²³ Have nothing to do with stupid and senseless controversies; you know that they breed quarrels.^(A)

⁹ But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.^(A)

A Worker Approved by God

¹⁴ Remind them of this, and warn them before the Lord^[a] that they are to avoid wrangling over words, which does no good but only ruins those who are listening.^(A)

⁷ Have nothing to do with profane and foolish tales. Train yourself in godliness,^(A)

¹⁶ Avoid profane chatter, for it will lead people^[a] into more and more impiety,^(A)

⁴ is conceited, understanding nothing, and has a morbid craving for controversy and for disputes about words. From these come envy, dissension, slander, base suspicions,^{(A) 5} and wrangling among those who are depraved in mind and bereft of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.^[a](B)

⁴ and not to occupy themselves with myths and endless genealogies that promote speculations rather than the divine training^[a] that is known by faith.^(A)