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20 Now in a great house there are not only articles of gold and silver, but also others of wood and of earthenware; and some are for specially honourable, and others for common use. 21 If therefore a man keeps himself clear of these latter, he himself will be for specially honourable use, consecrated, fit for the Master's service, and fully equipped for every good work. 22 Keep a strong curb, however, on your youthful cravings; and strive for integrity, good faith, love, peace, in company with all who pray to the Lord with pure hearts. 23 But avoid foolish discussions with ignorant men, knowing--as you do--that these lead to quarrels; 24 and a bondservant of the Lord must not quarrel, but must be inoffensive towards all men, a skilful teacher, and patient under wrongs. 25 He must speak in a gentle tone when correcting the errors of opponents, in the hope that God will at last give them repentance, for them to come to a full knowledge of the truth 26 and recover sober-mindedness and freedom from the Devil's snare, though they are now entrapped by him to do his will. 2 Timothy 2:20-26, Weymouth New Testament. Public domain.
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