2 Timothy 3:5

Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἔχοντες

G2192

Having

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

μόρφωσιν

G3446

a form

formation, i.e., (by implication), appearance (semblance or (concretely) formula)

εὐσεβείας

G2150

of godliness

piety; specially, the gospel scheme

τὴν

G3588

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

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

δύναμιν

G1411

the power

force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)

αὐτῆς

G846

thereof

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

ἠρνημένοι·

G720

denying

to contradict, i.e., disavow, reject, abnegate

καὶ

G2532

from

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

#10

τούτους

G5128

such

these (persons, as objective of verb or preposition)

#11

ἀποτρέπου

G665

turn away

to deflect, i.e., (reflexively) avoid

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Timothy Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?