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.