1YOU, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2And the things which you have heard from me by many witnesses, these entrust to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. 3Therefore endure hardships, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4No man can be a soldier, and also entangle himself with the things of this life; if he would please him who has chosen him to be a soldier. 5And if a man also strive for mastery in contest, he is not crowned except he compete lawfully. 6The husbandman who labors should be the first to be sustained by the fruits. 7Perceive these things: and may our LORD give you wisdom in all things.

8Remember Jesus Christ who rose from the dead; he who was a descendant from David according to my gospel: 9Because of him I suffer hardship, even to bonds like a malefactor; but the word of God is not restricted. 10Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Jesus Christ, with eternal glory.

11This is a true saying: For if we die with him, we shall also live with him:

12If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:

13But if we believe not in him, yet he will still remain faithful; for he cannot deny himself.

14You should keep these things in remembrance, as a testimony before our LORD, that the faithful should not argue over words in which there is no profit but which are destruction to those who listen to them. 15Strive to conduct yourself perfectly before God, as a soldier without reproach and one who preaches straightforwardly the word of truth. 16Shun empty and worthless words, for they only increase the ungodliness of those who argue over them. 17And their word will be like a canker eating in many: such are Hy-me-næ’us, and Phile’tus, 18Who have strayed from the truth, saying that the resurrection of the dead is already passed, thus destroying the faith of some. 19Nevertheless the foundation of God stands firm, having this seal, The LORD knows those who are his, and he will save from iniquity every one who calls upon the name of the LORD.

20But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; some for formal use on occasions of honor and others for service. 21If therefore a man purifies himself from these things, he will become like a vessel pure for honor, worthy of the master’s use, and ready for every good work. 22Keep away from all the lusts of youth: and follow after righteousness, faith, love, peace, with those who call on our LORD with a pure heart. 23Keep away from foolish disputes which do not educate, you know they cause strife. 24A servant of our LORD must not quarrel; but be gentle to all men, apt at teaching and patient, 25So that he may discipline gently those who argue against him; and perhaps God will grant them repentance and they will know the truth: 26And come to themselves, and be saved from the trap of Satan, by whom they have been trapped to his will.