1. Do the gospel work by Jesus' grace (1-13)

Real strength is demonstrated through Jesus' grace in our lives. By Jesus' grace, we can pass on our faith and raise up reliable spiritual leaders. By Jesus' grace, we can endure suffering and join in the gospel work like a good soldier of Christ. By his grace, we can humbly obey, follow the course, work hard, and be faithful unto death. By holding onto Jesus' grace, we can endure all things for his elect. We can trust Jesus' grace. For, if we die, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will reign with him. And by his grace, he is faithful even when we are faithless.

2. Correctly handle the truth (14-26)

We have to remind ourselves and others to hold onto Jesus' grace, or our sinful pride and actions will lead to arguments. Rather than be caught up in disputes, we should present ourselves before God and correctly handle the truth. We should guard ourselves against impurity and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace. Then we can gently instruct those who oppose us, hoping for them to repent and be free of the devil's trap.