Paul exhorts Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:22: 'Flee youthful passions (νεωτερικὰς ἐπιθυμίας) and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace.' The adjective denotes what is natural or typical to youth—not necessarily sinful in itself, but prone to excess and immaturity. Classical usage applies the term to youthful vigor, impetuosity, and lack of discipline. Timothy, though perhaps in his thirties, is still 'young' relative to his leadership role and the older members of his congregation. Paul's counsel is pastoral: recognize the vulnerabilities of your stage of life, guard against impulsiveness (whether sexual, relational, or ideological), and cultivate the settled virtues of mature faith.