Approved and Disapproved Workers

14 Remind them of these things, tcharging them before the Lord not to 4strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. 15 uBe diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and 5idle babblings, for they will 6increase to more ungodliness. 17 And their message will spread like cancer. vHymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort, 18 who have strayed concerning the truth, wsaying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some. 19 Nevertheless xthe solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord yknows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of 7Christ depart from iniquity.”

20 But in a great house there are not only zvessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. 21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, 8sanctified and useful for the Master, aprepared for every good work. 22 bFlee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. 24 And ca servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, dable to teach, epatient, 25 fin humility correcting those who are in opposition, gif God perhaps will grant them repentance, hso that they may know the truth, 26 and that they may come to their senses and iescape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.