1Let those that are servants under the yoke (of slavery) consider their masters worthy of all honor (respect), so that the name of God and His teaching is not slandered (maligned). 2And those that have believing masters should not show them less disrespect because they are fellow-believers; but, rather, respect and serve them with more, because they are faithful and beloved, sharers in the mutual benefit. These are the things to teach and encourage.

3If anyone teaches otherwise, and does not comply with sound teaching - the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the doctrine which promotes a godly life, 4They are conceited, knowing nothing, but dwelling upon questions and controversies that just spawn quarrels, envy, strife, railings, evil suspicions - 5 Perverse and vain disputes among those of corrupt minds, and devoid of the truth, supposing that their form of ‘godliness’ will lead to financial gain. Avoid such people. 6But true godliness with contentment is itself great gain; 7For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And if we have food and clothing, let us be content with that. 9Those seeking to be rich fall into temptation and a trap, and into many foolish and harmful desires that often plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil; and some people, by craving more money, have strayed from the faith, and pierced themselves with many sorrows.

11But you, Timothy, are a man of God, so run from all these evil things; and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness. 12Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of eternal life, to which you are also called, and have declared a good profession before many witnesses. 13I charge you, in the eyes of God, Who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, Who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession, 14That you keep this command without spot or blame, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ; 15Which God will bring about in His appointed time, the God Who is the blessed and only Potentate (true Ruler), the King of kings, and Lord of lords; 16Who alone is immortal, and lives forever in the light which no man can approach; Whom no man has seen, nor can see; to Whom be honor and power forever. Amen.

17Teach those that are rich in this present world not to be arrogant, or put their trust in uncertain riches, but instead, in the living God, Who gives us richly everything to enjoy. 18Tell them to use their wealth to do good, so that they are rich in good deeds, ready and willing to share. 19By doing this, they will be laying in store for themselves a firm foundation against the time to come, that they may attain true eternal life.

20Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and those who oppose true knowledge with what is falsely called “science”, 21Which some have professed, and wandered from the faith. Grace be with you. Amen.