1 Timothy 4:7

Modern

But reject irreverent, silly myths. Instead, train yourself for godliness.

Traditional

But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.

Literal

But reject profane and silly myths. Rather, train yourself unto godliness.

Latin

Ineptas autem, et aniles fabulas devita: exerce autem teipsum ad pietatem.

Greek

English

But reject irreverent, silly myths. Instead, train yourself for godliness.

Timothy needs to address the false teachers (see 2 Timothy 3:1–4:5).

This section explains how Timothy should spend his time until Paul arrives (3:14–15; 4:13).

Theme notes and profiles

2 Timothy 2:16
But avoid irreverent, empty chatter, which will only lead to more ungodliness,
Titus 2:12
It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age,
1 Timothy 1:4
…or devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculation rather than the stewardship of God’s work, which is by faith.
2 Peter 1:5–8
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge;
Titus 3:9
But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, arguments, and quarrels about the law, because these things are pointless and worthless.
Hebrews 5:14
But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil.
1 Timothy 6:11
But you, O man of God, flee from these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.
2 Timothy 2:23
But reject foolish and ignorant speculation, for you know that it breeds quarreling.
Acts 24:16
In this hope, I strive always to maintain a clear conscience before God and man.
2 Timothy 4:4
So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.
1 Timothy 6:20
O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid irreverent, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of so-called “knowledge,”
Titus 1:14
…and will pay no attention to Jewish myths or to the commands of men who have rejected the truth.