1 Timothy 4

International Standard Version

A Prophecy about the Future

4 Now the Spirit says clearly that in the last times some people will abandon the faith by following deceitful spirits, the teachings of demons, ² and the hypocrisy of liars, whose consciences have been burned by a hot iron. ³ They will try to stop people from marrying and from eating certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. ⁴ For everything God created is good, and nothing should be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, ⁵ because it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

How to be a Good Servant of the Messiah Jesus

⁶ If you continue to point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good servant of the Messiah^[a] Jesus, nourished by the words of the faith and the healthy teaching that you have followed closely. ⁷ Do not have anything to do with godless myths and fables of old women. Instead, train yourself to be godly. ⁸ Physical exercise is of limited value, but

⁹ This is a trustworthy saying that deserves complete acceptance.^{[b] 10} To this end we work hard and struggle,^[c] because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, that is, of those who believe.

¹¹ These are the things you must insist on and teach. ¹² Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for other believers in your speech, behavior, love, faithfulness,^[d] and purity. ¹³ Until I arrive, give your full concentration to the public reading of Scripture,^[e] to exhorting, and to teaching. ¹⁴ Do not neglect^[f] the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy when the elders laid their hands on you. ¹⁵ Think on these things. Devote your life to them so that everyone can see your progress. ¹⁶ Pay close attention to your life and your teaching. Persevere in these things, because if you do so, you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.