¹⁹ Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm,^(A) sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,”^(B) and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord^(C) must turn away from wickedness.”

²⁰ In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use.^{(D) 21} Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.^(E)

²² Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love^(F) and peace, along with those who call on the Lord^(G) out of a pure heart.^{(H) 23} Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.^{(I) 24} And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.^{(J) 25} Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth,^{(K) 26} and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil,^(L) who has taken them captive to do his will.