by one who recognizes that laws were not made for good men, but for the lawless and disorderly, for irreligious and wicked people, for those who are irreverent and profane, for those who ill-treat their fathers or mothers, for murderers,

even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor, and an arrogant man. But I was treated with mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief,

But here is why I was treated with mercy: so that in me as the worst, Christ Jesus could demonstrate his utmost patience, as an example for those who are going to believe in him for eternal life.

Do not take only water as your drink, but take a little wine for the good of your stomach, and because you are frequently ill.

not a drunkard, not contentious, not greedy of ill gain, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous,

Likewise the deacons are to be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of ill gain,

he is puffed up with pride and has no true knowledge, but is crazy over discussions and controversies about words which give rise to envy, quarrelling, revilings, ill-natured suspicions,

Never reprove an older man, but always appeal to him as a father. Treat younger men like brothers,

Those whose masters are Christian believers must not treat them with disrespect, because they are brothers; nay, rather slave for them the better because those who get the benefit of their services are believing and beloved. Continue to teach and preach this.

to older women as mothers, to younger women as sisters, in all purity [being careful to maintain appropriate relationships].

Honor and help those widows who are truly widowed [alone, and without support].

All who are under the yoke of slavery must treat their masters with the greatest respect, so that the name of God and our teaching may not be abused.