A Good Soldier of Christ Jesus
1 Therefore, my child, be strengthened in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2 And the things that you heard from me through many witnesses, entrust these to faithful people who will be competent also to teach others.
3 Suffer together as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
4 No one serving as a soldier becomes entangled in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him.
5 And if someone competes, he is not crowned unless he competes lawfully.
6 It is necessary that the hardworking farmer be first to partake of the fruits.
7 Consider what I am saying, for the Lord will give you understanding in all things.
Remember Jesus Christ
8 Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, of the seed of David, according to my gospel,
9 for which I suffer hardship, even to chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not chained.
10 Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the chosen ones, so that they also may obtain salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
11 Trustworthy is the saying:
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 unfaithful, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.
A Worker Approved by God
14 Remind them of these things, solemnly charging them before God not to fight about words, useful for nothing, leading to the ruin of those who hear.
15 Be eager to present yourself approved to God, a worker having no need to be ashamed, who handles correctly the word of truth.
16 But avoid profane, empty babblings, for they will progress to more ungodliness,
17 and their word will spread like cancer. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus,
18 who have deviated concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened, and they overturn the faith of some.
19 Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone naming the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.”
A Vessel for Honour
20 Now in a large house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honour, and some for dishonour.
21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honour, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.
22 But flee youthful desires, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call upon the Lord out of a pure heart.
23 But refuse foolish and ignorant controversies, knowing that they produce quarrels.
24 And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel but must be gentle toward all, able to teach, patient,
25 in meekness correcting those opposing him, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to a full knowledge of the truth,
26 and they may come to their senses out of the snare of the devil, having been captured by him to do his will.
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