Approved and Disapproved Workers

¹⁴ Remind them of these things, ^(A)charging them before the Lord not to ^[a]strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. ^15 (B)Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. ¹⁶ But shun profane and ^[b]idle babblings, for they will ^[c]increase to more ungodliness.

¹⁹ Nevertheless ^(A)the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord ^(B)knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of ^[a]Christ depart from iniquity.”

²⁰ But in a great house there are not only ^(C)vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. ²¹ Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, ^[b]sanctified and useful for the Master, ^(D)prepared for every good work. ^22 (E)Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. ²³ But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. ²⁴ And ^(F)a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, ^(G)able to teach, ^(H)patient, ^25 (I)in humility correcting those who are in opposition, ^(J)if God perhaps will grant them repentance, ^(K)so that they may know the truth, ²⁶ and that they may come to their senses and ^(L)escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.