1 Timothy 4
Demonic Influence
1 Now the Spirit a explicitly says that in later times b some will depart from the faith, c paying attention to deceitful spirits d and the teachings of demons, e 2 through the hypocrisy f of liars whose consciences g are seared. 3They forbid marriage h and demand abstinence i from foods that God created j to be received with gratitude by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For everything created by God is good, k and nothing should be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, l 5 since it is sanctified by the word of God m and by prayer.A Good Servant of Jesus Christ
6 If you point these things out to the ▼▼brother(s): The Greek word adelphoi can be used as a reference to males only or to groups that include males and females. It is the context of each usage that determines the proper meaning.
brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of the faith o and the good teaching that you have followed. p 7 But have nothing to do with irreverent and silly myths. q Rather, train yourself in godliness, r 8 forthe training of the body has a limited benefit, sbut godliness is beneficial in every way,
since it holds promise for the present life
and also for the life to come. t
9 This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance. u 10In fact, we labor and strive ▼
▼Other mss read and suffer reproach
for this, because we have put our hope in the living God, w who is the Savior x of everyone, y especially of those who believe. Instructions for Ministry
11 Command and teach these things. 12Let no one despise your youth; instead, you should be an example to the believers in speech, z in conduct, aa in love, ▼▼Other mss add in spirit
,
ac in faith, in purity. ad 13 Until I come, ae give your attention to public reading, exhortation, and teaching. 14Do not neglect the gift that is in you; it was given to you through prophecy, af with the laying on of hands ag by the council of elders. 15 Practice these things; be committed to them, so that your progress may be evident to all. 16Pay close attention to your life and your teaching; persevere in these things, for by doing this you will save ah both yourself and your hearers. ai
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