Conduct Consistent with Sound Teaching

1But as for you, communicate the behavior that goes with sound teaching. 2Older men are to be temperate, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in endurance. 3Older women likewise are to exhibit behavior fitting for those who are holy, not slandering, not slaves to excessive drinking, but teaching what is good. 4In this way they will train the younger women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5to be self-controlled, pure, fulfilling their duties at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the message of God may not be discredited. 6Encourage younger men likewise to be self-controlled, 7showing yourself to be an example of good works in every way. In your teaching show integrity, dignity, 8and a sound message that cannot be criticized, so that any opponent will be at a loss, because he has nothing evil to say about us. 9Slaves are to be subject to their own masters in everything, to do what is wanted and not talk back, 10not pilfering, but showing all good faith, in order to bring credit to the teaching of God our Savior in everything.

11For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people. 12It trains us to reject godless ways and worldly desires and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, 13as we wait for the happy fulfillment of our hope in the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. 14He gave himself for us to set us free from every kind of lawlessness and to purify for himself a people who are truly his, who are eager to do good. 15So communicate these things with the sort of exhortation or rebuke that carries full authority. Don’t let anyone look down on you.