5. So we, numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and individually we are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one another].
6. Having gifts (faculties, talents, qualities) that differ according to the grace given us, let us use them: [He whose gift is] prophecy, [let him prophesy] according to the proportion of his faith;
7. [He whose gift is] practical service, let him give himself to serving; he who teaches, to his teaching;
8. He who exhorts (encourages), to his exhortation; he who contributes, let him do it in simplicity and liberality; he who gives aid and superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind; he who does acts of mercy, with genuine cheerfulness and joyful eagerness.
9. [Let your] love be sincere (a real thing); hate what is evil [loathe all ungodliness, turn in horror from wickedness], but hold fast to that which is good.
10. Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], giving precedence and showing honor to one another.
11. Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord.
12. Rejoice and exult in hope; be steadfast and patient in suffering and tribulation; be constant in prayer.
13. Contribute to the needs of God's people [sharing in the necessities of the saints]; pursue the practice of hospitality.
14. Bless those who persecute you [who are cruel in their attitude toward you]; bless and do not curse them.
15. Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others' joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others' grief].
16. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty (snobbish, high-minded, exclusive), but readily adjust yourself to [people, things] and give yourselves to humble tasks. Never overestimate yourself or be wise in your own conceits. [Prov. 3:7.]
17. Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is honest and proper and noble [aiming to be above reproach] in the sight of everyone. [Prov. 20:22.]
18. If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
19. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for [God's] wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is Mine, I will repay (requite), says the Lord. [Deut. 32:35.]
20. But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head. [Prov. 25:21, 22.]