2 Timothy 2:18
What does 2 Timothy 2:18 mean?
A plain-English look at 2 Timothy 2:18 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 2 Timothy 2:18 means
These men have deviated from the truth by saying the resurrection has already happened, upsetting the faith of some. Their error likely spiritualized or denied the bodily resurrection, claiming all that matters is a present, inward experience. Such teaching robs believers of hope, severs the link between Christ’s resurrection and ours, and confuses consciences. The immediate effect is destabilization—faith is overthrown because the future anchor is removed. Paul’s assessment is clear: this is not a minor difference but a fundamental departure. Timothy must counter it by teaching the full hope of the gospel: just as Jesus rose bodily, so will his people, in God’s time.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000men who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already, and overthrow the faith of some.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901men who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already, and overthrow the faith of some.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Men whose ideas are all false, who say that the coming back from the dead has even now taken place, overturning the faith of some.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862who concerning the truth did swerve, saying the rising again to have already been, and do overthrow the faith of some;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Who have erred from the truth, saying that the resurrection is past already, and have subverted the faith of some.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890[men] who as to the truth have gone astray, saying that the resurrection has taken place already; and overthrow the faith of some.
Context
Having named the false teachers (v.17), Paul now states their central error: a denial or misplacement of the resurrection. This explains why their influence is so destructive and why decisive correction is needed. To comfort the shaken, Paul will immediately affirm God’s unshakable foundation and the twin seal of divine knowledge and human holiness (v.19). He will then use the vessel imagery (vv.20–21) to show how individuals can be useful in a mixed community by cleansing themselves.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Matthew 15:13
But he answered and said, Every plant which my heavenly Father planted not, shall be rooted up.
- 1 Timothy 6:21
which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with you.
- 1 Timothy 6:10
For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil: which some reaching after have been led astray from the faith, and have pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
- James 5:19
My brethren, if any among you err from the truth, and one convert him;
- Hebrews 3:10
Wherefore I was displeased with this generation, And said, They do always err in their heart: But they did not know my ways;
- 2 Timothy 2:14
Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them in the sight of the Lord, that they strive not about words, to no profit, to the subverting of them that hear.
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…