Reasons for Paul’s Instructions

¹⁴ Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, ¹⁵ if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church^(A) of the living God,^(B) the pillar and foundation of the truth. ¹⁶ Beyond all question, the mystery^(C) from which true godliness^(D) springs is great:

4 The Spirit^(H) clearly says that in later times^(I) some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits^(J) and things taught by demons. ² Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.^{(K) 3} They forbid people to marry^(L) and order them to abstain from certain foods,^(M) which God created^(N) to be received with thanksgiving^(O) by those who believe and who know the truth. ⁴ For everything God created is good,^(P) and nothing is to be rejected^(Q) if it is received with thanksgiving, ⁵ because it is consecrated by the word of God^(R) and prayer.

⁶ If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters,^[b] you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith^(S) and of the good teaching that you have followed.^{(T) 7} Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales;^(U) rather, train yourself to be godly.^{(V) 8} For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things,^(W) holding promise for both the present life^(X) and the life to come.^{(Y) 9} This is a trustworthy saying^(Z) that deserves full acceptance. ¹⁰ That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God,^(AA) who is the Savior of all people,^(AB) and especially of those who believe.

¹¹ Command and teach these things.^{(AC) 12} Don’t let anyone look down on you^(AD) because you are young, but set an example^(AE) for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith^(AF) and in purity. ¹³ Until I come,^(AG) devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture,^(AH) to preaching and to teaching. ¹⁴ Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy^(AI) when the body of elders^(AJ) laid their hands on you.^(AK)

¹⁵ Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. ¹⁶ Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save^(AL) both yourself and your hearers.

Psalm 83^[a]

A song. A psalm of Asaph.