1 Timothy 4:16
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.
Original Language Analysis
ἔπεχε
Take heed
G1907
ἔπεχε
Take heed
Strong's:
G1907
Word #:
1 of 17
to hold upon, i.e., (by implication) to retain; (by extension) to detain; (with implication, of g3563) to pay attention to
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
διδασκαλίᾳ
unto the doctrine
G1319
διδασκαλίᾳ
unto the doctrine
Strong's:
G1319
Word #:
5 of 17
instruction (the function or the information)
ἐπίμενε
continue
G1961
ἐπίμενε
continue
Strong's:
G1961
Word #:
6 of 17
to stay over, i.e., remain (figuratively, persevere)
αὐτοῖς·
in them
G846
αὐτοῖς·
in them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
7 of 17
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
γὰρ
for
G1063
γὰρ
for
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
9 of 17
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ποιῶν
in doing
G4160
ποιῶν
in doing
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
10 of 17
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
11 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
σώσεις
save
G4982
σώσεις
save
Strong's:
G4982
Word #:
13 of 17
to save, i.e., deliver or protect (literally or figuratively)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
14 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
15 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Titus 1:9Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.Titus 2:7In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,1 Chronicles 28:10Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do it.Hebrews 12:15Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;2 Timothy 4:2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.2 Timothy 3:14But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;Hebrews 13:9Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.Isaiah 55:11So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.Ephesians 4:14That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;1 Timothy 1:3As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 1 Timothy was written around 62-64 CE from Macedonia to Timothy pastoring in Ephesus.
Occasion: Providing pastoral instructions. These 'Pastoral Epistles' provided guidance for church leadership and organization. False teachers threatened sound doctrine, requiring strong, qualified leadership.
First-century believers lived in a pluralistic, pagan society with many parallels to today. Social structures, economic pressures, and religious confusion all challenged Christian witness. Paul's instructions addressed both timeless theological truths and specific cultural situations.
Questions for Reflection
- How does 1 Timothy 4:16 deepen my understanding of the gospel and God's character?
- What specific action or attitude change does this verse call me to make this week?
- How does this passage point to Christ and His redemptive work?
Analysis & Commentary
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.
Paul provides pastoral instruction for church leadership and sound doctrine. This verse contributes to Paul's overall purpose in 1 Timothy: Instruct in church leadership and sound doctrine. The key themes of church order, leadership qualifications, false teaching are evident in this passage.