| 1 | Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will renounce the faith by paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, |
| 2 | through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared with a hot iron. |
| 3 | They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. |
| 4 | For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided it is received with thanksgiving; |
| 5 | for it is sanctified by God’s word and by prayer. |
| 6 | If you put these instructions before the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound teaching that you have followed. |
| 7 | Have nothing to do with profane myths and old wives’ tales. Train yourself in godliness, |
| 8 | for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. |
| 9 | The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. |
| 10 | For to this end we toil and struggle, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. |
| 11 | These are the things you must insist on and teach. |
| 12 | Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. |
| 13 | Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhorting, to teaching. |
| 14 | Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders. |
| 15 | Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. |
| 16 | Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers. |