1 Timothy 4

1The Spirit clearly says that in later times some people will turn away from the faith. They will follow lying spirits and teachings that come from demons.

2Such teachings come from liars who pretend to be sincere, whose consciences have been burned and made numb.

3They tell people not to marry and not to eat certain foods. But God created these foods to be received with thanks by those who believe and know the truth.

4Everything God created is good, and nothing should be refused if it is received with thanks,

5because it is made holy by the word of God and by prayer.

6If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, fed by the words of the faith and the good teaching you have followed.

7Have nothing to do with godless, silly stories. Instead, train yourself to be godly.

8Training the body has some value, but being godly has value for everything. It holds promise both for this life and for the life to come.

9Here is a true saying that everyone should accept.

10This is why we work hard and struggle: because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Saviour of all people, and especially of those who believe.

11Command and teach these things.

12Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young. Instead, set an example for the believers in your speech, your life, your love, your faith, and your purity.

13Until I come, give your attention to reading the Scriptures to the church, to encouraging people, and to teaching.

14Do not neglect the gift that is in you, the gift that was given to you through prophecy when the elders laid their hands on you.

15Practice these things and give yourself fully to them, so that everyone can see your progress.

16Watch your life and your teaching closely. Keep at it, because if you do, you will save both yourself and those who hear you.