Remind your people of this, and give them a solemn warning in God's presence not to fight over words. It does no good, but only ruins the people who listen.

Keep away from profane and foolish discussions, which only drive people farther away from God.

Tell them to give up those legends and those long lists of ancestors, which only produce arguments; they do not serve God's plan, which is known by faith.

But keep away from those godless legends, which are not worth telling. Keep yourself in training for a godly life.

is swollen with pride and knows nothing. He has an unhealthy desire to argue and quarrel about words, and this brings on jealousy, disputes, insults, evil suspicions,

and constant arguments from people whose minds do not function and who no longer have the truth. They think that religion is a way to become rich.

But avoid stupid arguments, long lists of ancestors, quarrels, and fights about the Law. They are useless and worthless.