only conduct yourselves in a manner becoming the gospel of Christ, that whether I come to see you, or else am absent, I may have this account of you, that you are stedfastly of the same resolution, and unanimously contend for the faith of the gospel,

bring every thing to the test: if it be proof, abide by that:

attach'd to the truth, that has been taught him, that he may be able to teach others sound doctrine, and to convince those who oppose it.

but Christ govern'd his own house in quality of son and heir, and 'tis we that are his house, provided we stedfastly persevere unto the end in the publick profession of that hope, in virtue of which we glory.

who is passed into the heavens, Jesus the son of God, let us hold fast our profession. for we have

Let us stedfastly maintain the hope which we have avow'd, since he is faithful that has promised:

My beloved, as I was strongly bent upon writing to you of our common salvation, I thought it necessary to write to you at present, and exhort you to contend earnestly for the faith, which was once delivered to the saints.

hold that fast till I come.

remember therefore what thou hast received and heard: observe it and repent. if therefore thou art not vigilant, I will come upon thee as a thief, thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.

The form

an instructer of the ignorant, a teacher to the weak, because you have a clear view of the true meaning of the law.

but God be thanked, that you, who were the vassals of sin, have sincerely obeyed in the manner the gospel prescribed.

against licentiousness and unnatural passion, against men-stealers, lyars, perjured persons, and every thing that is inconsistent

If any one deviate from this doctrine, not adhering to the wholesome instructions of our Lord Jesus Christ, the true doctrine of piety,

As for you, teach nothing

Which

and what you heard me deliver in the presence of many, intrust to such persons of integrity as are qualified to instruct others

practise what I have taught, what you have learnt of me, what you have heard me preach, and seen me practise. this do, and the God of peace will then be with you.

In faith

having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the affection you have to all christians;

but the favour of our Lord display'd itself by that faith and charity, which was wrought in me by Jesus Christ.

General references

As for you, teach nothing