2 Timothy 2:22 Meaning and Explanation
“Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul tells Timothy to flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace alongside other pure-hearted believers.
What Does 2 Timothy 2:22 Mean?
Paul gives Timothy both a flight and a pursuit. He is to flee the cravings that beset the young, and at the same time chase after righteousness, faith, love, and peace, doing so in the company of others who call on the Lord with pure hearts.
Holiness involves both running from and running toward. It is not enough to merely avoid sin; one must actively pursue what is good. And this pursuit is shared, undertaken alongside fellow believers whose hearts are set on the Lord. For the reader, this is wise and practical counsel. We resist temptation best not by sheer avoidance but by chasing better things in good company. Flee what destroys; pursue what gives life; and walk this road with others who love God, for holiness flourishes in community far better than in isolation.
2 Timothy 2:22 in the Original Language
dioko (διώκω), 'follow' -- to pursue and chase after, to run hard toward a goal with full intent.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Timothy 2:22
What does 2 Timothy 2:22 mean?
Paul tells Timothy to flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace alongside other pure-hearted believers.