1 TIMOTHY 4 [†]Now  x the Spirit expressly says that  y in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to  z deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2[†]through the insincerity of  a liars whose consciences are seared, 3[†] b who forbid marriage and  c require abstinence from foods  d that God created  e to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4For  f everything created by God is good, and  g nothing is to be rejected if it is  e received with thanksgiving, 5for it is made holy  h by the word of God and prayer.

6[†] i If you put these things before the brothers, [1] 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  j followed. 7Have nothing to do with irreverent,  k silly myths. Rather  l train yourself for godliness; 8for while  m bodily training is of some value, godliness  n is of value in every way, as  o it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9[†]The saying is  p trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. 10[†]For to this end we toil and strive, [2] because we have our hope set on the living God,  q who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.

11[†]Command and teach  r these things. 12[†] s Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers  t an 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[†] u Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you  v by prophecy when the council of elders  w laid their hands on you. 15[†]Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, [3] so that  x all may see your progress. 16[†] y Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save  z both yourself and  a your hearers.