1 Timothy 4:7
1 Timothy 4:7
“But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Timothy is to reject godless myths and instead train himself toward godliness.
What Does 1 Timothy 4:7 Mean?
Paul tells Timothy to turn away from worthless myths and old tales, the kind of empty speculation that distracts from the truth.
Instead, he is to 'exercise' himself toward godliness, training as an athlete trains. Holiness does not come by drifting; it is pursued through deliberate, repeated effort. Paul calls Timothy to spend his energy on what truly forms the soul.
In the Original Language
gumnazo (γυμνάζω), 'exercise' -- to train rigorously, as an athlete disciplines the body.