What is the meaning of 1 Timothy 4:9? This Paul has just affirmed, “For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come.” (1 Timothy 4:8). • “This” points directly back to that declaration about the surpassing worth of godliness. • Every believer, whether young like Timothy or seasoned like Paul, needs the reminder that spiritual discipline has eternal dividends (2 Peter 1:3–11). • Similar “this” references call attention to foundational truths, such as “This is how God showed His love among us” (1 John 4:9) and “This hope we have as an anchor for the soul” (Hebrews 6:19). In each case, Scripture drives us to focus on an unshakable reality. is A present-tense verb underscores certainty. The statement about godliness is not hypothetical; it presently stands true and will remain so (Isaiah 40:8; Matthew 24:35). • God’s promises are active for “today” (Hebrews 3:13). • Because the word “is” indicates continuing fact, we can lean on it no matter the cultural moment or personal season (Psalm 119:89–90). a trustworthy saying Paul uses this phrase five times (1 Timothy 1:15; 3:1; 4:9; 2 Timothy 2:11; Titus 3:8). Each instance highlights bedrock doctrine. • Trustworthy = reliable, free from error; it can be staked with one’s life (John 17:17). • Saying = a concise gospel-rich truth that could be easily memorized and shared within the early church (2 Timothy 1:13–14). • Because the Spirit inspired every word (2 Peter 1:21), the church is called to repeat and rely on such summaries without reservation. worthy of full acceptance Paul urges not partial assent but wholehearted embrace. • The same expression is used in 1 Timothy 1:15 concerning Christ’s saving mission, showing that doctrinal truth and practical godliness deserve equal acceptance. • “Full acceptance” means the mind believes, the heart treasures, and the will obeys (Acts 2:41; James 1:21–22). • Anything less than full acceptance opens the door to drift (Hebrews 2:1), so Paul presses Timothy—and us—to welcome and live out the truth. summary 1 Timothy 4:9 stands like a bold signpost in the letter: the declaration that godliness is supremely profitable “is” a rock-solid, Spirit-breathed statement. Because it is trustworthy, believers can rest their confidence on it. Because it is worthy of full acceptance, we are called to embrace it with undivided hearts, letting its promise of present and eternal benefit fuel disciplined, Christ-honoring lives. |
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