4:1 But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, |
4:2 by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron, |
4:3 {men} 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. |
4:4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; |
4:5 for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer. |
4:6 In 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. |
4:7 But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; |
4:8 for 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. |
4:9 It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. |
4:10 For 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. |
4:11 Prescribe and teach these things. |
4:12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but {rather} in speech, conduct, love, faith {and} purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. |
4:13 Until I come, give attention to the {public} reading {of Scripture,} to exhortation and teaching. |
4:14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. |
4:15 Take pains with these things; be {absorbed} in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. |
4:16 Pay 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. |