Does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing

 Good morning. Teach and preach these (principles). The word “principles“ is in italics meaning that it’s not really in the text. This is not the first time in the letter that Paul has referred to “these“. Quite likely it refers back to everything he said, beginning with instructing certain men not to teach strange doctrines. That is supported by the next statement: If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose godliness (remember that these men had been talking about obeying the rules and regulations of the law) is a means of gain. But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. These men had no contentment, which is why they were trying to get others under the same bondage. Father help us to live godly lives with contentment.


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