1 Timothy 4
Some Will Depart from the Faith
Now athe Spirit expressly says that bin later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to cdeceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 through the insincerity of aliars whose consciences are seared, 3 awho forbid marriage and brequire abstinence from foods cthat God created dto be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For aeverything created by God is good, and bnothing is to be rejected if it is creceived with thanksgiving, 5 for it is made holy aby the word of God and prayer.
A Good Servant of Christ Jesus
6 aIf you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have bfollowed. 7 Have nothing to do with irreverent, asilly myths. Rather btrain yourself for godliness; 8 for while abodily training is of some value, godliness bis of value in every way, as cit holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9 The saying is atrustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. 10 For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, awho is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.
11 Command and teach athese things. 12 aLet no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers ban example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. 14 aDo not neglect the gift you have, which was given you bby prophecy when the council of elders claid their hands on you. 15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that aall may see your progress. 16 aKeep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save bboth yourself and cyour hearers.
The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway,
a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. ESV Text Edition: 2025.