2 Timothy 2:12-26

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, for he cannot deny himself.

14Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to fight about words. This is useless and leads to the ruin of those who listen.

15Be diligent to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth.

16Avoid irreverent and empty speech, since those who engage in it will produce even more godlessness,

17and their teaching will spread like gangrene. Hymenaeus and Philetus are among them.

18They have departed from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and are ruining the faith of some.

19Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, bearing this inscription: The Lord knows those who are his, and let everyone who calls on the name of the Lord turn away from wickedness.

20Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also those of wood and clay; some for honorable use and some for dishonorable.

21So if anyone purifies himself from anything dishonorable, he will be a special instrument, set apart, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.

22Flee from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

23But reject foolish and ignorant disputes, because you know that they breed quarrels.

24The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach, and patient,

25instructing his opponents with gentleness. Perhaps God will grant them repentance leading them to the knowledge of the truth.

26Then they may come to their senses and escape the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.