So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the officer sent friends to tell him, "Sir, don't trouble yourself. I do not deserve to have you come into my house,

neither do I consider myself worthy to come to you in person. Just give the order, and my servant will get well.

but the men and women who are worthy to rise from death and live in the age to come will not then marry.

"When you come to a town or village, go in and look for someone who is willing to welcome you, and stay with him until you leave that place.

If the people in that house welcome you, let your greeting of peace remain; but if they do not welcome you, then take back your greeting.

"Those who love their father or mother more than me are not fit to be my disciples; those who love their son or daughter more than me are not fit to be my disciples.

Those who do not take up their cross and follow in my steps are not fit to be my disciples.

But a few of you there in Sardis have kept your clothes clean. You will walk with me, clothed in white, because you are worthy to do so.