Chapter Text
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 the hypocrisy of liars, who have been seared in their own conscience,
4:3 who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God created to be shared in with thanksgiving 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 thanksgiving,
4:5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
4:6 In pointing out these things to the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following.
4:7 But refuse godless myths fit only for old women. On the other hand, train yourself for the purpose of godliness,
4:8 for bodily training 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 saying and 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 Command and teach these things.
4:12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but show yourself as a model to those who believe in word, conduct, love, faith, and purity.
4:13 Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching.
4:14 Do not neglect the gift within you, which was given to you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.
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 save both yourself and those who hear you.