A. 15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
B. 16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. 17 And their word will eat as doth a canker:of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; 18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
C. 19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
D. 20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
D’. 21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.
C’. 22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
B’. 23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
A’. 24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken who are taken captive by him at his will.
Note: the centre of this passage is the need to purge out lusts so that the disciples can be useful in the service of the Lord. Timothy should avoid debates that generate strife (BB’), and give attention to correctly understanding and applying scripture in the right spirit (AA’).
I am new to Chiasmus study. Why is point E not considered D’?
Thanks Trey for spotting this error. We are always grateful to receive corrections and better proposals.
A. Workers (Words)
1. Generally Expressed 14-15
a. 14
b. 15
b’
a’
2. Specifically Explained 16-18
a. 16
b.1. 17
2.
b’2’ 18
1’
a’
B. Building 19
B’ Building 20-21
a x.
y.
b.
b’
a’ y”
x”
A’ Workers (Virtue) 22-26
a. Flee/Pursue 22
b. 1. 23
2.
b’ 2’ 24
1’
a’ Escape/Capture 25-26