A Warning against Apostasy

1But the Spirit expressly saith, that in later times, some will fall away from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and to teachings of demons, 2in hypocrisy of men speaking lies, branded in their own conscience with a hot iron; 3forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods, which God created for reception with thanksgiving by those who believe and have full knowledge of the truth. 4Because every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, when it is received with thanksgiving; 5for it is sanctified through the word of God and intercession.

A Good Servant of Jesus Christ

6Suggesting these things to the brethren, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished in the words of the faith and of the good teaching which you have strictly followed; 7but refuse the profane and old wives fables, and exercise yourself unto godliness; 8for bodily exercise is profitable for a little; but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life which is present and that to come. 9Faithful is the saying, and worthy of all acceptance. 10For to this end we labor and strive, because we have set our hope on the living God, Who is Savior of all men, especially of believers.

11These things command and teach. 12Let no one despise your youth; but become a model for believers, in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 13Until I come, give heed to the reading, to the exhortation, to the teaching. 14Neglect not the gift that is in you, which was given you through prophecy, with laying on of the hands of the eldership. 15Attend to these things; give yourself wholly to them; that your progress may be manifest to all. 16Take heed to yourself, and to the teaching; continue in them; for, doing this, you will save both yourself and those who hear you.