1 Timothy 4:15 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.

NIV: Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.

NASB: Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.

CSB: Practice these things; be committed to them, so that your progress may be evident to all.

NLT: Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress.

KJV: Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.

NKJV: Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

Here Paul gives Timothy a specific command regarding the points he has just made. The larger context includes 1 Timothy 4:1–16. This verse likely focuses on the five areas of example mentioned in verse 12: speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. It also covers Paul's command to publically read Scripture, preach, and teach (1 Timothy 4:14). Timothy was to "practice" similar to the athletic analogy in verse 8. Also, Paul uses the Greek phrase en toutois isthi, literally meaning "be in" them. Some translations represent this as "immerse."

Timothy's life was to be so focused on serving Christ that it was obvious to everyone. Many people in Ephesus claimed to be believers. However, not all lived like it. One way Timothy could stand out, in addition to sound doctrine, was through a life that reflected the true teachings of the Christian faith. In contrast, the false teachers would reveal the wrong nature of their false teachings through their sinful actions.

First Timothy 4:11–16 focuses on Timothy's own personal conduct as the leader of a Christian church. Paul emphasizes ideas such as persistence, confidence, and diligence. Of particular importance is that Timothy live out an example for other believers. Among the most powerful counters to false teaching are the positive results spiritual truth can bring. Along with teaching the truth, Timothy must live it. By devoting himself to these principles, Paul reassures Timothy that he can be a powerful positive influence for Christ.

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.

Accessed 5/5/2024 5:16:06 AM