Call to Stand Firm

2:13 But we ought to thank God always for you, brothers and sisters26 loved by the Lord, because God chose you from the beginning27 for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth. 2:14 He called you to this salvation28 through our gospel, so that you may possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.29 2:15 Therefore, brothers and sisters,30 stand firm and hold on to the traditions that we taught you, whether by speech or by letter.31 2:16 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by grace gave us eternal comfort and good hope, 2:17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you32 in every good thing you do or say.33