[1] The Spirit says clearly that some people will abandon the faith in later times; they will obey lying spirits and follow the teachings of demons. [2] Such teachings are spread by deceitful liars, whose consciences are dead, as if burnt with a hot iron. [3] Such people teach that it is wrong to marry and to eat certain foods. But God created those foods to be eaten, after a prayer of thanks, by those who are believers and have come to know the truth. [4] Everything that God has created is good; nothing is to be rejected, but everything is to be received with a prayer of thanks, [5] because the word of God and the prayer make it acceptable to God. [6] If you give these instructions to the believers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, as you feed yourself spiritually on the words of faith and of the true teaching which you have followed. [7] But keep away from those godless legends, which are not worth telling. Keep yourself in training for a godly life. [8] Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is valuable in every way, because it promises life both for the present and for the future. [9] This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed. [10] We struggle and work hard, because we have placed our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all and especially of those who believe. [11] Give them these instructions and these teachings. [12] Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for the believers in your speech, your conduct, your love, faith, and purity. [13] Until I come, give your time and effort to the public reading of the Scriptures and to preaching and teaching. [14] Do not neglect the spiritual gift that is in you, which was given to you when the prophets spoke and the elders laid their hands on you. [15] Practice these things and devote yourself to them, in order that your progress may be seen by all. [16] Watch yourself and watch your teaching. Keep on doing these things, because if you do, you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
