1 Timothy 5:25 - Printer Friendly

ESV: So also good works are conspicuous, and even those that are not cannot remain hidden.

NIV: In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not obvious cannot remain hidden forever.

NASB: Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident, and those which are otherwise cannot be concealed.

CSB: Likewise, good works are obvious, and those that are not obvious cannot remain hidden.

NLT: In the same way, the good deeds of some people are obvious. And the good deeds done in secret will someday come to light.

KJV: Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.

NKJV: Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.

In this final verse, Paul concludes his words on elders beginning in verse 17 and completes the second half of his statement from the previous verse. In contrast with those with obvious sins and those who conceal sins, he mentions two categories of people known for good works. First, he writes that some good deeds are obvious to others and seen by many people.

Second, however, are good works which are not as clear. Just as human eyes can miss the hidden sins of others, so too can human eyes miss the good done by fellow human beings. And yet, both sins and good works are known by God. Even minor, less obvious, or secret good deeds cannot be hidden (Matthew 6:4). God sees everything, and people eventually discover the good works of others as well. These words closely reflect Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount that state: "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).

First Timothy 5:17–25 provides guidelines on how a church should honor elders. It also refers to the proper way to discipline them, if this becomes necessary. Those who devote themselves to serving the church should be supported, meaning paid, so they can fully focus on the needs of the congregation. Accusations should only be taken seriously when there is sufficient evidence. And elders who are found in sin should be publicly rebuked. Paul also warns Timothy not to be too hasty in assigning elders, since some men's sins are hidden and hard to detect.

First Timothy chapter 5 focuses on Timothy's supervision of those within the church. This includes a respectful attitude towards both men and women, young and old. A large portion of the chapter deals with how to care for widows. The theme of Paul's instruction is prioritizing those who are truly in need, and not enabling those who are merely lazy. Timothy is also instructed on how to screen out baseless accusations against an elder, and how to properly discipline them if they are found in sin. With that in mind, Timothy is also warned not to be reckless in who he appoints as an elder.

Prior passages explained the burden placed on Timothy and other church leaders. In this chapter, the emphasis is on how Timothy is to treat others in the congregation. A large portion of this refers to prioritizing charity for widows. This passage will more or less complete Paul's specific instructions to Timothy in this letter. The next (final) chapter will build on all of these themes with a command for Timothy to make the most of his spiritual service.

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.

Accessed 11/26/2024 10:20:53 PM