I have the same hope in God that these themselves have, namely, that all people, both the good and the bad, will rise from death.

May those who are wise understand what is written here, and may they take it to heart. The LORD's ways are right, and righteous people live by following them, but sinners stumble and fall because they ignore them.

And this is the message: 'Those who are evil will not survive, but those who are righteous will live because they are faithful to God.' "

Joseph was a man who always did what was right, but he did not want to disgrace Mary publicly; so he made plans to break the engagement privately.

Herod was afraid of John because he knew that John was a good and holy man, and so he kept him safe. He liked to listen to him, even though he became greatly disturbed every time he heard him.

At that time there was a man named Simeon living in Jerusalem. He was a good, God-fearing man and was waiting for Israel to be saved. The Holy Spirit was with him

There was a man named Joseph from Arimathea, a town in Judea. He was a good and honorable man, who was waiting for the coming of the Kingdom of God. Although he was a member of the Council, he had not agreed with their decision and action.

For the gospel reveals how God puts people right with himself: it is through faith from beginning to end. As the scripture says, "The person who is put right with God through faith shall live."

My righteous people, however, will believe and live; but if any of them turns back, I will not be pleased with them."

You have come to the joyful gathering of God's first-born, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, who is the judge of all people, and to the spirits of good people made perfect.

So then, friends, choose seven men among you who are known to be full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, and we will put them in charge of this matter.

"In that city was a man named Ananias, a religious man who obeyed our Law and was highly respected by all the Jews living there.

They came to Jesus and begged him earnestly, "This man really deserves your help.

He loves our people and he himself built a synagogue for us."

He should be a man who is respected by the people outside the church, so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the Devil's trap.

It was by their faith that people of ancient times won God's approval.

Everyone speaks well of Demetrius; truth itself speaks well of him. And we add our testimony, and you know that what we say is true.

He is a guest in the home of a tanner of leather named Simon, who lives by the sea."

And so I sent for you at once, and you have been good enough to come. Now we are all here in the presence of God, waiting to hear anything that the Lord has instructed you to say."

He will speak words to you by which you and all your family will be saved.'

"I am telling you the truth: those who hear my words and believe in him who sent me have eternal life. They will not be judged, but have already passed from death to life.

What gives life is God's Spirit; human power is of no use at all. The words I have spoken to you bring God's life-giving Spirit.

Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life.

I am telling you the truth: whoever receives anyone I send receives me also; and whoever receives me receives him who sent me."

I gave them the message that you gave me, and they received it; they know that it is true that I came from you, and they believe that you sent me.

"I pray not only for them, but also for those who believe in me because of their message.

So then, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message comes through preaching Christ.

But I ask: Is it true that they did not hear the message? Of course they did---for as the scripture says: "The sound of their voice went out to all the world; their words reached the ends of the earth."

All this is done by God, who through Christ changed us from enemies into his friends and gave us the task of making others his friends also.

I want you to remember the words that were spoken long ago by the holy prophets, and the command from the Lord and Savior which was given you by your apostles.