What does 1 Timothy 6:21 mean?

This final verse consists of two parts. First, Paul finishes his thought begun in the last sentence, a reference to false teachings such as Gnosticism.

The word translated "swerve" is the Greek term ēstochēsan, communicating the idea of turning or deviating. Paul used this same basic term in 2 Timothy 2:17–18 regarding "Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have swerved from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened. They are upsetting the faith of some." Those who held to false teachings, as mentioned in the previous verse, have turned away from the true faith or gospel Paul had taught. Timothy is to avoid their tragic end.

Paul then ends this letter with his familiar words, "Grace be with you." These were also the concluding words of Colossians (Colossians 4:18), 2 Timothy (2 Timothy 4:22), and Titus (Titus 3:15). Paul didn't end his message with a statement on false teachers. Instead, he chose to wrap up his letter to his young protégé Timothy with a final emphasis on God's grace, an appropriate and encouraging thought both for Timothy and readers today.