False Asceticism

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

A Good Minister of Jesus Christ

⁶ If you put these instructions before the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant^[c] of Christ Jesus, nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound teaching that you have followed.^{(D) 7} Have nothing to do with profane and foolish tales. Train yourself in godliness,^{(E) 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.^{(F) 9} The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. ¹⁰ For to this end we toil and suffer reproach,^[d] because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.^(G)

¹¹ Command and teach these things.^{(H) 12} Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.^{(I) 13} Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture,^[e] to exhorting, to teaching. ¹⁴ Do 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.^{(J) 15} Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. ¹⁶ Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.^(K)