2 Timothy 4:1-8

Contemporary English Version

4 When Christ Jesus comes as king, he will be the judge of everyone, whether they are living or dead. So with God and Christ as witnesses, I command you ² to preach God's message. Do it willingly, even if it isn't the popular thing to do. You must correct people and point out their sins. But also cheer them up, and when you instruct them, always be patient. ³ The time is coming when people won't listen to good teaching. Instead, they will look for teachers who will please them by telling them only what they are itching to hear. ⁴ They will turn from the truth and eagerly listen to senseless stories. ⁵ But you must stay calm and be willing to suffer. You must work hard, telling the good news and to do your job well.

⁶ Now the time has come for me to die. My life is like a drink offering^[a] being poured out on the altar. ⁷ I have fought well. I have finished the race, and I have been faithful. ⁸ So a crown will be given to me for pleasing the Lord. He judges fairly, and on the day of judgment he will give a crown to me and to everyone else who wants him to appear with power.