²¹ But he replied to them, ‘My mother and my brothers are those who hear and do the word of God.’^(A)

Instructions on Prayer

2 First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone,

¹² For the word of God is living and effective^(A) and sharper than any double-edged sword,^(B) penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.^(C)