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 for people to gratefully share by those who believe and know the truth. |
4:4 For everything created by God has goodness, and we should reject nothing if they receive it with gratitude; |
4:5 for it receives sanctification by means of the word of God and prayer. |
4:6 In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will become a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have followed. |
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 brings only a little profit, but godliness profits for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. |
4:9 I make a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. |
4:10 For this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who saves 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 God bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. |
4:15 Take pains with these things; absorb yourself in them, so that all will notice your progress. |
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. |