CINXE.COM

<!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 2:15 Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_timothy/2-15.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/19/55_2Ti_02_15.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Timothy 2:15 - The Lord's Approved Workman" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</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/2-15.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/2-15.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 15</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="/ad15.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/2-14.htm" title="2 Timothy 2:14">◄</a> 2 Timothy 2:15 <a href="/2_timothy/2-16.htm" title="2 Timothy 2:16">►</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="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </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> Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. <a href="/nlt/2_timothy/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. <a href="/esv/2_timothy/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. <a href="/bsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth. <a href="/blb/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Hasten to present yourself approved to God, a workman not ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. <a href="/kjv/2_timothy/2.htm">King James Bible</a> Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. <a href="/nkjv/2_timothy/2.htm">New King James Version</a> Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. <a href="/nasb_/2_timothy/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. <a href="/nasb/2_timothy/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. <a href="/nasb77/2_timothy/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth. <a href="/lsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. <a href="/amp/2_timothy/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth. <a href="/csb/2_timothy/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Be diligent to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth. <a href="/hcsb/2_timothy/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who doesn&#8217t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth. <a href="/asv/2_timothy/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth. <a href="/cev/2_timothy/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Do your best to win God's approval as a worker who doesn't need to be ashamed and who teaches only the true message. <a href="/erv/2_timothy/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth. <a href="/gwt/2_timothy/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Do your best to present yourself to God as a tried-and-true worker who isn't ashamed to teach the word of truth correctly. <a href="/gnt/2_timothy/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> Do your best to win full approval in God's sight, as a worker who is not ashamed of his work, one who correctly teaches the message of God's truth. <a href="/isv/2_timothy/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> Do your best to present yourself to God as an approved worker who has nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of truth with precision. <a href="/msb/2_timothy/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth. <a href="/net/2_timothy/2.htm">NET Bible</a> Make every effort to present yourself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately. <a href="/nheb/2_timothy/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Do your best to present yourself approved by God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, properly handling the word of truth. <a href="/wbt/2_timothy/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Study to show thyself approved to God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. <a href="/wey/2_timothy/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Earnestly seek to commend yourself to God as a servant who, because of his straightforward dealing with the word of truth, has no reason to feel any shame. <a href="/web/2_timothy/2.htm">World English Bible</a> Give diligence to present yourself approved by God, a workman who doesn’t need to be ashamed, properly handling the Word of Truth. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_timothy/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> be diligent to present yourself approved to God—a workman not ashamed, straightly cutting the word of truth; <a href="/blb/2_timothy/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Hasten to present yourself approved to God, a workman not ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. <a href="/ylt/2_timothy/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> be diligent to present thyself approved to God -- a workman irreproachable, rightly dividing the word of the truth; <a href="/slt/2_timothy/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Be earnest to present thyself acceptable to God, a worker without shame, dividing rightly the word of truth.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_timothy/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Carefully study to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. <a href="/cpdv/2_timothy/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Be solicitous in the task of presenting yourself before God as a proven and unashamed worker who has handled the Word of Truth correctly. <a href="/nabre/2_timothy/2.htm">New American Bible</a> Be eager to present yourself as acceptable to God, a workman who causes no disgrace, imparting the word of truth without deviation. <a href="/nrsvce/2_timothy/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved by him, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly explaining the word of truth.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_timothy/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Strive to conduct yourself perfectly before God, as a soldier without reproach and one who preaches straightforwardly the word of truth. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_timothy/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And take care of yourself, that you present yourself perfectly before God, a laborer without shame, who preaches the word of truth straightforwardly.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_timothy/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Strive to present yourself to God as approved, a workman that has no cause to be ashamed, rightly setting forth the word of truth. <a href="/godbey/2_timothy/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Study to present yourself to God approved, a workman not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. <a href="/haweis/2_timothy/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Be diligent to present thyself before God approved, a workman that need not blush, rightly dividing the word of truth. <a href="/mace/2_timothy/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> endeavour to approve yourself to God, as an artist that is not afraid of reproach, by rightly explaining the word of truth. <a href="/wey/2_timothy/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Earnestly seek to commend yourself to God as a servant who, because of his straightforward dealing with the word of truth, has no reason to feel any shame. <a href="/worrell/2_timothy/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Give diligence to present yourself approved to God, a workman not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. <a href="/worsley/2_timothy/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Endeavour to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. <a href="/parallel/2_timothy/2-15.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FxoCLii8Z48?start=292" 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> 14Remind the believers of these things, charging them before God to avoid quarreling over words, which succeeds only in leading the listeners to ruin. 15<a href="/greek/4704.htm" title="4704: Spoudason (V-AMA-2S) -- To hasten, be eager, be zealous. From spoude; to use speed, i.e. To make effort, be prompt or earnest.">Make every effort</a> <a href="/greek/3936.htm" title="3936: parastēsai (V-ANA) -- Or prolonged paristano from para and histemi; to stand beside, i.e. to exhibit, proffer, recommend, substantiate; or to be at hand, aid.">to present</a> <a href="/greek/4572.htm" title="4572: seauton (PPro-AM2S) -- Of yourself. ">yourself</a> <a href="/greek/1384.htm" title="1384: dokimon (Adj-AMS) -- Approved, acceptable, tried. From dokeo; properly, acceptable, i.e. Approved.">approved</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theō (N-DMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">to God,</a> <a href="/greek/422.htm" title="422: anepaischynton (Adj-AMS) -- Having no cause to be ashamed. Not ashamed, i.e. Irreprehensible.">an unashamed</a> <a href="/greek/2040.htm" title="2040: ergatēn (N-AMS) -- A field-laborer; then: a laborer, workman in general. From ergon; a toiler; figuratively, a teacher.">workman</a> <a href="/greek/3718.htm" title="3718: orthotomounta (V-PPA-AMS) -- From a compound of orthos and the base of tomoteros, to make a straight cut, i.e. to dissect correctly.">who accurately handles</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logon (N-AMS) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">word</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/225.htm" title="225: alētheias (N-GFS) -- From alethes; truth.">of truth.</a> 16But avoid irreverent, empty chatter, which will only lead to more ungodliness,…<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="/james/1-22.htm">James 1:22-25</a> Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves. / For anyone who hears the word but does not carry it out is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, / and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. ... <a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm">1 Peter 3:15</a> But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect, <a href="/colossians/3-16.htm">Colossians 3:16</a> Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. <a href="/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12</a> For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/1_timothy/4-13.htm">1 Timothy 4:13-16</a> Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching. / Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given you through the prophecy spoken over you at the laying on of the hands of the elders. / Be diligent in these matters and absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. ... <a href="/acts/17-11.htm">Acts 17:11</a> Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true. <a href="/2_peter/1-10.htm">2 Peter 1:10</a> Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things you will never stumble, <a href="/romans/12-2.htm">Romans 12:2</a> Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. <a href="/ephesians/6-17.htm">Ephesians 6:17</a> And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. <a href="/philippians/2-12.htm">Philippians 2:12-16</a> Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. / For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose. / Do everything without complaining or arguing, ... <a href="/joshua/1-8.htm">Joshua 1:8</a> This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do. <a href="/psalms/119-105.htm">Psalm 119:105</a> Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. <a href="/proverbs/2-1.htm">Proverbs 2:1-5</a> My son, if you accept my words and hide my commandments within you, / if you incline your ear to wisdom and direct your heart to understanding, / if you truly call out to insight and lift your voice to understanding, ... <a href="/ezra/7-10.htm">Ezra 7:10</a> For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, to practice it, and to teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel. <a href="/nehemiah/8-8.htm">Nehemiah 8:8</a> So they read from the Book of the Law of God, explaining it and giving insight, so that the people could understand what was being read.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Study to show yourself approved to God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.Study.<a href="/hebrews/4-11.htm">Hebrews 4:11</a> Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.<a href="/2_peter/1-10.htm">2 Peter 1:10,15</a> Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: … <a href="/2_peter/3-14.htm">2 Peter 3:14</a> Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.approved.<a href="/acts/2-22.htm">Acts 2:22</a> Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:<a href="/romans/14-18.htm">Romans 14:18</a> For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.<a href="/romans/16-10.htm">Romans 16:10</a> Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household.a workman.<a href="/matthew/13-52.htm">Matthew 13:52</a> Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">2 Corinthians 3:6</a> Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.<a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm">2 Corinthians 6:3,4</a> Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: … rightly.<a href="/matthew/13-52.htm">Matthew 13:52</a> Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.<a href="/mark/4-33.htm">Mark 4:33</a> And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it.<a href="/luke/12-42.htm">Luke 12:42</a> And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">Approval</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-10.htm">Approved</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-31.htm">Aright</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-16.htm">Ashamed</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-18.htm">Best</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-12.htm">Care</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-18.htm">Commend</a> <a href="/john/13-13.htm">Correctly</a> <a href="/romans/9-28.htm">Cutting</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-15.htm">Dealing</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-3.htm">Diligence</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-15.htm">Diligent</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-17.htm">Diligently</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-14.htm">Dividing</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-14.htm">Earnestly</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-11.htm">Feel</a> <a href="/amos/2-15.htm">Handles</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm">Handling</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-16.htm">Need</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-28.htm">Needeth</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-17.htm">Present</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-8.htm">Properly</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-10.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-6.htm">Right</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-21.htm">Rightly</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-15.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-3.htm">Servant</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-16.htm">Shame</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-15.htm">Shew</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-16.htm">Show</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-27.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/galatians/2-14.htm">Straightforward</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-14.htm">Strive</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-11.htm">Study</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-5.htm">Thyself</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-13.htm">True.</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-14.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-3.htm">Way</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-11.htm">Word</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-18.htm">Workman</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/philemon/1-14.htm">Approval</a> <a href="/james/1-12.htm">Approved</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-16.htm">Aright</a> <a href="/titus/2-8.htm">Ashamed</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-9.htm">Best</a> <a href="/titus/3-13.htm">Care</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-14.htm">Commend</a> <a href="/judges/12-6.htm">Correctly</a> <a href="/james/5-4.htm">Cutting</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-7.htm">Dealing</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-9.htm">Diligence</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-9.htm">Diligent</a> <a href="/titus/3-13.htm">Diligently</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-12.htm">Dividing</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-11.htm">Earnestly</a> <a href="/titus/2-8.htm">Feel</a> <a href="/exodus/26-17.htm">Handles</a> <a href="/genesis/4-21.htm">Handling</a> <a href="/titus/3-13.htm">Need</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-27.htm">Needeth</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-10.htm">Present</a> <a href="/isaiah/28-26.htm">Properly</a> <a href="/titus/1-5.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">Right</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-18.htm">Rightly</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-6.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">Servant</a> <a href="/titus/2-8.htm">Shame</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-11.htm">Shew</a> <a href="/titus/2-10.htm">Show</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-13.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/2_samuel/15-3.htm">Straightforward</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-22.htm">Strive</a> <a href="/ezra/7-10.htm">Study</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-11.htm">Thyself</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-25.htm">True.</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-18.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-17.htm">Way</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-17.htm">Word</a> <a href="/exodus/26-1.htm">Workman</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> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_timothy/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_timothy/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_timothy/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Make every effort This phrase emphasizes diligence and intentionality. In the context of Paul's letters, it reflects the urgency and commitment required in the Christian life. The Greek word used here, "spoudazō," implies a zealous and earnest pursuit. This aligns with other scriptural exhortations to be diligent, such as in <a href="/hebrews/4-11.htm">Hebrews 4:11</a>, where believers are encouraged to strive to enter God's rest.to present yourself approved to God The concept of being "approved" suggests a testing or proving process, akin to refining metals. In biblical times, metals were tested for purity, and only those that passed were deemed valuable. Similarly, believers are called to live in a way that meets God's standards, as seen in <a href="/romans/12.htm">Romans 12:1-2</a>, where Paul urges believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.an unashamed workman The imagery of a workman or laborer is common in the New Testament, reflecting the idea of serving God with integrity and skill. In the cultural context of the early church, a workman would be someone who is skilled and reliable, not needing to hide or be ashamed of their work. This is echoed in <a href="/1_corinthians/3-10.htm">1 Corinthians 3:10-15</a>, where Paul speaks of building on the foundation of Christ with care.who accurately handles the word of truth This phrase underscores the importance of correctly interpreting and teaching Scripture. The Greek term "orthotomeō" means to cut straight, akin to a craftsman cutting a straight path or a farmer plowing a straight furrow. This calls for precision and care in handling God's word, as seen in <a href="/acts/17-11.htm">Acts 17:11</a>, where the Bereans are commended for examining the Scriptures daily to verify Paul's teachings. The "word of truth" refers to the gospel message, which is central to Christian doctrine and life.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who authored the letter, providing guidance and encouragement to Timothy. 2. <a href="/topical/t/timothy.htm">Timothy</a> A young pastor and protégé of Paul, tasked with leading the church in Ephesus. 3. <a href="/topical/e/ephesus.htm">Ephesus</a> The city where Timothy was ministering, known for its diverse culture and challenges to the early church. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_church.htm">The Church</a> The body of believers in Ephesus, facing false teachings and needing sound doctrine. 5. <a href="/topical/f/false_teachers.htm">False Teachers</a> Individuals spreading incorrect teachings, against whom Timothy is warned to stand firm.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/d/diligence_in_study.htm">Diligence in Study</a> Believers are called to make every effort in studying Scripture, ensuring they understand and apply it correctly. <a href="/topical/a/approval_by_god.htm">Approval by God</a> Our ultimate goal is to be approved by God, not by human standards, which requires faithful adherence to His word. <a href="/topical/u/unashamed_workmanship.htm">Unashamed Workmanship</a> Handling God's word accurately means we can stand unashamed before God and others, confident in our understanding and teaching. <a href="/topical/a/accurate_handling_of_truth.htm">Accurate Handling of Truth</a> The Greek term "orthotomeo" implies cutting straight, akin to a craftsman or a surgeon, emphasizing precision in teaching and applying Scripture. <a href="/topical/g/guarding_against_false_teaching.htm">Guarding Against False Teaching</a> In a world of diverse and often conflicting messages, believers must discern truth from falsehood through diligent study and reliance on the Holy Spirit.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_timothy_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Timothy 2</a> <a href="/q/how_do_coherentism_and_foundationalism_differ.htm">How do coherentism and foundationalism differ in epistemology?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_a_theologian_differ_from_a_theologist.htm">What distinguishes a theologian from a theologist?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_'rightly_divide'_amid_differing_views.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 – How can we be sure we are “rightly dividing” the Word when countless denominations interpret this passage differently? </a> <a href="/q/how_to_show_approval_worthiness.htm">How can one demonstrate their approval worthiness?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_timothy/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(15) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed.--Timothy, and those in the position of Timothy, were to show themselves approved unto God, by turning others, over whom they possessed influence, from the pursuit of vain and unprofitable things. Then their work would be the work of workmen tested by trial, and would be found to have stood the test. (Comp. here <a href="/context/1_corinthians/3-10.htm" title="According to the grace of God which is given to me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another builds thereon. But let every man take heed how he builds thereupon.">1Corinthians 3:10-15</a>, where the final testing of the work done by God's workmen, such as Timothy, is spoken of in very clear, heart-searching language.) His own words in the First Epistle to the Corinthians were evidently in St. Paul's mind when he wrote down this direction to Timothy.Rightly dividing the word of truth.--Better rendered rightly laying out the word of truth. The Greek word translated in the English version "rightly dividing," literally signifies "cutting a straight line." It seems most correct to regard it as a metaphor from laying out a road (see <a href="/proverbs/3-6.htm" title="In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.">Proverbs 3:6</a>, in the LXX. rendering, where the word is so used), "or drawing a furrow, the merit of which consists in the straightness with which the work of cutting, or laying out, is performed. The word of truth is, as it were, a road which is to be laid out straightly and truly." So Ellicott. To affirm (see Alford and Huther-Meyer) that the notion of "cutting" had been gradually lost, and that the word already in the time of St. Paul signified simply "to manage rightly," "to treat truthfully without falsifying," and that the exact opposite is to corrupt or adulterate the Word of God (<a href="/2_corinthians/2-17.htm" title="For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.">2Corinthians 2:17</a>), seems premature. (Comp. Eur. Rhesus, 422, ed. Dindorf.)In the third century, Clement of Alexandria (Stromata, 7), for instance, certainly uses the word in a sense in which the idea of "cutting" has been lost, when he writes orthotomia (a substantive) as an equivalent for orthodoxia--orthodoxy. It is not improbable that the use of the word here by St. Paul gave the word a fresh starting-point, and that gradually the original meaning passed out of sight.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_timothy/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 15. - Give diligence to present for study to show, A.V.; handling aright for rightly dividing, A.V. Give diligence. The A.V. "study," if we give it its proper force, as in the Latin studeo, studium, studiosus, expresses the sense of σπούδασον exactly. Zeal, earnest desire, effort, and haste, are all implied in it (comp. <a href="/2_timothy/4-9.htm">2 Timothy 4:9, 21</a>; <a href="/titus/3-12.htm">Titus 3:12</a>; <a href="/2_peter/1-10.htm">2 Peter 1:10, 15</a>; <a href="/2_peter/3-14.htm">2 Peter 3:14</a>). To present thyself (παραστῆσαι, to present); as in <a href="/luke/2-22.htm">Luke 2:22</a>; <a href="/acts/1-3.htm">Acts 1:3</a>; <a href="/acts/9-41.htm">Acts 9:41</a>. In <a href="/1_corinthians/8-8.htm">1 Corinthians 8:8</a> it has the sense of "to commend," nearly the same as δόκιμον παραστῆσαι. The rendering, to show thyself, of the A.V. is a very good one, and is preserved in the R.V. of <a href="/acts/1-3.htm">Acts 1:3</a>. Approved (δόκιμον; <a href="/romans/16-10.htm">Romans 16:10</a>; <a href="/1_corinthians/11-19.htm">1 Corinthians 11:19</a>, etc.); one that has been tried and tested and found to be sterling; properly of metals. This, with the two following qualifications, "a workman that needeth not to be ashamed," and "one that rightly handles the Word of truth," is the character which Timothy is exhorted to appear in before God. The dative τῷ Θεῷ is governed by παραστῆσαι, not by δόκιμον. A workman (ἐργάτην). How natural is such a figure in the mouth of Paul, who wrought at his trade with Aquila and Priscilla (<a href="/acts/18-3.htm">Acts 18:3</a>), and was working night and day at Thessalonica, that he might earn his own living! That needeth not to be ashamed (ἀνεπαισχυντον); not found anywhere else, either in the New Testament or in the LXX., or in classical Greek. Bengel hits the right force of the word when he renders it "non pudefactum," only that by the common use of the passive participial form (compare ἀνεξιχνίαστος ἀνεξερεύνητος ἀναρίβμητος, etc.), it means further "that cannot be put to shame." The workman whose work is skimped is put to shame when, upon its being tested, it is found to be bad, dishonest work; the workman whose work, like himself, is δόκιμος, honest, conscientious, good work, and moreover sound and skilful work, never has been, and never can be, put to shame. St. Paul shows how to secure its being good work, viz. by its being done for the eye of God. Handling aright the Word of truth (ὀρθοτομοῦντα τὸν λόγον τῆς ἀληθείας). The verb ὀρθοτομεῖν occurs only here in the New Testament. In the LXX., in <a href="/proverbs/3-6.htm">Proverbs 3:6</a>, it stands for "he shall direct [or 'make straight'] thy paths;" and so in <a href="/proverbs/11-5.htm">Proverbs 11:5</a>. The idea is the same as that in <a href="/hebrews/12-13.htm">Hebrews 12:13</a>, "Make straight paths for your feet (τροχιὰς ὀρθὰς ποιήσατε)." But this does not at all suit the context. We must look, therefore, at the etymology of the word. Ὀρθοτόμεω must mean "to cut straight," and, as the apostle is speaking of a good workman, he must be thinking of some work in which the workman's skill consists in cutting straight: why not his own trade, in which it was all-important to cut the pieces straight that were afterwards to be joined to each other (see ὀρθότομος and ὀρθοτομία)? Hence, by an easy metaphor, "divide rightly," or "handle rightly, the Word of truth," preserving the true measure of the different portions of Divine truth. <a href="/commentaries/2_timothy/2-15.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Make every effort Σπούδασον (Spoudason) Verb - Aorist Imperative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4704.htm">Strong's 4704: </a> To hasten, be eager, be zealous. From spoude; to use speed, i.e. To make effort, be prompt or earnest. to present παραστῆσαι (parastēsai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_3936.htm">Strong's 3936: </a> Or prolonged paristano from para and histemi; to stand beside, i.e. to exhibit, proffer, recommend, substantiate; or to be at hand, aid. yourself σεαυτὸν (seauton) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4572.htm">Strong's 4572: </a> Of yourself. approved δόκιμον (dokimon) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1384.htm">Strong's 1384: </a> Approved, acceptable, tried. From dokeo; properly, acceptable, i.e. Approved. to God, Θεῷ (Theō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. [an] unashamed ἀνεπαίσχυντον (anepaischynton) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_422.htm">Strong's 422: </a> Having no cause to be ashamed. Not ashamed, i.e. Irreprehensible. workman ἐργάτην (ergatēn) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2040.htm">Strong's 2040: </a> A field-laborer; then: a laborer, workman in general. From ergon; a toiler; figuratively, a teacher. who accurately handles ὀρθοτομοῦντα (orthotomounta) Verb - Present Participle Active - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3718.htm">Strong's 3718: </a> From a compound of orthos and the base of tomoteros, to make a straight cut, i.e. to dissect correctly. the τὸν (ton) Article - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. word λόγον (logon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. of truth. ἀληθείας (alētheias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_225.htm">Strong's 225: </a> From alethes; truth. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-15.htm">NT Letters: 2 Timothy 2:15 Give diligence to present yourself approved (2 Tim. 2Ti iiTi ii Tim) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_timothy/2-14.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Timothy 2:14"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Timothy 2:14" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_timothy/2-16.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Timothy 2:16"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Timothy 2:16" /></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>