Godliness Has Value in All Things

Paul writes: But the Spirit says expressly that in later times some will fall away from the faith. They will follow deceiving teachings spread by liars whose consciences are hardened. These teachers forbid marriage and command people to avoid foods God made. Yet Paul answers, For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, since it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.

If Timothy teaches these things, he will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of the faith. Paul tells him to refuse silly myths and to train himself toward godliness. Bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has value in all things, having the promise of the life which is now and of that which is to come. Paul says they labor and suffer because they have set their hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.

Paul gives Timothy personal charges. Let no man despise your youth; but be an example to those who believe, in word, in your way of life, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity. Until Paul arrives, Timothy should devote himself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching. He must not neglect the gift given to him when the elders laid their hands on him. Paul tells him to be diligent and give himself wholly to these things, so his progress is clear to all. By watching his life and teaching closely, he will help both himself and those who hear him.