Make every effort to present yourself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately.

But reject foolish and ignorant controversies, because you know they breed infighting.

Remind people of these things and solemnly charge them before the Lord not to wrangle over words. This is of no benefit; it just brings ruin on those who listen.

Because of this, in fact, I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, because I know the one in whom my faith is set and I am convinced that he is able to protect what has been entrusted to me until that day.