2 Timothy 2:1-15

1So you, my son, be strong [constantly strengthened] and empowered in the grace that is [to be found only] in Christ Jesus.

2The things [the doctrine, the precepts, the admonitions, the sum of my ministry] which you have heard me teach in the presence of many witnesses, entrust [as a treasure] to reliable and faithful men who will also be capable and qualified to teach others.

3Take with me your share of hardship [passing through the difficulties which you are called to endure], like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

4No soldier in active service gets entangled in the [ordinary business] affairs of civilian life; [he avoids them] so that he may please the one who enlisted him to serve.

5And if anyone competes as an athlete [in competitive games], he is not crowned [with the wreath of victory] unless he competes according to the rules.

6The hard-working farmer [who labors to produce crops] ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops.

7Think over the things I am saying [grasp their application], for the Lord will grant you insight and understanding in everything.

8Remember Jesus Christ [the ever-living Lord who has] risen from the dead, [as the prophesied King] descended from David [king of Israel], according to my gospel [the good news that I preach],

9for that [gospel] I am suffering even to [the point of] wearing chains like a criminal; but the word of God is not chained or imprisoned!

10For this reason I [am ready to] patiently endure all things for the sake of those who are the elect (God’s chosen ones), so that they too may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it the reward of eternal glory.

11This is a faithful and trustworthy saying: If we died with Him, we will also live with Him;

12If we endure, we will also reign with Him; If we deny Him, He will also deny us;

13If we are faithless, He remains faithful [true to His word and His righteous character], for He cannot deny Himself.

14Remind the people of these facts, and solemnly charge them in the presence of God to avoid petty controversy over words, which does no good, and [upsets and undermines and] ruins [the faith of] those who listen.

15Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth.