Bible Time

¹NOW the Spirit says expressly that in the latter times some will depart from the faith, following after misleading spirits and doctrines of devils. ²Who with false appearance mislead and speak lies and are seared in their own conscience, ³Who prohibit marriage, and demand abstinence from foods which God has created for use and thanksgiving of those who believe and know the truth. ⁴For all things created by God are good; nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, ⁵For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

⁶If you teach these things to the brothers, you will be a good minister of Jesus Messiah, brought up by the words of faith and in the good doctrine which you have been taught. ⁷Refuse foolish and old wives' fables, and train yourself in righteousness. ⁸For physical training profits only for a little while; but righteousness is profitable in all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. ⁹This is a true saying and worthy to be accepted. ¹⁰Because of this, we both toil and suffer disgrace, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. ¹¹These things command and teach. ¹²Let no man despise your youth; but be an example to believers, in word, in behavior, in love, in faith, and in purity. ¹³And until I come, strive to study, and continue in prayer and teaching. ¹⁴Do not neglect the gift that you have, which was given to you by prophecy and by virtue of the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. ¹⁵Meditate on these things; give yourself wholly to them, so that it may be known to all that you are progressing. ¹⁶Be careful for yourself and for your teachings; and be firm in them; for in doing this, you will both save yourself and those who hear you.