21 You therefore , my son , be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus . 2 The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses , entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also . 3 Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus . 4 No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life , so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier . 5 Also if anyone competes as an athlete , he does not win the prize unless e he competes according to the rules . 6 The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops . 7 Consider what I say , for the Lord will give you understanding in everything .
8 Remember Jesus Christ , risen from the dead , descendant of David , according to my gospel , 9 for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal ; but the word of God is not imprisoned . 10 For this reason I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen , so that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory . 11 It is a trustworthy statement : For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him; 12 If we endure , we will also reign with Him; If we deny Him, He also will deny us; 13 If we are faithless , He remains faithful , for He cannot e deny Himself .
14 Remind them of these things , and solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words , which is useless e and leads to the ruin of the hearers . 15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed , accurately handling the word of truth . 16 But avoid worldly and empty chatter , for it will lead to further ungodliness , 17 and their talk will spread like gangrene . Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus , 18 men who have gone astray from the truth saying that the resurrection has already taken place , and they upset the faith of some .
19 Nevertheless , the firm foundation of God stands , having this seal , " The Lord knows those who are His," and, " Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness ." 20 Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels , but also vessels of wood and of earthenware , and some to honor and some to dishonor . 21 Therefore , if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor , sanctified , useful to the Master , prepared for every good work .
22 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness , faith , love and peace , with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart . 23 But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations , knowing that they produce quarrels . 24 The Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome , but be kind to all , able to teach , patient when wronged , 25 with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition , if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth , 26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil , having been held captive by him to do his will .
