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¹ Now the Spirit says clearly that in the last times some people will abandon the faith by following deceitful spirits, the teachings of demons,[xr] ² and the hypocrisy of liars, whose consciences have been burned by a hot iron.[xr] ³ They will try to stop people from marrying and from eating certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.[xr] ⁴ For everything God created is good, and nothing should be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,[xr] ⁵ because it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

⁶ If you continue to point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of the faith and the healthy teaching that you have followed closely.[xr] ⁷ Do not have anything to do with godless myths and fables of old women, but train yourself in godliness.[xr] ⁸ Physical exercise is of limited value, but[xr] Godliness is very dear, A pledge of life, both there and here. ⁹ This saying is trustworthy and deserves complete acceptance.[fn][xr] ¹⁰ To this end we work hard and struggle,[fn] because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, that is, of those who believe.[xr] ¹¹ These are the things you must insist on and teach.[xr] ¹² Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for other believers in your speech, behavior, love, faithfulness,[fn] and purity.[xr] ¹³ Until I arrive, concentrate on the public reading of Scripture,[fn] on exhorting, and on teaching. ¹⁴ Do not neglect[fn] the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy, accompanied by the laying on of the elders' hands.[xr] ¹⁵ Think on these things. Devote your life to them so that everyone can see your progress. ¹⁶ Pay close attention to your life and your teaching. Persevere in these things, for if you do this, you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.[xr]