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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Timothy 2:20 A large house contains not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay. Some indeed are for honorable use, but others are for common use.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_timothy/2-20.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/55_2Ti_02_20.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Timothy 2:20 - The Lord's Approved Workman" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="A large house contains not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay. Some indeed are for honorable use, but others are for common use." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script> <script src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/biblehub.js' type='text/javascript'></script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_timothy/2-20.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_timothy/2-20.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_timothy/">2 Timothy</a> > <a href="/2_timothy/2.htm">Chapter 2</a> > Verse 20</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_timothy/2-19.htm" title="2 Timothy 2:19">◄</a> 2 Timothy 2:20 <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm" title="2 Timothy 2:21">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Study Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Crossref </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comment </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/2_timothy/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/2_timothy/2.htm">New International Version</a> In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. <a href="/nlt/2_timothy/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. <a href="/esv/2_timothy/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. <a href="/bsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> A large house contains not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay. Some indeed are for honorable use, but others are for common use. <a href="/blb/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Now in a great house, there are not only golden and silver vessels, but also wooden and earthen; and some indeed unto honor, but some unto dishonor. <a href="/kjv/2_timothy/2.htm">King James Bible</a> But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. <a href="/nkjv/2_timothy/2.htm">New King James Version</a> But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. <a href="/nasb_/2_timothy/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver implements, but also implements of wood and of earthenware, and some are for honor while others are for dishonor. <a href="/nasb/2_timothy/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor. <a href="/nasb77/2_timothy/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor. <a href="/lsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of clay, and some to honor and some to dishonor. <a href="/amp/2_timothy/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Now in a large house there are not only vessels and objects of gold and silver, but also vessels and objects of wood and of earthenware, and some are for honorable (noble, good) use and some for dishonorable (ignoble, common). <a href="/csb/2_timothy/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also those of wood and clay; some for honorable use and some for dishonorable. <a href="/hcsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver bowls, but also those of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. <a href="/asv/2_timothy/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some unto honor, and some unto dishonor. <a href="/cev/2_timothy/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> In a large house some dishes are made of gold or silver, while others are made of wood or clay. Some of these are special, and others are not. <a href="/erv/2_timothy/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some unto honour, and some unto dishonour. <a href="/gwt/2_timothy/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> In a large house there are not only objects made of gold and silver, but also those made of wood and clay. Some objects are honored when they are used; others aren't. <a href="/gnt/2_timothy/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> In a large house there are dishes and bowls of all kinds: some are made of silver and gold, others of wood and clay; some are for special occasions, others for ordinary use. <a href="/isv/2_timothy/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> In a large house there are not only utensils made of gold and silver, but also those made of wood and clay. Some are for special use, while others are for ordinary use. <a href="/msb/2_timothy/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> A large house contains not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay. Some indeed are for honorable use, but others are for common use. <a href="/net/2_timothy/2.htm">NET Bible</a> Now in a wealthy home there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also ones made of wood and of clay, and some are for honorable use, but others for ignoble use. <a href="/nheb/2_timothy/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Now in a large house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of clay. Some are for honor, and some for dishonor. <a href="/wbt/2_timothy/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honor, and some to dishonor. <a href="/wey/2_timothy/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Now in a great house there are not only articles of gold and silver, but also others of wood and of earthenware; and some are for specially honourable, and others for common use. <a href="/web/2_timothy/2.htm">World English Bible</a> Now in a large house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of clay. Some are for honor and some for dishonor. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_timothy/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth, and some to honor, and some to dishonor: <a href="/blb/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Now in a great house, there are not only golden and silver vessels, but also wooden and earthen; and some indeed unto honor, but some unto dishonor. <a href="/ylt/2_timothy/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth, and some to honour, and some to dishonour: <a href="/slt/2_timothy/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And in a great house there is not only gold and silver vessels, but also wood and earthen; and some truly for honour, and some for dishonour.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_timothy/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and earth: and some indeed unto honour, but some unto dishonour. <a href="/cpdv/2_timothy/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But, in a large house, there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also those of wood and of clay; and certainly some are held in honor, but others in dishonor. <a href="/nabre/2_timothy/2.htm">New American Bible</a> In a large household there are vessels not only of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for lofty and others for humble use. <a href="/nrsvce/2_timothy/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> In a large house there are utensils not only of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for special use, some for ordinary.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_timothy/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; some for formal use on occasions of honor and others for service. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_timothy/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But in a great house, there are not only vessels of gold or silver, but also of wood and of pottery, some of them for honor and some for dishonor.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_timothy/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> In a great house, however, there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth, and some for honor, and some for dishonor. <a href="/godbey/2_timothy/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> But in a great house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also wood and stone, the former truly indeed unto honor, but the latter unto dishonor. <a href="/haweis/2_timothy/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and pottery; and some for an honourable use, and others for baser service. <a href="/mace/2_timothy/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> in a palace there are vessels not only of gold, and of silver, but of wood and of earth likewise: some are for honourable uses, and others for meaner purposes. <a href="/wey/2_timothy/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Now in a great house there are not only articles of gold and silver, but also others of wood and of earthenware; and some are for specially honourable, and others for common use. <a href="/worrell/2_timothy/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> But, in a great house, there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some, indeed, unto honor and some unto dishonor. <a href="/worsley/2_timothy/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> In a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honor, some for meaner uses. <a href="/parallel/2_timothy/2-20.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FxoCLii8Z48?start=340" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_timothy/2.htm">The Lord's Approved Workman</a> …19Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from iniquity.” 20<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: En (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/3173.htm" title="3173: megalē (Adj-DFS) -- Large, great, in the widest sense. ">A large</a> <a href="/greek/3614.htm" title="3614: oikia (N-DFS) -- From oikos; properly, residence, but usually an abode; by implication, a family.">house</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">contains</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/3440.htm" title="3440: monon (Adv) -- Alone, but, only. Neuter of monos as adverb; merely.">only</a> <a href="/greek/4632.htm" title="4632: skeuē (N-NNP) -- A vessel, implement, equipment or apparatus (specially, a wife as contributing to the usefulness of the husband).">vessels</a> <a href="/greek/5552.htm" title="5552: chrysa (Adj-NNP) -- Golden, made of gold, adorned with gold. From chrusos; made of gold.">of gold</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/693.htm" title="693: argyra (Adj-NNP) -- Made of silver. From arguros; made of silver.">silver,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">also</a> <a href="/greek/3585.htm" title="3585: xylina (Adj-NNP) -- Wooden. From xulon; wooden.">of wood</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3749.htm" title="3749: ostrakina (Adj-NNP) -- Made of clay, earthen. From ostrakon; earthen-ware, i.e. Clayey; by implication, frail.">clay.</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: ha (RelPro-NNP) -- Who, which, what, that. ">Some</a> <a href="/greek/3303.htm" title="3303: men (Conj) -- A primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession; usually followed by a contrasted clause with de.">indeed</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">are for</a> <a href="/greek/5092.htm" title="5092: timēn (N-AFS) -- A price, honor. From tino; a value, i.e. Money paid, or valuables; by analogy, esteem, or the dignity itself.">honorable use,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">but</a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: ha (RelPro-NNP) -- Who, which, what, that. ">others</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">are for</a> <a href="/greek/819.htm" title="819: atimian (N-AFS) -- Disgrace, dishonor; a dishonorable use. From atimos; infamy, i.e. comparative indignity, disgrace.">common use.</a> 21So if anyone cleanses himself of what is unfit, he will be a vessel for honor: sanctified, useful to the Master, and prepared for every good work.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/romans/9-21.htm">Romans 9:21</a> Does not the potter have the right to make from the same lump of clay one vessel for special occasions and another for common use? <a href="/1_corinthians/3-12.htm">1 Corinthians 3:12-15</a> If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, / his workmanship will be evident, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will prove the quality of each man’s work. / If what he has built survives, he will receive a reward. ... <a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm">2 Corinthians 4:7</a> Now we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this surpassingly great power is from God and not from us. <a href="/1_timothy/6-9.htm">1 Timothy 6:9</a> Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. <a href="/1_peter/1-7.htm">1 Peter 1:7</a> so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. <a href="/matthew/13-47.htm">Matthew 13:47-50</a> Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was cast into the sea and caught all kinds of fish. / When it was full, the men pulled it ashore. Then they sat down and sorted the good fish into containers, but threw the bad away. / So will it be at the end of the age: The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous ... <a href="/matthew/25-14.htm">Matthew 25:14-30</a> For it is just like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted them with his possessions. / To one he gave five talents, to another two talents, and to another one talent—each according to his own ability. And he went on his journey. / The servant who had received the five talents went at once and put them to work and gained five more. ... <a href="/1_corinthians/12-23.htm">1 Corinthians 12:23-24</a> and the parts we consider less honorable, we treat with greater honor. And our unpresentable parts are treated with special modesty, / whereas our presentable parts have no such need. But God has composed the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, <a href="/2_timothy/3-17.htm">2 Timothy 3:17</a> so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work. <a href="/ephesians/2-10.htm">Ephesians 2:10</a> For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life. <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 4:4</a> each of you must know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, <a href="/1_peter/2-9.htm">1 Peter 2:9</a> But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. <a href="/proverbs/25-4.htm">Proverbs 25:4</a> Remove the dross from the silver, and a vessel for a silversmith will come forth. <a href="/isaiah/64-8.htm">Isaiah 64:8</a> But now, O LORD, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You are the potter; we are all the work of Your hand. <a href="/jeremiah/18-1.htm">Jeremiah 18:1-6</a> This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD: / “Go down at once to the potter’s house, and there I will give you My message.” / So I went down to the potter’s house and saw him working at the wheel. ...</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honor, and some to dishonor.in a.<a href="/1_corinthians/3-9.htm">1 Corinthians 3:9,16,17</a> For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building… <a href="/ephesians/2-22.htm">Ephesians 2:22</a> In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.<a href="/1_timothy/3-15.htm">1 Timothy 3:15</a> But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.vessels.<a href="/exodus/27-3.htm">Exodus 27:3</a> And thou shalt make his pans to receive his ashes, and his shovels, and his basons, and his fleshhooks, and his firepans: all the vessels thereof thou shalt make of brass.<a href="/ezra/1-6.htm">Ezra 1:6</a> And all they that were about them strengthened their hands with vessels of silver, with gold, with goods, and with beasts, and with precious things, beside all that was willingly offered.<a href="/ezra/6-5.htm">Ezra 6:5</a> And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which is at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which is at Jerusalem, every one to his place, and place them in the house of God.and some to honour.<a href="/romans/9-21.htm">Romans 9:21-23</a> Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/daniel/1-2.htm">Articles</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm">Clay</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">Common</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-8.htm">Dishonor</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">Dishonour</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-17.htm">Earth</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm">Earthen</a> <a href="/jeremiah/32-14.htm">Earthenware</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-9.htm">Gold</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-17.htm">Great</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-16.htm">Honor</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-16.htm">Honour</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-12.htm">Honourable</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-17.htm">Honoured</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-16.htm">House</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-28.htm">Ignoble</a> <a href="/galatians/6-11.htm">Large</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-18.htm">Noble</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-2.htm">Others</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-17.htm">Purposes</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-12.htm">Silver</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-17.htm">Specially</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-23.htm">Use</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm">Vessels</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-12.htm">Wood</a> <a href="/habakkuk/2-19.htm">Wooden</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/genesis/24-53.htm">Articles</a> <a href="/revelation/2-27.htm">Clay</a> <a href="/titus/1-4.htm">Common</a> <a href="/leviticus/18-7.htm">Dishonor</a> <a href="/james/2-6.htm">Dishonour</a> <a href="/hebrews/1-10.htm">Earth</a> <a href="/revelation/2-27.htm">Earthen</a> <a href="/revelation/2-27.htm">Earthenware</a> <a href="/hebrews/9-4.htm">Gold</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-2.htm">Great</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm">Honor</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm">Honour</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm">Honourable</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-4.htm">Honoured</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm">House</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm">Ignoble</a> <a href="/revelation/21-12.htm">Large</a> <a href="/hebrews/1-4.htm">Noble</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-3.htm">Others</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm">Purposes</a> <a href="/james/5-3.htm">Silver</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm">Specially</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm">Use</a> <a href="/hebrews/9-2.htm">Vessels</a> <a href="/james/3-5.htm">Wood</a> <a href="/leviticus/11-32.htm">Wooden</a><div class="vheading2">2 Timothy 2</div>1. <a href="/2_timothy/2-1.htm">Timothy is exhorted again to constancy and perseverance.</a> 17. <a href="/2_timothy/2-17.htm">Of Hymenaeus and Philetus.</a> 19. <a href="/2_timothy/2-19.htm">The foundation of the Lord is sure.</a> 22. <a href="/2_timothy/2-22.htm">He is taught whereof to beware, and what to follow after.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading"><a href="/study/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Study Bible</a></div>A large house The phrase "a large house" can be seen as a metaphor for the church or the Christian community. In the historical context of the early church, the "house" often symbolized the body of believers. The Greek word used here, "oikia," refers to a dwelling or household, suggesting a place of belonging and community. This imagery sets the stage for understanding the diversity and purpose within the body of Christ.contains not only vessels The term "vessels" (Greek: "skeuē") refers to implements or containers used for various purposes. In the biblical context, vessels often symbolize people or their roles within the church. This imagery is consistent with other scriptural references where believers are described as vessels for God's use (e.g., <a href="/romans/9-21.htm">Romans 9:21-23</a>). The emphasis here is on the variety and multiplicity of roles within the church.of gold and silver Gold and silver are precious metals, often associated with honor, value, and purity. In the ancient world, these materials were used for special purposes and signified wealth and status. Spiritually, they represent believers who are set apart for noble purposes, reflecting the glory and holiness of God. The use of these metals underscores the idea of being refined and valuable in God's service.but also of wood and clay Wood and clay, in contrast to gold and silver, are common materials used for everyday purposes. They are less durable and less valuable, symbolizing believers who may not hold prominent positions but are still essential to the functioning of the church. The Greek word for clay, "ostrakinos," suggests fragility and ordinariness, reminding us of the humility and service required in the Christian life.Some indeed are for honorable use The phrase "honorable use" (Greek: "timēn") refers to purposes that are noble, esteemed, and worthy. In the context of the church, this implies roles or functions that are publicly recognized and valued. The emphasis is on the dignity and respect associated with serving God in a way that brings honor to His name.but others are for common use "Common use" (Greek: "atimian") denotes ordinary, everyday purposes. This does not imply lesser importance but highlights the diversity of roles within the church. Every believer, regardless of their role, contributes to the overall mission of the church. The distinction between honorable and common use serves to remind us that all service to God is valuable, though it may manifest in different forms.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_timothy/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(20) But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver.--The Apostle goes on with the same thought of the "Church of God on earth," but he changes the imagery. He has been speaking of this Church as the "foundation-storey that cannot be moved" of a still more glorious edifice. He now, as it were, answers a question which would naturally occur to Timothy and to many a devout reader or hearer of the Epistle when they came to this part of the argument. How comes it, then, one would ask, that in this visible Church on earth are so many unworthy members? How is it that in this changeless, abiding foundation of the great Temple of the future, against which all earthly storms may beat, and yet never shake its massive storeys, so many useless crumbling stones are taken for the building?In a great house, argues St. Paul--still thinking of the Church, but changing the foundation image for that of a great house--are always found two distinct kinds of vessels--the precious and enduring, and also the comparatively valueless and lasting for out a little while; the first kind are destined for honour, the second for dishonour. In St. Paul's mind, when he wrote these words, the natural sequel to his far-reaching and suggestive comparison of the "foundation" (<a href="/2_timothy/2-19.htm" title="Nevertheless the foundation of God stands sure, having this seal, The Lord knows them that are his. And, Let every one that names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.">2Timothy 2:19</a>) were the words of his Master, who had once compared His Church to a drag-net of wide sweep, including in its take something of every kind out of the vast sea-world. The "net"--His Church--was together and to hold in its meshes its great take--the good and the bad, the useful and the useless--till the end of the world. So St. Paul writes how in a great house there must be these varieties of vessels--some for honour, others for dishonour. By these vessels the genuine and spurious members of the Church are represented as forming two distinct classes; and in these classes different degrees of honour and dishonour besides exist--the vessels of gold and silver, the vessels of wood and of earth. To Timothy these comparisons would at once suggest the true and false teachers in his Church at Ephesus; but the reference is a far broader one, and includes all members of the Church of Christ. The enduring nature of the metals gold and silver are contrasted with the perishable nature of the other materials, wood and earth. The former will remain a part of the Church for ever; the latter will only endure until the end of the world.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_timothy/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 20. - Now for but, A.V.; unto for to, A.V. (twice). Now in a great house, etc. "Now" is hardly the right conjunction. It should rather be "howbeit." The object of the figure of the various vessels in the "great house" is to show that, though every one that names the Name of the Lord ought to depart from unrighteousness, yet we must not be surprised if it is not so, and if there are found in the Church some professing Christians whose practice is quite inconsistent with their profession. Perhaps even the vilest members of the visible Church perform some useful function, howbeit they do not mean it. With this mention of the vessels, compare the enumeration in <a href="/1_corinthians/3-12.htm">1 Corinthians 3:12</a>. Of earth (ὀστράκινα); only here and <a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm">2 Corinthians 4:7</a>, where it is also applied to σκεύη, "earthen vessels;" as it is in the LXX., e.g. <a href="/leviticus/6-28.htm">Leviticus 6:28</a>; and to ἄγγος (<a href="/numbers/5-17.htm">Numbers 5:17</a>). Ὄστρακον "a tile." (For the same figure, see <a href="/romans/9-22.htm">Romans 9:22, 23</a>.) <a href="/commentaries/2_timothy/2-20.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>A large μεγάλῃ (megalē) Adjective - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3173.htm">Strong's 3173: </a> Large, great, in the widest sense. house οἰκίᾳ (oikia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3614.htm">Strong's 3614: </a> From oikos; properly, residence, but usually an abode; by implication, a family. contains ἔστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. not οὐκ (ouk) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. only μόνον (monon) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3440.htm">Strong's 3440: </a> Alone, but, only. Neuter of monos as adverb; merely. vessels σκεύη (skeuē) Noun - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4632.htm">Strong's 4632: </a> A vessel, implement, equipment or apparatus (specially, a wife as contributing to the usefulness of the husband). of gold χρυσᾶ (chrysa) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5552.htm">Strong's 5552: </a> Golden, made of gold, adorned with gold. From chrusos; made of gold. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. silver, ἀργυρᾶ (argyra) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_693.htm">Strong's 693: </a> Made of silver. From arguros; made of silver. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. also καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. of wood ξύλινα (xylina) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3585.htm">Strong's 3585: </a> Wooden. From xulon; wooden. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. clay. ὀστράκινα (ostrakina) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3749.htm">Strong's 3749: </a> Made of clay, earthen. From ostrakon; earthen-ware, i.e. Clayey; by implication, frail. Some ἃ (ha) Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3739.htm">Strong's 3739: </a> Who, which, what, that. indeed μὲν (men) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3303.htm">Strong's 3303: </a> A primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession; usually followed by a contrasted clause with de. [are] for εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. honorable [use], τιμὴν (timēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5092.htm">Strong's 5092: </a> A price, honor. From tino; a value, i.e. Money paid, or valuables; by analogy, esteem, or the dignity itself. but δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. others ἃ (ha) Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3739.htm">Strong's 3739: </a> Who, which, what, that. [are] for εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. common [use]. ἀτιμίαν (atimian) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_819.htm">Strong's 819: </a> Disgrace, dishonor; a dishonorable use. From atimos; infamy, i.e. comparative indignity, disgrace. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_timothy/2-20.htm">2 Timothy 2:20 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-20.htm">NT Letters: 2 Timothy 2:20 Now in a large house there (2 Tim. 2Ti iiTi ii Tim) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_timothy/2-19.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Timothy 2:19"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Timothy 2:19" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_timothy/2-21.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Timothy 2:21"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Timothy 2:21" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>