1 Timothy 5:25
What does 1 Timothy 5:25 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Timothy 5:25 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Timothy 5:25 means
Likewise, good works are often plainly seen, and those that are not immediately obvious will not remain hidden. Time brings light to character—both sin and virtue. This encourages fair-minded patience: avoid cynicism that refuses to see quiet faithfulness, and avoid naivety that ignores concealed faults. In leadership selection and church life, endurance in doing good will speak for itself. God makes fruit evident. The church’s task is to watch, test, and acknowledge what God reveals in due course. Thus, Paul concludes by commending a measured, hope-filled approach to people: look for the long pattern, and let recognition match what time and truth disclose.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000In like manner also there are good works that are evident; and such as are otherwise cannot be hid.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901In like manner also there are good works that are evident; and such as are otherwise cannot be hid.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949In the same way, there are good works which are clearly seen; and those which are not so, may not be kept secret.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862in like manner also the right works are manifest beforehand, and those that are otherwise are not able to be hid.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752In like manner also good deeds are manifest: and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890In like manner good works also are manifest beforehand, and those that are otherwise cannot be hid.
Context
As a companion to verse 24’s warning about hidden sins, verse 25 affirms that hidden good will also come to light. This balances caution with encouragement and rounds out Paul’s rationale for slow, principled leadership decisions. It closes the chapter’s themes: respectful relationships, wise care of widows, proper honor and discipline for elders, personal prudence, and patient discernment. The church that heeds these counsels preserves its witness and resources, honors God, and fosters enduring faithfulness among its members.
v.24Some men’s sins are evident, going before unto judgment; and some men also they follow after.
v.25This passage
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 9:36
Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.
- Matthew 5:16
Even so let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
- 1 Timothy 3:7
Moreover he must have good testimony from them that are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
- Galatians 5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
- Proverbs 10:9
He that walketh uprightly walketh surely; But he that perverteth his ways shall be known.
- Acts 22:12
And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, well reported of by all the Jews that dwelt there,
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