1 Timothy 3:14
What does 1 Timothy 3:14 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Timothy 3:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Timothy 3:14 means
Paul writes these directives while hoping to come to Timothy soon. His personal presence would strengthen and clarify matters, but until then, the written word guides. The verse reveals pastoral care from a distance and the provisional nature of this instruction—it addresses present needs with the expectation of follow‑up. It also dignifies Scripture’s role: even absent an apostle, the church has sufficient light for orderly conduct. Hope for a visit does not diminish the authority or usefulness of what is written; it frames it as timely counsel for pressing concerns.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly;
KJV
King James Version · 1611These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly;
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949I am writing these things to you, though I am hoping to come to you before long;
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862These things I write to thee, hoping to come unto thee soon,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752These things I write to thee, hoping that I shall come to thee shortly.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890These things I write to thee, hoping to come to thee more quickly;
Context
Verse 14 transitions from qualifications to purpose. Having laid out standards for overseers and deacons, Paul explains his immediate situation and intent. The next verse will state the reason for these instructions: to shape behavior in God’s household, the church. This shift prepares the reader to see that church order is not mere pragmatism but theology in practice, fitting for a people entrusted with God’s truth.
v.13For they that have served well as deacons gain to themselves a good standing, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
v.14This passage
v.15but if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how men ought to behave themselves in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Corinthians 1:15
And in this confidence I was minded to come first unto you, that ye might have a second benefit;
- Hebrews 13:23
Know ye that our brother Timothy hath been set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you.
- 1 Timothy 4:13
Till I come, give heed to reading, to exhortation, to teaching.
- Philemon 1:22
But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I hope that through your prayers I shall be granted unto you.
- 2 John 1:12
Having many things to write unto you, I would not write them with paper and ink: but I hope to come unto you, and to speak face to face, that your joy may be made full.
- 1 Corinthians 11:34
If any man is hungry, let him eat at home; that your coming together be not unto judgment. And the rest will I set in order whensoever I come.
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