3 And not only that,an but we also boast in our afflictions,ao because we know that affliction produces endurance,ap 4 endurance produces proven character,aq and proven character produces hope. 5 This hope will not disappoint us,ar because God’s love has been poured out in our heartsas through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

THE JUSTIFIED ARE RECONCILED

6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time,at Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For rarely will someone die for a just person—though for a good person perhaps someone might even dare to die. 8 But God provesau his own love for usav in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.