1 Timothy 4:1 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,

NIV: The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.

NASB: But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,

CSB: Now the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons,

NLT: Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons.

KJV: Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

NKJV: Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons,

The beginning of chapter 4 transitions from Paul's personal and church policy, which was the focus of chapters 1–3, to the issue of false teachers. Verses 1 through 5 focus on the various dangers presented by these deceivers.

The opening phrase "the Spirit expressly says" is often met with confusion. There is no specific quotation in Scripture which matches this wording. Some believe that Paul was referring to information given directly to Paul in a special revelation. Others believe this might be a reference to some other, non-biblical work. However, the most likely interpretation is also the simplest. This idea that false teachers would arise to deceive Christians is a clear doctrine of Jesus (Mark 13:22), and is seen in other parts of the Bible. So, while the specific words in 1 Timothy 4:1 are not found elsewhere in the Bible, they reflect a truth which the Holy Spirit has "expressly" taught.

Paul's reference to "later times" is similar to that of 2 Timothy 3:1. Paul certainly has in mind the time he actually wrote this letter, since he spoke of these actions as taking place in Ephesus. However, this is a general forward-looking statement, incorporating all time until the eventual return of Christ.

Paul's prediction is that certain people associated with the Christian church will "depart." This verse, in and of itself, gives no specific indication whether these people are true believers who were deceived, or unbelievers. In either case, they were part of the church family, but later separate themselves from the faith. The motivation for their departure will be spiritual deception. This might involve actual spirit worship, common in the ancient world. Or, this may be a vague reference to false teachings (1 Timothy 4:3).

Paul often notes that any doctrines which contradict the gospel are inherently evil (Galatians 1:8–9). Saying that these are the teachings of "demons" is a potent way of declaring that their claims are contrary to the "sound doctrine" which was given by Christ (James 3:15).

First Timothy 4:1–5 transitions Paul's letter towards a discussion of false teachings. In this passage, Paul is especially concerned with teachers who encourage a practice known as asceticism. This is the rejection of worldly comforts in an effort to become more spiritual. In Paul's day, groups such as the Gnostics taught that sexuality and food were physical, and therefore corrupted. On the contrary, as Paul explains, everything God created can be more than just ''good.'' It can actually be ''holy,'' when used as God intended.

First Timothy 4 provides an important perspective in advance of Paul's upcoming instructions. After giving Timothy details on how to choose church leaders, and the proper conduct of church members, this chapter is mostly focused on Timothy's own personal spiritual choices. In particular, Paul instructs him to be diligent, faithful, and prepared. The stakes are high—both for Timothy and those he is called to lead. This chapter emphasizes the importance of good spiritual practice, which is key when considering Paul's advice in the passages both before and after these words.

First Timothy chapter 4 serves as a bridge from Paul's introduction into the later part of his letter. Prior chapters indicated the qualifications for church leaders, and some instructions on the proper way for church members to conduct themselves. Here, in chapter 4, Paul reminds Timothy not to be swayed by the false teachings of others. This combination of encouragement and warning sets the stage for the rest of Paul's message. The final two chapters will provide a means for Timothy to identify and avoid errors in his spiritual life.

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.