The reason I am reminding you [of these things] is so that you will rekindle the gift from God, which is in your life through the laying on my hands. [Note: This "gift" was probably his ordination to serve as an evangelist (See 4:1-5), and in addition, may have included a supernatural "spiritual gift" bestowed by the apostle Paul].

Of the gospel I was appointed a herald, apostle, and teacher; and that is the reason I am now undergoing these sufferings.

Because of which reason I also suffer these things. But I am not ashamed, for I know him whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that he is able to preserve my consignment for that day.

And what thou have heard from me through many witnesses, these things commit thou to faithful men who will be competent to teach others also.

Think over the things I am saying [grasp their application], for the Lord will grant you insight and understanding in everything.

Keep on reminding men of these things. Solemnly charge them before God to stop petty debating, which does no good at all but brings destruction on those who hear it.

and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among these people are Hymenaeus and Philetus,

But God's foundation stands unshaken, with these inscriptions: "The Lord knows the people who belong to Him" and "Everyone who bears the name of the Lord must abstain from evil."

So if a man will cleanse himself from these things, he will be an instrument for honorable uses, consecrated, useful for the Master, and ready for any good service.

But avoid foolish discussions with ignorant men, knowing--as you do--that these lead to quarrels;

having a form of piety, but repudiating the power of it. Now turn away from these men,

for from these are those who creep into houses, and take captive petty women laden with sins, being led away by various impulses,

always learning and listening to anybody who will teach them, but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Just as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, these people resist the truth, for they are depraved in mind and so counterfeits in the faith.

However, they will get no further, for their aberration will be detected by everyone, as was the case with these magicians.

But you have followed [Note: These words mean "to observe closely, have a keen interest in"] my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance,

as well as the persecutions and sufferings that happened to me in Antioch, in Iconium, and in Lystra. I endured these persecutions and the Lord delivered me from them all.

as for these impious impostors, they will go on from bad to worse, seducing others, and deluding themselves.

But you should continue [to believe and practice] what you have learned and been convinced of, knowing those from whom you learned it. [Note: These persons would include Lois and Eunice (See 1:5), as well as Paul himself].