Bible in 90 Days

Greeting

1 Paul, Silvanus,^[a](A) and Timothy:^(B)

To the church of the Thessalonians^(C) in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Grace to you and peace.^[b]

Thanksgiving

² We always thank God for all of you, making mention of you constantly in our prayers. ³ We recall, in the presence of our God and Father,^(D) your work produced by faith,^(E) your labor motivated by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.^{(F) 4} For we know, brothers and sisters loved^(G) by God,^(H) that he has chosen you,^{(I) 5} because our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit,^(J) and with full assurance. You know how we lived among you^(K) for your benefit, ⁶ and you yourselves became imitators of us and of the Lord when, in spite of severe persecution, you welcomed the message^(L) with joy from the Holy Spirit. ⁷ As a result, you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia^(M) and Achaia.^{(N) 8} For the word of the Lord rang out from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place that your faith^[c](O) in God has gone out. Therefore, we don’t need to say anything, ⁹ for they themselves report^[d] what kind of reception^(P) we had from you: how you turned^(Q) to God from idols^(R) to serve the living^(S) and true^(T) God ¹⁰ and to wait^(U) for his Son^(V) from heaven, whom he raised from the dead^(W)—Jesus, who rescues us^(X) from the coming wrath.^(Y)

Paul’s Conduct

2 For you yourselves know, brothers and sisters, that our visit^(Z) with you was not without result. ² On the contrary, after we had previously suffered^(AA) and were treated outrageously in Philippi,^(AB) as you know, we were emboldened by our God to speak the gospel of God to you in spite of great opposition. ³ For our exhortation didn’t come from error or impurity^(AC) or an intent to deceive.^{(AD) 4} Instead, just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted^(AE) with the gospel,^(AF) so we speak, not to please people, but rather God,^(AG) who examines our hearts.^{(AH) 5} For we never used flattering speech, as you know, or had greedy^(AI) motives^(AJ)—God is our witness^(AK)— ⁶ and we didn’t seek glory^(AL) from people, either from you or from others. ⁷ Although we could have been a burden as Christ’s apostles,^(AM) instead we were gentle^[e] among you, as a nurse^[f] nurtures her own children. ⁸ We cared so much for you that we were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. ⁹ For you remember our labor and hardship, brothers and sisters. Working^(AN) night and day so that we would not burden any of you, we preached God’s gospel to you. ¹⁰ You are witnesses,^(AO) and so is God, of how devoutly, righteously,^(AP) and blamelessly^(AQ) we conducted ourselves with you believers. ¹¹ As you know, like a father with his own children,^{(AR) 12} we encouraged, comforted, and implored each one of you to walk worthy of God,^(AS) who calls you into his own kingdom^(AT) and glory.^(AU)

Reception and Opposition to the Message

¹³ This is why we constantly thank God, because when you received the word of God that you heard from us, you welcomed it not as a human message, but as it truly is,^(AV) the word of God,^(AW) which also works effectively in you who believe. ¹⁴ For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God’s churches in Christ Jesus that are in Judea,^(AX) since you have also suffered^(AY) the same things from people of your own country,^(AZ) just as they did from the Jews ¹⁵ who killed the Lord Jesus^(BA) and the prophets and persecuted us.^(BB) They displease God and are hostile to everyone, ¹⁶ by keeping us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. As a result, they are constantly filling up their sins to the limit,^(BC) and wrath has overtaken them at last.^[g]

Paul’s Desire to See Them

¹⁷ But as for us, brothers and sisters, after we were forced to leave you^[h] for a short time (in person, not in heart^(BD)), we greatly desired and made every effort to return^(BE) and see you face to face. ¹⁸ So we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan^(BF) hindered us. ¹⁹ For who is our hope or joy^(BG) or crown^(BH) of boasting^(BI) in the presence of our Lord^(BJ) Jesus at his coming?^(BK) Is it not you?^{(BL) 20} Indeed you are our glory^(BM) and joy!

Anxiety in Athens

3 Therefore, when we could no longer stand it, we thought it was better to be left alone in Athens.^{(BN) 2} And we sent Timothy,^(BO) our brother and God’s coworker^[i] in the gospel of Christ,^(BP) to strengthen and encourage you concerning your faith, ³ so that no one will be shaken by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are appointed to this. ⁴ In fact, when we were with you, we told you in advance that we were going to experience affliction, and as you know, it happened. ⁵ For this reason, when I could no longer stand it, I also sent him to find out about your faith, fearing that the tempter had tempted you and that our labor might be for nothing.

Encouraged by Timothy

⁶ But now Timothy has come to us^(BQ) from you and brought us good news about your faith and love. He reported that you always have good memories of us and that you long to see us, as we also long to see you.^{(BR) 7} Therefore, brothers and sisters, in all our distress and affliction, we were encouraged about you through your faith. ⁸ For now we live, if you stand firm^(BS) in the Lord. ⁹ How can we thank God for you in return for all the joy^(BT) we experience before our God because of you, ¹⁰ as we pray very earnestly night and day to see you face to face^(BU) and to complete what is lacking in your faith?^(BV)

Prayer for the Church

¹¹ Now may our God and Father^(BW) himself, and our Lord Jesus,^(BX) direct our way to you. ¹² And may the Lord cause you to increase and overflow with love^(BY) for one another^(BZ) and for everyone, just as we do for you. ¹³ May he make your hearts blameless^(CA) in holiness^(CB) before our God and Father at the coming^(CC) of our Lord^(CD) Jesus with all his saints. Amen.^[j]

The Call to Sanctification

4 Additionally then, brothers and sisters, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus, that as you have received instruction from us on how you should live and please God—as you are doing^[k]—do this even more. ² For you know what commands we gave you through the Lord Jesus.

³ For this is God’s will,^(CE) your sanctification:^(CF) that you keep away^(CG) from sexual immorality, ⁴ that each of you knows how to control his own body^[l] in holiness and honor, ⁵ not with lustful passions,^(CH) like the Gentiles, who don’t know God. ⁶ This means one must not transgress against and take advantage^(CI) of a brother or sister in this manner, because the Lord is an avenger of all these offenses, as we also previously told and warned you. ⁷ For God has not called us to impurity^(CJ) but to live in holiness. ⁸ Consequently, anyone who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit.^(CK)

Loving and Working

⁹ About brotherly love: You don’t need me to write you because you yourselves are taught by God^(CL) to love one another.^{(CM) 10} In fact, you are doing this toward all the brothers and sisters in the entire region of Macedonia.^(CN) But we encourage you, brothers and sisters, to do this even more, ¹¹ to seek to lead a quiet life,^(CO) to mind your own business,^[m] and to work^(CP) with your own hands, as we commanded you, ¹² so that you may behave properly^(CQ) in the presence of outsiders and not be dependent on anyone.^[n](CR)

The Comfort of Christ’s Coming

¹³ We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, concerning those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve like the rest, who have no hope.^{(CS) 14} For if we believe that Jesus died and rose^(CT) again,^(CU) in the same way, through Jesus,^(CV) God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. ¹⁵ For we say this to you by a word from the Lord:^(CW) We who are still alive at the Lord’s coming^(CX) will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.^{(CY) 16} For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout,^[o](CZ) with the archangel’s^(DA) voice, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ^(DB) will rise first. ¹⁷ Then^(DC) we who are still alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds^(DD) to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. ¹⁸ Therefore encourage^[p] one another with these words.

The Day of the Lord

5 About the times and the seasons:^(DE) Brothers and sisters, you do not need anything to be written to you. ² For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord^(DF) will come just like a thief^(DG) in the night. ³ When they say, “Peace and security,” then sudden destruction^(DH) will come upon them, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. ⁴ But you, brothers and sisters, are not in the dark, for this day to surprise you like a thief.^{(DI) 5} For you are all children of light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or the darkness.^{(DJ) 6} So then, let us not sleep, like the rest, but let us stay awake and be self-controlled. ⁷ For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. ⁸ But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled^(DK) and put on the armor^(DL) of faith and love, and a helmet^(DM) of the hope of salvation. ⁹ For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord^(DN) Jesus Christ,^{(DO) 10} who died for us,^(DP) so that whether we are awake or asleep,^(DQ) we may live together with him.^{(DR) 11} Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are already doing.

Exhortations and Blessings

¹² Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to give recognition^(DS) to those who labor among you and lead you^[q] in the Lord and admonish you, ¹³ and to regard them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace^(DT) among yourselves. ¹⁴ And we exhort you, brothers and sisters:^(DU) warn those who are idle,^[r] comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient^(DV) with everyone. ¹⁵ See to it that no one repays evil for evil^(DW) to anyone,^(DX) but always pursue what is good for one another and for all.^{(DY) 16} Rejoice^(DZ) always, ¹⁷ pray constantly, ¹⁸ give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will^(EA) for you in Christ Jesus. ¹⁹ Don’t stifle the Spirit. ²⁰ Don’t despise prophecies, ²¹ but test all things.^(EB) Hold on to what is good. ²² Stay away^(EC) from every kind of evil.

²³ Now may the God of peace^(ED) himself sanctify you completely. And may your whole spirit,^(EE) soul, and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming^(EF) of our Lord^(EG) Jesus Christ.^{(EH) 24} He who calls^(EI) you^(EJ) is faithful; he will do it. ²⁵ Brothers and sisters, pray for us also. ²⁶ Greet all the brothers and sisters with a holy kiss. ²⁷ I charge you by the Lord that this letter be read to all the brothers and sisters.^{(EK) 28} The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Greeting

1 Paul, Silvanus,^[s](EL) and Timothy:^(EM)

To the church of the Thessalonians^(EN) in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

² Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

God’s Judgment and Glory

³ We ought to thank God always for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, since your faith is flourishing and the love^(EO) each one of you has for one another^(EP) is increasing.^{(EQ) 4} Therefore, we ourselves boast^(ER) about you among God’s churches—about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and afflictions that you are enduring. ⁵ It is clear evidence of God’s righteous^(ES) judgment^(ET) that you will be counted worthy of God’s kingdom, for which you also are suffering,^{(EU) 6} since it is just for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you ⁷ and to give relief to you who are afflicted, along with us. This will take place at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with his powerful angels, ⁸ when he takes vengeance with flaming fire^(EV) on those who don’t know God^(EW) and on those who don’t obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.^{(EX) 9} They will pay the penalty of eternal destruction^(EY) from the Lord’s presence^(EZ) and from his glorious strength^{(FA) 10} on that day when he comes^(FB) to be glorified^(FC) by his saints^(FD) and to be marveled at by all those who have believed, because our testimony among you was believed. ¹¹ In view of this, we always pray for you that our God will make you worthy of his calling,^(FE) and by his power fulfill your every desire to do good^[t] and your work produced by faith,^{(FF) 12} so that the name^(FG) of our Lord Jesus will be glorified^(FH) by you, and you by him,^(FI) according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Man of Lawlessness

2 Now concerning the coming^(FJ) of our Lord^(FK) Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him: We ask you, brothers and sisters, ² not to be easily upset or troubled, either by a prophecy^[u](FL) or by a message or by a letter supposedly from us, alleging that the day of the Lord^[v](FM) has come.^{(FN) 3} Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way. For that day will not come unless the apostasy^[w] comes first and the man of lawlessness^[x] is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. ⁴ He opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god^(FO) or object of worship,^(FP) so that he sits^[y] in God’s temple, proclaiming that he himself is God.

⁵ Don’t you remember that when I was still with you I used to tell you about this? ⁶ And you know what currently restrains him, so that he will be revealed in his time.^{(FQ) 7} For the mystery of lawlessness^(FR) is already at work, but the one now restraining will do so until he is out of the way, ⁸ and then the lawless one will be revealed. The Lord Jesus will destroy him with the breath of his mouth^(FS) and will bring him to nothing at the appearance of his coming. ⁹ The coming of the lawless one is based on Satan’s working, with every kind of miracle, both signs and wonders serving the lie,^{(FT) 10} and with every wicked deception among those who are perishing. They perish because they did not accept the love of the truth and so be saved.^{(FU) 11} For this reason God sends them a strong delusion so that they will believe the lie, ¹² so that all will be condemned^(FV)—those who did not believe^(FW) the truth but delighted in unrighteousness.

Stand Firm

¹³ But we ought to thank God always for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because from the beginning^[z] God has chosen^(FX) you for salvation through sanctification^(FY) by the Spirit and through belief in the truth. ¹⁴ He called you to this through our gospel, so that you might obtain the glory^(FZ) of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁵ So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm^(GA) and hold to the traditions you were taught,^(GB) whether by what we said or what we wrote.

¹⁶ May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who has loved^(GC) us and given us eternal encouragement and good hope by grace, ¹⁷ encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good work and word.

Pray for Us

3 In addition, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you,^{(GD) 2} and that we may be delivered^(GE) from wicked and evil people, for not all have faith.^{[aa] 3} But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.^{(GF) 4} We have confidence in the Lord about you, that you are doing and will continue to do what we command. ⁵ May the Lord direct your hearts to God’s love and Christ’s endurance.^(GG)

Warning against Irresponsible Behavior

⁶ Now we command you, brothers and sisters, in the name^(GH) of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from every brother or sister^(GI) who is idle and does not live^[ab] according to the tradition^(GJ) received^(GK) from us. ⁷ For you yourselves know how you should imitate^(GL) us: We were not idle among you; ⁸ we did not eat^(GM) anyone’s food free of charge;^(GN) instead, we labored^(GO) and toiled,^(GP) working^(GQ) night and day, so that we would not be a burden^(GR) to any of you. ⁹ It is not that we don’t have the right^(GS) to support, but we did it to make ourselves an example to you so that you would imitate^(GT) us. ¹⁰ In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: “If anyone isn’t willing to work, he should not eat.”^{(GU) 11} For we hear that there are some among you who are idle. They are not busy but busybodies.^{(GV) 12} Now we command and exhort such people by the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and provide for themselves.^{[ac] 13} But as for you, brothers and sisters, do not grow weary^(GW) in doing good.

¹⁴ If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take note of that person; don’t associate with him, so that he may be ashamed. ¹⁵ Yet don’t consider him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.

Final Greetings

¹⁶ May the Lord of peace^(GX) himself give you peace always in every way.^(GY) The Lord be with all of you.^{(GZ) 17} I, Paul, am writing this greeting with my own hand,^(HA) which is an authenticating mark in every letter; this is how I write. ¹⁸ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

Greeting

1 Paul,^(HB) an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command^(HC) of God our Savior^(HD) and of Christ Jesus our hope:^(HE)

² To Timothy,^(HF) my true son in the faith.

Grace, mercy, and peace from God the^[ad] Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

False Doctrine and Misuse of the Law

³ As I urged you when I went to Macedonia,^(HG) remain in Ephesus^(HH) so that you may instruct certain people^(HI) not to teach false doctrine ⁴ or to pay attention to myths^(HJ) and endless genealogies. These promote empty speculations rather than God’s plan,^(HK) which operates by faith. ⁵ Now the goal of our instruction is love^(HL) that comes from a pure heart,^(HM) a good conscience,^(HN) and a sincere faith.^{(HO) 6} Some have departed from these and turned aside to fruitless discussion. ⁷ They want to be teachers of the law, although they don’t understand what they are saying or what they are insisting on. ⁸ But we know that the law is good,^(HP) provided one uses it legitimately. ⁹ We know that the law is not meant for a righteous person, but for the lawless and rebellious,^(HQ) for the ungodly and sinful, for the unholy and irreverent, for those who kill their fathers and mothers, for murderers, ¹⁰ for the sexually immoral^(HR) and males who have sex with males,^(HS) for slave traders, liars,^(HT) perjurers, and for whatever else is contrary to the sound teaching^{(HU) 11} that conforms to the gospel^(HV) concerning the glory of the blessed God,^(HW) which was entrusted to me.^(HX)

Paul’s Testimony

¹² I give thanks to Christ Jesus our Lord who has strengthened^(HY) me, because he considered me faithful, appointing me to the ministry— ¹³ even though I was formerly a blasphemer,^(HZ) a persecutor,^(IA) and an arrogant man.^(IB) But I received mercy because I acted out of ignorance in unbelief, ¹⁴ and the grace of our Lord overflowed, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. ¹⁵ This saying is trustworthy^(IC) and deserving of full acceptance: “Christ Jesus came into the world^(ID) to save sinners”^(IE)—and I am the worst of them.^{(IF) 16} But I received mercy^(IG) for this reason, so that in me, the worst of them, Christ Jesus might demonstrate his extraordinary patience^(IH) as an example to those who would believe in him for eternal life.^{(II) 17} Now to the King^(IJ) eternal,^(IK) immortal,^(IL) invisible, the only^[ae] God,^(IM) be honor^(IN) and glory^(IO) forever and ever. Amen.^(IP)

Engage in Battle

¹⁸ Timothy, my son, I am giving you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies^(IQ) previously made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the good fight, ¹⁹ having faith^(IR) and a good conscience,^(IS) which some^(IT) have rejected and have shipwrecked the faith. ²⁰ Among them are Hymenaeus^(IU) and Alexander,^(IV) whom I have delivered to Satan,^(IW) so that they may be taught not to blaspheme.

Instructions on Prayer

2 First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, ² for kings and all those who are in authority,^(IX) so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness^(IY) and dignity.^{(IZ) 3} This is good, and it pleases God our Savior,^{(JA) 4} who wants everyone^(JB) to be saved^(JC) and to come to the knowledge of the truth.^(JD)

⁵ For there is one God^(JE) and one mediator^(JF) between God and mankind, the man^(JG) Christ Jesus, ⁶ who gave himself as a ransom for all,^(JH) a testimony at the proper time.

⁷ For this I was appointed a herald, an apostle^(JI) (I am telling the truth;^[af] I am not lying), and a teacher of the Gentiles^(JJ) in faith and truth.

Instructions to Men and Women

⁸ Therefore, I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or argument.^{(JK) 9} Also, the women are to dress themselves in modest clothing,^(JL) with decency and good sense, not with elaborate hairstyles, gold,^(JM) pearls, or expensive apparel, ¹⁰ but with good works,^(JN) as is proper for women who profess to worship God. ¹¹ A woman is to learn quietly with full submission.^{(JO) 12} I do not allow a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; instead, she is to remain quiet. ¹³ For Adam was formed first, then Eve.^{(JP) 14} And Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and transgressed.^{(JQ) 15} But she will be saved through childbearing, if they continue in faith, love, and holiness,^(JR) with good sense.

Qualifications for Overseers and Deacons

3 This saying is trustworthy:^(JS) “If anyone aspires to be an overseer,^[ag](JT) he desires a noble work.” ² An overseer,^(JU) therefore, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, self-controlled, sensible,^(JV) respectable, hospitable,^(JW) able to teach, ³ not an excessive drinker, not a bully but gentle, not quarrelsome, not greedy.^{(JX) 4} He must manage his own household competently and have his children under control with all dignity. ⁵ (If anyone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of God’s church?) ⁶ He must not be a new convert, or he might become conceited and incur the same condemnation as the devil.^{(JY) 7} Furthermore, he must have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he does not fall into disgrace and the devil’s^(JZ) trap.

⁸ Deacons,^(KA) likewise, should be worthy of respect, not hypocritical, not drinking a lot of wine, not greedy for money, ⁹ holding the mystery of the faith^(KB) with a clear conscience.^{(KC) 10} They must also be tested first; if they prove blameless, then they can serve as deacons. ¹¹ Wives,^[ah](KD) likewise, should be worthy of respect, not slanderers, self-controlled,^(KE) faithful in everything. ¹² Deacons are to be husbands of one wife, managing their children and their own households competently. ¹³ For those who have served well as deacons acquire a good standing for themselves and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

The Mystery of Godliness

¹⁴ I write these things to you, hoping to come^(KF) to you soon. ¹⁵ But if I should be delayed, I have written so that you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household,^(KG) which is the church of the living God,^(KH) the pillar and foundation of the truth.^{(KI) 16} And most certainly, the mystery of godliness^(KJ) is great:

Demonic Influence

4 Now the Spirit^(KO) explicitly says that in later times^(KP) some will depart from the faith,^(KQ) paying attention to deceitful spirits^(KR) and the teachings of demons,^{(KS) 2} through the hypocrisy^(KT) of liars whose consciences^(KU) are seared. ³ They forbid marriage^(KV) and demand abstinence^(KW) from foods that God created^(KX) to be received with gratitude by those who believe and know the truth. ⁴ For everything created by God is good,^(KY) and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,^{(KZ) 5} since it is sanctified by the word of God^(LA) and by prayer.

A Good Servant of Jesus Christ

⁶ If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of the faith^(LB) and the good teaching that you have followed.^{(LC) 7} But have nothing to do with pointless and silly myths.^(LD) Rather, train yourself in godliness.^{(LE) 8} For the training of the body has limited benefit,^(LF) but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.^{(LG) 9} This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance.^{(LH) 10} For this reason we labor and strive,^[aj] because we have put our hope in the living God,^(LI) who is the Savior^(LJ) of all people,^(LK) especially of those who believe.

Instructions for Ministry

¹¹ Command and teach these things. ¹² Don’t let anyone despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech,^(LL) in conduct,^(LM) in love,^[ak](LN) in faith, and in purity.^{(LO) 13} Until I come,^(LP) give your attention to public reading, exhortation, and teaching. ¹⁴ Don’t neglect the gift that is in you; it was given to you through prophecy,^(LQ) with the laying on of hands^(LR) by the council of elders. ¹⁵ Practice these things; be committed to them, so that your progress may be evident to all. ¹⁶ Pay close attention to your life and your teaching; persevere in these things, for in doing this you will save^(LS) both yourself and your hearers.^(LT)

5 Don’t rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers, ² older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters with all purity.

The Support of Widows

³ Support^[al] widows^(LU) who are genuinely in need. ⁴ But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them learn to practice godliness toward their own family first and to repay their parents, for this pleases God. ⁵ The widow who is truly in need and left all alone has put her hope in God^(LV) and continues night and day in her petitions and prayers; ⁶ however, she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives.^{(LW) 7} Command this also, so that they will be above reproach. ⁸ But if anyone does not provide^(LX) for his own family, especially for his own household, he has denied the faith^(LY) and is worse than an unbeliever.

⁹ No widow is to be enrolled on the list for support unless she is at least sixty years old, has been the wife of one husband, ¹⁰ and is well known for good works^(LZ)—that is, if she has brought up children, shown hospitality,^(MA) washed the saints’ feet,^(MB) helped the afflicted,^(MC) and devoted herself to every good work.^{(MD) 11} But refuse to enroll younger widows, for when they are drawn away from Christ by desire, they want to marry^{(ME) 12} and will therefore receive condemnation^(MF) because they have renounced their original pledge. ¹³ At the same time, they also learn to be idle, going from house to house; they are not only idle, but are also gossips^(MG) and busybodies, saying things they shouldn’t say. ¹⁴ Therefore, I want younger women to marry,^(MH) have children, manage their households, and give the adversary no opportunity to accuse us.^{(MI) 15} For some have already turned away^(MJ) to follow Satan. ¹⁶ If any^[am] believing woman has widows in her family, let her help them. Let the church not be burdened, so that it can help widows in genuine need.

Honoring the Elders

¹⁷ The elders who are good leaders are to be considered worthy of double honor,^[an] especially those who work hard^(MK) at preaching and teaching. ¹⁸ For the Scripture says: Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,^[ao](ML) and, “The worker is worthy of his wages.”^(MM)

¹⁹ Don’t accept an accusation against an elder unless it is supported by two or three witnesses.^{(MN) 20} Publicly rebuke those who sin, so that the rest will be afraid. ²¹ I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels to observe^(MO) these things without prejudice, doing nothing out of favoritism. ²² Don’t be too quick to appoint^[ap](MP) anyone as an elder, and don’t share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.^{(MQ) 23} Don’t continue drinking only water, but use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses. ²⁴ Some people’s sins are obvious, preceding them to judgment,^(MR) but the sins of others surface^[aq] later. ²⁵ Likewise, good works are obvious, and those that are not obvious cannot remain hidden.

Honoring Masters

6 All who are under the yoke as slaves should regard their own masters^[ar] as worthy of all respect, so that God’s name^(MS) and his teaching will not be blasphemed. ² Let those who have believing masters not be disrespectful to them because they are brothers, but serve them even better, since those who benefit from their service are believers and dearly loved.^[as](MT)

False Doctrine and Human Greed

Teach and encourage these things. ³ If anyone teaches false doctrine and does not agree with the sound teaching of our Lord^(MU) Jesus Christ and with the teaching that promotes godliness,^{(MV) 4} he is conceited and understands nothing, but has an unhealthy interest in disputes and arguments over words.^(MW) From these come envy,^(MX) quarreling,^(MY) slander,^(MZ) evil suspicions, ⁵ and constant disagreement among people whose minds are depraved and deprived of the truth, who imagine that godliness is a way to material gain.^{[at](NA) 6} But godliness with contentment is great gain.^{(NB) 7} For we brought nothing into the world, and^[au] we can take nothing out.^{(NC) 8} If we have food and clothing,^[av] we will be content with these. ⁹ But those who want to be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction. ¹⁰ For the love of money is a root^[aw] of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith^(ND) and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Fight the Good Fight

¹¹ But you, man of God, flee from these things, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love,^(NE) endurance,^(NF) and gentleness. ¹² Fight the good fight^(NG) of the faith. Take hold of eternal life^(NH) to which you were called and about which you have made a good confession in the presence of many witnesses. ¹³ In the presence of God, who gives life to all,^(NI) and of Christ Jesus, who gave a good confession before Pontius Pilate,^(NJ) I charge you ¹⁴ to keep this command without fault or failure until the appearing^(NK) of our Lord^(NL) Jesus Christ. ¹⁵ God will bring this about in his own time.^(NM) He is the blessed and only^(NN) Sovereign, the King of kings,^(NO) and the Lord of lords,^{(NP) 16} who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light,^(NQ) whom no one has seen or can see,^(NR) to him be honor and eternal power.^(NS) Amen.^(NT)

Instructions to the Rich

¹⁷ Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be arrogant^(NU) or to set their hope on the uncertainty of wealth, but on God,^[ax] who richly provides us with all things^(NV) to enjoy. ¹⁸ Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works,^(NW) to be generous and willing to share,^{(NX) 19} storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the coming age,^(NY) so that they may take hold of what is truly life.

Guard the Heritage

²⁰ Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you,^(NZ) avoiding^(OA) irreverent and empty speech and contradictions from what is falsely called knowledge.^{(OB) 21} By professing it, some^(OC) people have departed from the faith.^(OD)

Grace be with you all.

Greeting

1 Paul,^(OE) an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will,^(OF) for the sake of the promise of life^(OG) in Christ Jesus:

² To Timothy, my dearly loved son.

Grace, mercy, and peace^(OH) from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

Thanksgiving

³ I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience^(OI) as my ancestors did, when I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day.^{(OJ) 4} Remembering your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy. ⁵ I recall your sincere faith^(OK) that first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice^(OL) and now, I am convinced, is in you also.

⁶ Therefore, I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands.^{(OM) 7} For God has not given us a spirit of fear,^(ON) but one of power,^[ay](OO) love,^(OP) and sound judgment.

Not Ashamed of the Gospel

⁸ So don’t be ashamed^(OQ) of the testimony about our Lord,^(OR) or of me his prisoner.^(OS) Instead, share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power^(OT) of God. ⁹ He has saved us and called us with a holy calling,^(OU) not according to our works,^(OV) but according to his own purpose^(OW) and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. ¹⁰ This has now been made evident through the appearing^(OX) of our Savior Christ Jesus, who has abolished death^(OY) and has brought life^(OZ) and immortality to light through the gospel. ¹¹ For this gospel I was appointed^(PA) a herald, apostle, and teacher,^{[az] 12} and that is why I suffer^(PB) 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^[ba](PC) until that day.^(PD)

Be Loyal to the Faith

¹³ Hold on to the pattern of sound teaching^(PE) that you have heard from me,^(PF) in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. ¹⁴ Guard the good deposit through the Holy Spirit who lives in us. ¹⁵ You know that all those in the province of Asia^(PG) have deserted me,^(PH) including Phygelus and Hermogenes. ¹⁶ May the Lord grant mercy^(PI) to the household of Onesiphorus,^(PJ) because he often refreshed me^(PK) and was not ashamed of my chains.^{(PL) 17} On the contrary, when he was in Rome,^(PM) he diligently searched for me and found me. ¹⁸ May the Lord grant that he obtain mercy^(PN) from him on that day. You know very well how much he ministered at Ephesus.^(PO)

Be Strong in Grace

2 You, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace^(PP) that is in Christ Jesus. ² What you have heard from me^(PQ) in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful^(PR) men^[bb] who will be able to teach others also.

³ Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.^{(PS) 4} No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in the concerns of civilian life; he seeks to please the commanding officer. ⁵ Also, if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. ⁶ The hardworking farmer ought to be the first to get a share of the crops.^{(PT) 7} Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.

⁸ Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead^(PU) and descended from David, according to my gospel, ⁹ for which I suffer to the point of being bound like a criminal. But the word of God is not bound. ¹⁰ This is why I endure^(PV) all things for the elect:^(PW) so that they also may obtain salvation, which is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.^{(PX) 11} This saying is trustworthy:^(PY)

An Approved Worker

¹⁴ Remind them of these things, and charge them before God^[bc] not to fight about words.^(QB) This is useless and leads to the ruin of those who listen. ¹⁵ Be diligent to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth.^{(QC) 16} Avoid irreverent and empty speech, since those who engage in it will produce even more godlessness,^{(QD) 17} and their teaching will spread like gangrene. Hymenaeus^(QE) and Philetus are among them. ¹⁸ They have departed from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already taken place,^(QF) and are ruining the faith of some.^{(QG) 19} Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, bearing this inscription:^(QH) The Lord knows those who are his,^[bd](QI) and let everyone who calls on the name^(QJ) of^[be] the Lord turn away from wickedness.^(QK)

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

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

Difficult Times Ahead

3 But know this: Hard times will come in the last days.^{(QX) 2} For people will be lovers of self,^(QY) lovers of money,^(QZ) boastful, proud,^(RA) demeaning, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,^{(RB) 3} unloving, irreconcilable, slanderers,^(RC) without self-control, brutal, without love for what is good,^{(RD) 4} traitors,^(RE) reckless,^(RF) conceited,^(RG) lovers of pleasure^(RH) rather than lovers of God, ⁵ holding to the form of godliness but denying its power.^(RI) Avoid these people.^(RJ)

⁶ For among them are those who worm their way into households and deceive gullible women overwhelmed by sins and led astray by a variety of passions,^{(RK) 7} always learning and never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.^{(RL) 8} Just as Jannes and Jambres^(RM) resisted Moses,^(RN) so these also resist the truth. They are men who are corrupt in mind^(RO) and worthless^(RP) in regard to the faith. ⁹ But they will not make further progress, for their foolishness will be clear to all, as was the foolishness of Jannes and Jambres.

Struggles in the Christian Life

¹⁰ But you have followed my teaching, conduct, purpose,^(RQ) faith, patience, love,^(RR) and endurance, ¹¹ along with the persecutions and sufferings^(RS) that came to me in Antioch,^(RT) Iconium,^(RU) and Lystra.^(RV) What persecutions I endured—and yet the Lord rescued me from them all. ¹² In fact, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.^{(RW) 13} Evil people and impostors will become worse, deceiving^(RX) and being deceived. ¹⁴ But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed. You know those who taught you,^{(RY) 15} and you know that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures,^(RZ) which are able to give you wisdom for salvation^(SA) through faith in Christ Jesus. ¹⁶ All Scripture is inspired by God^[bk](SB) and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, ¹⁷ so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.^(SC)

Fulfill Your Ministry

4 I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus, who is going to judge^(SD) the living and the dead,^(SE) and because of his appearing and his kingdom:^{(SF) 2} Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and teaching. ³ For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine,^(SG) but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear what they want to hear. ⁴ They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths.^{(SH) 5} But as for you, exercise self-control in everything, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist,^(SI) fulfill your ministry.

⁶ For I am already being poured out as a drink offering,^(SJ) and the time for my departure is close. ⁷ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. ⁸ There is reserved for me the crown^(SK) of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge,^(SL) will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved his appearing.^[bl](SM)

Final Instructions

⁹ Make every effort to come to me soon,^{(SN) 10} because Demas^(SO) has deserted me,^(SP) since he loved this present world, and has gone to Thessalonica.^(SQ) Crescens has gone to Galatia,^(SR) Titus^(SS) to Dalmatia. ¹¹ Only Luke^(ST) is with me. Bring Mark^(SU) with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry. ¹² I have sent Tychicus^(SV) to Ephesus. ¹³ When you come, bring the cloak I left in Troas^(SW) with Carpus, as well as the scrolls, especially the parchments. ¹⁴ Alexander^(SX) the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works. ¹⁵ Watch out^(SY) for him yourself because he strongly opposed our words.

¹⁶ At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone deserted me.^(SZ) May it not be counted against them. ¹⁷ But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that I might fully preach the word and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. ¹⁸ The Lord will rescue me from every evil work and will bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom.^(TA) To him be the glory forever and ever! Amen.

Benediction

¹⁹ Greet Prisca and Aquila,^(TB) and the household of Onesiphorus.^{(TC) 20} Erastus^(TD) has remained at Corinth; I left Trophimus^(TE) sick at Miletus.^{(TF) 21} Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, as do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers and sisters.

²² The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all.

Greeting

1 Paul,^(TG) a servant of God^(TH) and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for^[bm] the faith of God’s elect^(TI) and their knowledge of the truth^(TJ) that leads^[bn] to godliness,^{(TK) 2} in the hope of eternal life^(TL) that God, who cannot lie,^(TM) promised before time began.^{(TN) 3} In his own time he has revealed^(TO) his word^(TP) in the preaching with which I was entrusted^(TQ) by the command^(TR) of God our Savior:^(TS)

⁴ To Titus,^(TT) my true son^(TU) in our common faith.

Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.^(TV)

Titus’s Ministry in Crete

⁵ The reason I left you in Crete^(TW) was to set right what was left undone and, as I directed you, to appoint elders^(TX) in every town. ⁶ An elder^(TY) must be blameless,^(TZ) the husband of one wife, with faithful^[bo] children who are not accused of wildness or rebellion. ⁷ As an overseer^(UA) of God’s household, he must be blameless, not arrogant, not hot-tempered, not an excessive drinker, not a bully, not greedy for money, ⁸ but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, righteous, holy, self-controlled, ⁹ holding to the faithful message as taught,^(UB) so that he will be able both to encourage with sound teaching^(UC) and to refute those who contradict it.

¹⁰ For there are many rebellious people, full of empty talk and deception, especially those from the circumcision party. ¹¹ It is necessary to silence them; they are ruining entire households by teaching what they shouldn’t in order to get money dishonestly. ¹² One of their very own prophets said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.” ¹³ This testimony is true.^(UD) For this reason, rebuke them sharply,^(UE) so that they may be sound in the faith ¹⁴ and may not pay attention to Jewish myths^(UF) and the commands of people who reject the truth.^(UG)

¹⁵ To the pure, everything is pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; in fact, both their mind and conscience^(UH) are defiled. ¹⁶ They claim to know God,^(UI) but they deny him by their works.^(UJ) They are detestable, disobedient, and unfit for any good work.^(UK)

Sound Teaching and Christian Living

2 But you are to proclaim things consistent with sound teaching.^{(UL) 2} Older men^(UM) are to be self-controlled, worthy of respect, sensible, and sound in faith, love,^(UN) and endurance. ³ In the same way, older women^(UO) are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not slaves to excessive drinking. They are to teach what is good, ⁴ so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands and to love their children, ⁵ to be self-controlled, pure, workers at home, kind, and in submission^(UP) to their husbands, so that God’s word^(UQ) will not be slandered.

⁶ In the same way, encourage the young men^(UR) to be self-controlled ⁷ in everything. Make yourself an example of good works with integrity and dignity^[bp] in your teaching. ⁸ Your message is to be sound beyond reproach,^(US) so that any opponent will be ashamed, because he doesn’t have anything bad to say about us.

⁹ Slaves are to submit to their masters^(UT) in everything, and to be well-pleasing,^(UU) not talking back ¹⁰ or stealing, but demonstrating utter faithfulness, so that they may adorn the teaching of God our Savior^(UV) in everything.

¹¹ For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation^[bq] for all people,^{(UW) 12} instructing us to deny godlessness^(UX) and worldly lusts^(UY) and to live in a sensible, righteous,^(UZ) and godly^(VA) way in the present age, ¹³ while we wait for the blessed hope,^(VB) the appearing of the glory^(VC) of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. ¹⁴ He gave himself for us^(VD) to redeem us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for himself a people for his own possession,^(VE) eager to do good works.

¹⁵ Proclaim these things; encourage and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard^[br] you.

Christian Living among Outsiders

3 Remind them to submit^(VF) to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, ² to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness^(VG) to all people. ³ For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved by various passions^(VH) and pleasures,^(VI) living in malice and envy, hateful, detesting one another.

⁴ But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared,^{(VJ) 5} he saved us^(VK)—not by works of righteousness that we had done,^(VL) but according to his mercy^(VM)—through the washing of regeneration^(VN) and renewal by the Holy Spirit.^{(VO) 6} He poured out his Spirit on us abundantly^(VP) through Jesus Christ our Savior ⁷ so that, having been justified by his grace,^(VQ) we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life.^{(VR) 8} This saying is trustworthy.^(VS) I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed God might be careful to devote themselves to good works. These are good and profitable for everyone. ⁹ But avoid foolish debates,^(VT) genealogies,^(VU) quarrels,^(VV) and disputes about the law, because they are unprofitable and worthless. ¹⁰ Reject a divisive^(VW) person after a first and second warning.^{(VX) 11} For you know that such a person has gone astray and is sinning; he is self-condemned.

Final Instructions and Closing

¹² When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you,^(VY) make every effort to come to me^(VZ) in Nicopolis, because I have decided to spend the winter there. ¹³ Diligently help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos^(WA) on their journey, so that they will lack^(WB) nothing.

¹⁴ Let our people learn to devote themselves to good works for pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful.^{(WC) 15} All those who are with me send you greetings. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with all of you.^(WD)

Greeting

¹ Paul,^(WE) a prisoner^(WF) of Christ Jesus,^(WG) and Timothy^(WH) our brother:

To Philemon our dear friend and coworker, ² to Apphia our sister,^[bs] to Archippus^(WI) our fellow soldier,^(WJ) and to the church that meets in your home.^(WK)

³ Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Philemon’s Love and Faith

⁴ I always thank my God when I mention you in my prayers, ⁵ because I hear of your love^(WL) for all the saints and the faith that you have in the Lord Jesus. ⁶ I pray that your participation in the faith may become effective^(WM) through knowing every good thing^(WN) that is in us^[bt] for the glory of Christ. ⁷ For I have great joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed^(WO) through you, brother.

An Appeal for Onesimus

⁸ For this reason, although I have great boldness in Christ to command you to do what is right, ⁹ I appeal to you, instead, on the basis of love. I, Paul, as an elderly man^[bu] and now also as a prisoner^(WP) of Christ Jesus, ¹⁰ appeal to you for my son,^(WQ) Onesimus.^[bv](WR) I became his father^(WS) while I was in chains. ¹¹ Once he was useless to you, but now he is useful both to you and to me. ¹² I am sending him back to you—I am sending my very own heart.^{[bw][bx] 13} I wanted to keep him with me, so that in my imprisonment for the gospel he might serve me in your place. ¹⁴ But I didn’t want to do anything without your consent, so that your good deed might not be out of obligation, but of your own free will. ¹⁵ For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently, ¹⁶ no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother. He is especially so to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh^(WT) and in the Lord.^(WU)

¹⁷ So if you consider me a partner, welcome^(WV) him as you would me. ¹⁸ And if he has wronged you in any way, or owes you anything, charge that to my account.^{(WW) 19} I, Paul, write this with my own hand:^(WX) I will repay it—not to mention to you that you owe me even your very self. ²⁰ Yes, brother, may I benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. ²¹ Since I am confident of your obedience, I am writing to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say. ²² Meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, since I hope that through your prayers I will be restored to you.

Final Greetings

²³ Epaphras,^(WY) my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings, and so do ²⁴ Mark,^(WZ) Aristarchus,^(XA) Demas, and Luke,^(XB) my coworkers.

²⁵ The grace of the Lord^[by](XC) Jesus Christ be with your spirit.^(XD)