• Abandonment of Faith

  • 1 But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,
  • 2 by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron,
  • 3 who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth.
  • 4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude;
  • 5 for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.
  • A Good Minister’s Discipline

  • 6 In pointing out these things to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the good doctrine which you have been following.
  • 7 But stay away from worthless stories that are typical of old women. Rather, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness;
  • 8 for bodily training is just slightly beneficial, but godliness is beneficial for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.
  • 9 It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance.
  • 10 For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all mankind, especially of believers.
  • 11 Prescribe and teach these things.
  • 12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.
  • 13 Until I come, give your attention to the public reading, to exhortation, and teaching.
  • 14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was granted to you through words of prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.
  • 15 Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.
  • 16 Pay close attention to yourself and to the teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.