I am thankful to God, whom I have served with a clear conscience as my ancestors did, when I remember you in my prayers as I do constantly night and day.

He is the one who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not based on our works but on his own purpose and grace, granted to us in Christ Jesus before time began,

Because of this, in fact, I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, because I know the one in whom my faith is set and I am convinced that he is able to protect what has been entrusted to me until that day.

Protect that good thing entrusted to you, through the Holy Spirit who lives within us.

And entrust what you heard me say in the presence of many others as witnesses to faithful people who will be competent to teach others as well.

No one in military service gets entangled in matters of everyday life; otherwise he will not please the one who recruited him.

The farmer who works hard ought to have the first share of the crops.

Remind people of these things and solemnly charge them before the Lord not to wrangle over words. This is of no benefit; it just brings ruin on those who listen.

Make every effort to present yourself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately.

However, God's solid foundation remains standing, bearing this seal: "The Lord knows those who are his," and "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from evil."

But keep away from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faithfulness, love, and peace, in company with others who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

For some of these insinuate themselves into households and captivate weak women who are overwhelmed with sins and led along by various passions.

And just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these people -- who have warped minds and are disqualified in the faith -- also oppose the truth.

Now in fact all who want to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

You, however, must continue in the things you have learned and are confident about. You know who taught you

I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus, who is going to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom:

Finally the crown of righteousness is reserved for me. The Lord, the righteous Judge, will award it to me in that day -- and not to me only, but also to all who have set their affection on his appearing.