2 Timothy 2:1-15

1My child, find your source of strength in the kindness  of Christ Jesus.

2You’ve heard my message, and it’s been confirmed by many witnesses. Entrust this message to faithful individuals who will be competent to teach others.

3Join me in suffering like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

4Whoever serves in the military doesn’t get mixed up in non-military activities. This pleases his commanding officer.

5Whoever enters an athletic competition wins the prize only when playing by the rules.

6A hard-working farmer should have the first share of the crops.

7Understand what I’m saying. The Lord will help you understand all these things.

8Always think about Jesus Christ. He was brought back to life and is a descendant of David. This is the Good News that I tell others.

9I’m suffering disgrace for spreading this Good News. I have even been put into prison like a criminal. However, God’s word is not imprisoned.

10For that reason, I endure everything for the sake of those who have been chosen so that they, too, may receive salvation from Christ Jesus with glory that lasts forever.

11This is a statement that can be trusted: If we have died with him, we will live with him.

12If we endure, we will rule with him. If we disown him, he will disown us.

13If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful because he cannot be untrue to himself.

14Remind believers about these things, and warn them in the sight of God not to quarrel over words. Quarreling doesn’t do any good but only destroys those who are listening.

15Do your best to present yourself to God as a tried-and-true worker who isn’t ashamed to teach the word of truth correctly.