14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. |
15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. |
16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. |
17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; |
18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. |
19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. |
20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. |
21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. |
22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. |
23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. |
24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, |
25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; |
26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. |
