Fluent Translation · Read & Reflect
2 Timothy 2
Be Strengthened by Grace
Therefore, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus. What you heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust to faithful people who will also be able to teach others. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in the affairs of ordinary life, so that they may please the one who enlisted them. Likewise, if someone competes as an athlete, they are not crowned unless they compete according to the rules. The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. Think about what I am saying, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
Remember Jesus Christ
Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David, according to my good news,
for which I suffer hardship, even to being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained.
For this reason I endure everything for the sake of the chosen ones, so that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
This saying is trustworthy:
If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
if we endure,
we will also reign with him;
if we deny him,
he also will deny us;
if we are faithless,
he remains faithful,
because he cannot deny himself.
A Worker Who Handles the Word of Truth Straight
Remind them of these things, solemnly warning them before God not to fight about words, which is useful for nothing and ruins those who listen. Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, handling the word of truth straight. But avoid godless empty talk, because it will advance toward greater ungodliness, and their word will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have departed from the truth, saying the resurrection has already happened, and they are overturning the trust of some. Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who belong to him,” and, “Let everyone who names the Lord’s name turn away from unrighteousness.”
A Vessel for Honorable Use
In a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels but also wooden and clay ones, some for honorable use and some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses themselves from these things, they will be a vessel for honorable use, made holy, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. Flee youthful desires, but pursue righteousness, trust, love, and peace together with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Reject foolish and ignorant controversies, knowing they produce fights. The Lord’s servant must not fight but must be gentle toward everyone, able to teach, patient when wronged, correcting opponents with gentleness. Perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape the devil’s trap, having been captured by him to do his will.