1 Timothy 6:11 kjv
But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
1 Timothy 6:11 nkjv
But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.
1 Timothy 6:11 niv
But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.
1 Timothy 6:11 esv
But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.
1 Timothy 6:11 nlt
But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.
1 Timothy 6 11 Cross References
| Verse | Text | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Timothy 6:11 | But you, man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. | Pursuit of Righteousness |
| Romans 6:13 | also do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. | Presented as instruments of righteousness |
| Galatians 5:22 | But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, | Fruit of the Spirit aligns with these virtues |
| 1 Corinthians 13:4 | Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant | Defining love and its attributes |
| Colossians 3:12 | Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; | Putting on Christ-like character |
| 2 Timothy 3:17 | that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. | Completeness for good works |
| Philippians 4:8 | Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. | Focus on commendable things |
| Titus 2:12 | training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age | Living godly lives |
| 1 Peter 3:11 | Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. | Seeking and pursuing peace |
| Hebrews 12:14 | Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. | Striving for holiness |
| Matthew 5:6 | "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. | Blessed are those who hunger for righteousness |
| Ephesians 4:24 | and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. | New self created in righteousness |
| 1 John 2:6 | whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. | Walking as Christ walked |
| 2 Peter 1:5-7 | Besides this, give all diligence, and in your faith practice virtue, and in your virtue knowledge, | Adding to faith the Christian virtues |
| James 1:4 | And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. | Steadfastness leads to completeness |
| 2 Corinthians 6:6 | by knowledge, by patience, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by genuine love, | Qualities in ministry |
| Romans 12:9 | Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. | Genuine love and holding to good |
| Galatians 6:1 | Brothers, if anyone is caught in any sin, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Look to yourself, lest you too be tempted. | Restoring in gentleness |
| 2 Timothy 2:22 | So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. | Similar exhortation to Timothy |
| 1 Corinthians 10:13 | No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation will also provide a way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. | God provides means to endure temptations |
1 Timothy 6 verses
1 Timothy 6 11 Meaning
This verse is a direct command from the Apostle Paul to Timothy, his spiritual son. It exhorts Timothy to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness. These are not merely abstract concepts but qualities that are to be actively cultivated and demonstrated in one's life as a follower of Christ. The verse is a summary of the Christian virtues Timothy, and by extension all believers, should strive for, especially in the context of pastoral ministry and in the face of false teachings.
1 Timothy 6 11 Context
First Timothy 6:11 is situated within Paul’s extended instruction to Timothy regarding the sound doctrine and godly living required of church leaders and believers. The preceding verses (1 Timothy 6:3-10) directly address the dangers of a divisive and covetous spirit fueled by false teachers who believed that godliness was a means of financial gain. Paul contrasts this misguided pursuit with the true contentment found in godliness coupled with provision. Therefore, verse 11 serves as a powerful directive, shifting Timothy’s focus from the corrupting influences and erroneous teachings of the time to the positive cultivation of essential Christian virtues. This admonishment is particularly relevant in the context of protecting the purity of the church from internal corruption and external worldly pressures.
1 Timothy 6 11 Word analysis
"But you": This emphatic phrase ('de' in Greek) signals a contrast with the previous discourse concerning those who err. It directly addresses Timothy.
"man of God": (anthrōpos tou theou). This is a significant designation, particularly when used in the Old Testament for prophets like Moses (Deut 33:1) and Elijah (1 Kings 17:24). Paul is elevating Timothy's calling and authority, linking him to the prophetic tradition as a spokesperson for God. It underscores his responsibility to uphold God's truth.
"flee these things": (diōkō). This verb, typically meaning "to chase" or "pursue," is here used with the prefix 'apo-', signifying "to flee away from" or "shun." It's a strong imperative to actively distance oneself from negative influences and behaviors, especially those associated with the love of money and false teaching.
"and pursue": (diōkō). The same verb is used here, but without the prefix. This conveys a dynamic, eager, and relentless pursuit. It's not passive hoping but active chasing after. The imperative mood indicates a command that requires immediate and continuous action.
"righteousness": (dikaiosunēn). This refers to conforming to God's will and standard, both in right standing with God (justification) and in right living (sanctification). It's living according to God’s law and character.
"godliness": (eusebeian). This denotes piety, devotion, and reverence towards God, manifesting in a life that honors Him. It’s a life lived in the presence and power of God, reflecting His nature.
"faith": (pistin). This is multi-faceted. It encompasses belief in God and His word, and also faithfulness, a steadfast trust and commitment to Him. It's both doctrinal assent and relational reliance.
"love": (agapēn). This is the self-giving, sacrificial love commanded by Christ, distinct from mere affection. It is a volitional love, a commitment to the well-being of others, mirroring God's love.
"steadfastness": (hupomonēn). This means endurance, perseverance, or patience. It’s the ability to remain firm and unwavering under trial or opposition, holding fast to one's convictions.
"gentleness": (prautēta). This translates to meekness, mildness, or considerateness. It’s not weakness but strength under control, a humble and considerate disposition towards others, especially those who are weak or in error. It is Christ-like humility in action.
Groups of Virtues: The verse lists a progression of desirable qualities:
- Foundational: Righteousness and Godliness are the basis of a spiritual life.
- Relational: Faith, Love, and Steadfastness are outward-focused or endurance-focused in practice.
- Dispositional: Gentleness is the overall attitude in pursuing these virtues and interacting with others.
"Flee... and pursue": The parallel usage of the same strong verb "diōkō" emphasizes a balanced approach – active avoidance of sin and active pursuit of holiness. One must run from evil with as much vigor as one runs toward righteousness.
1 Timothy 6 11 Bonus section
The phrase "man of God" is a significant designation that Paul uses, linking Timothy to the prophetic tradition. Just as Old Testament prophets were God's mouthpieces, Timothy, as a pastor, is called to faithfully proclaim God's word and live by its principles, regardless of opposition. The comprehensive list of virtues serves as a spiritual discipline guide. The command to both "flee" from evil and "pursue" good highlights the active and intentional nature of Christian growth. This dual emphasis ensures that believers are not only on guard against sin but also actively cultivating positive spiritual fruit. The pursuit of these virtues is an ongoing process, requiring constant vigilance and effort, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The context underscores that true contentment and a fruitful ministry are found not in material wealth, but in this pursuit of Christ-like character.
1 Timothy 6 11 Commentary
Paul charges Timothy, as a servant of God, to actively detach himself from harmful desires and philosophies, specifically referencing the love of money and its corrupting influence discussed earlier. Instead of succumbing to such distractions, Timothy is to relentlessly pursue a life characterized by key Christian virtues. This pursuit is not passive but an energetic chase. Righteousness refers to living a life aligned with God's will. Godliness signifies a deep, practical devotion and reverence for God. Faith implies unwavering trust and loyalty, both in doctrine and relationship. Love embodies selfless concern for others. Steadfastness denotes perseverance through trials, and gentleness signifies a humble, patient, and controlled spirit in dealing with others. This is a call to spiritual athleticism, focusing on developing Christ-like character. It's about actively building a holy life that stands in stark contrast to the covetousness and error Timothy must avoid.