A Warning against Apostasy

1Now the spirit says expresly, that in the latter times some shall abandon the faith, by giving credit to seducing spirits, and the doctrine concerning demons; 2broach'd by hypocrititical impostors, whose consciences are cauteriz'd, 3interdicting marriage; and the use of animal food; which God created for the repast of the faithful, who embrace the truth with thankfulness. 4for all that God has created is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided it be receiv'd with thanksgiving: 5since it is sanctified by the divine permission, and by prayer.

A Good Servant of Jesus Christ

6If you represent these things to the brethren, you will appear to be a true minister of Jesus Christ, brought up in the institutions of faith, and the true doctrine to which you were attach'd. 7as for prophane and groundless fables, reject them. 8exercise yourself in piety: for those exercises which relate only to the body are of little consequence, but piety is of absolute use, having the promises both of the present life, and of the life that is to come. 9what I tell you is certain, and deserves entire credit. 10for to that end we expose ourselves to trouble and reproach, because we hope in the living God, who is the saviour of all men, especially of believers.

11These things recommend and teach. 12don't give occasion to any to despise your youth: but be a pattern to believers in your discourse, in your behaviour, by your charity, faith and chastity. 13while I am absent apply yourself to reading, to exhortation, and instruction. 14don't neglect the gift you have, which was given you with the ministerial charge, when you receiv'd imposition of hands from the presbytery. 15meditate upon these things, be wholly employ'd about them, that your proficiency may appear to all. 16take care how you behave, and what you teach, persevere in these duties: for by the practice of them, you will save both yourself, and those who hear you.