20 Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver implements, but also implements of wood and of earthenware, and (A)some are for honor while others are for dishonor. 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from (B)these things, he will be an implement for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, (C)prepared for every good work. 22 Now (D)flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, (E)faith, love, and peace with those who (F)call on the Lord (G)from a pure heart.

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20 Now in a wealthy home[a] there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also ones made of wood and of clay, and some are for honorable use, but others for ignoble use.[b] 21 So if someone cleanses himself of such behavior,[c] he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart, useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. 22 But keep away from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faithfulness, love, and peace, in company with others[d] who call on the Lord from a pure heart.[e]

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Footnotes

  1. 2 Timothy 2:20 tn Grk “a great house.”
  2. 2 Timothy 2:20 tn Grk “for dishonor,” probably referring to vessels used for refuse or excrement.
  3. 2 Timothy 2:21 tn Grk “from these,” alluding to the errors and deeds of the false teachers described in vv. 14-19.
  4. 2 Timothy 2:22 tn Grk “and peace, with those.”
  5. 2 Timothy 2:22 sn In company with others who call on the Lord from a pure heart alludes to the value of the community of believers for the development of Christian virtues.

20 In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. 21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.

22 Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.

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