1 Timothy 6:20

Authorized King James Version

O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ὦ

G5599

as a sign of the vocative case, o; as a note of exclamation, oh

Τιμόθεε

G5095

Timothy

dear to god; timotheus, a christian

τὴν

G3588

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

παρακαταθήκην

G3872

that which is committed to thy trust

something put down alongside, i.e., a deposit (sacred trust)

φύλαξον

G5442

keep

to watch, i.e., be on guard (literally of figuratively); by implication, to preserve, obey, avoid

ἐκτρεπόμενος

G1624

avoiding

to deflect, i.e., turn away (literally or figuratively)

τὰς

G3588

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

βεβήλους

G952

profane

accessible (as by crossing the door-way), i.e., (by implication, of jewish notions) heathenish, wicked

κενοφωνίας

G2757

and vain babblings

empty sounding, i.e., fruitless discussion

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#11

ἀντιθέσεις

G477

oppositions

opposition, i.e., a conflict (of theories)

#12

τῆς

G3588

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

#13

ψευδωνύμου

G5581

falsely so called

untruly named

#14

γνώσεως

G1108

of science

knowing (the act), i.e., (by implication) knowledge

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Timothy, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Timothy.

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 salvation 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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 this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?