1 B ut the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons,

2 b y means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron,

3 m en 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 F or everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude;

5 f or it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer. A Good Minister’s Discipline

6 I n pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following.

7 B ut have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness;

8 f or bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

9 I t is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance.

10 F or it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.

11 P rescribe and teach these things.

12 L et 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 U ntil I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching.

14 D o not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery.

15 T ake pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.

16 P ay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.