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.

correcting opponents with gentleness. Perhaps God will grant them repentance and then knowledge of the truth

Because of this I remind you to rekindle God’s gift that you possess through the laying on of my hands.

So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me, a prisoner for his sake, but by God’s power accept your share of suffering for the gospel.

But keep away from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faithfulness, love, and peace, in company with others who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

You, however, have followed my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, my faith, my patience, my love, my endurance,

and how from infancy you have known the holy writings, which are able to give you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

Protect that good thing entrusted to you, through the Holy Spirit who lives within us.

Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David; such is my gospel,

But avoid profane chatter, because those occupied with it will stray further and further into ungodliness,

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

But understand this, that in the last days difficult times will come.

They will maintain the outward appearance of religion but will have repudiated its power. So avoid people like these.

Such women are always seeking instruction, yet never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.

And they will turn away from hearing the truth, but on the other hand they will turn aside to myths.

However, God’s solid foundation remains standing, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from evil.”

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.

They have strayed from the truth by saying that the resurrection has already occurred, and they are undermining some people’s faith.

When you come, bring with you the cloak I left in Troas with Carpas and the scrolls, especially the parchments.

At my first defense no one appeared in my support; instead they all deserted me – may they not be held accountable for it.