⁸ Therefore produce fruits that are consistent with repentance, and ^(A)do not start saying ^[a]to yourselves, ‘^(B)We have Abraham as our father,’ for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children for Abraham. ⁹ But indeed the axe is already being laid at the root of the trees; so ^(C)every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”

¹⁰ And the crowds were questioning him, saying, “^(D)Then what are we to do?” ¹¹ And he would answer and say to them, “The one who has two ^[b]tunics is to ^(E)share with the one who has none; and the one who has food is to do likewise.” ¹² Now even ^(F)tax collectors came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what are we to do?” ¹³ And he said to them, “^[c]Collect no more than what you have been ordered to.” ¹⁴ And soldiers also were questioning him, saying, “What are we to do, we as well?” And he said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone, nor ^[d](G)harass anyone, and ^(H)be content with your wages.”

²⁰ but continually proclaimed ^(A)to those in Damascus first, and ^(B)in Jerusalem, and then all the region of Judea, and even ^(C)to the Gentiles, that they are to ^(D)repent and turn to God, performing deeds ^(E)consistent with repentance.

³⁰ “Therefore I will judge you, house of Israel, each according to his conduct,” declares the Lord God. “^(A)Repent and turn away from all your offenses, so that wrongdoing does not become a stumbling block to you. ^31 (B)Hurl away from you all your offenses which you have committed and make yourselves a ^(C)new heart and a new spirit! For why should you die, house of Israel? ³² For I take ^(D)no pleasure in the death of anyone who dies,” declares the Lord God. “Therefore, repent and live!”