⁹ He has saved us and called us with a holy calling,^(A) not according to our works,^(B) but according to his own purpose^(C) and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. ¹⁰ This has now been made evident through the appearing^(D) of our Savior Christ Jesus, who has abolished death^(E) and has brought life^(F) and immortality to light through the gospel. ¹¹ For this gospel I was appointed^(G) a herald, apostle, and teacher,^{[a] 12} and that is why I suffer^(H) these things. But I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able to guard what has been entrusted to me^[b](I) until that day.^(J)

Be Loyal to the Faith

¹³ Hold on to the pattern of sound teaching^(K) that you have heard from me,^(L) in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

¹⁹ Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, bearing this inscription:^(A) The Lord knows those who are his,^[a](B) and let everyone who calls on the name^(C) of^[b] the Lord turn away from wickedness.^(D)

²⁰ Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels,^(E) but also those of wood and clay; some for honorable^[c] use and some for dishonorable.^{[d](F) 21} So if anyone purifies himself from anything dishonorable,^[e] he will be a special^[f] instrument, set apart, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.^(G)

²² Flee^(H) from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace,^(I) along with those who call on the Lord^(J) from a pure heart. ²³ But reject foolish and ignorant disputes, because you know that they breed quarrels. ²⁴ The Lord’s^(K) servant must not quarrel,^(L) but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach,^[g] and patient, ²⁵ instructing his opponents with gentleness.^(M) Perhaps God will grant them repentance^(N) leading them to the knowledge of the truth. ²⁶ Then they may come to their senses and escape the trap of the devil,^(O) who has taken them captive to do his will.^(P)