Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus, by the will of God, sent forth to proclaim the promise of the life which is in Christ Jesus.

The teachings which you have heard from me, attested by many witnesses, deliver into the keeping of faithful men, who in their turn will be able to teach others also.

Reflect on what I am telling you. The Lord will give you understanding in everything.

If we endure suffering, we shall also reign with him. If we disown him, he too will disown us.

but avoid profane babble; for people will go farther and farther in impiety,

and their teaching will spread like a gangrene.

If then a man keeps himself clear of these latter, he will be a vessel for honor, consecrated, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.

and they may come to their senses again, and escape the snare of the devil, as they are restored to life by God to do his will.

But of this be sure. In the last days grievous times will come.

For men will be selfish, mercenary, boastful, haughty, blasphemous, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, irreligious,

They will hate goodness, they will be treacherous, reckless, blinded with pride, lovers of pleasure, rather than lovers of God.

But they will not get on; for their folly will be made as openly manifest to all as was that of Jannes and Jambres.

Yes, and all who purpose to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

But wicked men and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving others, and being themselves deceived.

For a time will come when they will not listen to wholesome teaching, but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will heap up for themselves teachers upon teachers to satisfy their own fancies.

They will turn away their ears from the truth, and turn aside to myths.

Henceforth there is laid up for me the garland of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that Day, and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved his appearing.

Alexander, the coppersmith, manifested bitter hostility toward me. The Lord will requite him according to his works.

And the Lord will rescue me from every evil assault, and will preserve me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever! Amen!