2 Timothy 2:14-26

Evangelical Heritage Version

Correctly Handle the Word of Truth

¹⁴ Remind people of these things, as you solemnly charge them in the presence of God^[a] not to fight about words, which does no good and only ruins those who listen. ¹⁵ Make every effort to present yourself to God as one who is approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, correctly handling^[b] the word of truth. ¹⁶ As for pointless chatter, avoid it, for it will lead to an ever greater measure of godlessness, ¹⁷ and their message will spread like gangrene. This includes Hymenaeus and Philetus, ¹⁸ who have veered away from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened. They are overturning the faith of some. ¹⁹ Nevertheless, God’s foundation stands firm, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,”^[c] and “Let everyone who calls on the name of the Lord keep away from wickedness.”^[d]

²⁰ In a large house there are articles^[e] not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay—some for honorable use and some for dishonorable use. ²¹ So if anyone cleanses himself thoroughly from these things, he will be an instrument^[f] for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master, and prepared to do every good work.

²² Flee from the lusts young people have and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, together with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. ²³ But avoid foolish and ignorant arguments, since you know they breed quarrels. ²⁴ It is necessary that a servant of the Lord not quarrel but be kind toward everyone, able to teach, able to bear evil without resentment, ²⁵ and gentle in correcting those who oppose him. God may grant them repentance, leading to the knowledge of the truth, ²⁶ and they may come to their senses and escape from the Devil’s trap, after they were captured by him to do his will.