1 The Spirit says plainly that in the last times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to misleading spirits and to the teachings of demons,
2 by means of the hypocrisy of liars whose own consciences have been branded,
3 who prohibit marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be partaken of with thanks by those who believe and have come to know the truth.
4 For every created thing of God is good, and nothing is to be cast aside if it is received with thanks,
5 because it is made holy through the word of God and through prayer.
6 If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a fine servant of Jesus Christ, trained up in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have carefully followed.
7 Turn down profane myths fit only for old women, and exercise yourself toward godliness.
8 Bodily exercise brings a little benefit, but godliness benefits in every way, since it carries the promise of life now and of the life ahead.
9 This word is sure, and worthy of complete acceptance.
10 It is for this that we toil and are reviled, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, above all of believers.
11 Insist on these things and teach them.
12 Let no one treat you with contempt on account of your youth; rather, become a pattern for those who believe, in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
13 Until I come, give your attention to the public reading, to exhortation, to teaching.
14 Do not be careless about the gift within you, which was granted to you through prophecy along with the laying on of hands by the body of elders.
15 Make these things your concern; live in them, so that your advance may be plain to all.
16 Pay attention to yourself and to your teaching; stay with them, for if you do this you will save yourself and also those who hear you.