1. Jesus saved us (1-7)

Christians are to be subject to civil authorities, obedient and ready to do good, peaceable, considerate and gentle. In the past, we were foolish, disobedient and enslaved by ungodly passions and pleasures. We lived in envy and hatred. Jesus saved us from such things by his one-sided mercy. We had not done anything righteous but God saved us by giving us new birth through the Holy Spirit. Jesus justified us by his grace and we now live with the hope of eternal life.

2. Devote yourself to doing good (8-15)

God saved us from sin and destruction so that we would do good. God's grace inspires us to carefully devote ourselves to things that are excellent and profitable, not only for ourselves, but for others. We avoid controversies, needless quarrels and divisiveness. Instead we do what is good, provide for the needs of others and live productive lives (14).