Timothy’s Ministry in the Later Times

4:1 Now the Spirit explicitly says that in the later times some will desert the faith and occupy themselves1 with deceiving spirits and demonic teachings,2 4:2 influenced by the hypocrisy of liars3 whose consciences are seared.4 4:3 They will prohibit marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4:4 For every creation of God is good and no food5 is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving. 4:5 For it is sanctified by God’s word and by prayer.

4:6 By pointing out such things to the brothers and sisters,6 you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, having nourished yourself on the words of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.7 4:7 But reject those myths8 fit only for the godless and gullible,9 and train yourself for godliness. 4:8 For “physical exercise10 has some value, but godliness is valuable in every way. It holds promise for the present life and for the life to come.” 4:9 This saying11 is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance. 4:10 In fact this is why12 we work hard and struggle,13 because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all people,14 especially of believers.

4:11 Command and teach these things. 4:12 Let no one look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in your speech, conduct, love, faithfulness,15 and purity. 4:13 Until I come, give attention to the public reading of scripture,16 to exhortation, to teaching. 4:14 Do not neglect the spiritual gift you have,17 given to you and confirmed by prophetic words18 when the elders laid hands on you.19 4:15 Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that everyone will see your progress.20 4:16 Be conscientious about how you live and what you teach.21 Persevere in this, because by doing so you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.