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4:1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will renounce the faith by paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 4:2 through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared with a hot iron. 4:3 They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4:4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided it is received with thanksgiving; 4:5 for it is sanctified by God's word and by prayer. 4:6 If you put these instructions before the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound teaching that you have followed. 4:7 Have nothing to do with profane myths and old wives' tales. Train yourself in godliness, 4:8 for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 4:9 The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. 4:10 For to this end we toil and struggle, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. 4:11 These are the things you must insist on and teach. 4:12 Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 4:13 Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhorting, to teaching. 4:14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders. 4:15 Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. 4:16 Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.