An Approved Workman

14 Keep reminding God's people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen.

Other Translations of 2 Timothy 2:14

King James Version

An Approved Workman

14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.

English Standard Version

An Approved Workman

14 Remind them of these things, and charge them before GodSome manuscripts the Lord not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers.

The Message

An Approved Workman

14 Repeat these basic essentials over and over to God's people. Warn them before God against pious nitpicking, which chips away at the faith. It just wears everyone out.

New King James Version

An Approved Workman

14 Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers.

New Living Translation

An Approved Workman

14 Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God's presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Timothy 2:14

Commentary on 2 Timothy 2:14-21

(Read 2 Timothy 2:14-21)

Those disposed to strive, commonly strive about matters of small moment. But strifes of words destroy the things of God. The apostle mentions some who erred. They did not deny the resurrection, but they corrupted that true doctrine. Yet nothing can be so foolish or erroneous, but it will overturn the temporary faith of some professors. This foundation has two writings on it. One speaks our comfort. None can overthrow the faith of any whom God hath chosen. The other speaks our duty. Those who would have the comfort of the privilege, must make conscience of the duty Christ gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, Titus 2:14. The church of Christ is like a dwelling: some furniture is of great value; some of smaller value, and put to meaner uses. Some professors of religion are like vessels of wood and earth. When the vessels of dishonour are cast out to be destroyed, the others will be filled with all the fulness of God. We must see to it that we are holy vessels. Every one in the church whom God approves, will be devoted to his Master's service, and thus fitted for his use.