sin], were at work in our body to bear fruit for death [since the willingness to sin led to death and separation from God].


book: Rom
contenido:
But now we have been released from the Law and its penalty, having died [through Christ] to that by which we were held captive, so that we serve [God] in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter [of the Law].


book: Rom
contenido:
What shall we say then? Is the Law sin? Certainly not! On the contrary, if it had not been for the Law, I would not have recognized sin. For I would not have known [for example] about coveting [what belongs to another, and would have had no sense of guilt] if the Law had not [repeatedly] said, “You shall not covet.”


book: Rom
contenido:
But sin, finding an opportunity through the commandment [to express itself] produced in me every kind of coveting and selfish desire. For without the Law sin is dead [the recognition of sin is inactive].


book: Rom
contenido:
I was once alive without [knowledge of] the Law; but when the commandment came [and I understood its meaning], sin became alive and I died [since the Law sentenced me to death].


book: Rom
contenido:
For sin, seizing its opportunity through the commandment, beguiled and completely deceived me, and using it as a weapon killed me [separating me from God].


book: Rom
contenido:
Did that which is good [the Law], then become death to me? Certainly not! But sin, in order that it might be revealed as sin, was producing death in me by [using] this good thing [as a weapon], so that through the commandment sin would become exceedingly sinful.


book: Rom
contenido:
The Conflict of Two Natures We know that the Law is spiritual, but I am a creature of the flesh [worldly, self-reliant—carnal and unspiritual], sold into slavery to sin [and serving under its control].


book: Rom
contenido:
For I do not understand my own actions [I am baffled and bewildered by them]. I do not practice what I want to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate [and yielding to my human nature, my worldliness—my sinful capacity].


book: Rom
contenido:
Now if I habitually do what I do not want to do, [that means] I agree with the Law, confessing that it is good (morally excellent).


book: Rom
contenido:
So now [if that is the case, then] it is no longer I who do it [the disobedient thing which I despise], but the sin [nature] which lives in me.


book: Rom
contenido:
For I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh [my human nature, my worldliness—my sinful capacity]. For the willingness [to do good] is present in me, but the doing of good is not.


book: Rom
contenido:
But if I am doing the very thing I do not want to do, I am no longer the one doing it [that is, it is not me that acts], but the sin [nature] which lives in me.


book: Rom
contenido:
So I find it to be the law [of my inner self], that evil is present in me, the one who wants to do good.


book: Rom
contenido:
but I see a different law and rule of action in the members of my body [in its appetites and desires], waging war against the law of my mind and subduing me and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is within my members.


book: Rom
contenido:
Wretched and miserable man that I am! Who will [rescue me and] set me free from this body of death [this corrupt, mortal existence]?


book: Rom
contenido:
Thanks be to God [for my deliverance] through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, on the one hand I myself with my mind serve the law of God, but on the other, with my flesh [my human nature, my worldliness, my sinful capacity—I serve] the law of sin.


book: Rom
contenido:
Escape from Bondage Therefore there is now no condemnation [no guilty verdict, no punishment] for those who are in Christ Jesus [who believe in Him as personal Lord and Savior].


book: Rom
contenido:
For the law of the Spirit of life [which is] in Christ Jesus [the law of our new being] has set you free from the law of sin and of death.


book: Rom
contenido:
For what the Law could not do [that is, overcome sin and remove its penalty, its power] being weakened by the flesh [man’s nature without the Holy Spirit], God did: He sent His own Son in the likeness of sinful man as an offering for sin. And He condemned sin in the flesh [subdued it and overcame it in the person of His own Son],


book: Rom
contenido:
so that the [righteous and just] requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us who do not live our lives in the ways of the flesh [guided by worldliness and our sinful nature], but [live our lives] in the ways of the Spirit [guided by His power].


book: Rom
contenido:
For those who are living according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh [which gratify the body], but those who are living according to the Spirit, [set their minds on] the things of the Spirit [His will and purpose].


book: Rom
contenido:
Now the mind of the flesh is death [both now and forever—because it pursues sin]; but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace [the spiritual well-being that comes from walking with God—both now and forever];


book: Rom
contenido:
the mind of the flesh [with its sinful pursuits] is actively hostile to God. It does not submit itself to God’s law, since it cannot,


book: Rom
contenido:
and those who are in the flesh [living a life that caters to sinful appetites and impulses] cannot please God.


book: Rom
contenido:
However, you are not [living] in the flesh [controlled by the sinful nature] but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God lives in you [directing and guiding you]. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him [and is not a child of God].


book: Rom
contenido:
If Christ lives in you, though your [natural] body is dead because of sin, your spirit is alive because of righteousness [which He provides].


book: Rom
contenido:
And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you.


book: Rom
contenido:
So then, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation, but not to our flesh [our human nature, our worldliness, our sinful capacity], to live according to the [impulses of the] flesh [our nature without the Holy Spirit]—


book: Rom
contenido:
for if you are living according to the [impulses of the] flesh, you are going to die. But if [you are living] by the [power of the Holy] Spirit you are habitually putting to death the sinful deeds of the body, you will [really] live forever.


book: Rom
contenido:
For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading again to fear [of God’s judgment], but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons [the Spirit producing sonship] by which we [joyfully] cry, “Abba! Father!”


book: Rom
contenido:
The Spirit Himself testifies and confirms together with our spirit [assuring us] that we [believers] are children of God.


book: Rom
contenido:
And if [we are His] children, [then we are His] heirs also: heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ [sharing His spiritual blessing and inheritance], if indeed we share in His suffering so that we may also share in His glory.


book: Rom
contenido:
For I consider [from the standpoint of faith] that the sufferings of the present life are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is about to be revealed to us and in us!


book: Rom
contenido:
For the creation was subjected to frustration and futility, not willingly [because of some intentional fault on its part], but by the will of Him who subjected it, in hope


book: Rom
contenido:
that the creation itself will also be freed from its bondage to decay [and gain entrance] into the glorious freedom of the children of God.


book: Rom
contenido:
For we know that the whole creation has been moaning together as in the pains of childbirth until now.


book: Rom
contenido:
And not only this, but we too, who have the first fruits of the Spirit [a joyful indication of the blessings to come], even we groan inwardly, as we wait eagerly for [the sign of] our adoption as sons—the redemption and transformation of our body [at the resurrection].


book: Rom
contenido:
For in this hope we were saved [by faith]. But hope [the object of] which is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he already sees?


book: Rom
contenido:
Our Victory in Christ In the same way the Spirit [comes to us and] helps us in our weakness. We do not know what prayer to offer or how to offer it as we should, but the Spirit Himself [knows our need and at the right time] intercedes on our behalf with sighs and groanings too deep for words.


book: Rom
contenido:
And He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because the Spirit intercedes [before God] on behalf of God’s people in accordance with God’s will.


book: Rom
contenido:
And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.


book: Rom
contenido:
For those whom He foreknew [and loved and chose beforehand], He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son [and ultimately share in His complete sanctification], so that He would be the firstborn [the most beloved and honored] among many believers.


book: Rom
contenido:
And those whom He predestined, He also called; and those whom He called, He also justified [declared free of the guilt of sin]; and those whom He justified, He also glorified [raising them to a heavenly dignity].


book: Rom
contenido:
He who did not spare [even] His own Son, but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?


book: Rom
contenido:
Who will bring any charge against God’s elect (His chosen ones)? It is God who justifies us [declaring us blameless and putting us in a right relationship with Himself].


book: Rom
contenido:
Who is the one who condemns us? Christ Jesus is the One who died [to pay our penalty], and more than that, who was raised [from the dead], and who is at the right hand of God interceding [with the Father] for us.


book: Rom
contenido:
Who shall ever separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?


book: Rom
contenido:
Just as it is written and forever remains written, “For Your sake we are put to death all day long; We are regarded as sheep for the slaughter.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors and gain an overwhelming victory through Him who loved us [so much that He died for us].


book: Rom
contenido:
For I am convinced [and continue to be convinced—beyond any doubt] that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present and threatening, nor things to come, nor powers,


book: Rom
contenido:
nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the [unlimited] love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.


book: Rom
contenido:
Concern for Israel I am telling the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience testifies with me [enlightened and prompted] by the Holy Spirit,


book: Rom
contenido:
For [if it were possible] I would wish that I myself were accursed, [separated, banished] from Christ for the sake [of the salvation] of my brothers, my natural kinsmen,


book: Rom
contenido:
who are Israelites, to whom belongs the adoption as sons, the glory (Shekinah), the [special] covenants [with Abraham, Moses, and David], the giving of the Law, the [system of temple] worship, and the [original] promises.


book: Rom
contenido:
To them belong the patriarchs, and from them, according to His natural descent, came the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed), He who is exalted and supreme over all, God blessed forever. Amen.


book: Rom
contenido:
However, it is not as though God’s word has failed [coming to nothing]. For not all who are descended from Israel (Jacob) are [the true] Israel;


book: Rom
contenido:
and they are not all the children of Abraham because they are his descendants [by blood], but [the promise was]: “Your descendants will be named through Isaac” [though Abraham had other sons].


book: Rom
contenido:
That is, it is not the children of the body [Abraham’s natural descendants] who are God’s children, but it is the children of the promise who are counted as [Abraham’s true] descendants.


book: Rom
contenido:
For this is what the promise said: “About this time [next year] I will come, and Sarah shall have a son.”


book: Rom
contenido:
And not only that, but this too: Rebekah conceived twin sons by one man [under the same circumstances], by our father Isaac;


book: Rom
contenido:
and though the twins were not yet born and had not done anything either good or bad, so that God’s purpose [His choice, His election] would stand, not because of works [done by either child], but because of [the plan of] Him who calls them,


book: Rom
contenido:
As it is written and forever remains written, “Jacob I loved (chose, protected, blessed), but Esau I hated (held in disregard compared to Jacob).”


book: Rom
contenido:
For He says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whomever I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whomever I have compassion.”


book: Rom
contenido:
So then God’s choice is not dependent on human will, nor on human effort [the totality of human striving], but on God who shows mercy [to whomever He chooses—it is His sovereign gift].


book: Rom
contenido:
For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “I raised you up for this very purpose, to display My power in [dealing with] you, and so that My name would be proclaimed in all the earth.”


book: Rom
contenido:
You will say to me then, “Why does He still blame me [for sinning]? For who [including myself] has [ever] resisted His will and purpose?”


book: Rom
contenido:
On the contrary, who are you, O man, who answers [arrogantly] back to God and dares to defy Him? Will the thing which is formed say to him who formed it, “Why have you made me like this?”


book: Rom
contenido:
Does the potter not have the right over the clay, to make from the same lump [of clay] one object for honorable use [something beautiful or distinctive] and another for common use [something ordinary or menial]?


book: Rom
contenido:
What if God, although willing to show His [terrible] wrath and to make His power known, has tolerated with great patience the objects of His wrath [which are] prepared for destruction?


book: Rom
contenido:
And what if He has done so to make known the riches of His glory to the objects of His mercy, which He has prepared beforehand for glory,


book: Rom
contenido:
Just as He says in [the writings of the prophet] Hosea: “I will call those who were not My people, ‘My people,’ And [I will call] her who was not beloved, ‘beloved.’”


book: Rom
contenido:
 “And it shall be that in the place where it was said to them, ‘you are not My people,’ There they shall be called sons of the living God.”


book: Rom
contenido:
And Isaiah calls out concerning Israel: “Though the number of the sons of Israel be like the sand of the sea, it is only the remnant [a small believing minority] that will be saved [from God’s judgment];


book: Rom
contenido:
For the Lord will execute His word upon the earth [He will conclude His dealings with mankind] completely and without delay.”


book: Rom
contenido:
It is as Isaiah foretold, “If the Lord of Hosts had not left us seed [future generations from which a believing remnant of Israelites came], We would have become like Sodom, and would have resembled Gomorrah [totally rejected and destroyed]!”


book: Rom
contenido:
What shall we say then? That Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness [who did not seek salvation and a right relationship with God, nevertheless] obtained righteousness, that is, the righteousness which is produced by faith;


book: Rom
contenido:
whereas Israel, [though always] pursuing the law of righteousness, did not succeed in fulfilling the law.


book: Rom
contenido:
And why not? Because it was not by faith [that they pursued it], but as though it were by works [relying on the merit of their works instead of their faith]. They stumbled over the stumbling Stone [Jesus Christ].


book: Rom
contenido:
As it is written and forever remains written, “Behold I am laying in Zion a Stone of stumbling and a Rock of offense; And he who believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will not be disappointed [in his expectations].”


book: Rom
contenido:
The Word of Faith Brings Salvation Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and my prayer to God for Israel is for their salvation.


book: Rom
contenido:
For I testify about them that they have a certain enthusiasm for God, but not in accordance with [correct and vital] knowledge [about Him and His purposes].


book: Rom
contenido:
For not knowing about God’s righteousness [which is based on faith], and seeking to establish their own [righteousness based on works], they did not submit to God’s righteousness.


book: Rom
contenido:
For Christ is the end of the law [it leads to Him and its purpose is fulfilled in Him], for [granting] righteousness to everyone who believes [in Him as Savior].


book: Rom
contenido:
For Moses writes that the man who practices the righteousness which is based on law [with all its intricate demands] shall live by it.


book: Rom
contenido:
But the righteousness based on faith [which produces a right relationship with Him] says the following: “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into Heaven?’ that is, to bring Christ down;


book: Rom
contenido:
or, ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’ that is, to bring Christ up from the dead [as if we had to be saved by our own efforts, doing the impossible].”


book: Rom
contenido:
But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”—that is, the word [the message, the basis] of faith which we preach—


book: Rom
contenido:
because if you acknowledge and confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord [recognizing His power, authority, and majesty as God], and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.


book: Rom
contenido:
For with the heart a person believes [in Christ as Savior] resulting in his justification [that is, being made righteous—being freed of the guilt of sin and made acceptable to God]; and with the mouth he acknowledges and confesses [his faith openly], resulting in and confirming [his] salvation.


book: Rom
contenido:
For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will not be disappointed [in his expectations].”


book: Rom
contenido:
For there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile; for the same Lord is Lord over all [of us], and [He is] abounding in riches (blessings) for all who call on Him [in faith and prayer].


book: Rom
contenido:
But how will people call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how will they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher (messenger)?


book: Rom
contenido:
And how will they preach unless they are commissioned and sent [for that purpose]? Just as it is written and forever remains written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news of good things!”


book: Rom
contenido:
But they did not all pay attention to the good news [of salvation]; for Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?”


book: Rom
contenido:
So faith comes from hearing [what is told], and what is heard comes by the [preaching of the] message concerning Christ.


book: Rom
contenido:
But I say, did they not hear? Indeed they have; “Their voice [that of creation bearing God’s message] has gone out to all the earth, And their words to the [farthest] ends of the world.”


book: Rom
contenido:
But I say, did Israel fail to understand [that the gospel was to go also to the Gentiles]? First Moses says, “I will make you jealous of those who are not a nation (Gentiles); With a nation that lacks understanding I will make you angry.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Then Isaiah is very bold and says, “I have been found by those who did not seek Me; I have shown Myself to those who did not [consciously] ask for Me.”


book: Rom
contenido:
But of Israel he says, “All day long I have stretched out My hands [in compassion] to a disobedient and obstinate people.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Israel Is Not Cast Away I say then, has God rejected and disowned His people? Certainly not! For I too am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.


book: Rom
contenido:
God has not rejected His [chosen] people whom He foreknew. Or do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel?


book: Rom
contenido:
“Lord, they have killed Your prophets, they have torn down Your altars, and I alone am left [of the prophets], and they are seeking my life.”


book: Rom
contenido:
But what is God’s response to him? “I have kept for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.”


book: Rom
contenido:
So too then, at the present time there has come to be a remnant [a small believing minority] according to God’s gracious choice.


book: Rom
contenido:
But if it is by grace [God’s unmerited favor], it is no longer on the basis of works, otherwise grace is no longer grace [it would not be a gift but a reward for works].


book: Rom
contenido:
What then? Israel failed to obtain what it was seeking [that is, God’s favor by obedience to the Law], but the elect [those chosen few] obtained it, while the rest of them became hardened and callously indifferent;


book: Rom
contenido:
just as it is written [in Scripture], “God gave them a spirit of stupor, Eyes that do not see and ears that do not hear, [a spiritual apathy that has continued] to this very day.”


book: Rom
contenido:
And David says, “Let their table (abundance) become a snare and a trap, A stumbling block and a retribution to them.


book: Rom
contenido:
 “Let their eyes be darkened so that they do not see, And make their backs bend [under their burden] forever.”


book: Rom
contenido:
So I say, have they stumbled so as to fall [to spiritual ruin]? Certainly not! But by their transgression [their rejection of the Messiah] salvation has come to the Gentiles, to make Israel jealous [when they realize what they have forfeited].


book: Rom
contenido:
Now if Israel’s transgression means riches for the world [at large] and their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their fulfillment and reinstatement be!


book: Rom
contenido:
But now I am speaking to you who are Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry,


book: Rom
contenido:
in the hope of somehow making my fellow countrymen jealous [by stirring them up so that they will seek the truth] and perhaps save some of them.


book: Rom
contenido:
For if their [present] rejection [of salvation] is for the reconciliation of the world [to God], what will their acceptance [of salvation] be but [nothing less than] life from the dead?


book: Rom
contenido:
If the first portion [of dough offered as the first fruits] is holy, so is the whole batch; and if the root (Abraham, the patriarchs) is holy, so are the branches (the Israelites).


book: Rom
contenido:
But if some of the branches were broken off, and you [Gentiles], being like a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among them to share with them the rich root of the olive tree,


book: Rom
contenido:
do not boast over the [broken] branches and exalt yourself at their expense. If you do boast and feel superior, remember that it is not you who supports the root, but the root that supports you.


book: Rom
contenido:
That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand by your faith [as believers understanding the truth of Christ’s deity]. Do not be conceited, but [rather stand in great awe of God and] fear [Him];


book: Rom
contenido:
Then appreciate the gracious kindness and the severity of God: to those who fell [into spiritual ruin], severity, but to you, God’s gracious kindness—if you continue in His kindness [by faith and obedience to Him]; otherwise you too will be cut off.


book: Rom
contenido:
And even they [the unbelieving Jews], if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in; for God has the power to graft them in again.


book: Rom
contenido:
For if you were cut off from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and against nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much easier will it be to graft these who are the natural branches back into [the original parent stock of] their own olive tree?


book: Rom
contenido:
I do not want you, believers, to be unaware of this mystery [God’s previously hidden plan]—so that you will not be wise in your own opinion—that a partial hardening has [temporarily] happened to Israel [to last] until the full number of the Gentiles has come in;


book: Rom
contenido:
and so [at that time] all Israel [that is, all Jews who have a personal faith in Jesus as Messiah] will be saved; just as it is written [in Scripture], “The Deliverer (Messiah) will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.”


book: Rom
contenido:
From the standpoint of the gospel, the Jews [at present] are enemies [of God] for your sake [which is for your benefit], but from the standpoint of God’s choice [of the Jews as His people], they are still loved by Him for the sake of the fathers.


book: Rom
contenido:
For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable [for He does not withdraw what He has given, nor does He change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call].


book: Rom
contenido:
Just as you once were disobedient and failed to listen to God, but have now obtained mercy because of their disobedience,


book: Rom
contenido:
so they too have now become disobedient so that they too may one day receive mercy because of the mercy shown to you.


book: Rom
contenido:
For God has imprisoned all in disobedience so that He may show mercy to all [Jew and Gentile alike].


book: Rom
contenido:
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and decisions and how unfathomable and untraceable are His ways!


book: Rom
contenido:
For from Him [all things originate] and through Him [all things live and exist] and to Him are all things [directed]. To Him be glory and honor forever! Amen.


book: Rom
contenido:
Dedicated Service Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship.


book: Rom
contenido:
And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].


book: Rom
contenido:
For by the grace [of God] given to me I say to everyone of you not to think more highly of himself [and of his importance and ability] than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has apportioned to each a degree of faith [and a purpose designed for service].


book: Rom
contenido:
For just as in one [physical] body we have many parts, and these parts do not all have the same function or special use,


book: Rom
contenido:
so we, who are many, are [nevertheless just] one body in Christ, and individually [we are] parts one of another [mutually dependent on each other].


book: Rom
contenido:
Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to use them accordingly: if [someone has the gift of] prophecy, [let him speak a new message from God to His people] in proportion to the faith possessed;


book: Rom
contenido:
or he who encourages, in the act of encouragement; he who gives, with generosity; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy [in caring for others], with cheerfulness.


book: Rom
contenido:
Love is to be sincere and active [the real thing—without guile and hypocrisy]. Hate what is evil [detest all ungodliness, do not tolerate wickedness]; hold on tightly to what is good.


book: Rom
contenido:
Be devoted to one another with [authentic] brotherly affection [as members of one family], give preference to one another in honor;


book: Rom
contenido:
constantly rejoicing in hope [because of our confidence in Christ], steadfast and patient in distress, devoted to prayer [continually seeking wisdom, guidance, and strength],


book: Rom
contenido:
Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others’ grief].


book: Rom
contenido:
Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty [conceited, self-important, exclusive], but associate with humble people [those with a realistic self-view]. Do not overestimate yourself.


book: Rom
contenido:
Never repay anyone evil for evil. Take thought for what is right and gracious and proper in the sight of everyone.


book: Rom
contenido:
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for God’s wrath [and His judicial righteousness]; for it is written [in Scripture], “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.


book: Rom
contenido:
But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on his head.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Be Subject to Government Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God [granted by His permission and sanction], and those which exist have been put in place by God.


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore whoever resists [governmental] authority resists the ordinance of God. And those who have resisted it will bring judgment (civil penalty) on themselves.


book: Rom
contenido:
For [civil] authorities are not a source of fear for [people of] good behavior, but for [those who do] evil. Do you want to be unafraid of authority? Do what is good and you will receive approval and commendation.


book: Rom
contenido:
For he is God’s servant to you for good. But if you do wrong, [you should] be afraid; for he does not carry the [executioner’s] sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an avenger who brings punishment on the wrongdoer.


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore one must be subject [to civil authorities], not only to escape the punishment [that comes with wrongdoing], but also as a matter of principle [knowing what is right before God].


book: Rom
contenido:
For this same reason you pay taxes, for civil authorities are God’s servants, devoting themselves to governance.


book: Rom
contenido:
Pay to all what is due: tax to whom tax is due, customs to whom customs, respect to whom respect, honor to whom honor.


book: Rom
contenido:
Owe nothing to anyone except to love and seek the best for one another; for he who [unselfishly] loves his neighbor has fulfilled the [essence of the] law [relating to one’s fellowman].


book: Rom
contenido:
The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, you shall not murder, you shall not steal, you shall not covet,” and any other commandment are summed up in this statement: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Love does no wrong to a neighbor [it never hurts anyone]. Therefore [unselfish] love is the fulfillment of the Law.


book: Rom
contenido:
Do this, knowing that this is a critical time. It is already the hour for you to awaken from your sleep [of spiritual complacency]; for our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed [in Christ].


book: Rom
contenido:
The night [this present evil age] is almost gone and the day [of Christ’s return] is almost here. So let us fling away the works of darkness and put on the [full] armor of light.


book: Rom
contenido:
Let us conduct ourselves properly and honorably as in the [light of] day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and irresponsibility, not in quarreling and jealousy.


book: Rom
contenido:
But clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for [nor even think about gratifying] the flesh in regard to its improper desires.


book: Rom
contenido:
Principles of Conscience As for the one whose faith is weak, accept him [into your fellowship], but not for [the purpose of] quarreling over his opinions.


book: Rom
contenido:
One man’s faith permits him to eat everything, while the weak believer eats only vegetables [to avoid eating ritually unclean meat or something previously considered unclean].


book: Rom
contenido:
The one who eats [everything] is not to look down on the one who does not eat, and the one who does not eat must not criticize or pass judgment on the one who eats [everything], for God has accepted him.


book: Rom
contenido:
Who are you to judge the servant of another? Before his own master he stands [approved] or falls [out of favor]. And he [who serves the Master—the Lord] will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.


book: Rom
contenido:
One person regards one day as better [or more important] than another, while another regards every day [the same as any other]. Let everyone be fully convinced (assured, satisfied) in his own mind.


book: Rom
contenido:
He who observes the day, observes it for the Lord. He who eats, eats for the Lord, since he gives thanks to God; while he who abstains, abstains for the Lord and gives thanks to God.


book: Rom
contenido:
None of us lives for himself [for his own benefit, but for the Lord], and none of us dies for himself [but for the Lord].


book: Rom
contenido:
If we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord. So then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.


book: Rom
contenido:
For Christ died and lived again for this reason, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living.


book: Rom
contenido:
But you, why do you criticize your brother? Or you again, why do you look down on your [believing] brother or regard him with contempt? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God [who alone is judge].


book: Rom
contenido:
For it is written [in Scripture], “As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, And every tongue shall give praise to God.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Then let us not criticize one another anymore, but rather determine this—not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block or a source of temptation in another believer’s way.


book: Rom
contenido:
I know and am convinced [as one] in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean [ritually defiled, and unholy] in itself; but [nonetheless] it is unclean to anyone who thinks it is unclean.


book: Rom
contenido:
If your brother is being hurt or offended because of food [that you insist on eating], you are no longer walking in love [toward him]. Do not let what you eat destroy and spiritually harm one for whom Christ died.


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore do not let what is a good thing for you [because of your freedom to choose] be spoken of as evil [by someone else];


book: Rom
contenido:
for the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking [what one likes], but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.


book: Rom
contenido:
For the one who serves Christ in this way [recognizing that food choice is secondary] is acceptable to God and is approved by men.


book: Rom
contenido:
So then, let us pursue [with enthusiasm] the things which make for peace and the building up of one another [things which lead to spiritual growth].


book: Rom
contenido:
Do not, for the sake of food, tear down the work of God. All things indeed are [ceremonially] clean, but they are wrong for the person who eats and offends [another’s conscience in the process].


book: Rom
contenido:
It is good [to do the right thing and] not eat meat or drink wine, or do anything that offends your brother and weakens him spiritually.


book: Rom
contenido:
The faith which you have [that gives you freedom of choice], have as your own conviction before God [just keep it between yourself and God, seeking His will]. Happy is he who has no reason to condemn himself for what he approves.


book: Rom
contenido:
But he who is uncertain [about eating a particular thing] is condemned if he eats, because he is not acting from faith. Whatever is not from faith is sin [whatever is done with doubt is sinful].


book: Rom
contenido:
Self-denial on Behalf of Others Now we who are strong [in our convictions and faith] ought to [patiently] put up with the weaknesses of those who are not strong, and not just please ourselves.


book: Rom
contenido:
Let each one of us [make it a practice to] please his neighbor for his good, to build him up spiritually.


book: Rom
contenido:
For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written [in Scripture], “The reproaches of those who reproached You (the Father) fell on Me (the Son).”


book: Rom
contenido:
For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope and overflow with confidence in His promises.


book: Rom
contenido:
Now may the God who gives endurance and who supplies encouragement grant that you be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus,


book: Rom
contenido:
so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify and praise and honor the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore, [continue to] accept and welcome one another, just as Christ has accepted and welcomed us to the glory of [our great] God.


book: Rom
contenido:
For I tell you that Christ has become a servant and a minister to the circumcision (Jews) on behalf of God’s truth, to confirm and verify the promises made to the fathers,


book: Rom
contenido:
and for the Gentiles to glorify God for His mercy [to them, since God had no covenant with them]. As it is written and forever remains written, “Therefore I praise You among the Gentiles, And sing praises to Your name.”


book: Rom
contenido:
Again Isaiah says, “There shall be a root of Jesse, He who arises to rule [as King] over the Gentiles, In Him shall the Gentiles hope.”


book: Rom
contenido:
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of the Holy Spirit you will abound in hope and overflow with confidence in His promises.


book: Rom
contenido:
Personally I am convinced about you, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, amply filled with all [spiritual] knowledge, and competent to admonish and counsel and instruct one another.


book: Rom
contenido:
Still, on some points I have written to you very boldly and without reservation to remind you [about them] again, because of the grace that was given to me from God,


book: Rom
contenido:
to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. I minister as a priest the gospel of God, in order that my offering of the Gentiles may become acceptable [to Him], sanctified [made holy and set apart for His purpose] by the Holy Spirit.


book: Rom
contenido:
In Christ Jesus, then, I have found [legitimate] reason for boasting in things related [to my service] to God.


book: Rom
contenido:
For I will not [even] presume to speak of anything except what Christ has done through me [as an instrument in His hands], resulting in the obedience of the Gentiles [to the gospel], by word and deed,


book: Rom
contenido:
with the power of signs and wonders, [and all of it] in the power of the Spirit. So [starting] from Jerusalem and as far away as Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel [faithfully preaching the good news] of Christ [where it had not before been preached].


book: Rom
contenido:
Accordingly I set a goal to preach the gospel, not where Christ’s name was already known, so that I would not build on another man’s foundation;


book: Rom
contenido:
but [instead I would act on this goal] as it is written [in Scripture], “They who had no news of Him shall see, And they who have not heard [of Him] shall understand.”


book: Rom
contenido:
This [goal—my commitment to this principle] is the reason why I have often been prevented from coming to you [in Rome].


book: Rom
contenido:
But now, with no further place for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you—


book: Rom
contenido:
whenever I go [on my trip] to Spain—I hope to see you as I pass through [Rome], and to be helped on my journey there by you, after I have first enjoyed your company for a little while.


book: Rom
contenido:
For [Gentile believers in] Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints (Jewish believers) in Jerusalem.


book: Rom
contenido:
They were pleased to do it, and they are indebted to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual things, then they are indebted to serve them also in [tangible] material things.


book: Rom
contenido:
Therefore, when I have finished this [mission] and have safely given to them what has been raised, I will go on by way of you to Spain.


book: Rom
contenido:
I urge you, believers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join together with me in your prayers to God in my behalf,


book: Rom
contenido:
[and pray] that I may be rescued from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints (Jewish believers) there;


book: Rom
contenido:
Greetings and Love Expressed Now I introduce and commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deaconess (servant) of the church at Cenchrea,


book: Rom
contenido:
that you may receive her in the Lord [with love and hospitality], as God’s people ought to receive one another. And that you may help her in whatever matter she may require assistance from you, for she has been a helper of many, including myself.


book: Rom
contenido:
who risked their own necks [endangering their very lives] for my life. To them not only do I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.


book: Rom
contenido:
Also greet the church that meets in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the first convert to Christ from [the west coast province of] Asia [Minor].


book: Rom
contenido:
Greet Andronicus and Junias, my kinsmen and [once] my fellow prisoners, who are held in high esteem in the estimation of the apostles, and who were [believers] in Christ before me.


book: Rom
contenido:
Greet Apelles, the one tested and approved in Christ. Greet those who belong to the household of Aristobulus.


book: Rom
contenido:
Greet those workers in the Lord, Tryphaena and Tryphosa. Greet my beloved Persis, who has worked hard in the Lord.


book: Rom
contenido:
Greet Rufus, an eminent and choice man in the Lord, also his mother [who has been] a mother to me as well.


book: Rom
contenido:
Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all God’s people who are with them.


book: Rom
contenido:
I urge you, brothers and sisters, to keep your eyes on those who cause dissensions and create obstacles or introduce temptations [for others] to commit sin, [acting in ways] contrary to the doctrine which you have learned. Turn away from them.


book: Rom
contenido:
For such people do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites and base desires. By smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting [the innocent and the naive].


book: Rom
contenido:
For the report of your obedience has reached everyone, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil.


book: Rom
contenido:
The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The [wonderful] grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.


book: Rom
contenido:
Timothy, my fellow worker, sends his greetings to you, as do Lucius, Jason and Sosipater, my kinsmen.


book: Rom
contenido:
Gaius, who is host to me and to the whole church here, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus, greet you.


book: Rom
contenido:
Now to Him who is able to establish and strengthen you [in the faith] according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery [of the plan of salvation] which has been kept secret for long ages past,


book: Rom
contenido:
but now has been disclosed and through the prophetic Scriptures has been made known to all the nations, according to the commandment of the eternal God, leading them to obedience to the faith,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Appeal to Unity Paul, called as an apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative) of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified (set apart, made holy) in Christ Jesus, who are selected and called as saints (God’s people), together with all those who in every place call on and honor the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours:


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being] from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
so that in everything you were [exceedingly] enriched in Him, in all speech [empowered by the spiritual gifts] and in all knowledge [with insight into the faith].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift [which comes from the Holy Spirit], as you eagerly wait [with confident trust] for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ [when He returns].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And He will also confirm you to the end [keeping you strong and free of any accusation, so that you will be] blameless and beyond reproach in the day [of the return] of our Lord Jesus Christ.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
God is faithful [He is reliable, trustworthy and ever true to His promise—He can be depended on], and through Him you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But I urge you, believers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in full agreement in what you say, and that there be no divisions or factions among you, but that you be perfectly united in your way of thinking and in your judgment [about matters of the faith].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For I have been informed about you, my brothers and sisters, by those of Chloe’s household, that there are quarrels and factions among you.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now I mean this, that each one of you says, “I am [a disciple] of Paul,” or “I am [a disciple] of Apollos,” or “I am [a disciple] of Cephas (Peter),” or “I am [a disciple] of Christ.”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Has Christ been divided [into different parts]? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized into the name of Paul? [Certainly not!]


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that, I do not know if I baptized anyone else.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For Christ did not send me [as an apostle] to baptize, but [commissioned and empowered me] to preach the good news [of salvation]—not with clever and eloquent speech [as an orator], so that the cross of Christ would not be made ineffective [deprived of its saving power].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The Wisdom of God For the message of the cross is foolishness [absurd and illogical] to those who are perishing and spiritually dead [because they reject it], but to us who are being saved [by God’s grace] it is [the manifestation of] the power of God.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For it is written and forever remains written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise [the philosophy of the philosophers], And the cleverness of the clever [who do not know Me] I will nullify.”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Where is the wise man (philosopher)? Where is the scribe (scholar)? Where is the debater (logician, orator) of this age? Has God not exposed the foolishness of this world’s wisdom?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For since the world through all its [earthly] wisdom failed to recognize God, God in His wisdom was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached [regarding salvation] to save those who believe [in Christ and welcome Him as Savior].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
but we preach Christ crucified, [a message which is] to Jews a stumbling block [that provokes their opposition], and to Gentiles foolishness [just utter nonsense],


book: 1Cor
contenido:
but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks (Gentiles), Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
[This is] because the foolishness of God [is not foolishness at all and] is wiser than men [far beyond human comprehension], and the weakness of God is stronger than men [far beyond the limits of human effort].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Just look at your own calling, believers; not many [of you were considered] wise according to human standards, not many powerful or influential, not many of high and noble birth.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But God has selected [for His purpose] the foolish things of the world to shame the wise [revealing their ignorance], and God has selected [for His purpose] the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong [revealing their frailty].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
God has selected [for His purpose] the insignificant (base) things of the world, and the things that are despised and treated with contempt, [even] the things that are nothing, so that He might reduce to nothing the things that are,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But it is from Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God [revealing His plan of salvation], and righteousness [making us acceptable to God], and sanctification [making us holy and setting us apart for God], and redemption [providing our ransom from the penalty for sin],


book: 1Cor
contenido:
so then, as it is written [in Scripture], “He who boasts and glories, let him boast and glory in the Lord.”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Paul’s Reliance upon the Spirit And when I came to you, brothers and sisters, proclaiming to you the testimony of God [concerning salvation through Christ], I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom [no lofty words of eloquence or of philosophy as a Greek orator might do];


book: 1Cor
contenido:
for I made the decision to know nothing [that is, to forego philosophical or theological discussions regarding inconsequential things and opinions while] among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified [and the meaning of His redemptive, substitutionary death and His resurrection].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom [using clever rhetoric], but [they were delivered] in demonstration of the [Holy] Spirit [operating through me] and of [His] power [stirring the minds of the listeners and persuading them],


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Yet we do speak wisdom among those spiritually mature [believers who have teachable hearts and a greater understanding]; but [it is a higher] wisdom not [the wisdom] of this present age nor of the rulers and leaders of this age, who are passing away;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
but we speak God’s wisdom in a mystery, the wisdom once hidden [from man, but now revealed to us by God, that wisdom] which God predestined before the ages to our glory [to lift us into the glory of His presence].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
None of the rulers of this age recognized and understood this wisdom; for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
but just as it is written [in Scripture], “Things which the eye has not seen and the ear has not heard, And which have not entered the heart of man, All that God has prepared for those who love Him [who hold Him in affectionate reverence, who obey Him, and who gratefully recognize the benefits that He has bestowed].”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For God has unveiled them and revealed them to us through the [Holy] Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things [diligently], even [sounding and measuring] the [profound] depths of God [the divine counsels and things far beyond human understanding].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For what person knows the thoughts and motives of a man except the man’s spirit within him? So also no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the [Holy] Spirit who is from God, so that we may know and understand the [wonderful] things freely given to us by God.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
We also speak of these things, not in words taught or supplied by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining and interpreting spiritual thoughts with spiritual words [for those being guided by the Holy Spirit].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But the natural [unbelieving] man does not accept the things [the teachings and revelations] of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness [absurd and illogical] to him; and he is incapable of understanding them, because they are spiritually discerned and appreciated, [and he is unqualified to judge spiritual matters].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But the spiritual man [the spiritually mature Christian] judges all things [questions, examines and applies what the Holy Spirit reveals], yet is himself judged by no one [the unbeliever cannot judge and understand the believer’s spiritual nature].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For who has known the mind and purposes of the Lord, so as to instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Foundations for Living However, brothers and sisters, I could not talk to you as to spiritual people, but [only] as to worldly people [dominated by human nature], mere infants [in the new life] in Christ!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
I fed you with milk, not solid food; for you were not yet able to receive it. Even now you are still not ready.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
You are still worldly [controlled by ordinary impulses, the sinful capacity]. For as long as there is jealousy and strife and discord among you, are you not unspiritual, and are you not walking like ordinary men [unchanged by faith]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For when one of you says, “I am [a disciple] of Paul,” and another, “I am [a disciple] of Apollos,” are you not [proving yourselves unchanged, just] ordinary people?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Just servants through whom you believed [in Christ], even as the Lord appointed to each his task.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So neither is the one who plants nor the one who waters anything, but [only] God who causes the growth.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
He who plants and he who waters are one [in importance and esteem, working toward the same purpose]; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For we are God’s fellow workers [His servants working together]; you are God’s cultivated field [His garden, His vineyard], God’s building.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
According to the [remarkable] grace of God which was given to me [to prepare me for my task], like a skillful master builder I laid a foundation, and now another is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds on it,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
each one’s work will be clearly shown [for what it is]; for the day [of judgment] will disclose it, because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality and character and worth of each person’s work.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If any person’s work which he has built [on this foundation, that is, any outcome of his effort] remains [and survives this test], he will receive a reward.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if any person’s work is burned up [by the test], he will suffer the loss [of his reward]; yet he himself will be saved, but only as [one who has barely escaped] through fire.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do you not know and understand that you [the church] are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells [permanently] in you [collectively and individually]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If anyone destroys the temple of God [corrupting it with false doctrine], God will destroy the destroyer; for the temple of God is holy (sacred), and that is what you are.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool [discarding his worldly pretensions and acknowledging his lack of wisdom], so that he may become [truly] wise.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For the wisdom of this world is foolishness (absurdity, stupidity) before God; for it is written [in Scripture], “[He is] The one who catches the wise and clever in their craftiness;”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So let no one boast in men [about their wisdom, or of having this or that one as a leader]. For all things are yours,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas (Peter) or the world or life or death or things present or things to come; all things are yours,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Servants of Christ So then, let us [who minister] be regarded as servants of Christ and stewards (trustees, administrators) of the mysteries of God [that He chooses to reveal].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
In this case, moreover, it is required [as essential and demanded] of stewards that one be found faithful and trustworthy.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But [as for me personally] it matters very little to me that I may be judged by you or any human court [on this point]; in fact, I do not even judge myself.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
I am aware of nothing against myself and I feel blameless, but I am not by this acquitted [before God]. It is the Lord who judges me.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So do not go on passing judgment before the appointed time, but wait until the Lord comes, for He will both bring to light the [secret] things that are hidden in darkness and disclose the motives of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now I have applied these things [that is, the analogies about factions] to myself and Apollos for your benefit, believers, so that you may learn from us not to go beyond what is written [in Scripture], so that none of you will become arrogant and boast in favor of one [minister or teacher] against the other.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For who regards you as superior or what sets you apart as special? What do you have that you did not receive [from another]? And if in fact you received it [from God or someone else], why do you boast as if you had not received it [but had gained it by yourself]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
[You behave as if] you are already filled [with spiritual wisdom and in need of nothing more]. Already you have become rich [in spiritual gifts]! You [in your conceit] have ascended your thrones and become kings without us; and how I wish [that it were true and] that you did reign as kings, so that we might reign with you.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For, I think, God has exhibited us apostles at the end of the line, like men sentenced to death [and paraded as prisoners in a procession], because we have become a spectacle to the world [a show in the world’s amphitheater], both to angels and to men.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
We are [regarded as] fools for Christ, but you are so wise in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are highly esteemed, but we are dishonored.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty; we are continually poorly dressed, and we are roughly treated, and wander homeless.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
We work [for our living], working hard with our own hands. When we are reviled and verbally abused, we bless. When we are persecuted, we take it patiently and endure.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
When we are slandered, we try to be conciliatory and answer softly. We have become like the scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For even if you were to have ten thousand teachers [to guide you] in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers [who led you to Christ and assumed responsibility for you], for I became your father in Christ Jesus through the good news [of salvation].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and he will remind you of my way of life in Christ [my conduct and my precepts for godly living], just as I teach everywhere in every church.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But I will come to you soon, if the Lord is willing, and I will find out not just the talk of these arrogant people, but [evaluate] their [spiritual] power [whether they live up to their own claims].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod [of discipline and correction], or with love and a gentle spirit?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Immorality Rebuked It is actually reported [everywhere] that there is sexual immorality among you, a kind of immorality that is condemned even among the [unbelieving] Gentiles: that someone has [an intimate relationship with] his father’s wife.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And you are proud and arrogant! You should have mourned in shame so that the man who has done this [disgraceful] thing would be removed from your fellowship!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For I, though absent [from you] in body but present in spirit, have already passed judgment on him who has committed this [act], as if I were present.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
In the name of our Lord Jesus, when you are assembled, and I am with you in spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
you are to hand over this man to Satan for the destruction of his body, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Your boasting [over the supposed spirituality of your church] is not good [indeed, it is vulgar and inappropriate]. Do you not know that [just] a little leaven ferments the whole batch [of dough, just as a little sin corrupts a person or an entire church]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Clean out the old leaven so that you may be a new batch, just as you are, still unleavened. For Christ our Passover Lamb has been sacrificed.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore, let us celebrate the feast, not with old leaven, nor with leaven of vice and malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and [untainted] truth.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
not meaning the immoral people of this world, or the greedy ones and swindlers, or idolaters, for then you would have to get out of the world and human society altogether!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But actually, I have written to you not to associate with any so-called [Christian] brother if he is sexually immoral or greedy, or is an idolater [devoted to anything that takes the place of God], or is a reviler [who insults or slanders or otherwise verbally abuses others], or is a drunkard or a swindler—you must not so much as eat with such a person.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For what business is it of mine to judge outsiders (non-believers)? Do you not judge those who are within the church [to protect the church as the situation requires]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
God alone sits in judgment on those who are outside [the faith]. Remove the wicked one from among you [expel him from your church].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Lawsuits Discouraged Does any one of you, when he has a complaint (civil dispute) with another [believer], dare to go to law before unrighteous men (non-believers) instead of [placing the issue] before the saints (God’s people)?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do you not know that the saints (God’s people) will [one day] judge the world? If the world is to be judged by you, are you not competent to try trivial (insignificant, petty) cases?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do you not know that we [believers] will judge angels? How much more then [as to] matters of this life?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So if you have lawsuits dealing with matters of this life, are you appointing those as judges [to hear disputes] who are of no account in the church?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
I say this to your shame. Can it be that there is not one wise man among you who [is governed by integrity and] will be able and competent to decide [private disputes] between his fellow believers,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Why, the very fact that you have lawsuits with one another is already a defeat. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be defrauded?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
On the contrary, it is you who wrong and defraud, and you do this even to your brothers and sisters.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit or have any share in the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate [by perversion], nor those who participate in homosexuality,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers [whose words are used as weapons to abuse, insult, humiliate, intimidate, or slander], nor swindlers will inherit or have any share in the kingdom of God.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And such were some of you [before you believed]. But you were washed [by the atoning sacrifice of Christ], you were sanctified [set apart for God, and made holy], you were justified [declared free of guilt] in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the [Holy] Spirit of our God [the source of the believer’s new life and changed behavior].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The Body Is the Lord’s Everything is permissible for me, but not all things are beneficial. Everything is permissible for me, but I will not be enslaved by anything [and brought under its power, allowing it to control me].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Food is for the stomach and the stomach for food, but God will do away with both of them. The body is not intended for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord is for the body [to save, sanctify, and raise it again because of the sacrifice of the cross].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Am I therefore to take the members of Christ and make them part of a prostitute? Certainly not!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do you not know that the one who joins himself to a prostitute is one body with her? For He says, “The two shall be one flesh.”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Run away from sexual immorality [in any form, whether thought or behavior, whether visual or written]. Every other sin that a man commits is outside the body, but the one who is sexually immoral sins against his own body.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is within you, whom you have [received as a gift] from God, and that you are not your own [property]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
You were bought with a price [you were actually purchased with the precious blood of Jesus and made His own]. So then, honor and glorify God with your body.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Teaching on Marriage Now as to the matters of which you wrote: It is good (beneficial, advantageous) for a man not to touch a woman [outside marriage].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But because of [the temptation to participate in] sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The husband must fulfill his [marital] duty to his wife [with good will and kindness], and likewise the wife to her husband.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The wife does not have [exclusive] authority over her own body, but the husband shares with her; and likewise the husband does not have [exclusive] authority over his body, but the wife shares with him.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do not deprive each other [of marital rights], except perhaps by mutual consent for a time, so that you may devote yourselves [unhindered] to prayer, but come together again so that Satan will not tempt you [to sin] because of your lack of self-control.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
I wish that all the people were as I am; but each person has his own gift from God, one of this kind and one of that.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But I say to the unmarried and to the widows, [that as a practical matter] it is good if they remain [single and entirely devoted to the Lord] as I am.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if they do not have [sufficient] self-control, they should marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But to the married [believers] I give instructions—not I, but the Lord—that the wife is not to separate from her husband,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
(but even if she does leave him, let her remain single or else be reconciled to her husband) and that the husband should not leave his wife.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
To the rest I declare—I, not the Lord [since Jesus did not discuss this]—that if any [believing] brother has a wife who does not believe [in Christ], and she consents to live with him, he must not leave her.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And if any [believing] woman has an unbelieving husband, and he consents to live with her, she must not leave him.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For the unbelieving husband is sanctified [that is, he receives the blessings granted] through his [Christian] wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified through her believing husband. Otherwise your children would be [ceremonially] unclean, but as it is they are holy.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if the unbelieving partner leaves, let him leave. In such cases the [remaining] brother or sister is not [spiritually or morally] bound. But God has called us to peace.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband [by leading him to Christ]? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife [by leading her to Christ]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Only, let each one live the life which the Lord has assigned him, and to which God has called him [for each person is unique and is accountable for his choices and conduct, let him walk in this way]. This is the rule I make in all the churches.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Was anyone at the time of his calling [from God already] circumcised? He is not to become uncircumcised. Has anyone been called while uncircumcised? He is not to be circumcised.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but what matters is keeping the commandments of God.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Were you a slave when you were called? Do not worry about that [since your status as a believer is equal to that of a freeborn believer]; but if you are able to gain your freedom, do that.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For he who was a slave when he was called in the Lord is a freedman of the Lord, likewise he who was free when he was called is a slave of Christ.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
You were bought with a price [a precious price paid by Christ]; do not become slaves to men [but to Christ].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now concerning the virgins [of marriageable age] I have no command of the Lord, but I give my opinion as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
I think then that because of the impending distress [that is, the pressure of the current trouble], it is good for a man to remain as he is.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if you do marry, you have not sinned [in doing so]; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned [in doing so]. Yet those [who marry] will have troubles (special challenges) in this life, and I am trying to spare you that.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But I say this, believers: the time has been shortened, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they did not;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and those who weep, as though they did not weep; and those who rejoice, as though they did not rejoice; and those who buy, as though they did not possess [anything];


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and those who use the world [taking advantage of its opportunities], as though they did not make full use of it. For the outward form of this world [its present social and material nature] is passing away.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But I want you to be free from concern. The unmarried man is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and his interests are divided. The unmarried woman or the virgin is concerned about the matters of the Lord, how to be holy and set apart both in body and in spirit; but a married woman is concerned about worldly things, how she may please her husband.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now I say this for your own benefit; not to restrict you, but to promote what is appropriate and secure undistracted devotion to the Lord.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if any man thinks that he is not acting properly and honorably toward his virgin daughter, [by not permitting her to marry], if she is past her youth, and it must be so, let him do as he wishes, he does not sin; let her marry.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But the man who stands firmly committed in his heart, having no compulsion [to yield to his daughter’s request], and has authority over his own will, and has decided in his own heart to keep his own virgin [daughter from being married], he will do well.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So then both the father who gives his virgin daughter in marriage does well, and he who does not give her in marriage will do better.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
A wife is bound [to her husband by law] as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry whomever she wishes, only [provided that he too is] in the Lord.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But in my opinion a widow is happier if she stays as she is. And I think that I also have the Spirit of God [in this matter].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Take Care with Your Liberty Now about food sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge [concerning this]. Knowledge [alone] makes [people self-righteously] arrogant, but love [that unselfishly seeks the best for others] builds up and encourages others to grow [in wisdom].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If anyone imagines that he knows and understands anything [of divine matters, without love], he has not yet known as he ought to know.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if anyone loves God [with awe-filled reverence, obedience and gratitude], he is known by Him [as His very own and is greatly loved].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
In this matter, then, of eating food offered to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world [it has no real existence], and that there is no God but one.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth, as indeed there are many gods and many lords,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
yet for us there is but one God, the Father, who is the source of all things, and we exist for Him; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, by whom are all things [that have been created], and we [believers exist and have life and have been redeemed] through Him.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
However, not all [believers] have this knowledge. But some, being accustomed [throughout their lives] to [thinking of] the idol until now [as real and living], still eat food as if it were sacrificed to an idol; and because their conscience is weak, it is defiled (guilty, ashamed).


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now food will not commend us to God nor bring us close to Him; we are no worse off if we do not eat, nor are we better if we do eat.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Only be careful that this liberty of yours [this power to choose] does not somehow become a stumbling block [that is, a temptation to sin] to the weak [in conscience].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For if someone sees you, a person having knowledge, eating in an idol’s temple, then if he is weak, will he not be encouraged to eat things sacrificed to idols [and violate his own convictions]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For through your knowledge (spiritual maturity) this weak man is ruined [that is, he suffers in his spiritual life], the brother for whom Christ died.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And when you sin against the brothers and sisters in this way and wound their weak conscience [by confusing them], you sin against Christ.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore, if [my eating a certain] food causes my brother to stumble (sin), I will not eat [such] meat ever again, so that I will not cause my brother to stumble.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Paul’s Use of Liberty Am I not free [unrestrained and exempt from any obligation]? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our [risen] Lord [in person]? Are you not [the result and proof of] my work in the Lord?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If I am not [considered] an apostle to others, at least I am one to you; for you are the seal and the certificate and the living evidence of my apostleship in the Lord [confirming and authenticating it].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
This is my defense to those who would put me on trial and interrogate me [concerning my authority as an apostle]:


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Have we not the right to take along with us a believing wife, as do the rest of the apostles and the Lord’s brothers and Cephas (Peter)?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to stop doing manual labor [in order to support our ministry]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
[Consider this:] Who at any time serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat its fruit? Or who tends a flock and does not use the milk of the flock?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For it is written in the Law of Moses, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain [to keep it from eating the grain].” Is it [only] for oxen that God cares?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Or does He speak entirely for our sake? Yes, it was written for our sake: The plowman ought to plow in hope, and the thresher to thresh in hope of sharing the harvest.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If we have sown [the good seed of] spiritual things in you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If others share in this rightful claim over you, do not we even more? However, we did not exercise this right, but we put up with everything so that we will not hinder [the spread of] the good news of Christ.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do you not know that those who officiate in the sacred services of the temple eat from the temple [offerings of meat and bread] and those who regularly attend the altar have their share from the [offerings brought to the] altar?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So also [on the same principle] the Lord directed those who preach the gospel to get their living from the gospel.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But I have used none of these privileges, nor am I writing this [to suggest] that any such provision be made for me now. For it would be better for me to die than to have anyone deprive me of my boast [in this matter of financial support].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For if I [merely] preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast about, for I am compelled [that is, absolutely obligated to do it]. Woe to me if I do not preach the good news [of salvation]!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For if I do this work of my own free will, then I have a reward; but if it is not of my will [but by God’s choosing], I have been entrusted with a [sacred] stewardship.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
What then is my reward? [Just this:] that, when I preach the gospel, I may offer the gospel without charge [to everyone], so as not to take advantage of my rights [as a preacher and apostle] in [preaching] the gospel.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a slave to everyone, so that I may win more [for Christ].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
To the Jews I became as a Jew, so that I might win Jews [for Christ]; to men under the Law, [I became] as one under the Law, though not being under the Law myself, so that I might win those who are under the Law.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
To those who are without (outside) the Law, [I became] as one without the Law, though [I am] not without the law of God, but under the law of Christ, so that I might win those who are without law.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
To the weak I became [as the] weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means [in any and every way] save some [by leading them to faith in Jesus Christ].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run [their very best to win], but only one receives the prize? Run [your race] in such a way that you may seize the prize and make it yours!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now every athlete who [goes into training and] competes in the games is disciplined and exercises self-control in all things. They do it to win a crown that withers, but we [do it to receive] an imperishable [crown that cannot wither].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore I do not run without a definite goal; I do not flail around like one beating the air [just shadow boxing].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But [like a boxer] I strictly discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached [the gospel] to others, I myself will not somehow be disqualified [as unfit for service].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Avoid Israel’s Mistakes For I do not want you to be unaware, believers, that our fathers were all under the cloud [in which God’s presence went before them] and they all passed [miraculously and safely] through the [Red] Sea;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And all [of them] were baptized into Moses [into his safekeeping as their leader] in the cloud and in the sea;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and all [of them] drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Nevertheless, God was not well-pleased with most of them, for they were scattered along the ground in the wilderness [because their lack of self-control led to disobedience which led to death].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now these things [the warnings and admonitions] took place as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do not be worshipers of handmade gods, as some of them were; just as it is written [in Scripture], “The people sat down to eat and drink [after sacrificing to the golden calf at Horeb], and stood up to play [indulging in immoral activities].”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
We must not indulge in [nor tolerate] sexual immorality, as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand [suddenly] fell [dead] in a single day!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
We must not tempt the Lord [that is, test His patience, question His purpose or exploit His goodness], as some of them did—and they were killed by serpents.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And do not murmur [in unwarranted discontent], as some of them did—and were destroyed by the destroyer.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now these things happened to them as an example and warning [to us]; they were written for our instruction [to admonish and equip us], upon whom the ends of the ages have come.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore let the one who thinks he stands firm [immune to temptation, being overconfident and self-righteous], take care that he does not fall [into sin and condemnation].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
No temptation [regardless of its source] has overtaken or enticed you that is not common to human experience [nor is any temptation unusual or beyond human resistance]; but God is faithful [to His word—He is compassionate and trustworthy], and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability [to resist], but along with the temptation He [has in the past and is now and] will [always] provide the way out as well, so that you will be able to endure it [without yielding, and will overcome temptation with joy].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore, my beloved, run [keep far, far away] from [any sort of] idolatry [and that includes loving anything more than God, or participating in anything that leads to sin and enslaves the soul].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
I am speaking as to wise and sensible people; judge [carefully and thoughtfully consider] for yourselves what I say.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Is the cup of blessing which we bless [at the Lord’s Supper] not a sharing in the blood of Christ? [Indeed it is.] Is the bread which we break not a sharing in the body of Christ? [Indeed it is.]


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Since there is one bread, we [believers] who are many are [united into] one body; for we all partake of the one bread [which represents the body of Christ].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Consider the people of Israel; are those who eat the sacrifices not partners of the altar [united in their worship of the same God]? [Indeed they are.]


book: 1Cor
contenido:
What do I mean then? That a thing offered to idols is anything [special or changed simply because it is offered], or that an idol is anything?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
On the contrary, the things which the Gentiles (pagans) sacrifice, they sacrifice to demons [in effect], and not to God; and I do not want you to become partners with demons [by eating at feasts in pagan temples].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
You cannot drink [both] the Lord’s cup and the cup of demons. You cannot share in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons [thereby becoming partners with them].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Do we [really] provoke the Lord to jealousy [when we eat food sacrificed to handmade “gods” at pagan feasts]? Are we [spiritually] stronger than He? [Certainly not! He knows that the idols are nothing. But we deeply offend Him.]


book: 1Cor
contenido:
All things are lawful [that is, morally legitimate, permissible], but not all things are beneficial or advantageous. All things are lawful, but not all things are constructive [to character] and edifying [to spiritual life].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
[Regarding meat offered to idols:] Eat anything that is sold in the meat market without asking any questions for the sake of your conscience,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If one of the unbelievers invites you [to a meal at his home] and you want to go, eat whatever is served to you without asking questions [about its source] for the sake of your conscience.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if anyone says to you, “This meat has been offered in sacrifice to an idol,” do not eat it, out of consideration for the one who told you, and for conscience’s sake—


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and by conscience I mean for the sake of the other man’s, not yours. For why is my freedom [of choice] judged by another’s conscience [another’s ethics—another’s sense of right and wrong]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If I take my share [of food] with thankfulness, why am I accused because of something for which I give thanks?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
just as I please everyone in all things [as much as possible adapting myself to the interests of others], not seeking my own benefit but that of the many, so that they [will be open to the message of salvation and] may be saved.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
I praise and appreciate you because you remember me in everything and you firmly hold to the traditions [the substance of my instructions], just as I have passed them on to you.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But I want you to understand that Christ is the head (authority over) of every man, and man is the head of woman, and God is the head of Christ.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Every man who prays or prophesies with something on his head dishonors his head [and the One who is his head].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And every woman who prays or prophesies when she has her head uncovered disgraces her head; for she is one and the same as the woman whose head is shaved [in disgrace].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If a woman does not cover her head, she should have her hair cut off; and if it is disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, she should cover her head.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
A man ought not have his head covered [during worship], since he is the image and [reflected] glory of God; but the woman is [the expression of] man’s glory.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore the woman ought to have a sign of authority on her head, for the sake of the angels [so as not to offend them].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For as the woman originates from the man, so also man is born through the woman; and all things [whether male or female] originate from God [as their Creator].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Judge for yourselves; is it proper for a woman to offer prayer to God [publicly] with her head uncovered?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
but if a woman has long hair, it is her ornament and glory? For her long hair is given to her as a covering.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now if anyone is inclined to be contentious [about this], we have no other practice [in worship than this], nor do the churches of God [in general].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But in giving this next instruction, I do not praise you, because when you meet together it is not for the better but for the worse.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For, in the first place, when you meet together in church, I hear that there are divisions among you; and in part I believe it,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
for [doubtless] there have to be factions among you, so that those who are of approved character may be clearly recognized among you.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
for when you eat, each one hurries to get his own supper first [not waiting for others or the poor]. So one goes hungry while another gets drunk.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
What! Do you not have houses in which to eat and drink? Or do you show contempt for the church of God and humiliate those [impoverished believers] who have nothing? What will I say to you? Shall I praise you for this? In this I will not praise you!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The Lord’s Supper For I received from the Lord Himself that [instruction] which I passed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night in which He was betrayed took bread;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “This is (represents) My body, which is [offered as a sacrifice] for you. Do this in [affectionate] remembrance of Me.”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant [ratified and established] in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in [affectionate] remembrance of Me.”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are [symbolically] proclaiming [the fact of] the Lord’s death until He comes [again].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So then whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in a way that is unworthy [of Him] will be guilty of [profaning and sinning against] the body and blood of the Lord.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But a person must [prayerfully] examine himself [and his relationship to Christ], and only when he has done so should he eat of the bread and drink of the cup.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For anyone who eats and drinks [without solemn reverence and heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifice of Christ], eats and drinks a judgment on himself if he does not recognize the body [of Christ].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
That [careless and unworthy participation] is the reason why many among you are weak and sick, and a number sleep [in death].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if we evaluated and judged ourselves honestly [recognizing our shortcomings and correcting our behavior], we would not be judged.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But when we [fall short and] are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined [by undergoing His correction] so that we will not be condemned [to eternal punishment] along with the world.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So then, my brothers and sisters, when you come together to eat [the Lord’s Supper], wait for one another [and see to it that no one is left out].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If anyone is too hungry [to wait], let him eat at home, so that you will not come together for judgment [on yourselves]. About the remaining matters [of which I was informed], I will take care of them when I come.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The Use of Spiritual Gifts Now about the spiritual gifts [the special endowments given by the Holy Spirit], brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
You know that when you were pagans, you were led off after speechless idols; however you were led off [whether by impulse or habit].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore I want you to know that no one speaking by the [power and influence of the] Spirit of God can say, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is [my] Lord,” except by [the power and influence of] the Holy Spirit.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now there are [distinctive] varieties of spiritual gifts [special abilities given by the grace and extraordinary power of the Holy Spirit operating in believers], but it is the same Spirit [who grants them and empowers believers].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And there are [distinctive] varieties of ministries and service, but it is the same Lord [who is served].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And there are [distinctive] ways of working [to accomplish things], but it is the same God who produces all things in all believers [inspiring, energizing, and empowering them].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit [the spiritual illumination and the enabling of the Holy Spirit] for the common good.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
To one is given through the [Holy] Spirit [the power to speak] the message of wisdom, and to another [the power to express] the word of knowledge and understanding according to the same Spirit;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
to another [wonder-working] faith [is given] by the same [Holy] Spirit, and to another the [extraordinary] gifts of healings by the one Spirit;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and to another the working of miracles, and to another prophecy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people], and to another discernment of spirits [the ability to distinguish sound, godly doctrine from the deceptive doctrine of man-made religions and cults], to another various kinds of [unknown] tongues, and to another interpretation of tongues.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
All these things [the gifts, the achievements, the abilities, the empowering] are brought about by one and the same [Holy] Spirit, distributing to each one individually just as He chooses.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For just as the body is one and yet has many parts, and all the parts, though many, form [only] one body, so it is with Christ.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For by one [Holy] Spirit we were all baptized into one body, [spiritually transformed—united together] whether Jews or Greeks (Gentiles), slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one [Holy] Spirit [since the same Holy Spirit fills each life].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If the foot says, “Because I am not a hand, I am not a part of the body,” is it not on the contrary still a part of the body?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If the ear says, “Because I am not an eye, I am not a part of the body,” is it not on the contrary still a part of the body?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole [body] were an ear, where would the sense of smell be?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But now [as things really are], God has placed and arranged the parts in the body, each one of them, just as He willed and saw fit [with the best balance of function].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But now [as things really are] there are many parts [different limbs and organs], but a single body.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.”


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and as for those parts of the body which we consider less honorable, these we treat with greater honor; and our less presentable parts are treated with greater modesty,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
while our more presentable parts do not require it. But God has combined the [whole] body, giving greater honor to that part which lacks it,


book: 1Cor
contenido:
so that there would be no division or discord in the body [that is, lack of adaptation of the parts to each other], but that the parts may have the same concern for one another.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And if one member suffers, all the parts share the suffering; if one member is honored, all rejoice with it.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now you [collectively] are Christ’s body, and individually [you are] members of it [each with his own special purpose and function].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So God has appointed and placed in the church [for His own use]: first apostles [chosen by Christ], second prophets [those who foretell the future, those who speak a new message from God to the people], third teachers, then those who work miracles, then those with the gifts of healings, the helpers, the administrators, and speakers in various kinds of [unknown] tongues.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But earnestly desire and strive for the greater gifts [if acquiring them is going to be your goal]. And yet I will show you a still more excellent way [one of the choicest graces and the highest of them all: unselfish love].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The Excellence of Love If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love [for others growing out of God’s love for me], then I have become only a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal [just an annoying distraction].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And if I have the gift of prophecy [and speak a new message from God to the people], and understand all mysteries, and [possess] all knowledge; and if I have all [sufficient] faith so that I can remove mountains, but do not have love [reaching out to others], I am nothing.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it does me no good at all.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
It is not rude; it is not self-seeking, it is not provoked [nor overly sensitive and easily angered]; it does not take into account a wrong endured.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Love bears all things [regardless of what comes], believes all things [looking for the best in each one], hopes all things [remaining steadfast during difficult times], endures all things [without weakening].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Love never fails [it never fades nor ends]. But as for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for the gift of special knowledge, it will pass away.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But when that which is complete and perfect comes, that which is incomplete and partial will pass away.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes we will see reality] face to face. Now I know in part [just in fragments], but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known [by God].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And now there remain: faith [abiding trust in God and His promises], hope [confident expectation of eternal salvation], love [unselfish love for others growing out of God’s love for me], these three [the choicest graces]; but the greatest of these is love.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Prophecy a Superior Gift Pursue [this] love [with eagerness, make it your goal], yet earnestly desire and cultivate the spiritual gifts [to be used by believers for the benefit of the church], but especially that you may prophesy [to foretell the future, to speak a new message from God to the people].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For one who speaks in an unknown tongue does not speak to people but to God; for no one understands him or catches his meaning, but by the Spirit he speaks mysteries [secret truths, hidden things].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But [on the other hand] the one who prophesies speaks to people for edification [to promote their spiritual growth] and [speaks words of] encouragement [to uphold and advise them concerning the matters of God] and [speaks words of] consolation [to compassionately comfort them].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
One who speaks in a tongue edifies himself; but one who prophesies edifies the church [promotes growth in spiritual wisdom, devotion, holiness, and joy].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now I wish that all of you spoke in unknown tongues, but even more [I wish] that you would prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater [and more useful] than the one who speaks in tongues, unless he translates or explains [what he says], so that the church may be edified [instructed, improved, strengthened].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now, believers, if I come to you speaking in unknown tongues, how will I benefit you unless I also speak to you [clearly] either by revelation [revealing God’s mystery], or by knowledge [teaching about God], or by prophecy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people], or by instruction [teaching precepts that develop spiritual maturity]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Yet even lifeless things, whether flute or harp, when producing a sound, if they do not produce distinct [musical] tones, how will anyone [listening] know what is piped or played?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So it is with you, if you speak words [in an unknown tongue] that are not intelligible and clear, how will anyone understand what you are saying? You will be talking into the air [wasting your breath]!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
There are, I suppose, a great many kinds of languages in the world [unknown to us], and none is lacking in meaning.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will [appear to] be a foreigner to the one who is speaking [since he knows exactly what he is saying], and the one who is speaking will [appear to] be a foreigner to me.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So it is with you, since you are so very eager to have spiritual gifts and manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in ways that will build up the church [spiritually].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore let one who speaks in a tongue pray that he may [be gifted to] translate or explain [what he says].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unproductive [because it does not understand what my spirit is praying].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Then what am I to do? I will pray with the spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me] and I will pray with the mind [using words I understand]; I will sing with the spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me] and I will sing with the mind [using words I understand].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Otherwise if you bless [and give thanks to God] in the spirit only, how will any outsider or someone who is not gifted [in spiritual matters] say the “Amen” [of agreement] to your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
You are giving thanks well enough [in a way that God is glorified], but the other person [who does not understand you] is not edified [and spiritually strengthened since he cannot join in your thanksgiving].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
nevertheless, in public worship I would rather say five understandable words in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue [which others cannot understand].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Instruction for the Church Brothers and sisters, do not be children [immature, childlike] in your thinking; be infants in [matters of] evil [completely innocent and inexperienced], but in your minds be mature [adults].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
It is written in the Law, “By men of strange tongues and by the lips of foreigners I will speak to this people, and not even then will they listen to Me,” says the Lord.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore, [unknown] tongues are [meant] for a [supernatural] sign, not to believers but to unbelievers [who might be receptive]; while prophecy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people] is not for unbelievers but for believers.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So then, if the whole church gathers together and all of you speak in [unknown] tongues, and outsiders or those who are not gifted [in spiritual matters] or unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your mind?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if all prophesy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people], and an unbeliever or outsider comes in, he is convicted [of his sins] by all, and he is called to account by all [because he can understand what is being said];


book: 1Cor
contenido:
the secrets of his heart are laid bare. And so, falling on his face, he will worship God, declaring that God is really among you.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
What then is the right course, believers? When you meet together, each one has a psalm, a teaching, a revelation (disclosure of special knowledge), a tongue, or an interpretation. Let everything be constructive and edifying and done for the good of all the church.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If anyone speaks in a tongue, it should be limited to two or at the most three, and each one speaking in turn, and one must interpret [what is said].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But if there is no one to interpret, the one [who wishes to speak in a tongue] must keep silent in church; let him speak to himself and to God.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Let two or three prophets speak [as inspired by the Holy Spirit], while the rest pay attention and weigh carefully what is said.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For [in this way] you can all prophesy one by one, so that everyone may be instructed and everyone may be encouraged;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
for the spirits of prophets are subject to the prophets [the prophecy is under the speaker’s control, and he can stop speaking];


book: 1Cor
contenido:
for God [who is the source of their prophesying] is not a God of confusion and disorder but of peace and order. As [is the practice] in all the churches of the saints (God’s people),


book: 1Cor
contenido:
the women should be silent in the churches, for they are not authorized to speak, but are to take a subordinate place, as the Law says.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If there is anything they want to learn [that is, if they have questions about anything being said or taught], they are to ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to talk in church.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Did the word of the Lord originate from you [Corinthians], or has it come to you only [so that you know best what God requires]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If anyone thinks and claims that he is a prophet [a true spokesman for God] or spiritually astute [filled with and energized by the Holy Spirit], let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If anyone does not recognize this [that it is a command of the Lord], he is not recognized [by God].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore, believers, desire earnestly to prophesy [to foretell the future, to speak a new message from God to the people], and do not forbid speaking in unknown tongues.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The Fact of Christ’s Resurrection Now brothers and sisters, let me remind you [once again] of the good news [of salvation] which I preached to you, which you welcomed and accepted and on which you stand [by faith].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
By this faith you are saved [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose], if you hold firmly to the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain [just superficially and without complete commitment].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For I passed on to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to [that which] the Scriptures [foretold],


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and that He was buried, and that He was [bodily] raised on the third day according to [that which] the Scriptures [foretold],


book: 1Cor
contenido:
After that He appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, the majority of whom are still alive, but some have fallen asleep [in death].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For I am the least [worthy] of the apostles, and not fit to be called an apostle, because I [at one time] fiercely oppressed and violently persecuted the church of God.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But by the [remarkable] grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not without effect. In fact, I worked harder than all of the apostles, though it was not I, but the grace of God [His unmerited favor and blessing which was] with me.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So whether it was I or they, this is what we preach, and this is what you believed and trusted in and relied on with confidence.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Now if Christ is preached as raised from the dead, how is it that some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain [useless, amounting to nothing], and your faith is also vain [imaginary, unfounded, devoid of value and benefit—not based on truth].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
We are even discovered to be false witnesses [misrepresenting] God, because we testified concerning Him that He raised Christ, whom He did not raise, if in fact the dead are not raised.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless and powerless [mere delusion]; you are still in your sins [and under the control and penalty of sin].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If we who are [abiding] in Christ have hoped only in this life [and this is all there is], then we are of all people most miserable and to be pitied.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The Order of Resurrection But now [as things really are] Christ has in fact been raised from the dead, [and He became] the first fruits [that is, the first to be resurrected with an incorruptible, immortal body, foreshadowing the resurrection] of those who have fallen asleep [in death].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For since [it was] by a man that death came [into the world], it is also by a Man that the resurrection of the dead has come.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then those who are Christ’s [own will be resurrected with incorruptible, immortal bodies] at His coming.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
After that comes the end (completion), when He hands over the kingdom to God the Father, after He has made inoperative and abolished every ruler and every authority and power.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For He (the Father) has put all things in subjection under His (Christ’s) feet. But when He says, “All things have been put in subjection [under Christ],” it is clear that He (the Father) who put all things in subjection to Him (Christ) is excepted [since the Father is not in subjection to His own Son].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
However, when all things are subjected to Him (Christ), then the Son Himself will also be subjected to the One (the Father) who put all things under Him, so that God may be all in all [manifesting His glory without any opposition, the supreme indwelling and controlling factor of life].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Otherwise, what will those do who are being baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people even baptized for them?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
[For that matter] why are we [running such risks and putting ourselves] in danger [nearly] every hour [if there is no resurrection]?


book: 1Cor
contenido:
I assure you, believers, by the pride which I have in you in [your union with] Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily [I face death and die to self].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
What good has it done me if, [merely] from a human point of view, I fought with wild animals at Ephesus? If the dead are not raised [at all], let us eat and drink [enjoying ourselves now], for tomorrow we die.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Be sober-minded [be sensible, wake up from your spiritual stupor] as you ought, and stop sinning; for some [of you] have no knowledge of God [you are disgracefully ignorant of Him, and ignore His truths]. I say this to your shame.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
You fool! Every time you plant seed you sow something that does not come to life [germinating, springing up and growing] unless it first dies.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The seed you sow is not the body (the plant) which it is going to become, but it is a bare seed, perhaps of wheat or some other grain.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
All flesh is not the same. There is one kind for humans, another for animals, another for birds, and another for fish.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
There are also heavenly bodies [sun, moon and stars] and earthly bodies [humans, animals, and plants], but the glory and beauty of the heavenly is one kind, and the glory of the earthly is another.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
There is a glory and beauty of the sun, another glory of the moon, and yet another [distinctive] glory of the stars; and one star differs from another in glory and brilliance.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So it is with the resurrection of the dead. The [human] body that is sown is perishable and mortal, it is raised imperishable and immortal.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
it is sown a natural body [mortal, suited to earth], it is raised a spiritual body [immortal, suited to heaven]. As surely as there is a physical body, there is also a spiritual body.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So it is written [in Scripture], “The first man, Adam, became a living soul (an individual);” the last Adam (Christ) became a life-giving spirit [restoring the dead to life].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
However, the spiritual [the immortal life] is not first, but the physical [the mortal life]; then the spiritual.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The first man [Adam] is from the earth, earthy [made of dust]; the second Man [Christ, the Lord] is from heaven.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
As is the earthly man [the man of dust], so are those who are of earth; and as is the heavenly [Man], so are those who are of heaven.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Just as we have borne the image of the earthly [the man of dust], we will also bear the image of the heavenly [the Man of heaven].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The Mystery of Resurrection Now I say this, believers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit nor be part of the kingdom of God; nor does the perishable (mortal) inherit the imperishable (immortal).


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Listen very carefully, I tell you a mystery [a secret truth decreed by God and previously hidden, but now revealed]; we will not all sleep [in death], but we will all be [completely] changed [wondrously transformed],


book: 1Cor
contenido:
in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at [the sound of] the last trumpet call. For a trumpet will sound, and the dead [who believed in Christ] will be raised imperishable, and we will be [completely] changed [wondrously transformed].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For this perishable [part of us] must put on the imperishable [nature], and this mortal [part of us that is capable of dying] must put on immortality [which is freedom from death].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
And when this perishable puts on the imperishable, and this mortal puts on immortality, then the Scripture will be fulfilled that says, “Death is swallowed up in victory (vanquished forever).


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord [always doing your best and doing more than is needed], being continually aware that your labor [even to the point of exhaustion] in the Lord is not futile nor wasted [it is never without purpose].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Instructions and Greetings Now concerning the money collected for [the relief of] the saints [in Jerusalem], you are to do the same as I directed the churches of Galatia to do.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
On the first day of every week each one of you is to put something aside, in proportion to his prosperity, and save it so that no collections [will need to] be made when I come.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
When I arrive, I will send whomever you approve with letters [of authorization] to take your gift [of charity and love] to Jerusalem;


book: 1Cor
contenido:
but it may be that I will stay with you [for a while], or even spend the winter, so that you may send me on my way to wherever I may go afterward.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
For I do not wish to see you right now just in passing, but I hope to remain with you for some time [later on], if the Lord permits.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
because a wide door for effective service has opened to me [in Ephesus, a very promising opportunity], and there are many adversaries.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If Timothy comes, see to it that [you put him at ease, so that] he has nothing to fear in regard to you, for he is [devotedly] doing the Lord’s work, just as I am.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
So allow no one to treat him with disdain [as if he were inconsequential]. But send him off [cordially, and speed him on his way] in peace, so that he may come to me, for I am expecting him [to come along] with the other brothers.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
As for our brother Apollos, I have strongly encouraged him to visit you with the other brothers. It was not at all his desire to come now, but he will come when he has the opportunity.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Be on guard; stand firm in your faith [in God, respecting His precepts and keeping your doctrine sound]. Act like [mature] men and be courageous; be strong.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
Brothers and sisters, you know that those of the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves for ministry to God’s people—now I urge you


book: 1Cor
contenido:
to be subject to such leaders [treating them with courtesy and respect], and to everyone who helps in the work and labors [for the benefit of yourselves and the church].


book: 1Cor
contenido:
I rejoice because Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus have arrived, for they have made up for your absence.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
They have refreshed my spirit as well as yours. So fully acknowledge such men and deeply appreciate them.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The churches of Asia send you their greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church [that meets] in their house, send you their warm greetings in the Lord.


book: 1Cor
contenido:
If anyone does not love the Lord [does not obey and respect and believe in Jesus Christ and His message], he is to be accursed. Maranatha (O our Lord, come)!


book: 1Cor
contenido:
The grace of our Lord Jesus [His unmerited favor, His spiritual blessing, His profound mercy] be with you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Introduction Paul, an apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative) of Christ Jesus (the Messiah) by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God which is at Corinth, and to all the saints (God’s people) throughout Achaia (southern Greece):


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Blessed [gratefully praised and adored] be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
who comforts and encourages us in every trouble so that we will be able to comfort and encourage those who are in any kind of trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For just as Christ’s sufferings are ours in abundance [as they overflow to His followers], so also our comfort [our reassurance, our encouragement, our consolation] is abundant through Christ [it is truly more than enough to endure what we must].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But if we are troubled and distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; or if we are comforted and encouraged, it is for your comfort, which works [in you] when you patiently endure the same sufferings which we experience.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
And our hope for you [our confident expectation of good for you] is firmly grounded [assured and unshaken], since we know that just as you share as partners in our sufferings, so also you share as partners in our comfort.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about our trouble in [the west coast province of] Asia [Minor], how we were utterly weighed down, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life [itself].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Indeed, we felt within ourselves that we had received the sentence of death [and were convinced that we would die, but this happened] so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
He rescued us from so great a threat of death, and will continue to rescue us. On Him we have set our hope. And He will again rescue us [from danger and draw us near],


book: 2Cor
contenido:
while you join in helping us by your prayers. Then thanks will be given by many persons on our behalf for the gracious gift [of deliverance] granted to us through the prayers of many [believers].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Paul’s Integrity This is our [reason for] proud confidence: our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world [in general], and especially toward you, with pure motives and godly sincerity, not in human wisdom, but in the grace of God [that is, His gracious lovingkindness that leads people to Christ and spiritual maturity].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For we write you nothing other than what you read and understand [there is no double meaning in what we say]. And I hope you will [accurately] understand [divine things] until the end;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
just as you have [already] partially understood us, [and one day will recognize] that you can be proud of us just as we are of you, in the day of our Lord Jesus.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
It was with this confidence that I planned at first to visit you, so that you might receive twice a token of grace;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
that is, [I wanted] to visit you on my way to Macedonia, and [then] to come back to you [on my return] from Macedonia, and have you send me on my way to Judea.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So then, was I indecisive or capricious when I was [originally] planning this? Or the things I plan, do I plan in a self-serving way like a worldly man, ready to say, “Yes, yes” and “No, no” [at the same time]?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But [as surely as] God is faithful and means what He says, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No” [at the same time].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, by me, Silvanus, and Timothy, was not “Yes” and “No,” but has proved to be “Yes” in Him [true and faithful, the divine “Yes” affirming God’s promises].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For as many as are the promises of God, in Christ they are [all answered] “Yes.” So through Him we say our “Amen” to the glory of God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now it is God who establishes and confirms us [in joint fellowship] with you in Christ, and who has anointed us [empowering us with the gifts of the Spirit];


book: 2Cor
contenido:
it is He who has also put His seal on us [that is, He has appropriated us and certified us as His] and has given us the [Holy] Spirit in our hearts as a pledge [like a security deposit to guarantee the fulfillment of His promise of eternal life].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But I call on God as my soul’s witness, that it was to spare you [pain and discouragement] that I did not come again to Corinth—


book: 2Cor
contenido:
not that we rule [like dictators] over your faith, but rather we work with you for [the increase of] your joy; for in your faith you stand firm [in your strong conviction that Jesus of Nazareth—the Messiah—is the Son of God, through whom we obtain eternal salvation].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For if I cause you grief [by a well-deserved rebuke], who then provides me enjoyment but the very one whom I have made sad?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
And I wrote this same thing to you, so that when I came, I would not be filled with sorrow by those who ought to make me glad, for I trusted in you and felt confident that my joy would be shared by all of you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For I wrote to you out of great distress and with an anguished heart, and with many tears, not to cause you sorrow but to make you realize the [overflowing] love which I have especially for you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But if someone has caused [all this] sorrow, he has caused it not to me, but in some degree—not to put it too severely—[he has distressed and grieved] all of you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
so instead [of further rebuke, now] you should rather [graciously] forgive and comfort and encourage him, to keep him from being overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For this was my purpose in writing, to see if you would stand the test, whether you are obedient and committed to following my instruction in all things.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
If you forgive anyone anything, I too forgive [that one]; and what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, has been for your sake in the presence of [and with the approval of] Christ,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now when I arrived at Troas to preach the good news of Christ, even though a door [of opportunity] opened for me in the Lord,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
my spirit could not rest because I did not find my brother Titus there; so saying goodbye to them, I left for Macedonia.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us spreads and makes evident everywhere the sweet fragrance of the knowledge of Him.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which ascends] to God, [discernible both] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
to the latter one an aroma from death to death [a fatal, offensive odor], but to the other an aroma from life to life [a vital fragrance, living and fresh]. And who is adequate and sufficiently qualified for these things?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For we are not like many, [acting like merchants] peddling God’s word [shortchanging and adulterating God’s message]; but from pure [uncompromised] motives, as [commissioned and sent] from God, we speak [His message] in Christ in the sight of God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Ministers of a New Covenant Are we starting to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some [false teachers], letters of recommendation to you or from you? [No!]


book: 2Cor
contenido:
You show that you are a letter from Christ, delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Such is the confidence and steadfast reliance and absolute trust that we have through Christ toward God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Not that we are sufficiently qualified in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency and qualifications come from God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
He has qualified us [making us sufficient] as ministers of a new covenant [of salvation through Christ], not of the letter [of a written code] but of the Spirit; for the letter [of the Law] kills [by revealing sin and demanding obedience], but the Spirit gives life.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now if the ministry of death, engraved in letters on stones [the covenant of the Law which led to death because of sin], came with such glory and splendor that the Israelites were not able to look steadily at the face of Moses because of its glory, [a brilliance] that was fading,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
how will the ministry of the Spirit [the new covenant which allows us to be Spirit-filled] fail to be even more glorious and splendid?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For if the ministry that brings condemnation [the old covenant, the Law] has glory, how much more does glory overflow in the ministry that brings righteousness [the new covenant which declares believers free of guilt and sets them apart for God’s special purpose]!


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Indeed, what had glory [the Law], in this case no longer has glory because of the glory that surpasses it [the gospel].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For if that [Law] which fades away came with glory, how much more must that [gospel] which remains and is permanent abide in glory and splendor!


book: 2Cor
contenido:
and we are not like Moses, who used to put a veil over his face so that the Israelites would not gaze at the end of the glory which was fading away.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But [in fact] their minds were hardened [for they had lost the ability to understand]; for until this very day at the reading of the old covenant the same veil remains unlifted, because it is removed [only] in Christ.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty [emancipation from bondage, true freedom].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
And we all, with unveiled face, continually seeing as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are progressively being transformed into His image from [one degree of] glory to [even more] glory, which comes from the Lord, [who is] the Spirit.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Paul’s Apostolic Ministry Therefore, since we have this ministry, just as we received mercy [from God, granting us salvation, opportunities, and blessings], we do not get discouraged nor lose our motivation.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But we have renounced the disgraceful things hidden because of shame; not walking in trickery or adulterating the word of God, but by stating the truth [openly and plainly], we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But even if our gospel is [in some sense] hidden [behind a veil], it is hidden [only] to those who are perishing;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
among them the god of this world [Satan] has blinded the minds of the unbelieving to prevent them from seeing the illuminating light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves [merely] as your bond-servants for Jesus’ sake.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” is the One who has shone in our hearts to give us the Light of the knowledge of the glory and majesty of God [clearly revealed] in the face of Christ.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But we have this precious treasure [the good news about salvation] in [unworthy] earthen vessels [of human frailty], so that the grandeur and surpassing greatness of the power will be [shown to be] from God [His sufficiency] and not from ourselves.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We are pressured in every way [hedged in], but not crushed; perplexed [unsure of finding a way out], but not driven to despair;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
always carrying around in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the [resurrection] life of Jesus also may be shown in our body.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For we who live are constantly [experiencing the threat of] being handed over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the [resurrection] life of Jesus also may be evidenced in our mortal body [which is subject to death].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Yet we have the same spirit of faith as he had, who wrote in Scripture, “I believed, therefore I spoke.” We also believe, therefore we also speak,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
knowing that He who raised the Lord Jesus will also raise us with Jesus and will present us [along] with you in His presence.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For all [these] things are for your sake, so that as [God’s remarkable, undeserved] grace reaches to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of [our great] God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Therefore we do not become discouraged [spiritless, disappointed, or afraid]. Though our outer self is [progressively] wasting away, yet our inner self is being [progressively] renewed day by day.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For our momentary, light distress [this passing trouble] is producing for us an eternal weight of glory [a fullness] beyond all measure [surpassing all comparisons, a transcendent splendor and an endless blessedness]!


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are unseen; for the things which are visible are temporal [just brief and fleeting], but the things which are invisible are everlasting and imperishable.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
The Temporal and Eternal For we know that if the earthly tent [our physical body] which is our house is torn down [through death], we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For indeed in this house we groan, longing to be clothed with our [immortal, eternal] celestial dwelling,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For while we are in this tent, we groan, being burdened [often weighed down, oppressed], not that we want to be unclothed [separated by death from the body], but to be clothed, so that what is mortal [the body] will be swallowed up by life [after the resurrection].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now He who has made us and prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave us the [Holy] Spirit as a pledge [a guarantee, a down payment on the fulfillment of His promise].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So then, being always filled with good courage and confident hope, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord—


book: 2Cor
contenido:
for we walk by faith, not by sight [living our lives in a manner consistent with our confident belief in God’s promises]—


book: 2Cor
contenido:
we are [as I was saying] of good courage and confident hope, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Therefore, whether we are at home [on earth] or away from home [and with Him], it is our [constant] ambition to be pleasing to Him.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For we [believers will be called to account and] must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be repaid for what has been done in the body, whether good or bad [that is, each will be held responsible for his actions, purposes, goals, motives—the use or misuse of his time, opportunities and abilities].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Therefore, since we know the fear of the Lord [and understand the importance of obedience and worship], we persuade people [to be reconciled to Him]. But we are plainly known to God [He knows everything about us]; and I hope that we are plainly known also in your consciences [your God-given discernment].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We are not commending ourselves to you again, but are giving you an occasion to be [rightfully] proud of us, so that you will have an answer for those who take pride in [outward] appearances [the virtues they pretend to have] rather than what is [actually] in heart.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
If we are out of our mind [just unstable fanatics as some critics say], it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for your benefit.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For the love of Christ controls and compels us, because we have concluded this, that One died for all, therefore all died;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
and He died for all, so that all those who live would no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and was raised for their sake.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So from now on we regard no one from a human point of view [according to worldly standards and values]. Though we have known Christ from a human point of view, now we no longer know Him in this way.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ [making us acceptable to Him] and gave us the ministry of reconciliation [so that by our example we might bring others to Him],


book: 2Cor
contenido:
that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting people’s sins against them [but canceling them]. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation [that is, restoration to favor with God].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us; we [as Christ’s representatives] plead with you on behalf of Christ to be reconciled to God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
He made Christ who knew no sin to [judicially] be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we would become the righteousness of God [that is, we would be made acceptable to Him and placed in a right relationship with Him by His gracious lovingkindness].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Their Ministry Commended Working together with Him, we strongly urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain [by turning away from sound doctrine and His merciful kindness].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For He says, “At the acceptable time (the time of grace) I listened to you, And I helped you on the day of salvation.” Behold, now is “the acceptable time,” behold, now is “the day of salvation”—


book: 2Cor
contenido:
but we commend ourselves in every way as servants of God: in great endurance, in sufferings, in hardships, in distresses,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
in purity and sincerity, in knowledge and spiritual insight, in patience, in kindness, in the Holy Spirit, in genuine love,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
in [speaking] the word of truth, in the power of God; by the weapons of righteousness for the right hand [like holding the sword to attack] and for the left [like holding the shield to defend],


book: 2Cor
contenido:
amid glory and dishonor; by evil report and good report; branded as deceivers and yet [vindicated as] truthful;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
as unknown [to the world], yet well-known [by God and His people]; as dying, yet we live; as punished, yet not killed;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet bestowing riches on many; as having nothing, yet possessing all things.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We are speaking freely to you, Corinthians [we are keeping nothing back], and our heart is opened wide.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now in the same way as a fair exchange [for our love toward you]—I am speaking as [I would] to children—open wide [your hearts] to us also.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Do not be unequally bound together with unbelievers [do not make mismatched alliances with them, inconsistent with your faith]. For what partnership can righteousness have with lawlessness? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
What harmony can there be between Christ and Belial (Satan)? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said: “I will dwell among them and walk among them; And I will be their God, and they shall be My people.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
 “So come out from among unbelievers and be separate,” says the Lord, “And do not touch what is unclean; And I will graciously receive you and welcome you [with favor],


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Paul Reveals His Heart Therefore, since we have these [great and wonderful] promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, completing holiness [living a consecrated life—a life set apart for God’s purpose] in the fear of God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Make room for us in your hearts; we have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have cheated no one.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I do not say this to condemn you, for I have said before that you are [nested] in our hearts [and you will remain there] to die together and to live together [with us].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Great is my confidence in you; great is my pride and boasting on your behalf. I am filled [to the brim] with comfort; I am overflowing with joy in spite of all our trouble.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For even when we arrived in Macedonia our bodies had no rest, but we were oppressed at every turn—conflicts and disputes without, fears and dread within.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But God, who comforts and encourages the depressed and the disquieted, comforted us by the arrival of Titus.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
And not only by his arrival, but also by [his account of] the encouragement which he received in regard to you. He told us about your longing [for us], your mourning [over sin], and how eagerly you took my part and supported me, so that I rejoiced even more.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For even though I did grieve you with my letter, I do not regret it [now]; though I did regret it —for I see that the letter hurt you, though only for a little while—


book: 2Cor
contenido:
yet I am glad now, not because you were hurt and made sorry, but because your sorrow led to repentance [and you turned back to God]; for you felt a grief such as God meant you to feel, so that you might not suffer loss in anything on our account.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For [godly] sorrow that is in accord with the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation; but worldly sorrow [the hopeless sorrow of those who do not believe] produces death.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For [you can look back and] see what an earnestness and authentic concern this godly sorrow has produced in you: what vindication of yourselves [against charges that you tolerate sin], what indignation [at sin], what fear [of offending God], what longing [for righteousness and justice], what passion [to do what is right], what readiness to punish [those who sin and those who tolerate sin]! At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in the matter.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So even though I wrote to you [as I did], it was not for the sake of the offender nor for the sake of the one offended, but in order to make evident to you before God how earnestly you do care for us [and your willingness to accept our authority].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
It is for this reason that we are comforted and encouraged. And in addition to our comfort, we were especially delighted at the joy of Titus, because you have refreshed his spirit.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For if I have boasted to him at all concerning you, I was not disappointed. But just as everything we ever said to you was true, so our boasting [about you] to Titus has proved true also.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
His affection is greater than ever as he remembers the obedience [to his guidance] that all of you exhibited, and how you received him with the greatest respect.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Great Generosity Now, brothers and sisters, we want to tell you about the grace of God which has been evident in the churches of Macedonia [awakening in them a longing to contribute];


book: 2Cor
contenido:
for during an ordeal of severe distress, their abundant joy and their deep poverty [together] overflowed in the wealth of their lavish generosity.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
begging us insistently for the privilege of participating in the service for [the support of] the saints [in Jerusalem].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Not only [did they give materially] as we had hoped, but first they gave themselves to the Lord and to us [as His representatives] by the will of God [disregarding their personal interests and giving as much as they possibly could].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So we urged Titus that, as he began it, he should also complete this gracious work among you as well.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But just as you excel in everything, [and lead the way] in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in genuine concern, and in your love for us, see that you excel in this gracious work [of giving] also.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I am not saying this as a command [to dictate to you], but to prove, by [pointing out] the enthusiasm of others, the sincerity of your love as well.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For you are recognizing [more clearly] the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [His astonishing kindness, His generosity, His gracious favor], that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that by His poverty you might become rich (abundantly blessed).


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I give you my opinion in this matter: this is to your advantage, who were the first to begin a year ago not only to take action [to help the believers in Jerusalem], but also [the first] to desire to do it.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So now finish this, so that your eagerness in desiring it may be equaled by your completion of it, according to your ability.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For if the eagerness [to give] is there, it is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For it is not [intended] that others be relieved [of their responsibility] and that you be burdened [unfairly], but that there be equality [in sharing the burden]—


book: 2Cor
contenido:
at this present time your surplus [over necessities] is going to supply their need, so that [at some other time] their surplus may be given to supply your need, that there may be equality;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
as it is written [in Scripture], “He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not lack.”


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For Titus not only accepted our appeal, but was so very interested in you that he has gone to visit you of his own accord.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
And we have sent along with him the brother who is praised in the gospel [ministry] throughout all the churches;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
and not only this, but he has also been appointed by the churches to travel with us in regard to this gracious offering which we are administering for the glory of the Lord Himself, and to show our eagerness [as believers to help one another].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We are taking precaution so that no one will [find anything with which to] discredit us in our administration of this generous gift.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For we have regard for what is honorable [and above suspicion], not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We have sent with them our brother, whom we have often tested and found to be diligent in many things, but who is now even more diligent [than ever] because of his great confidence in you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
As for Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker in your service; and as for the [other two] brothers, they are [special] messengers of the churches, a glory and credit to Christ.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Therefore, show these men, in the sight of the churches, the proof of your love and our reason for being proud of you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
God Gives Most Now it is unnecessary for me to write to you about the offering [that is to be made] for the saints [in Jerusalem];


book: 2Cor
contenido:
for I know your eagerness [to promote this cause], and I have [proudly] boasted to the people of Macedonia about it, telling them that Achaia has been prepared since last year [for this contribution], and your enthusiasm has inspired the majority of them [to respond].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Still, I am sending the brothers [on to you], so that our pride in you may not be an empty boast in this case, and so that you may be prepared, just as I told them you would be;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
otherwise, if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we—to say nothing of yourselves—will be humiliated for being so confident.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
That is why I thought it necessary to urge these brothers to go to you [before I come] and make arrangements in advance for this generous, previously promised gift of yours, so that it would be ready, not as something extorted [or wrung out of you], but as a [voluntary and] generous gift.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now [remember] this: he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to others] will also reap generously [and be blessed].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Let each one give [thoughtfully and with purpose] just as he has decided in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver [and delights in the one whose heart is in his gift].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
And God is able to make all grace [every favor and earthly blessing] come in abundance to you, so that you may always [under all circumstances, regardless of the need] have complete sufficiency in everything [being completely self-sufficient in Him], and have an abundance for every good work and act of charity.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
As it is written and forever remains written, “He [the benevolent and generous person] scattered abroad, he gave to the poor, His righteousness endures forever!”


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now He who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed for sowing [that is, your resources] and increase the harvest of your righteousness [which shows itself in active goodness, kindness, and love].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
You will be enriched in every way so that you may be generous, and this [generosity, administered] through us is producing thanksgiving to God [from those who benefit].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For the ministry of this service (offering) is not only supplying the needs of the saints (God’s people), but is also overflowing through many expressions of thanksgiving to God.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Because of this act of ministry, they will glorify God for your obedience to the gospel of Christ which you confess, as well as for your generous participation [in this gift] for them and for all [the other believers in need],


book: 2Cor
contenido:
and they also long for you while they pray on your behalf, because of the surpassing measure of God’s grace [His undeserved favor, mercy, and blessing which is revealed] in you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Paul Describes Himself Now I, Paul, urge you by the gentleness and graciousness of Christ—I who am meek [so they say] when with you face to face, but bold [outspoken and fearless] toward you when absent!


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I ask that when I do come I will not be driven to the boldness that I intend to show toward those few who regard us as if we walked according to the flesh [like men without the Spirit].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For though we walk in the flesh [as mortal men], we are not carrying on our [spiritual] warfare according to the flesh and using the weapons of man.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
The weapons of our warfare are not physical [weapons of flesh and blood]. Our weapons are divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We are destroying sophisticated arguments and every exalted and proud thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought and purpose captive to the obedience of Christ,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
You are looking [only] at the outward appearance of things. If anyone is confident that he is Christ’s, he should reflect and consider this, that just as he is Christ’s, so too are we.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For even though I boast rather freely about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up and not for destroying you, I will not be ashamed [of the truth],


book: 2Cor
contenido:
for they say, “His letters are weighty and forceful and impressive, but his personal presence is unimpressive and his speech contemptible [of no account].”


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Let such people realize that what we say by word in letters when we are absent, is the same as what we are in action when present.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We do not have the audacity to put ourselves in the same class or compare ourselves with some who [supply testimonials to] commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they lack wisdom and behave like fools.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We, on the other hand, will not boast beyond our proper limit, but [will keep] within the limits of our commission (territory, authority) which God has granted to us as a measure, which reaches and includes even you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We are not overstepping the limits of our province, as if we did not [legitimately] reach to you, for we were the [very] first to come even as far as you with the good news of Christ.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We do not go beyond our proper limit, boasting in the work of other men, but we have the hope that as your faith [in Christ and His divine power] continues to grow, our field among you may be greatly expanded [but still within the limits of our commission],


book: 2Cor
contenido:
so that we may preach the gospel even in the lands beyond you, but not to boast in work already accomplished in another one’s field of activity.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For it is not he who commends and praises himself who is approved [by God], but it is the one whom the Lord commends and praises.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Paul Defends His Apostleship I wish you would bear with me [while I indulge] in a little foolishness; but indeed you are bearing with me [as you read this].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy because I have promised you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But I am afraid that, even as the serpent beguiled Eve by his cunning, your minds may be corrupted and led away from the simplicity of [your sincere and] pure devotion to Christ.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For [you seem willing to allow it] if one comes and preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted. You tolerate all this beautifully [welcoming the deception].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But even if I am unskilled in speaking, yet I am not [untrained] in knowledge [I know what I am talking about]; but we have made this evident to you in every way, in all things.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Or did I [perhaps] sin by humbling myself so that you might be exalted and honored, because I preached God’s gospel to you free of charge?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I robbed other churches by accepting [more than their share of] financial support for my ministry to you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
And when I was with you and ran short [financially], I did not burden any of you; for what I needed was fully supplied by the brothers (Silas and Timothy) who came from Macedonia (the church at Philippi). So I kept myself from being a burden to you in any way, and will continue to do so.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
As the truth of Christ is in me, my boast [of independence] will not be silenced in the regions of Achaia (southern Greece).


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Why? Because I do not love you [or wish you well, or have regard for your welfare]? God knows [that I do]!


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But what I am doing I will keep doing, [for I am determined to keep this independence] in order to cut off the claim of those who want an opportunity to be regarded just as we are in the things they brag about.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So it is no great surprise if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness, but their end will correspond with their deeds.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I repeat then, let no one think that I am foolish; but even if you do, at least accept me as foolish, so that I too may boast a little.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
What I say in this confident boasting, I say not as the Lord would [with His authority], but foolishly.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For you tolerate it if anyone makes you his slave; or devours you and your possessions; or takes advantage of you; or acts presumptuously; or hits you in the face.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
To my shame, I must say, we have been too weak [in comparison to those pseudo-apostles who take advantage of you]. But in whatever anyone else dares to boast—I am speaking foolishly—I also dare to boast.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Are they [self-proclaimed] servants of Christ?—I am speaking as if I were out of my mind—I am more so [for I exceed them]; with far more labors, with far more imprisonments, beaten times without number, and often in danger of death.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked, a night and a day I have spent adrift on the sea;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
many times on journeys, [exposed to] danger from rivers, danger from bandits, danger from my own countrymen, danger from the Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger on the sea, danger among those posing as believers;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
in labor and hardship, often unable to sleep, in hunger and thirst, often [driven to] fasting [for lack of food], in cold and exposure [without adequate clothing].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Besides those external things, there is the daily [inescapable] pressure of my concern for all the churches.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Who is weak, and I do not feel [his] weakness? Who is made to sin, and I am not on fire [with sorrow and concern]?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
If I must boast, I will boast of the things that reveal my weakness [the things by which I am made weak in the eyes of my opponents].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, He who is blessed and to be praised forevermore, knows that I am not lying.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
In Damascus the governor (ethnarch) under King Aretas guarded the city of Damascus in order to arrest me,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
and I was [actually] let down in a basket through a window in the wall, and slipped through his fingers.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Paul’s Vision It is necessary to boast, though nothing is gained by it; but I will go on to visions and revelations of the Lord.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or out of the body I do not know, [only] God knows—such a man was caught up to the third heaven.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words which man is not permitted to speak [words too sacred to tell].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
On behalf of such a man [and his experiences] I will boast; but in my own behalf I will not boast, except in regard to my weaknesses.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
If I wish to boast, I will not be foolish, because I will be speaking the truth. But I abstain [from it], so that no one will credit me with more than [is justified by what] he sees in me or hears from me.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
A Thorn in the Flesh Because of the surpassing greatness and extraordinary nature of the revelations [which I received from God], for this reason, to keep me from thinking of myself as important, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan, to torment and harass me—to keep me from exalting myself!


book: 2Cor
contenido:
but He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
So I am well pleased with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, and with difficulties, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak [in human strength], then I am strong [truly able, truly powerful, truly drawing from God’s strength].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now I have become foolish; you have forced me [by questioning my apostleship]. Actually I should have been commended by you [instead of being treated disdainfully], for I was not inferior to those super-apostles, even if I am nobody.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
The signs that indicate a genuine apostle were performed among you fully and most patiently—signs and wonders and miracles.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For in what respect were you treated as inferior to the rest of the churches, except [for the fact] that I did not burden you [with my financial support]? Forgive me [for doing you] this injustice!


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Now for the third time I am ready to visit you. I will not burden you [financially], because I do not want what is yours [not your money or your possessions], but you. For children are not responsible to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But I will very gladly spend [my own resources] and be utterly spent for your souls. If I love you greatly, am I to be loved less [by you]?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But be that as it may, I did not burden you [with my support]. But [some say that] I was sly and took you by trickery.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Did I take advantage of you or make any money off you through any of the messengers I sent you? [Certainly not!]


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I urged Titus to go, and I sent the brother with him. Titus did not take advantage of you, did he? [No!] Did we not conduct ourselves in the same spirit and walk in the same steps? [Of course!]


book: 2Cor
contenido:
All this time you have been thinking that we are [merely] defending ourselves to you. It is in the sight of God that we have been speaking [as one] in Christ; and everything, dearly beloved, is to strengthen you [spiritually].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For I am afraid that perhaps when I come I may find you not to be as I wish, and that you may find me not as you wish—that perhaps there may be strife, jealousy, angry tempers, disputes, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder;


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I am afraid that when I come again my God may humiliate me before you, and I may mourn over many of those who have sinned in the past and not repented of the impurity, sexual immorality and decadence which they formerly practiced.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Examine Yourselves This is the third time that I am visiting you. Every fact shall be sustained and confirmed by the testimony of two or three witnesses.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
I have already warned those who have sinned in the past and all the rest as well, and I warn them now even though I am absent [from you] as I did when I was with you the second time, that if I come back I will not spare anyone,


book: 2Cor
contenido:
since you seek [forensic] proof that Christ is speaking in and through me. He is not weak or ineffective in dealing with you, but powerful within you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For even though He was crucified in weakness [yielding Himself], yet He lives [resurrected] by the power of God [His Father]. For we too are weak in Him [as He was humanly weak], yet we are alive and well [in fellowship] with Him because of the power of God directed toward you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Test and evaluate yourselves to see whether you are in the faith and living your lives as [committed] believers. Examine yourselves [not me]! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves [by an ongoing experience] that Jesus Christ is in you—unless indeed you fail the test and are rejected as counterfeit?


book: 2Cor
contenido:
But I pray to God that you may do nothing wrong. Not so that we [and our teaching] may appear to be approved, but that you may continue doing what is right, even though we [by comparison] may seem to have failed.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For we can do nothing against the truth, but only for the truth [and the gospel—the good news of salvation].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
We are glad when we are weak [since God’s power comes freely through us], but you [by comparison] are strong. We also pray for this, that you be made complete [fully restored, growing and maturing in godly character and spirit—pleasing your heavenly Father by the life you live].


book: 2Cor
contenido:
For this reason I am writing these things while absent from you, so that when I come, I will not need to deal severely [with you], in my use of the authority which the Lord has given me [to be used] for building you up and not for tearing you down.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
Finally, believers, rejoice! Be made complete [be what you should be], be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace [enjoy the spiritual well-being experienced by believers who walk closely with God]; and the God of love and peace [the source of lovingkindness] will be with you.


book: 2Cor
contenido:
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.


book: Gal
contenido:
Introduction Paul, an apostle (not commissioned and sent from men nor through the agency of man, but through Jesus Christ—the Messiah—and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead),


book: Gal
contenido:
Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being] from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ,


book: Gal
contenido:
who gave Himself [as a sacrifice to atone] for our sins [to save and sanctify us] so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, in accordance with the will and purpose and plan of our God and Father—


book: Gal
contenido:
Perversion of the Gospel I am astonished and extremely irritated that you are so quickly shifting your allegiance and deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different [even contrary] gospel;


book: Gal
contenido:
which is really not another [gospel]; but there are [obviously] some [people masquerading as teachers] who are disturbing and confusing you [with a misleading, counterfeit teaching] and want to distort the gospel of Christ [twisting it into something which it absolutely is not].


book: Gal
contenido:
But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to that which we [originally] preached to you, let him be condemned to destruction!


book: Gal
contenido:
As we have said before, so I now say again, if anyone is preaching to you a gospel different from that which you received [from us], let him be condemned to destruction!


book: Gal
contenido:
Am I now trying to win the favor and approval of men, or of God? Or am I seeking to please someone? If I were still trying to be popular with men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.


book: Gal
contenido:
Paul Defends His Ministry For I want you to know, believers, that the gospel which was preached by me is not man’s gospel [it is not a human invention, patterned after any human concept].


book: Gal
contenido:
For indeed I did not receive it from man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a [direct] revelation of Jesus Christ.


book: Gal
contenido:
You have heard of my career and former manner of life in Judaism, how I used to hunt down and persecute the church of God extensively and [with fanatical zeal] tried [my best] to destroy it.


book: Gal
contenido:
And [you have heard how] I surpassed many of my contemporaries among my countrymen in [my advanced study of the laws of] Judaism, as I was extremely loyal to the traditions of my ancestors.


book: Gal
contenido:
But when God, who had chosen me and set me apart before I was born, and called me through His grace, was pleased


book: Gal
contenido:
to reveal His Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles [as the good news—the way of salvation], I did not immediately consult with anyone [for guidance regarding God’s call and His revelation to me].


book: Gal
contenido:
Nor did I [even] go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia and stayed awhile, and afterward returned once more to Damascus.


book: Gal
contenido:
Then three years later I did go up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas (Peter), and I stayed with him fifteen days.


book: Gal
contenido:
(Now in what I am writing to you, I assure you as if I were standing before God that I am not lying.)


book: Gal
contenido:
And I was still unknown by sight to the churches which were in Christ in Judea (Jerusalem and the surrounding region);


book: Gal
contenido:
they only kept hearing, “He who used to persecute us is now preaching the [good news of the] faith which he once was trying to destroy.”


book: Gal
contenido:
And they were glorifying God [as the Author and Source of what had taken place and all that had been accomplished] in me.


book: Gal
contenido:
The Council at Jerusalem Then after a period of fourteen years I again went up to Jerusalem, [this time] with Barnabas, taking Titus along also.


book: Gal
contenido:
I went up [to Jerusalem] because of a [divine] revelation, and I put before them the gospel which I preach among the Gentiles. But I did so in private before those of reputation, for fear that I might be running or had run [the course of my ministry] in vain.


book: Gal
contenido:
But [all went well, for] not even Titus, who was with me, was compelled [as some had anticipated] to be circumcised, despite the fact that he was a Greek.


book: Gal
contenido:
My concern was because of the false brothers [those people masquerading as Christians] who had been secretly smuggled in [to the community of believers]. They had slipped in to spy on the freedom which we have in Christ Jesus, in order to bring us back into bondage [under the Law of Moses].


book: Gal
contenido:
But we did not yield to them even for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel would continue to remain with you [in its purity].


book: Gal
contenido:
But from those who were of high reputation (whatever they were—in terms of individual importance—makes no difference to me; God shows no partiality—He is not impressed with the positions that people hold nor does He recognize distinctions such as fame or power)—well, those who were of reputation contributed nothing to me [that is, they had nothing to add to my gospel message nor did they impose any new requirements on me].


book: Gal
contenido:
But on the contrary, they saw that I had been entrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised (Gentiles), just as Peter had been [entrusted to proclaim the gospel] to the circumcised (Jews);


book: Gal
contenido:
(for He who worked effectively for Peter and empowered him in his ministry to the Jews also worked effectively for me and empowered me in my ministry to the Gentiles).


book: Gal
contenido:
And recognizing the grace [that God had] bestowed on me, James and Cephas (Peter) and John, who were reputed to be pillars [of the Jerusalem church], gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, so that we could go to the Gentiles [with their blessing] and they to the circumcised (Jews).


book: Gal
contenido:
Peter (Cephas) Opposed by Paul Now when Cephas (Peter) came to Antioch, I opposed him face to face [about his conduct there], because he stood condemned [by his own actions].


book: Gal
contenido:
Before certain men came from James, he used to eat [his meals] with the Gentiles; but when the men [from Jerusalem] arrived, he began to withdraw and separate himself [from the Gentile believers], because he was afraid of those from the circumcision.


book: Gal
contenido:
The rest of the Jews joined him in this hypocrisy [ignoring their knowledge that Jewish and Gentile Christians were united, under the new covenant, into one faith], with the result that even Barnabas was carried away by their hypocrisy.


book: Gal
contenido:
But when I saw that they were not being straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I told Cephas (Peter) in front of everyone, “If you, being a Jew, live [as you have been living] like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how is it that you are [now virtually] forcing the Gentiles to live like Jews [if they want to eat with you]?”


book: Gal
contenido:
yet we know that a man is not justified [and placed in right standing with God] by works of the Law, but [only] through faith in [God’s beloved Son,] Christ Jesus. And even we [as Jews] have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the Law. By observing the Law no one will ever be justified [declared free of the guilt of sin and its penalty].


book: Gal
contenido:
But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ [by faith], we ourselves are found to be sinners, does that make Christ an advocate or promoter of our sin? Certainly not!


book: Gal
contenido:
For if I [or anyone else should] rebuild [through word or by practice] what I once tore down [the belief that observing the Law is essential for salvation], I prove myself to be a transgressor.


book: Gal
contenido:
For through the Law I died to the Law and its demands on me [because salvation is provided through the death and resurrection of Christ], so that I might [from now on] live to God.


book: Gal
contenido:
I have been crucified with Christ [that is, in Him I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body I live by faith [by adhering to, relying on, and completely trusting] in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.


book: Gal
contenido:
I do not ignore or nullify the [gracious gift of the] grace of God [His amazing, unmerited favor], for if righteousness comes through [observing] the Law, then Christ died needlessly. [His suffering and death would have had no purpose whatsoever.]”


book: Gal
contenido:
Faith Brings Righteousness O you foolish and thoughtless and superficial Galatians, who has bewitched you [that you would act like this], to whom—right before your very eyes—Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified [in the gospel message]?


book: Gal
contenido:
This is all I want to ask of you: did you receive the [Holy] Spirit as the result of obeying [the requirements of] the Law, or was it the result of hearing [the message of salvation and] with faith [believing it]?


book: Gal
contenido:
Are you so foolish and senseless? Having begun [your new life by faith] with the Spirit, are you now being perfected and reaching spiritual maturity by the flesh [that is, by your own works and efforts to keep the Law]?


book: Gal
contenido:
Have you suffered so many things and experienced so much all for nothing—if indeed it was all for nothing?


book: Gal
contenido:
So then, does He who supplies you with His [marvelous Holy] Spirit and works miracles among you, do it as a result of the works of the Law [which you perform], or because you [believe confidently in the message which you] heard with faith?


book: Gal
contenido:
Just as Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness, [as conformity to God’s will and purpose—so it is with you also].


book: Gal
contenido:
So understand that it is the people who live by faith [with confidence in the power and goodness of God] who are [the true] sons of Abraham.


book: Gal
contenido:
The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, proclaimed the good news [of the Savior] to Abraham in advance [with this promise], saying, “In you shall all the nations be blessed.”


book: Gal
contenido:
So then those who are people of faith [whether Jew or Gentile] are blessed and favored by God [and declared free of the guilt of sin and its penalty, and placed in right standing with Him] along with Abraham, the believer.


book: Gal
contenido:
For all who depend on the Law [seeking justification and salvation by obedience to the Law and the observance of rituals] are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed (condemned to destruction) is everyone who does not abide by all things written in the book of the law, so as to practice them.”


book: Gal
contenido:
Now it is clear that no one is justified [that is, declared free of the guilt of sin and its penalty, and placed in right standing] before God by the Law, for “The righteous (the just, the upright) shall live by faith.”


book: Gal
contenido:
But the Law does not rest on or require faith [it has nothing to do with faith], but [instead, the Law] says, “He who practices them [the things prescribed by the Law] shall live by them [instead of faith].”


book: Gal
contenido:
Christ purchased our freedom and redeemed us from the curse of the Law and its condemnation by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs [crucified] on a tree (cross)”—


book: Gal
contenido:
in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might also come to the Gentiles, so that we would all receive [the realization of] the promise of the [Holy] Spirit through faith.


book: Gal
contenido:
Intent of the Law Brothers and sisters, I speak in terms of human relations: even though a last will and testament is just a human covenant, yet when it has been signed and made legally binding, no one sets it aside or adds to it [modifying it in some way].


book: Gal
contenido:
Now the promises [in the covenants] were decreed to Abraham and to his seed. God does not say, “And to seeds (descendants, heirs),” as if [referring] to many [persons], but as to one, “And to your Seed,” who is [none other than] Christ.


book: Gal
contenido:
This is what I mean: the Law, which came into existence four hundred and thirty years later [after the covenant concerning the coming Messiah], does not and cannot invalidate the covenant previously established by God, so as to abolish the promise.


book: Gal
contenido:
For if the inheritance [of what was promised] is based on [observing] the Law [as these false teachers claim], it is no longer based on a promise; however, God granted it to Abraham [as a gift] by virtue of His promise.


book: Gal
contenido:
Why, then, the Law [what was its purpose]? It was added [after the promise to Abraham, to reveal to people their guilt] because of transgressions [that is, to make people conscious of the sinfulness of sin], and [the Law] was ordained through angels and delivered to Israel by the hand of a mediator [Moses, the mediator between God and Israel, to be in effect] until the Seed would come to whom the promise had been made.


book: Gal
contenido:
Now the mediator or go-between [in a transaction] is not [needed] for just one party; whereas God is only one [and was the only One giving the promise to Abraham, but the Law was a contract between two, God and Israel; its validity depended on both].


book: Gal
contenido:
Is the Law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a system of law had been given which could impart life, then righteousness (right standing with God) would actually have been based on law.


book: Gal
contenido:
But the Scripture has imprisoned everyone [everything—the entire world] under sin, so that [the inheritance, the blessing of salvation] which was promised through faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe [in Him and acknowledge Him as God’s precious Son].


book: Gal
contenido:
Now before faith came, we were kept in custody under the Law, [perpetually] imprisoned [in preparation] for the faith that was destined to be revealed,


book: Gal
contenido:
with the result that the Law has become our tutor and our disciplinarian to guide us to Christ, so that we may be justified [that is, declared free of the guilt of sin and its penalty, and placed in right standing with God] by faith.


book: Gal
contenido:
But now that faith has come, we are no longer under [the control and authority of] a tutor and disciplinarian.


book: Gal
contenido:
For you [who are born-again have been reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified and] are all children of God [set apart for His purpose with full rights and privileges] through faith in Christ Jesus.


book: Gal
contenido:
For all of you who were baptized into Christ [into a spiritual union with the Christ, the Anointed] have clothed yourselves with Christ [that is, you have taken on His characteristics and values].


book: Gal
contenido:
There is [now no distinction in regard to salvation] neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you [who believe] are all one in Christ Jesus [no one can claim a spiritual superiority].


book: Gal
contenido:
And if you belong to Christ [if you are in Him], then you are Abraham’s descendants, and [spiritual] heirs according to [God’s] promise.


book: Gal
contenido:
Sonship in Christ Now what I mean [when I talk about children and their guardians] is this: as long as the heir is a child, he does not differ at all from a slave even though he is the [future owner and] master of all [the estate];


book: Gal
contenido:
but he is under [the authority of] guardians and household administrators or managers until the date set by his father [when he is of legal age].


book: Gal
contenido:
So also we [whether Jews or Gentiles], when we were children (spiritually immature), were kept like slaves under the elementary [man-made religious or philosophical] teachings of the world.


book: Gal
contenido:
But when [in God’s plan] the proper time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the [regulations of the] Law,


book: Gal
contenido:
so that He might redeem and liberate those who were under the Law, that we [who believe] might be adopted as sons [as God’s children with all rights as fully grown members of a family].


book: Gal
contenido:
And because you [really] are [His] sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, “Abba! Father!”


book: Gal
contenido:
Therefore you are no longer a slave (bond-servant), but a son; and if a son, then also an heir through [the gracious act of] God [through Christ].


book: Gal
contenido:
But at that time, when you did not know [the true] God and were unacquainted with Him, you [Gentiles] were slaves to those [pagan] things which by [their very] nature were not and could not be gods at all.


book: Gal
contenido:
Now, however, since you have come to know [the true] God [through personal experience], or rather to be known by God, how is it that you are turning back again to the weak and worthless elemental principles [of religions and philosophies], to which you want to be enslaved all over again?


book: Gal
contenido:
Believers, I beg of you, become as I am [free from the bondage of Jewish ritualism and ordinances], for I have become as you are [a Gentile]. You did me no wrong [when I first came to you; do not do it now].


book: Gal
contenido:
On the contrary, you know that it was because of a physical illness that I [remained and] preached the gospel to you the first time;


book: Gal
contenido:
and even though my physical condition was a trial to you, you did not regard it with contempt, or scorn and reject me; but you received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus Himself.


book: Gal
contenido:
What then has become of that sense of blessing and the joy that you once had [from your salvation and your relationship with Christ]? For I testify of you that, if possible, you would have torn out your own eyes and given them to me [to replace mine].


book: Gal
contenido:
These men [the Judaizers] eagerly seek you [to entrap you with honeyed words and attention, to win you over to their philosophy], not honorably [for their purpose is not honorable or worthy of consideration]. They want to isolate you [from us who oppose them] so that you will seek them.


book: Gal
contenido:
Now it is always pleasant to be eagerly sought after [provided that it is] for a good purpose, and not just when I am with you [seeking you myself—but beware of the others doing it].


book: Gal
contenido:
My little children, for whom I am again in [the pains of] labor until Christ is [completely and permanently] formed within you—


book: Gal
contenido:
how I wish that I were with you now and could change my tone, because I am perplexed in regard to you.


book: Gal
contenido:
Bond and Free Tell me, you who are bent on being under the Law, do you not listen to [what] the Law [really says]?


book: Gal
contenido:
For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by the slave woman [Hagar] and one by the free woman [Sarah].


book: Gal
contenido:
But the child of the slave woman was born according to the flesh and had an ordinary birth, while the son of the free woman was born in fulfillment of the promise.


book: Gal
contenido:
Now these facts are about to be used [by me] as an allegory [that is, I will illustrate by using them]: for these women can represent two covenants: one [covenant originated] from Mount Sinai [where the Law was given] that bears children [destined] for slavery; she is Hagar.


book: Gal
contenido:
Now Hagar is (represents) Mount Sinai in Arabia and she corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children.


book: Gal
contenido:
But the Jerusalem above [that is, the way of faith, represented by Sarah] is free; she is our mother.


book: Gal
contenido:
For it is written [in the Scriptures], “Rejoice, o barren woman who has not given birth; Break forth into a [joyful] shout, you who are not in labor; For the desolate woman has many more children Than she who has a husband.”


book: Gal
contenido:
And we, [believing] brothers and sisters, like Isaac, are children [not merely of physical descent, like Ishmael, but are children born] of promise [born miraculously].


book: Gal
contenido:
But as at that time the child [of ordinary birth] born according to the flesh persecuted the son who was born according to [the promise and working of] the Spirit, so it is now also.


book: Gal
contenido:
But what does the Scripture say? “Cast out the bondwoman [Hagar] and her son [Ishmael], For never shall the son of the bondwoman be heir and share the inheritance with the son of the free woman.”


book: Gal
contenido:
So then, believers, we [who are born again—reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose] are not children of a slave woman [the natural], but of the free woman [the supernatural].


book: Gal
contenido:
Walk by the Spirit It was for this freedom that Christ set us free [completely liberating us]; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery [which you once removed].


book: Gal
contenido:
Notice, it is I, Paul, who tells you that if you receive circumcision [as a supposed requirement of salvation], Christ will be of no benefit to you [for you will lack the faith in Christ that is necessary for salvation].


book: Gal
contenido:
Once more I solemnly affirm to every man who receives circumcision [as a supposed requirement of salvation], that he is under obligation and required to keep the whole Law.


book: Gal
contenido:
You have been severed from Christ, if you seek to be justified [that is, declared free of the guilt of sin and its penalty, and placed in right standing with God] through the Law; you have fallen from grace [for you have lost your grasp on God’s unmerited favor and blessing].


book: Gal
contenido:
For we [not relying on the Law but] through the [strength and power of the Holy] Spirit, by faith, are waiting [confidently] for the hope of righteousness [the completion of our salvation].


book: Gal
contenido:
For [if we are] in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but only faith activated and expressed and working through love.


book: Gal
contenido:
A little leaven [a slight inclination to error, or a few false teachers] leavens the whole batch [it perverts the concept of faith and misleads the church].


book: Gal
contenido:
I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will adopt no other view [contrary to mine on the matter]; but the one who is disturbing you, whoever he is, will have to bear the penalty.


book: Gal
contenido:
But as for me, brothers, if I am still preaching circumcision [as I had done before I met Christ; and as some accuse me of doing now, as necessary for salvation], why am I still being persecuted [by Jews]? In that case the stumbling block of the cross [to unbelieving Jews] has been abolished.


book: Gal
contenido:
I wish that those who are troubling you [by teaching that circumcision is necessary for salvation] would even [go all the way and] castrate themselves!


book: Gal
contenido:
For you, my brothers, were called to freedom; only do not let your freedom become an opportunity for the sinful nature (worldliness, selfishness), but through love serve and seek the best for one another.


book: Gal
contenido:
For the whole Law [concerning human relationships] is fulfilled in one precept, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself [that is, you shall have an unselfish concern for others and do things for their benefit].”


book: Gal
contenido:
But if you bite and devour one another [in bickering and strife], watch out that you [along with your entire fellowship] are not consumed by one another.


book: Gal
contenido:
But I say, walk habitually in the [Holy] Spirit [seek Him and be responsive to His guidance], and then you will certainly not carry out the desire of the sinful nature [which responds impulsively without regard for God and His precepts].


book: Gal
contenido:
For the sinful nature has its desire which is opposed to the Spirit, and the [desire of the] Spirit opposes the sinful nature; for these [two, the sinful nature and the Spirit] are in direct opposition to each other [continually in conflict], so that you [as believers] do not [always] do whatever [good things] you want to do.


book: Gal
contenido:
Now the practices of the sinful nature are clearly evident: they are sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality (total irresponsibility, lack of self-control),


book: Gal
contenido:
idolatry, sorcery, hostility, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions [that promote heresies],


book: Gal
contenido:
envy, drunkenness, riotous behavior, and other things like these. I warn you beforehand, just as I did previously, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.


book: Gal
contenido:
But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness,


book: Gal
contenido:
And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature together with its passions and appetites.


book: Gal
contenido:
If we [claim to] live by the [Holy] Spirit, we must also walk by the Spirit [with personal integrity, godly character, and moral courage—our conduct empowered by the Holy Spirit].


book: Gal
contenido:
Bear One Another’s Burdens Brothers, if anyone is caught in any sin, you who are spiritual [that is, you who are responsive to the guidance of the Spirit] are to restore such a person in a spirit of gentleness [not with a sense of superiority or self-righteousness], keeping a watchful eye on yourself, so that you are not tempted as well.


book: Gal
contenido:
Carry one another’s burdens and in this way you will fulfill the requirements of the law of Christ [that is, the law of Christian love].


book: Gal
contenido:
For if anyone thinks he is something [special] when [in fact] he is nothing [special except in his own eyes], he deceives himself.


book: Gal
contenido:
But each one must carefully scrutinize his own work [examining his actions, attitudes, and behavior], and then he can have the personal satisfaction and inner joy of doing something commendable without comparing himself to another.


book: Gal
contenido:
For every person will have to bear [with patience] his own burden [of faults and shortcomings for which he alone is responsible].


book: Gal
contenido:
The one who is taught the word [of God] is to share all good things with his teacher [contributing to his spiritual and material support].


book: Gal
contenido:
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked [He will not allow Himself to be ridiculed, nor treated with contempt nor allow His precepts to be scornfully set aside]; for whatever a man sows, this and this only is what he will reap.


book: Gal
contenido:
For the one who sows to his flesh [his sinful capacity, his worldliness, his disgraceful impulses] will reap from the flesh ruin and destruction, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.


book: Gal
contenido:
Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap, if we do not give in.


book: Gal
contenido:
So then, while we [as individual believers] have the opportunity, let us do good to all people [not only being helpful, but also doing that which promotes their spiritual well-being], and especially [be a blessing] to those of the household of faith (born-again believers).


book: Gal
contenido:
Those who want to make a good impression in public [before the Jews] try to compel you to be circumcised, just so they will escape being persecuted for [faithfulness to] the cross of Christ.


book: Gal
contenido:
For even the circumcised [Jews] themselves do not [really] keep the Law, but they want to have you circumcised so that they may boast in your flesh [that is, in the fact that they convinced you to be circumcised].


book: Gal
contenido:
But far be it from me to boast [in anything or anyone], except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.


book: Gal
contenido:
For neither is circumcision anything [of any importance], nor uncircumcision, but [only] a new creation [which is the result of a new birth—a spiritual transformation—a new nature in Christ Jesus].


book: Gal
contenido:
Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule [who discipline themselves and conduct their lives by this principle], and upon the [true] Israel of God (Jewish believers).


book: Gal
contenido:
From now on let no one trouble me [by making it necessary for me to justify my authority as an apostle, and the absolute truth of the gospel], for I bear on my body the branding-marks of Jesus [the wounds, scars, and other outward evidence of persecutions—these testify to His ownership of me].


book: Eph
contenido:
The Blessings of Redemption Paul, an apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative) of Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed), by the will of God [that is, by His purpose and choice], To the saints (God’s people) who are at Ephesus and are faithful and loyal and steadfast in Christ Jesus:


book: Eph
contenido:
Blessed and worthy of praise be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms in Christ,


book: Eph
contenido:
just as [in His love] He chose us in Christ [actually selected us for Himself as His own] before the foundation of the world, so that we would be holy [that is, consecrated, set apart for Him, purpose-driven] and blameless in His sight. In love


book: Eph
contenido:
He predestined and lovingly planned for us to be adopted to Himself as [His own] children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the kind intention and good pleasure of His will—


book: Eph
contenido:
to the praise of His glorious grace and favor, which He so freely bestowed on us in the Beloved [His Son, Jesus Christ].


book: Eph
contenido:
In Him we have redemption [that is, our deliverance and salvation] through His blood, [which paid the penalty for our sin and resulted in] the forgiveness and complete pardon of our sin, in accordance with the riches of His grace


