1 Timothy 4

False Asceticism

⁴Now the Spirit expressly says that in later^u times some will renounce^v the faith by paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,^{* 2}through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared with a hot iron. ³They forbid marriage and abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.^{* 4}For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided it is received with thanksgiving,^{* 5}for it is sanctified by God’s word and by prayer.

A Good Minister of Jesus Christ

⁶If you put these instructions before the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant^w of Christ Jesus, nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound teaching that you have followed.^{* 7}Have nothing to do with profane and foolish tales. Train yourself in godliness,^{* 8}for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.^{* 9}The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. ¹⁰For to this end we toil and suffer reproach,^x because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.^*

¹¹Command and teach these things.^{* 12}Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.^{* 13}Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture,^y to exhorting, to teaching. ¹⁴Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.^{* 15}Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. ¹⁶Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.^*