4 The Spirit^(A) clearly says that in later times^(B) some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits^(C) and things taught by demons. ² Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.^{(D) 3} They forbid people to marry^(E) and order them to abstain from certain foods,^(F) which God created^(G) to be received with thanksgiving^(H) by those who believe and who know the truth.

²⁸ Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock^(A) of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.^(B) Be shepherds of the church of God,^[a](C) which he bought^(D) with his own blood.^{[b](E) 29} I know that after I leave, savage wolves^(F) will come in among you and will not spare the flock.^{(G) 30} Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples^(H) after them. ³¹ So be on your guard! Remember that for three years^(I) I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.^(J)