New Testament Lesson
2 Timothy 2:14-21 (NRSV)
14 Remind them of this, and warn them before
God that they are to avoid wrangling over words, which does no
good but only ruins those who are listening. 15 Do your best
to present yourself to God as one approved by him, a worker who
has no need to be ashamed, rightly explaining the word of truth.
16 Avoid profane chatter, for it will lead people into more and
more impiety, 17 and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among
them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18 who have swerved from the
truth by claiming that the resurrection has already taken place.
They are upsetting the faith of some. 19 But God's firm foundation
stands, bearing this inscription: "The Lord knows those who
are his," and, "Let everyone who calls on the name of
the Lord turn away from wickedness."
20 In a large house there are utensils not only of gold and silver
but also of wood and clay, some for special use, some for ordinary.
21 All who cleanse themselves of the things I have mentioned
will become special utensils, dedicated and useful to the owner
of the house, ready for every good work.
The Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.