1 But the Spirit says expressly that in later times some will fall
away from the faith, paying attention to seducing spirits and doctrines of
demons, 2 through the hypocrisy of men who speak lies, branded in their
own conscience as with a hot iron; 3 forbidding marriage and commanding to
abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by
those who believe and know the truth. 4 For every creature of God is good,
and nothing is to be rejected, if it is received with thanksgiving. 5 For
it is sanctified through the word of God and prayer. 6 If you instruct the
brothers of these things, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus,
nourished in the words of the faith, and of the good doctrine which you have
followed. 7 But refuse profane and old wives’ fables. Exercise yourself
toward godliness. 8 For bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has
value for all things, having the promise of the life which is now, and of
that which is to come. 9 This saying is faithful and worthy of all
acceptance. 10 For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because
we have set our trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men,
especially of those who believe. 11 Command and teach these things.
12 Let no man despise your youth; but be an example to those who believe,
in word, in your way of life, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity.
13 Until I come, pay attention to reading, to exhortation, and to
teaching. 14 Don’t neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you
by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the elders. 15 Be diligent
in these things. Give yourself wholly to them, that your progress may be
revealed to all. 16 Pay attention to yourself, and to your teaching.
Continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and
those who hear you.
World English Bible - Public Domain |
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