2 Timothy 2:14-26 - A Worker Approved To God And Not Ashamed

¹⁴ Remind [people] of these [things], solemnly urging [them] before the Lord not to dispute about words. [This is] in no way beneficial [and leads to] the ruin of the hearers. ¹⁵ Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, a worker having no need to be ashamed, guiding the word of truth along a straight path. ¹⁶ But avoid pointless chatter, for it will progress to greater ungodliness, ¹⁷ and their message {will spread} like gangrene, among whom are Hymenaeus and Philetus, ¹⁸ who have deviated concerning the truth [by] saying the resurrection has already taken place, and they are upsetting the faith of some. ¹⁹ However, the solid foundation of God stands firm, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are his," and "Everyone who names the name of the Lord must abstain from unrighteousness."

²⁰ Now in a great house [there] are not only gold and silver vessels, but also wooden and earthenware [ones], some of which [are] for honorable use, and some of which [are] for ordinary use. ²¹ Therefore, if someone cleanses himself from these [things], he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.

²² But flee from youthful desires, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, [and] peace, in company with those who call upon the Lord from a pure heart. ²³ But avoid foolish and uninformed controversies, [because you] know that they produce quarrels. ²⁴ And the slave of the Lord must not quarrel, but be kind toward everyone, skillful in teaching, tolerant, ²⁵ correcting those who are opposed with gentleness, [seeing] whether perhaps God may grant them repentance to a knowledge of the truth, ²⁶ and they will come to their senses again [and escape] from the trap of the devil, being held captive by him to [do] his will.