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1 Timothy

1 Timothy front

1 Timothy front:intro

Introduction to 1 Timothy

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of 1 Timothy
  1. Greetings (1:1,2)
  2. Paul and Timothy
    • Warning about false teachers (1:3-11)
    • Paul thankful for what Christ has done in his ministry (1:12-17)
    • He calls Timothy to fight in this spiritual battle (1:18-20)
  3. Prayer for all (2:1-8)
  4. Roles and responsibilities in the church (2:9-6:2)
  5. Warnings
    • Second warning about false teachers (6:3-5)
    • Money (6:6-10)
  6. Description of a man of God (6:11-16)
  7. Note to the wealthy people (6:17-19)
  8. Closing words to Timothy (6:20,21)
Who wrote the Book of 1 Timothy?

Paul wrote 1 Timothy. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

This book is the first letter Paul wrote to Timothy. Timothy was his disciple and close friend. Paul probably wrote it near the end of his life.

What is the Book of 1 Timothy about?

Paul had left Timothy in the city of Ephesus to help the believers there. Paul wrote this letter to instruct Timothy about various matters. The topics he addressed included church worship, qualifications for church leaders, and warnings against false teachers. This letter shows how Paul was training Timothy to be a leader among the churches.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "1 Timothy" or "First Timothy." Or they may choose a clearer title, such as "Paul's First Letter to Timothy." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What is discipleship?

Discipleship is the process of making people to be disciples of Christ. The goal of discipleship is to encourage other Christians to be more like Christ. This letter gives many instructions about how a leader should train a less mature Christian. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/disciple.md]])

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

# Singular and plural "you"

In this book, the word "I" refers to Paul. Also, the word "you" is almost always singular and refers to Timothy. The exception to this is 6:21. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

What did Paul mean by the expression "in Christ," "in the Lord," etc.?

Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.

What are the major textual issues in the text of the Book of 1 Timothy?

These are the most significant textual issues in the Book of 1 Timothy:

  • "Withdraw from such things." (6:5) Some older versions read this way, but the ULB, UDB, and most other modern versions do not. The best ancient copies do not include this phrase.

(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-textvariants/01.md]])

1 Timothy 1

1 Timothy 1:intro-0

1 Timothy 01 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Spiritual children

Paul calls Timothy his "son." Paul was very involved in discipling Timothy in his faith. Therefore, he called him his "spiritual" son. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/disciple.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faith.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/spirit.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

# Genealogies

This is probably a reference to some people's speculation about who the Messiah was. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter
# Play on words

The phrase "the law is good if one uses it lawfully" is a pun or play on words. "Law" and "lawfully" sound similar.

Links:

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1 Timothy 1:1-2

General Information:

In this book, unless otherwise noted, the word "our" refers to Paul and Timothy (the one to whom this letter is written), as well as to all believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

Paul, an apostle

"I, Paul, wrote this letter. I am an apostle." Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter. Immediately after introducing the writer, you may want to indicate to whom the letter was written, as in the UDB.

according to the commandment of

"by the command of" or "by the authority of"

God our Savior

"God who saves us"

Christ Jesus our hope

Here "our confidence" refers to the person in whom we have confidence. AT: "Christ Jesus, who is the one in whom we have confidence" or "Christ Jesus, whom we trust" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

true son in the faith

Paul speaks of his close relationship to Timothy as though they were father and son. This shows Paul's sincere love and approval of Timothy. It is also likely that Timothy was converted to Christ by Paul, and so this is why Paul considered him like his own child. AT: "who is truly like a son to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Grace, mercy, and peace

"May grace, mercy, and peace be yours," or "May you experience kindness, mercy, and peace"

God the Father

"God, who is our Father." Here "Father" is an important title for God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

Christ Jesus our Lord

"Christ Jesus, who is our Lord"

translationWords

1 Timothy 1:3-4

Connecting Statement:

Paul encourages Timothy to reject the wrong use of the law and use good teaching from God.

General Information:

The word "you" in this letter is singular and refers to Timothy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

As I urged you

"As I pleaded with you" or "As I asked you very strongly"

remain in Ephesus

"wait for me there in the city of Ephesus"

a different doctrine

The implied information can be stated explicitly. AT: "a different doctrine from what we teach" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Neither should they pay attention

The understood information can be stated clearly. AT: "And I also want you to command them not to pay attention" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

to stories

These may have been stories about their ancestors.

endless genealogies

With the word "endless" Paul uses exaggeration to emphasize that the genealogies are very long. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

genealogies

"lists of ancestors." A genealogy is the written or verbal record of a person's parents and ancestors. These were very important in Israel, as they established which tribe one was included in the people of Israel.

These cause arguments

"These make people angrily disagree." The people debated about stories and genealogies about which no one could know the truth for certain.

rather than helping the plan of God, which is by faith

Possible meanings are 1) "rather than helping us to understand God's plan to save us, which we learn by faith" or 2) "rather than helping us to do God's work, which we do by faith."

translationWords

1 Timothy 1:5-8

Now

This word is used here to mark a break in the main teaching. Here Paul explains the purpose of what he is commanding Timothy.

the commandment

Here this does not mean the Old Testament or the Ten Commandments but rather the instructions that Paul gives in 1 Timothy 1:3-4.

is love

Possible meanings are 1) "is to love God" or 2) "is to love people."

from a pure heart

Here "pure" means the person does not have hidden motives to do wrong. Here "heart" refers to a person's mind and thoughts. AT: "from a mind that is honest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

good conscience

"a conscience that chooses right instead wrong"

sincere faith

"genuine faith" or "a faith without hypocrisy"

Some people have missed the mark

Paul speaks of faith in Christ as if it were a target at which to aim. Paul means that some people are not fulfilling the purpose of their faith, which is to love as he just explained in 1:5. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

have turned away from these things

Here "turned away" is an idiom that means they have stopped doing what God has commanded. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

teachers of the law

Here "law" refers to the law of Moses.

but they do not understand

"even though they do not understand" or "and yet they do not understand"

what they so confidently affirm

"what they so confidently state is true"

we know that the law is good

"we understand that the law is useful" or "we understand that the law is beneficial"

if one uses it lawfully

"if a person uses it correctly" or "if a person uses it the way God intended"

translationWords

1 Timothy 1:9-11

We know this

"Because we realize this" or "We also know this"

that law is not made for a righteous man

This can be stated in active form. AT: "that God did not make the law for the righteous man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

a righteous man

Here "man" includes both male and female. AT: "a righteous person" or "a good person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-gendernotations/01.md]])

It is made

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God made the law" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

sexually immoral people

This refers to anyone who sleeps with someone to whom they are not married.

homosexuals

"men who sleep with other men"

those who kidnap people for slaves

"those who kidnap people to sell as slaves" or "those who take people to sell as slaves"

for whatever else is against faithful instruction

"for those who do anything else that is against true Christian teaching"

the glorious gospel of the blessed God

"the gospel about the glory that belongs to the blessed God" or "the gospel of the glorious and blessed God"

with which I have been entrusted

This can be stated in active form. AT: "which God has given me and made me responsible for" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 1:12-14

Connecting Statement:

Paul tells how he acted in the past and encourages Timothy to trust God.

he considered me faithful

"he considered me trustworthy" or "he regarded me as reliable"

he placed me into service

Paul speaks of the task of serving God as if it were a place that one could be placed in. AT: "he assigned me to serve him" or "he appointed me as his servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

I was a blasphemer

"I was a person who spoke evil against Christ." Paul is referring to his character before he was a Christian.

a persecutor

"a person who persecuted those who believed in Christ"

violent man

"a person was cruel towards other people." This is a person who believes he has the right to hurt others.

But I received mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief

"But because I did not believe in Jesus, and I did not know what I was doing, I received mercy from Jesus"

I received mercy

"Jesus showed me mercy" or "Jesus had mercy on me"

But the grace

"And the grace"

the grace of our Lord overflowed

Paul speaks of God's grace as if it were a liquid that could fill a container and spill out of the top when the container is full. AT: "God showed me much grace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

with faith and love

This is the result of God showing much grace to Paul. AT: "which caused me to trust in Jesus and love him"

that is in Christ Jesus

This speaks about Jesus as if he were a container that holds a liquid. Here "in Christ Jesus" refers to having a relationship with Jesus. AT: "that Christ Jesus enables me to give to God because I am united to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 1:15-17

This message is reliable

"This statement is true"

worthy of all acceptance

"we should receive it without any doubt" or "deserves for us to accept it with full confidence"

I was given mercy

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God showed me mercy" or "I obtained mercy from God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

so that in me, the foremost

"so that through me, the worst sinner"

Now ... Amen

The word "Now" is used here to mark a break in the main teaching. Here Paul praises God.

the king of the ages

"the eternal king" or "the chief ruler forever"

Now to the king of the ages, the immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever

The abstract nouns "honor" and "glory" can be stated as verbs. AT: "Now may people forever honor and glorify the king of the ages, who is immortal, invisible, and the only God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 1:18-20

I am placing this command before you

Paul speaks of his instructions as if he could physically put them in front of Timothy. AT: "I am entrusting you with this command" or "This is what I am commanding you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

my child

Paul speaks of his close relationship to Timothy as though Paul is the father and Timothy is the child. It is also likely that Timothy was converted to Christ by Paul, and so this is why Paul considered him like his own child. AT: "who is truly like my child" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in accordance with the prophecies previously made about you

This can be stated in active form. AT: "in agreement with what other believers prophesied about you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

fight the good fight

Paul speaks about Timothy working for the Lord as if he were a soldier fighting a battle. AT: "continue to work hard for the Lord" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a good conscience

"a conscience that chooses right instead wrong." See how you translated this in 1 Timothy 1:5.

some have shipwrecked their faith

Paul speaks of these people's faith as if it were a ship that could be wrecked at sea. He means that they have ruined their faith and no longer believe in Jesus. You should use this or a similar metaphor if it will be understood in the project language. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Hymenaeus ... Alexander

These are names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

whom I gave over to Satan

Paul speaks as if he physically handed these men to Satan. This probably means that Paul rejected them from the community of believers. Since they are no longer a part of the community, Satan can have power of them and harm them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they may be taught

This can be stated in active form. AT: "that God may teach them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 2

1 Timothy 2:intro-0

1 Timothy 02 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Peace

Paul encourages the Christians to live peaceful lives by exercising discipline and self-control. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/discipline.md]])

# Women in the church

Paul is probably instructing the women how to use their freedom in Christ in such a way that it does not upset the normal cultural standards for women. Because of the potential for controversy, extra care should be taken in translating these passages.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
# "Prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings"

There is some overlap in meaning to these terms. It is not necessary to view these as perfectly distinct categories.

Links:

<< | >>

1 Timothy 2:1-4

Connecting Statement:

Paul encourages Timothy to pray for all people.

first of all

"most important" or "before anything else"

I urge that requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made

This can be stated in active form. AT: "I urge all believers to make requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I urge

"I plead" or "I ask"

a peaceful and quiet life

Here "peaceful" and "quiet" mean the same thing. Paul wants all believers to be able to live calm lives without trouble from the authorities. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

in all godliness and dignity

"that honors God and that other people will respect"

He desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God desires to save all people and for them to come to the knowledge of the truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

to come to the knowledge of the truth

Paul speaks of learning the truth about God as if it were a place to which people could be brought. AT: "to know and accept what is true" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 2:5-7

one mediator for God and man

A mediator is a person who helps negotiate a peaceful settlement between two parties who disagree with each other. Here Jesus helps sinners enter into a peaceful relationship with God.

gave himself

"died willingly"

as a ransom

"as a price of freedom" or "as a payment to obtain freedom"

as the testimony at the right time

It can be made explicit that this was the testimony that God wants to save all people. AT: "as the proof at the right time that God wants to save all people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

at the right time

This means that this was the time that God had chosen.

For this purpose

"For this" or "For this reason"

I myself, was made a herald and an apostle

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Christ made me, Paul, a preacher and an apostle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

I am a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth

"I teach the Gentiles the message of faith and truth." Here, Paul may be using "faith" and truth" to express one idea. AT: "I teach the Gentiles about the true faith" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 2:8-10

Connecting Statement:

Paul finishes his instructions on prayer then gives some special instructions for women.

I want men in every place to pray and to lift up holy hands

Here "holy hands" means the entire person is holy. AT: "I want men in every place who are holy to lift up their hands and pray" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

men in every place

"the males in all places" or "the males everywhere." Here the word "men" refers specifically to males.

lift up holy hands

It was a normal posture for people to raise their hands while praying.

with modesty and self-control

Both of these words mean basically the same thing. Paul is emphasizing that women should wear clothes that are appropriate and do not attract improper attention from men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

They should not have braided hair

During Paul's time, many Roman women braided their hair to make themselves attractive. Braiding is only one way a woman can give undue attention to her hair. If braided hair is unknown, it can be stated in a more general way. AT: "They should not have fancy hairstyles" or "They should not have elaborate hairstyle that attract attention" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

pearls

These are beautiful and valuable white balls that people use as jewelry. They are formed inside the shell of a certain kind of small animal that lives in the ocean. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

who profess godliness through good works

"who want to honor God by the good things they do"

translationWords

1 Timothy 2:11-12

in silence

"in quietness"

and with all submission

"and submit to what is taught"

I do not permit a woman

"I do not allow a woman"

translationWords

1 Timothy 2:13-15

Adam was formed first

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Adam is the one God formed first" or "God created Adam first" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

then Eve

The understood information can be stated clearly. AT: "and then God formed Eve" or "then God created Eve" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

Adam was not deceived

This can be stated in active form. AT: "And Adam was not the one whom the serpent deceived" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor

This can be stated in active form. AT: "but it was the woman who disobeyed God when the serpent deceived her" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

she will be saved through bearing children

Here "she" refers to women in general. Possible meanings are 1) God will keep women physically safe as they give birth to children, or 2) God will save women from their sins through their role as child bearers.

she will be saved

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God will save her" or "God will save women" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

if they continue

"if they remain" or "if they continue living." Here "they" refers to women.

in faith and love and sanctification

The abstract nouns here can be translated with verbal phrases. AT: "in trusting Jesus and loving others and living a holy life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

with soundness of mind

Possible meanings for this idiom are 1) "with good judgment," 2) "with modesty," or 3) "with self-control." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

soundness of mind

If the idiom is retained in translation, the abstract noun "soundness" can be translated with an adjective. AT: "a sound mind" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 3

1 Timothy 3:intro-0

1 Timothy 03 General Notes

Structure and formatting

1 Timothy 3:16 was probably a song, poem, or creed the early church used to list important doctrines believers all shared.

Special concepts in this chapter
# Overseer and Deacons

There is some disagreement over the different titles used for church leaders. Some titles include: overseer, elder, pastor, and bishop.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
# Character qualities

This chapter lists several qualities that a man must have if he is to be an overseer in the church. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Links:

<< | >>

1 Timothy 3:1-3

Connecting Statement:

Paul gives some special instructions on how the overseers of the church should act and be.

a good work

"an honorable task"

husband of one wife

An overseer must have only one wife. It is unclear if this excludes men who have been previously widowed or divorced, or never married.

He must be moderate, sensible, orderly, and hospitable

"He must not do anything to excess, must be reasonable and behave well, and must be friendly to strangers"

He must not be addicted to wine, not a brawler, but instead, gentle, peaceful

"He must neither drink too much alcohol nor like to fight and argue, but instead he must be gentle and peaceful"

a lover of money

"greedy for money"

translationWords

1 Timothy 3:4-5

He should manage

"He should lead" or "He should take care of"

with all respect

Possible meanings are 1) the overseer's children should obey and show respect to their father or 2) the overseer's children should show respect to everyone or 3) the overseer should show respect to those in his household as he leads them.

all respect

"complete respect" or "respect at all times"

For if a man does not know how to manage

"For when a man cannot manage"

how will he care for a church of God?

Paul uses a question to teach Timothy. AT: "he cannot take care of a church of God." or "he will not be able to lead a church of God." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

a church of God

Here "church" refers to a local group of God's people. AT: "a group of God's people" or "the believers over whom he is in charge" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 3:6-7

He should not be a new convert

"He should not be a new believer" or "He must be a mature believer"

fall into condemnation as the devil

Paul speaks of the experience of being condemned for having done wrong as if it were a hole that a person could fall into. AT: "have God condemn him as he condemned the devil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

those outside

"those outside of the church." Paul speaks of the church as though it were a place, and of unbelievers as though they were physically outside of it. AT: "those who are not Christians" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he does not fall into disgrace and the trap of the devil

Paul speaks of disgrace and the devil causing someone to sin as if they were a hole or a trap into which a person falls. Here "fall into" means to experience. AT: "nothing causes him shame before the unbelievers and so that the devil does not cause him to sin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 3:8-10

Connecting Statement:

Paul gives some special instructions on how the deacons of the church and their wives should act and be.

Deacons, likewise

"Deacons, like overseers"

should be dignified, not double-talkers

Paul speaks about these people as if they were "double-talkers" or could say two things at once. He means the person says one thing but mean something else. AT: "should act properly and mean what they say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

They should keep the revealed truth of the faith

"They must continue to believe the true message God revealed to us and that we believe." This refers to a truth that had existed for some time but that God was showing to them at that moment. Paul speaks of true teaching about God as if it were an object that a person could keep with himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the revealed truth

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the truth that God revealed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

faith with a clean conscience

Paul speaks of a person's knowledge that he has done no wrong as if that knowledge or conscience were clean. AT: "faith, knowing they have tried their hardest to do what is right" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

They should also be approved first

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Other believers should approve of them first" or "They should prove themselves first" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

be approved

This means other believers should evaluate those who want to be a deacon and determine if they are fit to serve in the church.

translationWords

1 Timothy 3:11-13

Women in the same way

Possible meanings are 1) "women" refers to the wives of deacons or 2) "women" refers to female deacons.

be dignified

"act properly" or "be worthy of respect"

They should not be slanderers

"They must not speak evil about other people"

be moderate and

"not do anything to excess." See how you translated this in 1 Timothy 3:2.

husbands of one wife

A man must have only one wife. It is unclear if this excludes men who have been previously widowed, divorced, or never married. See how you translated this in 1 Timothy 3:2.

manage well their children and household

"properly take care of and lead their children and others who live in their homes"

For those

"For those deacons" or "For these church leaders"

acquire for themselves

"receive for themselves" or "gain for themselves"

a good standing

The implied meaning may be stated explicitly. AT: "a good reputation among other believers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus

Possible meanings are 1) they will trust in Jesus with even more confidence or 2) they will speak confidently to other people about their faith in Jesus.

translationWords

1 Timothy 3:14-15

Connecting Statement:

Paul tells Timothy the reason he wrote to him and then describes Christ's godliness.

But if I delay

"But in case I cannot go there soon" or "But if something prevents me for being there soon"

so that you may know how to behave in the household of God

Paul speaks of the group of believers as if they were a family. Possible meanings are 1) Paul is referring only to Timothy's behavior in the church. AT: "so that you may know how to conduct yourself as a member of God's family" or 2) Paul is referring to the believers' in general. AT: "so that you all may know how to conduct yourselves as members of God's family" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

household of God, which is the church of the living God

This phrase gives us information about "the household of God" rather than making a distinction between a household of God which is the church and one that is not the church. This can be stated as a new sentence. AT: "house hold of God. Those who belong to the family of God are the community of believers in the living God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-distinguish/01.md]])

which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth

Paul speaks of the believers bearing witness to the truth about Christ as if they were a pillar and a base supporting a building. This can be stated as a new sentence. AT: "which is the church of the living God. And, by keeping and teaching God's truth, these members of the church support the truth just as a pillar and base support a building" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the living God

Here this expression may be speaking of God as the one who gives life to all, as in the UDB.

translationWords

1 Timothy 3:16

It is undeniable

"No one can deny"

that the revealed truth of godliness is great

This can be stated in active form. AT: "that the truth which God revealed is great" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

He appeared ... up in glory

This is most likely a song or poem that Paul is quoting. If your language has a way of indicating that this is poetry you could use it here. If not, you could translate this as regular prose rather than poetry. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-poetry/01.md]])

He appeared

Here "He" is ambiguous. It could refers to "God" or to "Christ." It may be best to translate this as "He." If you must be more specific you could translate it as "Christ who is God" or "Christ."

in the flesh

Paul uses "flesh" here to mean a human being. AT: "as a true human being" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

was justified by the Spirit

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the Holy Spirit confirmed that he was who he said he was" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

was seen by angels

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the angels saw him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

was proclaimed among nations

This can be stated in active form. AT: "people in many nations told others about him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

was believed on in the world

This can be stated in active form. AT: "people in many parts of the world believed in him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

was taken up in glory

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God the Father took him up to heaven in glory" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in glory

This means he received power from God the Father and he is worthy of honor.

translationWords

1 Timothy 4

1 Timothy 4:intro-0

1 Timothy 04 General Notes

Structure and formatting

1 Timothy 4:1-3 is a prophecy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
# Later times

This is another way of referring to the last days. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lastday.md]])

Links:

<< | >>

1 Timothy 4:1-2

Connecting Statement:

Paul tells Timothy what the Spirit says will happen and encourages him in what he should teach.

Now

This word is used here to mark a break in the main teaching. Here Paul starts to tell a new part of the teaching.

in later times

Possible meanings are 1) this refers to a time after Paul dies or 2) this is at a latter time in Paul's own life.

leave the faith

Paul speaks of people ceasing to trust in Christ as if they were physically leaving a place or an object. AT: "stop trusting in Jesus" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

and pay attention

"and give attention" or "because they are paying attention"

deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons

"spirits who trick people and the things that demons teach"

demons in lying hypocrisy

This can be stated as a new sentence. AT: "demons. These people will be hypocrites and speak lies"

Their own consciences will be branded

Possible meanings are 1) Paul is speaking of people who can no longer tell that they are doing wrong as if their minds are ruined like skin that someone has burned with a hot iron or 2) Paul is speaking of these people as if Satan had put a mark on these people with a hot iron to indicate that they belong to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 4:3-5

They will

"These people will"

forbid to marry

It is implied that they will forbid believers to marry. AT: "forbid believers to marry" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

to receive foods

It is implied that they will forbid only certain foods. AT: "they will require believers to abstain from certain foods" or "they will not allow people to eat certain foods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

everything created by God is good

This can be stated in active form. AT: "everything that God has created is good" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Nothing that we take with thanksgiving is to be rejected

This can be stated in active form. AT: "We should not refuse anything for which we give thanks to God" or "Everything that we eat with thanksgiving is acceptable" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer

Here "word of God" and "prayer" are used together to express one idea. The prayer is in agreement with the truth that God has revealed. AT: "it is dedicated for God's use by praying in agreement with his word" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

it is sanctified

This can be stated in active form. AT: "we sanctify it" or "we have set it apart" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

word of God

Here "word" refers to God's message or what he has revealed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 4:6-8

If you place these things before the brothers

Paul speaks of his instructions as if they were objects that could be physically presented to the believers. Here, to place before means to instruct or to remind. AT: "If you help the believers remember these things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

these things

This refers to the teaching that started in 1 Timothy 3:16.

the brothers

This refers to all believers whether male or female. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-gendernotations/01.md]])

you are being nourished by the words of faith and by the good teaching that you have followed

Paul speaks of God's word and its teaching as if it could physically feed Timothy and make him strong. This can be stated in active form. AT: "the words of faith and the good teaching that you have followed are causing you to trust more strongly in Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

words of faith

"words that cause people to believe"

worldly stories loved by old women

"profane stories and old wives' tales." The word for "stories" is the same as for "myths" in 1 Timothy 1:4, so you should translate it the same here.

loved by old women

This is probably an expression that means "silly" or "absurd." Paul is not purposely insulting women in his reference to "old women." Instead, he and his audience knew that men die younger than women, so there are more women than men whose minds have become feeble due to old age. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

train yourself in godliness

"train yourself to honor God" or "train yourself to act in ways that please God"

bodily training

"physical exercise"

holds promise for this life

"is beneficial to this life"

translationWords

1 Timothy 4:9-10

worthy of full acceptance

"worthy of your complete belief" or "worthy of your full trust"

For it is for this

"This is the reason"

struggle and work very hard

The words "struggle" and "work very hard" mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them together to emphasize the intensity with which they serve God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

we have hope in the living God

Here "living God" probably means, "God, who makes all things live."

but especially of believers

The understood information can be stated clearly. AT: "but he is especially the Savior of those people who believe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 4:11-13

Proclaim and teach these things

"Command and teach these things" or "Command and teach these things I just mentioned"

Let no one despise your youth

"Do not let anyone consider you less important because you are young"

attend to the reading, to the exhortation, and to the teaching

The words "reading," "exhortation," and "teaching" can be translated with verbal phrases. The implied information can also be supplied in translation AT: "continue reading the scripture to the people, exhorting the people, and teaching the people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Timothy 4:14-16

Do not neglect the gift that is in you

Paul speaks of Timothy as if he were a container that could hold God's gifts. This can be stated in positive form. AT: "Do not neglect your spiritual gift" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Do not neglect

This can be stated in positive form. AT: "Be sure to use" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

which was given to you through prophecy

This can be stated in active form. AT: "which you received when leaders of the church spoke God's word" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

laying on of the hands of the elders

This was a ceremony in which the church leaders put their hands on Timothy and prayed that God would enable him to do the work he had commanded him to do.

Care for these things. Be in them

Paul speaks of God's gifts to Timothy as if he could physically be in them. AT: "Do all these things and live according to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

so that your progress may be evident to all people

Paul speaks of Timothy's increasing ability to serve God as if it were a physical object that others could look at. AT: "so other people will know that you are serving God better and better" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Give careful attention to yourself and to the teaching

"Conduct yourself carefully and give attention to the teaching" or "Control your own behavior and give attention to the teaching"

Continue in these things

"Continue to do these things"

you will save yourself and those who listen to you

Possible meanings are 1) Timothy will save himself and those who hear him from God's judgment or 2) Timothy will save himself and those who hear him from the influence of false teachers.

translationWords

1 Timothy 5

1 Timothy 5:intro-0

1 Timothy 05 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Honor and respect

Paul encourages younger Christians to show honor and respect towards older Christians. Different cultures show respect to older people in different ways.

# Widows

In the ancient Near East, it was important to take care of the widows because they could not provide a living for themselves.

Links:

<< | >>

1 Timothy 5:1-2

Connecting Statement:

Paul continues to tell Timothy how to treat the men, women, widows, and younger women in the church.

General Information:

Paul was giving these commands to one person, Timothy. Languages that have different forms of "you" or different forms for commands would use the singular form here. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

Do not scold an older man

"Do not speak harshly to an older man"

Instead, exhort him

"Instead, encourage him"

as if he were a father ... as if they were brothers ... as mothers ... as sisters

Paul uses these similes to tell Timothy that he should treat fellow believers with sincere love and respect. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

younger women

You can state clearly the understood information. AT: "exhort younger women" or "encourage younger women" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

in all purity

"with pure thoughts and actions" or "in a holy way"

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:3-4

Honor widows

"Respect and provide for widows"

the real widows

"widows with no one to provide for them"

let them first learn

"first of all they should learn" or "let them make it a priority to learn"

in their own household

"to their own family" or "to those living in their homes"

Let them repay their parents

"Let them do good to their parents in return for the good things their parents have given them"

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:5-6

But a real widow is left all alone

"But one who is truly a widow has no family"

She always remains with requests and prayers

"She continues to make requests and prayers"

requests and prayers

These two words mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them together to emphasize how much these widows pray. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

both night and day

The words "night" and "day" are used together to mean "at all times." AT: "all the time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

is dead

Paul speaks about people who do not seek to please God as if they were dead. AT: "is like a dead person, she does not respond to God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

is still alive

This refers to physical life.

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:7-8

Preach these things

"Command these things as well"

so that they may be without reproach

"so that no one can find fault with them." Possible meanings of "they" are 1) "these widows and their families" or 2) "the believers." It might be best to leave the subject as "they."

does not provide for his own relatives, especially for those of his own household

"does not help with his relatives' needs, especially for those family members living in his home"

he has denied the faith

"he has acted contrary to the truth we believe"

is worse than an unbeliever

"is worse than those who do not believe in Jesus." Paul means this person is worse than an unbeliever because even unbelievers take care of their relatives. Therefore, a believer should certainly take care of his relatives.

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:9-10

be enrolled as a widow

There seems to have been a list, written or not, of widows. The church members met these women's needs for shelter, clothing, and food, and these women were expected to devote their lives to serving the Christian community.

who is not younger than sixty

As Paul will explain in 5:11-16, widows who were younger than 60 years old might get married again. Therefore the Christian community was to care only for widows who were older than 60. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

a wife of one husband

Possible meanings are 1) she was always faithful to her husband or 2) she had not divorced her husband then married another man.

She must be known for good deeds

This can be stated in active form. AT: "People must be able to attest to her good deeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

has been hospitable to strangers

"has welcomed strangers into her home"

has washed the feet of the believers

Washing the dirty feet of people who have been walking in the dirt and mud is one way of meeting other people's needs and making life more enjoyable for them. This probably means she did humble work in general. AT: "has done common work to help other believers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

believers

Some versions translate "believers" here as "the saints" or "God's holy people." The essential idea is to refer to Christian believers.

has relieved the afflicted

Here "the afflicted" is a nominal adjective that can be stated as an adjective. AT: "has helped those who are suffering" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

has been devoted to every good work

"has given herself to doing all kinds of good deeds"

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:11-13

But as for younger widows, refuse to enroll them in the list

"But do not include younger widows in the list." The list was of widows aged 60 years and older whom the Christian community would help.

For when they give in to bodily desires against Christ, they want to marry

"For when they prefer to fulfill their sensual desires and get married, they go against their promise to serve Christ as widows"

revoke their first commitment

"do not keep their prior commitment" or "do not do what they promised before to do"

commitment

The commitment of the widows was their agreement to serve the Christian community for the rest of their lives if the community would supply the widows' needs.

become accustomed to being lazy

"get into the habit of doing nothing"

gossips

These are people who talk about other people's private lives.

busybodies

These are people who interfere in other people's lives.

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:14-16

to manage the household

"to take care of everyone in her house"

the enemy

Possible meanings are 1) this refers to Satan or 2) this refers to unbelievers who are hostile to Christians.

to slander us

Here "us" refers to the entire Christian community, including Timothy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

turned aside after Satan

Paul speaks of living in faithfulness to Christ as if it were a path to be followed. This means the woman stopped obeying Jesus and started obeying Satan. AT: "left the path of Christ to follow Satan" or "decided to obey Satan instead of Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

any believing woman

"any Christian woman" or "any woman who believes in Christ"

has widows

"has widows among her relatives"

so that the church will not be weighed down

Paul speaks of the community having to help more people than they are able as if they were carrying too much weight on their backs. This can be stated in active form. AT: "so that the church will not have more work to do than they can" or "so that the Christian community will not have to help widows whose families could provide for them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

real widows

"those women who have no one to provide for them"

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:17-18

Connecting Statement:

Paul again talks of how elders (overseers) should be treated and then gives Timothy some personal instructions.

Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy

This can be stated in active form. AT: "All believers should think of the elders who are good leaders as worthy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

double honor

Possible meanings are 1) "respect and payment" or 2) "more respect than others receive"

those who work with the word and in teaching

"Word" here is a metonym for "message." Paul speaks about the word as if it is an object which a person can work with. AT: "those who preach and teach God's word" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

For the scripture says

This is personification that means that this is what someone has written in the scriptures. AT: "For we read in the scriptures that" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

You shall not put a muzzle on an ox while it treads the grain

Paul is using this quotation as a metaphor meaning that church leaders deserve to receive payment from the Christian community for their work. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

muzzle

a sleeve that goes over an animal's snout and mouth to prevent it from eating while it is doing work (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

treads the grain

And ox "treads the grain" when it walks on or pulls a heavy object over the cut grain to separate the grain from the stalks. The ox was allowed to eat some of the grain as they worked.

is worthy of

"deserves"

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:19-20

Do not receive an accusation

Paul speaks of accusations as if they were objects that could be physically accepted by people. AT: "Do not accept as true any accusation that someone speaks" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

two or three

"at least two" or "two or more"

sinners

This refers to anyone doing anything that disobeys or displeases God, even things that other people do not know about.

before all

"where everyone can see"

so that the rest may be afraid

"so that others will be afraid to sin"

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:21-22

the chosen angels

This means the angels whom God and Jesus have chosen to serve them in a special way.

to keep these commands without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism

The words "partiality" and "favoritism" mean basically the same thing. Paul is emphasizing that Timothy must judge honestly and be fair to everyone. AT: "to keep these rules without being partial or showing favor to anyone" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

these commands

Possible meanings are 1) this refers to the rules Paul just told Timothy or 2) this refers to the rules Paul is about to tell Timothy.

Place hands

The placing of hands was a ceremony in which one or more church leaders would place their hands on people and pray that God would enable those people to serve the church in a way that would please God. Timothy was to wait until the person had shown good character for a long time before officially setting that person apart to serve the Christian community.

Do not share in the sins of another person

Paul speaks of someone's sin as if it were an object that could be shared with others. AT: "do not join in another person's sin" or "do not participate when another person sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Do not share in the sins of another person

Possible meanings are 1) if Timothy chose someone who was guilty of sin to be a church worker, God would hold Timothy responsible for that person's sin or 2) Timothy should not commit sins he saw others committing.

translationWords

1 Timothy 5:23-25

You should no longer drink water

It is implied that Paul means Timothy should not drink only water. He is telling Timothy to use wine as medicine. The water in that area often caused sickness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

The sins of some people are openly known

This can be stated in active form. AT: "The sins of some people are very obvious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

they go before them into judgment

"their sins go before those people into judgment." Paul speaks of sins as if they were moving. Possible meanings are 1) Their sins are so obvious that everyone will know they are guilty even before anyone testifies against them or 2) Their sins are evident, and God judges them now. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

But some sins follow later

"But some sins follow people later." Paul speaks of sins as if they were moving. Possible meanings are 1) Timothy and the Christian community will not know about certain sins until later or 2) God will not judge some sins until the final judgment. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

some good works are openly known

"some good works are obvious"

good works

The works are considered "good" because they fit with God's character, purposes, and will.

but even the others cannot be hidden

Paul speaks of sins as if they were objects that someone could hide. This can be stated in active form. AT: "but people will later find out about even the good deeds that are not obvious" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

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1 Timothy 6

1 Timothy 6:intro-0

1 Timothy 06 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Slavery

This passage does not condone slavery as an acceptable practice. Paul's teaching on slavery would have been rather radical at this time because masters were not expected to treat their slaves in such a pleasant way. Overall, Paul's focus is on living in a way that pleases God despite the circumstances of one's life.

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1 Timothy 6:1-2

Connecting Statement:

Paul gives some specific instructions to slaves and masters and then continues with instructions on living in a godly way.

Let all who are under the yoke as slaves

Paul speaks of people working as slaves as if they are oxen carrying a yoke. AT: "Let all who are working as slaves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Let all who are

It is implied that Paul is speaking about believers. AT: "Let all who are believers" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the name of God and the teaching might not be blasphemed

This can be stated in active and positive form. AT: "the unbelievers might always speak respectfully about the name of God and the teaching" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

the name of God

Here "name" refers to God's nature or character. AT: "the character of God" or "God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the teaching

"the faith" or "the gospel"

they are brothers

Here "brothers" means "fellow believers."

For the masters who are helped by their work

This can be stated in active form. AT: "For the masters whom the slaves help with their work" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

and are loved

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) "and the slaves should love them" or 2) "whom God loves" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

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1 Timothy 6:3-5

he is proud ... He has an unhealthy interest

Here "he" refers to anyone in general that teaches what is not correct. To make this clear, you can translate "he" as "they" as in the UDB. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-genericnoun/01.md]])

understands nothing

"understands nothing about God's truth"

He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and arguments

Paul speaks of people who feel compelled to engage in useless arguments as if they were ill. Such people greatly desire to argue, and they do not really want to find a way to agree. AT: "all he wants to do is argue" or "he craves arguments" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

controversies and arguments about words that result in envy

"controversies and arguments about words, and these controversies and arguments result in envy"

about words

"about the meaning of words"

envy

"the desire to have what others have"

strife

"arguments between believers"

insults

"people falsely saying bad things about each other"

evil suspicions

"people feeling like others want to do evil to them"

depraved minds

"wicked minds"

They have lost the truth

Here the word "They" refers to anyone who teaches anything that does not agree with the teaching of Jesus. The phrase "have lost the truth" represents ignoring it or forgetting it. AT: "They have ignored the truth" or "They have forgotten the truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

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1 Timothy 6:6-8

Now

This marks a break in the teaching. Here Paul begins to contrast the kind of riches the wicked people seek through godliness (1 Timothy 6:5) and the true kind of gain people receive through godliness. AT: "Of course"

godliness with contentment is great gain

The words "godliness" and "contentment" are abstract nouns. AT: "it is great gain for a person to do what is godly and to be content with what they have" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

is great gain

"provides great benefits" or "does many good things for us"

brought nothing into the world

"brought nothing into the world when we were born"

Neither are we able to take out anything

"And we can take nothing out of the world when we die"

let us

"we should"

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1 Timothy 6:9-10

Now

This word marks a break in the teaching. Here Paul returns to the topic about those who think being godly will make them wealthy (See: 1 Timothy 6:5).

to become wealthy fall into temptation, into a trap

Paul speaks about those who let the temptation of money cause them to sin as if they are animals that have fallen into a hole that a hunter has used as a trap. AT: "to become wealthy will encounter more temptation than they can resist, and they will be like an animal in a trap (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

They fall into many foolish and harmful passions

This continues the trap metaphor. This means that their foolish and harmful passions will overcome them. AT: "And as an animal falls into a hunter's trap, they will fall into many foolish and harmful passions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

into whatever else makes people sink into ruin and destruction

Paul speaks about those that let sin destroy them as if they are a boat that sinks under the water. AT: "into other kinds of evil that ruin and destroy people as if they were a boat sinking under the water" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil

Paul speaks of the cause of evil as if it were a plant root. AT: "This happens because loving money is a cause of all kinds of evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

who desire it

"who desire money"

have been mislead away from the faith

Paul speaks of wrong desires as if they were evil guides who intentionally guide people down the wrong path. This can be stated in active form. AT: "have let their desires lead them away from the truth" or "have stopped believing the truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

have pierced themselves with much grief

Paul speaks about grief as if it were a sword that a person uses to stab themselves. AT: "have caused themselves to be very sorrowful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

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1 Timothy 6:11-12

But you

Here "you" is singular and refers to Timothy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

man of God

"servant of God" or "person who belongs to God"

flee from these things

Paul speaks of these temptations and sins as if they were things that a person could physically run away from. AT: "completely avoid these things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

these things

Possible meanings of "these things" are 1) the "love of money" or 2) the different teachings, pride, arguments, and the love of money.

Pursue righteousness

"Run after" or "Chase." Paul speaks of righteousness and other good qualities as if they were things that a person could run after. This metaphor is the opposite of "flee from." It means to try your best to obtain something. AT: "Seek to gain" or "Do your best to act in" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Fight the good fight of faith

Here Paul speaks about a person continuing in faith as if they are an athlete fighting to win a contest or a warrior fighting a battle. AT: "Try your hardest to obey Christ's teachings with as much energy as an athlete uses in a contest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Take hold of the everlasting life

This continues the metaphor. Paul speaks about a person receiving eternal life as if they are a victorious athlete or warrior taking their prize. AT: "Take eternal life as your reward as a victorious athlete takes his prize" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to which you were called

This can be stated in active form. AT: "to which God has called you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you gave the good confession

"you confessed what is good" or "you confessed the truth"

before many witnesses

Paul expresses the idea of location in order to signal the idea of the people to whom Timothy was speaking. AT: "to many witnesses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

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1 Timothy 6:13-14

Connecting Statement:

Paul talks of Christ's coming, gives specific instructions to the rich, and lastly closes with a special message to Timothy.

I give you this command

"This is what I command you"

before God, who causes all things to live

"in the presence of God, who causes all things to live." It is implied that Paul as asking God to be his witness. AT: "with God, who causes all things to live, as my witness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

before Christ Jesus, who spoke ... Pilate

"in the presence of Christ Jesus, who spoke ... Pilate." It is implied that Paul as asking Jesus to be his witness. AT: "with Christ Jesus, who spoke ... Pilate, as my witness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

without reproach

Possible meanings are 1) Jesus will not find fault with Timothy or 2) other people cannot find fault with Timothy.

until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ

"until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again"

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1 Timothy 6:15-16

God will reveal his appearing

It is implied that God will reveal Jesus. AT: "God will reveal Jesus" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

at the right time

"at the proper time"

the Blessed One

"the One worthy of praise." This refers to God the Father.

Only he has immortality

"Only he has the power to live forever"

dwells in inapproachable light

"dwells in a light so bright that no one can approach him"

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1 Timothy 6:17-19

Tell the rich

Here "rich" is a nominal adjective. It can be stated as an adjective. AT: "Tell those who are rich" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

in riches, which are uncertain

"in the many things that they own that they may lose." The reference here is to physical objects.

all the true riches

"all the things that will make us truly happy." The reference here may include physical objects, but it more likely refers to states like love, joy, and peace that people try to obtain by means of physical objects.

be rich in good works

Paul speaks of spiritual blessings as if they were earthly wealth. AT: "serve and help others in many ways" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

they will store up for themselves a good foundation for what is to come

Here Paul speaks about God's blessings that he gives in heaven as if they are riches that a person is storing away for later use. And, the certainty of these blessings that people will never lose is spoke of as if they were the foundation of a building. AT: "it will be as though they were storing up for themselves many things that God will give them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

take hold of real life

This recalls the sports metaphor of 1 Timothy 6:12, where the prize is something that the winner can actually hold in his hands. Here the "prize" is "real" life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

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1 Timothy 6:20-21

protect what was given to you

This can be stated in active form. AT: "faithfully proclaim the true message that Jesus has given to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Avoid the foolish talk

"Do not pay attention to the foolish talk"

of what is falsely called knowledge

This can be stated in active form. AT: "of what some people falsely call knowledge" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

they have missed the faith

Paul speaks of faith in Christ as if it were a target at which to aim. AT: "they have not understood or believed the true faith" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

May grace be with you

"May God give grace to all of you." The "you" is plural and refers to the whole Christian community. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

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