1 Timothy 4

Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

Demonic Influence

4 Now the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons,² through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared. ³ They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods that God created to be received with gratitude by those who believe and know the truth. ⁴ For everything created by God is good, and nothing should be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, ⁵ since it is sanctified by the word of God and by prayer.

A Good Servant of Jesus Christ

⁶ If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of the faith and the good teaching that you have followed. ⁷ But have nothing to do with irreverent and silly myths. Rather, train yourself in godliness, ⁸ for

⁹ This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance. ¹⁰ In fact, we labor and strive^[a] for this, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of everyone, especially of those who believe.

Instructions for Ministry

¹¹ Command and teach these things. ¹² Let no one despise your youth; instead, you should be an example to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love,^[b] in faith, in purity. ¹³ Until I come, give your attention to public reading, exhortation, and teaching. ¹⁴ Do not neglect the gift that is in you; it was given to you through prophecy, with the laying on of hands by the council of elders. ¹⁵ Practice these things; be committed to them, so that your progress may be evident to all. ¹⁶ Pay close attention to your life and your teaching; persevere in these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.