1 Timothy 4

1Now the Spirit says explicitly that in later times some will abandon the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,

2through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences have been seared.

3They forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.

4For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,

5for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.

6If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the words of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.

7But have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales. Rather, train yourself for godliness.

8For physical training is of some value, but godliness is of value in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

9This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance.

10For this is why we labor and strive, because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.

11Command and teach these things.

12Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.

13Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to encouragement, and to teaching.

14Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you.

15Practice these things, give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.

16Keep a close watch on yourself and on your teaching. Persist in these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.