New Testament in a Year

General Regulations^[a]

Chapter 4

False Asceticism. ¹ The Spirit clearly says that during the last times some will abandon the faith. They will run after deceitful spirits and demonic doctrines, ² through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences have been branded as with a burning iron. ³ They forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods^[b] that God created to be accepted with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. ⁴ For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided that it is received with thanksgiving, ⁵ for it is made holy by the word of God and by prayer.^[c]

The Benefits of Godliness. ⁶ If you offer these instructions to the brethren, you will prove to be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. ⁷ Have nothing to do with profane myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself in godliness.

⁸ While physical training has some value, the benefits of godliness are unlimited, since it holds out promise not only for this life but also for the life to come. ⁹ This saying can be trusted and merits complete acceptance. ¹⁰ For this is why we toil and struggle, because we have placed our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all, especially of all those who believe.

¹¹ Pastoral Duties. These are the things you must insist upon in your teaching. ¹² Let no one regard you with contempt because of your youth, but serve as an example to the believers in your speech and conduct, in your love, your faith, and your purity.

¹³ Until I arrive, devote yourself to reading,^[d] to exhortation, and to teaching. ¹⁴ Do not neglect the gift that was bestowed upon you when, as a result of prophecy, the elders laid their hands on you.^[e]

¹⁵ Meditate on these things and put them into practice so that your progress may be evident to everyone. ¹⁶ Be conscientious about your life and your teaching. Persevere in both of these tasks, for by doing so you will save both yourself and your listeners.