 1 Now the Spirit speaks expressly that in the latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons+. 2 Some will speak lies in hypocrisy, having their conscience seared with a hot iron. 3 Some will forbid to marry and require you to abstain from certain foods+ that God has created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 Every creature created by God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving, 5 for it is sanctified by the Word of God and prayer. 6 If you remind the family+ about these things, you will be a good servant+ of Jesus Christ, nourished~ with the words of faith and good doctrine that you have closely followed+. 7 But refuse the worldly+ and old wives' fables, and instead exercise yourself toward godliness. 8 For bodily exercise is of little benefit+. But godliness is beneficial+ for everything+, having both the promise of life now and eternal life to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. 10 And for this, we labor and suffer reproach because we trust in the living God who is the Savior of everyone+, especially believers+. 11 Prescribe+ and teach these things. 12 Do not let anyone despise your youth. But be an example to the believers, in word, in conversation~ and conduct, in true love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity. 13 Until I come, give attention+ to reading, to exhortation, and to doctrine. 14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with laying on of hands by the elders+. 15 Meditate upon these things. Give yourself wholly to them so that your advancement+ may be evident+ to everyone. 16 Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this both you yourself and those who hear you will be saved.
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