An Unashamed Workman

14 Remind them of these things, and solemnly acharge them in the presence of God not to bwrangle about words, which is useless and leads to the ruin of the hearers.

15 Be diligent to apresent yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling bthe word of truth.

16 But aavoid bworldly and empty chatter, for 1it will lead to further ungodliness,

17 and their 1talk will spread like 2gangrene. Among them are aHymenaeus and Philetus,

18 men who have gone astray from the truth saying that athe resurrection has already taken place, and they upset bthe faith of some.

19 Nevertheless, the afirm foundation of God stands, having this bseal, “cThe Lord knows those who are His,” and, “dEveryone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.”

20 Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and asome to honor and some to dishonor.

21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from athese things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, bprepared for every good work.

22 Now aflee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, bfaith, love and peace, with those who ccall on the Lord dfrom a pure heart.

23 But refuse foolish and ignorant aspeculations, knowing that they bproduce 1quarrels.

24 aThe Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, bable to teach, patient when wronged,

25 awith gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, bif perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to cthe knowledge of the truth,

26 and they may come to their senses and escape from athe snare of the devil, having been bheld captive 1by him to do his will.