Command and teach these things.

Do not lay hands on anyone hastily and so identify with the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.

Be conscientious about how you live and what you teach. Persevere in this, because by doing so you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.

I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these instructions to you

But reject those myths fit only for the godless and gullible, and train yourself for godliness.

Compete well for the faith and lay hold of that eternal life you were called for and made your good confession for in the presence of many witnesses.

Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that everyone will see your progress.

(Stop drinking just water, but use a little wine for your digestion and your frequent illnesses.)

But you, as a person dedicated to God, keep away from all that. Instead pursue righteousness, godliness, faithfulness, love, endurance, and gentleness.

Honor widows who are truly in need.

Do not address an older man harshly but appeal to him as a father. Speak to younger men as brothers,

I put this charge before you, Timothy my child, in keeping with the prophecies once spoken about you, in order that with such encouragement you may fight the good fight.

Do not neglect the spiritual gift you have, given to you and confirmed by prophetic words when the elders laid hands on you.

Some have strayed from these and turned away to empty discussion.

Reinforce these commands, so that they will be beyond reproach.

For some have already wandered away to follow Satan.

As I urged you when I was leaving for Macedonia, stay on in Ephesus to instruct certain people not to spread false teachings,

By pointing out such things to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, having nourished yourself on the words of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.

Let no one look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in your speech, conduct, love, faithfulness, and purity.

He alone possesses immortality and lives in unapproachable light, whom no human has ever seen or is able to see. To him be honor and eternal power! Amen.