2 Timothy 2:15
What does 2 Timothy 2:15 mean?
A plain-English look at 2 Timothy 2:15 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 2 Timothy 2:15 means
Timothy is to be eager to present himself to God as an approved worker, unashamed because he correctly handles the word of truth. The audience that matters most is God, not the crowd. Approval comes through diligent effort and integrity, not show. To “handle aright” suggests cutting a straight path—interpreting and applying Scripture accurately, clearly, and honestly. Such labor spares shame on the day of review and blesses hearers now. This verse sets the standard for all teachers: study, precision, and fidelity to the gospel’s pattern. It also implies courage, since right handling may oppose popular errors. Timothy’s task is craftsmanship with God’s word, aiming for God’s smile.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Let it be your care to get the approval of God, as a workman who has no cause for shame, giving the true word in the right way.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862be diligent to present thyself approved to God--a workman irreproachable, rightly dividing the word of the truth;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Carefully study to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Strive diligently to present thyself approved toGod, a workman that has not to be ashamed, cutting in a straight line the word of truth.
Context
Following the call to avoid profitless disputes (v.14), Paul presents the positive alternative: disciplined, God-pleasing labor in the Scriptures. This becomes the benchmark for ministry in contrast to the profane chatter he will soon condemn (vv.16–18). The next verses warn that false teaching spreads like gangrene (v.17) and cite Hymenæus and Philetus as examples (vv.17–18). Thus, verse 15 is both a personal charge and a protective measure against doctrinal decay in the church.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Peter 1:15
Yea, I will give diligence that at every time ye may be able after my decease to call these things to remembrance.
- 2 Peter 1:10
Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never stumble:
- 2 Corinthians 4:2
but we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by the manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.
- 1 Thessalonians 2:4
but even as we have been approved of God to be intrusted with the gospel, so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God who proveth our hearts.
- Acts 20:27
For I shrank not from declaring unto you the whole counsel of God.
- 1 Corinthians 3:1
And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, as unto babes in Christ.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore 2 Timothy 2
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on 2 Timothy 2.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Discipleship
Discipleship is an intentional journey of following Jesus, learning from Him, and growing in His likeness.
Topic
Bible Verses About Faithfulness
Faithfulness describes a person’s loyal and steadfast devotion to God, and also God’s unchanging, unfailing character.
Topic
Bible Verses About Gentleness
The Bible consistently calls believers to lives of gentleness, showing kindness and humility in all interactions.
What the Bible says about…