3When I left for Macedonia, I urged you to remain at Ephesus and command those who were doing so to stop teaching a false doctrine, 4Wasting their time on myths, fables and endless genealogies, that only lead to useless speculative questions, rather than advancing faith in God. 5The goal of our teaching is love that comes out of a pure heart, and conscience, and genuine faith, 6From which some have swerved and turned to pursue useless speculation, 7Trying to be teachers of the law, but do not know what they are talking about, nor what they so confidently affirm. 8But we know that the law is good, if one uses it properly. 9We also know this, that the law is not made for the righteous; but for the lawless and disobedient - for the ungodly and sinners, the unholy, the profane, who murder their parents, or other people, 10For those that engage in illicit sex or homosexuality, for kidnapers, liars, for false witnesses, and any other things that conflict with the sound doctrine, 11That comes from the glorious gospel of the blessed God, with which I have been entrusted.

12I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, Who has enabled me, in that He counted me faithful, appointing me to His service, 13Despite the fact that I had been a blasphemous, violent persecutor of believers, I was shown grace and mercy, because I did it out of ignorant disbelief. 14That grace of our Lord was generously lavished upon me along with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 15This is a faithful (trustworthy) saying, deserving all acceptance: that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst. 16But for that very reason I was shown mercy: so that in me, the worst of sinners, Jesus Christ might display His amazing patience, as an example to others who would hereafter believe in Him and receive life everlasting. 17Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only true and wise God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

18This charge I entrust to you, son Timothy, in keeping with the prophecies spoken of you, that by recalling them, you might fight the battle well, 19Holding firmly to faith, and a good conscience, which some have rejected, and have suffered shipwreck with regard to their faith; 20Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.