¹⁴ The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches^(A) and pleasures, and they do not mature.

On Not Loving the World

¹⁵ Do not love the world or anything in the world.^(A) If anyone loves the world, love for the Father^[a] is not in them.^(B)

⁵ You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves^(A) in the day of slaughter.^[a](B)

³ At one time^(A) we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.

⁶ But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives.^(A)

²⁴ Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh^(A) with its passions and desires.^(B)