Chapter 4

¹The Spirit distinctly says that in later times some will turn away from the faith, and devote their attention to deceitful spirits and the things that demons teach ²through the pretensions of liars—men with seared consciences ³who forbid people to marry and insist on abstinence from certain kinds of food that God created for men who believe and understand the truth to enjoy and give thanks for. ⁴For everything God has created is good, and nothing need be refused, provided it is accepted with thanksgiving, ⁵for then it is consecrated by prayer and the Scripture used in it.

⁶If you point this out to the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, living on the principles of the faith and the excellent teaching you have had. ⁷But let worldly fictions and old wives’ tales alone. Train yourself for the religious life. ⁸Physical training is of some service, but religion is of service in every way, for it carries with it the promise of life here and hereafter. ⁹This is a trustworthy saying, entitled to the fullest acceptance. ¹⁰It is for this that we toil and struggle, for we have fixed our hopes on the living God, the Savior of all men, especially those who believe.

¹¹This is what you must urge and teach. ¹²Let no one look down on you because you are young, but set those who believe an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. ¹³Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, preaching, and teaching. ¹⁴Do not neglect the gift you have, that was given you with predictions of your work, when the elders laid their hands upon you. ¹⁵Cultivate these things, devote yourself to them, so that everyone will see your progress. ¹⁶Look out for yourself and for your teaching. Persevere in your work, for if you do you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.