My child, don't forget what I teach you. Always remember what I tell you to do.

My teaching will give you a long and prosperous life.

Wisdom can make your life pleasant and lead you safely through it.

Because everyone will do what is right, there will be peace and security forever.

There is no safety for sinners," says the LORD.

"Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid.

But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

humility, and self-control. There is no law against such things as these.

It does not matter at all whether or not one is circumcised; what does matter is being a new creature.

As for those who follow this rule in their lives, may peace and mercy be with them---with them and with all of God's people!

And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.

Remember that I, the LORD Almighty, am holy; I am the one you must fear.

Many will stumble; they will fall and be crushed. They will be caught in a trap."

That is why the LORD is going to teach you letter by letter, line by line, lesson by lesson. Then you will stumble with every step you take. You will be wounded, trapped, and taken prisoner.

The LORD says, "Let my people return to me. Remove every obstacle from their path! Build the road and make it ready!

But it does not sink deep into them, and they don't last long. So when trouble or persecution comes because of the message, they give up at once.

For false Messiahs and false prophets will appear; they will perform great miracles and wonders in order to deceive even God's chosen people, if possible.

For the scripture says, "I chose a valuable stone, which I am placing as the cornerstone in Zion; and whoever believes in him will never be disappointed."

And another scripture says, "This is the stone that will make people stumble, the rock that will make them fall." They stumbled because they did not believe in the word; such was God's will for them.