1 Timothy 1:17 - Printer Friendly

ESV: To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

NIV: Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

NASB: Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

CSB: Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

NLT: All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.

KJV: Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

NKJV: Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

It's not surprising that Paul, who recognizes the mercy of God in his own life, would conclude his testimony with praise. Paul calls God "the King of the ages." In the Greek of this passage, God is literally described as the eternal King. Paul will also use the phrase "King of kings" in 1 Timothy 6:15. Because God alone is the eternal King, we can pray for earthly kings (1 Timothy 2:2), but do not worship them as divine. The Roman practice of emperor worship sometimes created persecution among early Christians, who would not participate. Describing God as the King of the ages presents Him as higher than all authorities or other gods. This was especially important in Ephesus, a major city in which emperor worship took place.

God is also "immortal," meaning He does not die. He is "invisible" (John 1:18), and He is the only God (Exodus 20:1–4; Deuteronomy 6:4–5). He is to be given "honor and glory," indicating all worship and praise, common themes in the Psalms that Timothy would have known well. The closing phrase "forever and ever" can also be translated "to the ages of ages" and complements God as "King of the ages." The word "amen," meaning "be it so," concludes this brief praise.

This verse's depiction of God can be divided into parts which closely parallel Paul's doxology in 1 Timothy 6:15–16:

1 Timothy 1:17	1 Timothy 6:15-16
"To the King of the ages,	"the King of kings and Lord of lords,
immortal,	who alone has immortality,
invisible,	who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see.
the only God, be honor and glory	To him be honor
forever and ever.	and eternal dominion.
Amen."	Amen."

First Timothy 1:12–17 offers a glimpse into Paul's own personal background. In the prior passage, Paul explained how the Law is meant to convict people of their sin. He gave a list of immoral actions which parallel the Ten Commandments. Here, however, Paul proves his spiritual humility. He recognizes that his own sins were severe and that he can only credit the grace of God for saving him. Paul's change of life wasn't due to his own efforts, but was the result of Christ's miraculous work.

Paul introduces himself and emphasizes the positive relationship he has with Timothy. The specific mission Timothy has in Ephesus is to oppose false teaching. Some of the Ephesians have rejected the importance of conscience and attempt to teach without having the required knowledge. As a result, they bicker over pointless issues and misuse the law given by God. Paul recognizes his own need for forgiveness and salvation, and encourages Timothy with a reminder that they share a common savior.

The first chapter of 1 Timothy frames the situation Paul is concerned about. In particular, he is worried about the false teachers plaguing the Ephesian church. These men are misusing the law, teaching false doctrines, and rejecting the importance of a clear conscience. Paul points out his own past sins and need for forgiveness, however. By anchoring his arguments in truth and in humility, Paul sets up the importance of the letter's instructions. These are not merely suggestions, they are vital strategies Timothy needs to understand.

First Timothy is one of Paul's three ''Pastoral Epistles.'' Paul's other letters, such as Romans, Ephesians, and Colossians, are meant for a broader audience. First Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus are written to specific people whom Paul is advising on how to best lead their local churches. These three letters present a close look at the form and function of church leadership. First Timothy, like 2 Timothy and Titus, is less formal and systematic, and more personal. This gives great insight into the way pastors, deacons, and elders ought to prioritize their time and energy.