for this cause was mercy given unto me, that Jesus Christ should first show on me all long patience, unto the example of them which shall, in time to come, believe on him unto eternal life.

This commandment commit I unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which in time past were prophesied of thee, that thou in them shouldest fight a good fight,

who gave Himself as a ransom for all, a fact that was testified to at the proper time,

But if they go on in faith and love and holy self-control, she will be kept safe at the time of childbirth.

This I write, tho' I hope to make you a visit in a little time, that in case I am retarded,

For physical training is useful to some extent [or, "for a short time"], but living godly is useful in every way, for it promises benefits [not only] for the present life, but [also] for the life to come.

Never neglect the gift within you, which was given in fulfilment of prophecy at the time of the laying on of hands by the elders.

And also at the same time they learn to be idle, roving the houses, and not only idle, but also babbling and meddlesome, speaking things that they ought not.

to obey this command without [moral] blemish or blame. [Note: This "command" probably refers to Timothy's responsibility to fulfill his ministry. See verses 11-12; II Tim. 4:1-2]. [Do this] until our Lord Jesus Christ returns,

which will be brought about in His own time by the blessed, only Sovereign, the King of kings, the Lord of lords,

Making ready for themselves a safe place for the time to come, so that the true life may be theirs.