# They will have a shape of godliness, but they will deny its power

Paul speaks of godliness, the habit of honoring God, as if it were a physical object that had a shape and had physical power. Alternate translation: "They will appear to honor God, but they way they act will show that they do not really believe in God's power" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

# have a shape of godliness

"appear to have godliness" or "appear to honor God"

# Turn away from these people

"Turn away" here is a metaphor for avoiding someone. Alternate translation: "Avoid these people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])