If we endure, we will also reign with him. ¹  If we deny ²  him, ³  he will also deny us.

If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, since he cannot deny himself. ¹ 

But understand this, that in the last days difficult ¹  times will come.

They will maintain the outward appearance ¹  of religion but will have repudiated its power. So avoid people like these. ² 

Because of this, in fact, I suffer as I do. ¹  But I am not ashamed, because I know the one in whom my faith is set ²  and I am convinced that he is able to protect what has been entrusted to me ³  until that day. ⁴ 

You know that everyone in the province of Asia ¹  deserted me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes.

Remind people ¹  of these things and solemnly charge them ²  before the Lord ³  not to wrangle over words. This is of no benefit; it just brings ruin on those who listen. ⁴ 

and they will come to their senses and escape the devil’s trap where they are held captive ¹  to do his will. ² 

May the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that day! ¹  And you know very well all the ways he served me in Ephesus. ² 

And entrust what you heard me say ¹  in the presence of many others as witnesses ²  to faithful people ³  who will be competent ⁴  to teach others as well.

So I endure all things for the sake of those chosen by God, ¹  that they too may obtain salvation in Christ Jesus and its eternal glory. ² 

So if someone cleanses himself of such behavior, ¹  he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart, useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.

For some of these insinuate themselves ¹  into households and captivate weak women ²  who are overwhelmed with sins and led along by various passions.

And just as Jannes and Jambres ¹  opposed Moses, so these people – who have warped minds and are disqualified in the faith ²  – also oppose the truth.

But they will not go much further, ¹  for their foolishness will be obvious to everyone, just like it was with Jannes and Jambres. ² 

However, God’s solid foundation remains standing, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” ¹  and “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord ²  must turn away from evil.”

Finally the crown of righteousness is reserved for me. The Lord, the righteous Judge, will award it to me in that day – and not to me only, but also to all who have set their affection on ¹  his appearing.