1 Timothy 4:8

Authorized King James Version

For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἡ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

σωματικὴ

G4984

bodily

corporeal or physical

γυμνασία

G1129

exercise

training, i.e., (figuratively) asceticism

πρὸς

G4314

little

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

ὀλίγον

G3641

puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat

ἐστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

ὠφέλιμός

G5624

profitable

helpful or serviceable, i.e., advantageous

ἡ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#10

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#11

εὐσέβεια

G2150

godliness

piety; specially, the gospel scheme

#12

πρὸς

G4314

little

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

#13

πάντα

G3956

all things

all, any, every, the whole

#14

ὠφέλιμός

G5624

profitable

helpful or serviceable, i.e., advantageous

#15

ἐστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

#16

ἐπαγγελίαν

G1860

promise

an announcement (for information, assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good)

#17

ἔχουσα

G2192

having

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

#18

ζωῆς

G2222

of the life

life (literally or figuratively)

#19

τῆς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#20

νῦν

G3568

that now is

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

#21

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#22

τῆς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#23

μελλούσης

G3195

of that which is to come

to intend, i.e., be about to be, do, or suffer something (of persons or things, especially events; in the sense of purpose, duty, necessity, probabili

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to 1 Timothy. The concept of life reflects the development of covenant within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on covenant particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding life in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about covenant?
What practical applications emerge from understanding covenant as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Timothy chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?