1 | Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by giving heed to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, |
2 | through the pretensions of liars whose consciences are seared, |
3 | who forbid marriage and enjoin 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 if it is received with thanksgiving; |
5 | for then it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. |
6 | If you put these instructions before the brethren, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the words of the faith and of the good doctrine which you have followed. |
7 | Have nothing to do with godless and silly myths. Train yourself in godliness; |
8 | for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. |
9 | The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. |
10 | For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. |
11 | Command and teach these things. |
12 | Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. |
13 | Till I come, attend to the public reading of scripture, to preaching, to teaching. |
14 | Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophetic utterance when the council of elders laid their hands upon you. |
15 | Practice these duties, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. |
16 | Take heed to yourself and to your teaching; hold to that, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. |