12. If we endure hardship,we will reign with him.If we deny him,he will deny us.
13. If we are unfaithful,he remains faithful,for he cannot deny who he is.
14. Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God’s presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them.
15. Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
16. Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior.
17. This kind of talk spreads like cancer, as in the case of Hymenaeus and Philetus.
18. They have left the path of truth, claiming that the resurrection of the dead has already occurred; in this way, they have turned some people away from the faith.
19. But God’s truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: “The lord knows those who are his,” and “All who belong to the lord must turn away from evil.”
20. In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use.