1 Timothy 4:16 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.

NIV: Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

NASB: Pay close attention to yourself and to the teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.

CSB: Pay close attention to your life and your teaching; persevere in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.

NLT: Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.

KJV: Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

NKJV: Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.

Paul's concluding verse in this passage offers much wisdom. First, Timothy is to evaluate himself, perhaps again building on the athletic analogy used in verses 8 and 15. The areas he is to evaluate include his life and his teaching. Both were developed earlier in this chapter and are essential to effective ministry. The ability to understand, teach, and live out the truths of the gospel are essential to the work of a Christian church leader. These have been the theme of Paul's message in this passage.

In addition, Paul refers to persistence, a key theme both in physical training and in our spiritual life. For example, Hebrews 12:1 teaches, "… let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." Timothy's persistence would "save both yourself and your hearers." This was not about Timothy earning his salvation. He was saved by faith (Ephesians 2:8–9). However, he could save his life and those of his church from the error of false teaching through his example and by teaching the truth.

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 5/4/2024 5:04:39 AM