V. The Spreading of the Decline
Like That of Gangrene
Like That of Gangrene
- But avoid profane, vain babblings, for they will advance to more ungodliness,
- And their word will spread like gangrene, of whom are Hymenaeus and Philetus,
- Who concerning the truth have misaimed, saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and overthrow the faith of some.
- However the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, The Lord knows those who are His, and, Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.
- But in a great house there are not only gold and silver vessels but also wooden and earthen; and some are unto honor, and some unto dishonor.
- If therefore anyone cleanses himself from these, he will be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, useful to the master, prepared unto every good work.
- But flee youthful lusts, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
- But foolish questionings and those arising from an untrained mind refuse, knowing that they beget contentions.
- But a slave of the Lord ought not to contend but be gentle toward all, apt to teach, bearing with wrong;
- In meekness correcting those who oppose, if perhaps God may give them repentance unto the full knowledge of the truth,
- And they may return to soberness out of the snare of the devil, having been caught alive by him, unto His will.