2:1 So you, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2:2 And what you heard from me through many witnesses entrust to faithful people who will have the ability to teach others as well.
2:3 Bear your share of hardship along with me like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
2:4 To satisfy the one who recruited him, a soldier does not become entangled in the business affairs of life.
2:5 Similarly, an athlete cannot receive the winner’s crown except by competing according to the rules.
2:6 The hardworking farmer ought to have the first share of the crop.
2:7 Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
2:8 Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David: such is my gospel,
2:9 for which I am suffering, even to the point of chains, like a criminal. But the word of God is not chained.
2:10 Therefore, I bear with everything for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, together with eternal glory.
2:11 This saying is trustworthy: If we have died with him we shall also live with him;
2:12 if we persevere we shall also reign with him. But if we deny him he will deny us.
2:13 If we are unfaithful he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself.
2:14 Remind people of these things and charge them before God to stop disputing about words. This serves no useful purpose sinceit harms those who listen.
2:15 Be eager to present yourself as acceptable to God, a workman who causes no disgrace, imparting the word of truth without deviation.
2:16 Avoid profane, idle talk, for such people will become more and more godless,
2:17 and their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus,
2:18 who have deviated from the truth by saying that (the) resurrection has already taken place and are upsetting the faith of some.
2:19 Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands, bearing this inscription, "The Lord knows those who are his"; and, "Leteveryone who calls upon the name of the Lord avoid evil."
2:20 In a large household there are vessels not only of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for lofty and others for humble use.
2:21 If anyone cleanses himself of these things, he will be a vessel for lofty use, dedicated, beneficial to the master of the house, ready for every good work.
2:22 So turn from youthful desires and pursue righteousness, faith,love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord with purity of heart.
2:23 Avoid foolish and ignorant debates, for you know that they breed quarrels.
2:24 A slave of the Lord should not quarrel, but should be gentle with everyone, able to teach, tolerant,
2:25 correcting opponents with kindness. It may be that God will grant them repentance that leads to knowledge of the truth,
2:26 and that they may return to their senses out of the devil’s snare, where they are entrapped by him, for his will.