Study Desk

among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have turned over to Satan, so that they may learn not to blaspheme.

Yet she will be saved through childbearing, provided they continue in faith and love and holiness, with modesty.

And let them first be tested; then, if they prove themselves blameless, let them serve as deacons.

They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.

If a widow has children or grandchildren, they should first learn their religious duty to their own family and make some repayment to their parents; for this is pleasing in God's sight.

and so they incur condemnation for having violated their first pledge.

Besides that, they learn to be idle, gadding about from house to house; and they are not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, saying what they should not say.

So also good works are conspicuous; and even when they are not, they cannot remain hidden.

Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful to them on the ground that they are members of the church; rather they must serve them all the more, since those who benefit by their service are believers and beloved. Teach and urge these duties.

They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share,

Remind them of this, and warn them before God that they are to avoid wrangling over words, which does no good but only ruins those who are listening.

Have nothing to do with stupid and senseless controversies; you know that they breed quarrels.

correcting opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth,

and that they may escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.

Tell slaves to be submissive to their masters and to give satisfaction in every respect; they are not to talk back,

not to pilfer, but to show complete and perfect fidelity, so that in everything they may be an ornament to the doctrine of God our Savior.

But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.

Make every effort to send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way, and see that they lack nothing.

And let people learn to devote themselves to good works in order to meet urgent needs, so that they may not be unproductive.

like a cloak you will roll them up, and like clothing they will be changed. But you are the same, and your years will never end."