(8) Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, (9) that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
(8) The third admonition: the pastor must hold fast that doctrine which the apostles delivered, and pertains to salvation, leaving behind all curious and vain matters. (9) The fourth admonition: to apply the knowledge of true doctrine to use, which consists in two things, that is, in governing those who show themselves able to learn, and confuting the obstinate.