2 Timothy 2:15
Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth.
Make every effort
The Greek word here is "σπουδάζω" (spoudazō), which conveys a sense of diligence, eagerness, and earnestness. In the historical context of the early church, this phrase underscores the importance of intentional and vigorous effort in one's spiritual life. The Apostle Paul is urging Timothy to be proactive and committed in his pursuit of godliness and ministry. This call to action is a reminder for believers today to prioritize their spiritual growth and service to God with the same fervor and dedication.

to present yourself
The phrase "παρίστημι" (paristēmi) in Greek means to stand beside or to exhibit. In a biblical context, it implies offering oneself to God as a living sacrifice, as seen in Romans 12:1. This presentation is not merely external but involves the whole being—mind, body, and spirit. Historically, this reflects the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, where offerings were presented to God. For Christians, it signifies a life wholly devoted to God's service, aligning one's actions and intentions with His will.

approved to God
The term "δόκιμος" (dokimos) refers to being tested and found genuine. In ancient times, this word was used to describe metals that had been tested by fire and proven to be pure. Paul is encouraging Timothy to live a life that withstands trials and is pleasing to God. This approval is not about human standards but divine acceptance, emphasizing the importance of integrity and faithfulness in the believer's walk with God.

an unashamed workman
The Greek "ἀνεπαίσχυντος" (anepaischyntos) means without shame. In the context of a workman, it suggests someone who performs their duties with competence and integrity, leaving no room for embarrassment or reproach. Historically, this reflects the cultural value placed on craftsmanship and diligence. For Christians, it serves as a metaphor for spiritual labor, encouraging believers to serve God with excellence and confidence, knowing they have fulfilled their responsibilities faithfully.

who accurately handles
The phrase "ὀρθοτομέω" (orthotomeō) literally means to cut straight. This term was used in various trades, such as carpentry or masonry, to describe precise and correct work. In the context of Scripture, it implies rightly dividing or interpreting the word of God. Paul is instructing Timothy to handle the Scriptures with precision and care, ensuring that his teaching is true to the intended message. This serves as a timeless reminder for all believers to approach God's Word with reverence and accuracy.

the word of truth
The "λόγος τῆς ἀληθείας" (logos tēs alētheias) refers to the message of the Gospel and the entirety of Scripture. In a world filled with false teachings and deception, the Bible stands as the ultimate source of truth. Historically, the early church faced numerous heresies, making the accurate teaching of God's Word crucial. For contemporary Christians, this phrase emphasizes the importance of grounding one's faith and life in the unchanging truth of Scripture, which is the foundation of all Christian doctrine and practice.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Paul
The apostle who authored the letter, providing guidance and encouragement to Timothy.

2. Timothy
A young pastor and protégé of Paul, tasked with leading the church in Ephesus.

3. Ephesus
The city where Timothy was ministering, known for its diverse culture and challenges to the early church.

4. The Church
The body of believers in Ephesus, facing false teachings and needing sound doctrine.

5. False Teachers
Individuals spreading incorrect teachings, against whom Timothy is warned to stand firm.
Teaching Points
Diligence in Study
Believers are called to make every effort in studying Scripture, ensuring they understand and apply it correctly.

Approval by God
Our ultimate goal is to be approved by God, not by human standards, which requires faithful adherence to His word.

Unashamed Workmanship
Handling God's word accurately means we can stand unashamed before God and others, confident in our understanding and teaching.

Accurate Handling of Truth
The Greek term "orthotomeo" implies cutting straight, akin to a craftsman or a surgeon, emphasizing precision in teaching and applying Scripture.

Guarding Against False Teaching
In a world of diverse and often conflicting messages, believers must discern truth from falsehood through diligent study and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Bible Study Questions
1. What steps can you take to ensure you are "accurately handling the word of truth" in your personal Bible study?

2. How does the concept of being an "unashamed workman" influence your approach to sharing your faith with others?

3. In what ways can you seek God's approval in your daily life, particularly in your study and application of Scripture?

4. How can the example of the Bereans in Acts 17:11 inspire your own study habits and approach to Scripture?

5. What are some practical ways to guard against false teachings in today's culture, and how can you apply these in your community or church?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Timothy 4:12-16
Paul encourages Timothy to be an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, emphasizing the importance of sound teaching.

James 1:22-25
Highlights the importance of not only hearing the word but also doing it, which aligns with being an "unashamed workman."

Hebrews 4:12
Describes the word of God as living and active, underscoring the need for accurate handling of Scripture.

Acts 17:11
The Bereans are commended for examining the Scriptures daily, a model for how to handle the word of truth.

Psalm 119:105
Describes God's word as a lamp and light, guiding believers in truth and righteousness.
A Useful PreacherJ. C. Miller, D. D.2 Timothy 2:15
A Workman that Needeth not to be AshamedA. Plummer, D. D.2 Timothy 2:15
AdaptationJ. Palmer.2 Timothy 2:15
Adaptation in PreachingH. O. Mackey.2 Timothy 2:15
Advice to Preachers2 Timothy 2:15
Appropriate TruthW. Birch.2 Timothy 2:15
ApprovedA. Plummer, D. D.2 Timothy 2:15
Close PreachingH. W. Beecher.2 Timothy 2:15
Cutting StraightSpeaker's Commentary2 Timothy 2:15
Defection DangerousE. H. Plumptre, D. D.2 Timothy 2:15
Desire for God's ApprobationH. L. Hastings.2 Timothy 2:15
Eccentric Souls to be SavedH. O. Mackey.2 Timothy 2:15
False ExpositionJohn Ruskin.2 Timothy 2:15
Fearless FaithfulnessR. H. S.2 Timothy 2:15
God's ApprovalT. Adam.2 Timothy 2:15
In the ClosetSword and Trowel.2 Timothy 2:15
Nor by the Depth EitherSword and Trowel.2 Timothy 2:15
Pray that SermonSword and Trowel.2 Timothy 2:15
Right HandlingA. Plummer, D. D.2 Timothy 2:15
Rightly Dividing the Word of TruthC. H. Spurgeon.2 Timothy 2:15
Rightly Dividing the Word of TruthA. Alexander. D. D.2 Timothy 2:15
Straight-ForwardnessH. R. Reynolds, D. D.2 Timothy 2:15
The Gospel WorkmanD. Moore, M. A.2 Timothy 2:15
The Minister Approved of GodW. Moore.2 Timothy 2:15
The Qualifications of the Gospel PreacherT. Croskery 2 Timothy 2:15
The Right Division of TruthH. Melvill, B. D.2 Timothy 2:15
Vibration in Unison2 Timothy 2:15
Conduct in View of Heresy Appearing in the ChurchR. Finlayson 2 Timothy 2:14-26
People
David, Hymenaeus, Paul, Philetus, Timothy
Places
Ephesus
Topics
TRUE, Approval, Approved, Aright, Ashamed, Best, Care, Cause, Commend, Correctly, Cutting, Dealing, Diligence, Diligent, Diligently, Dividing, Doesn't, Earnestly, Feel, Giving, Handles, Handling, Irreproachable, Line, Needeth, Present, Properly, Reason, Rightly, Seek, Servant, Shame, Shew, Straight, Straightforward, Strive, Study, Thyself, Truth, Workman
Dictionary of Bible Themes
2 Timothy 2:15

     1614   Scripture, understanding
     1690   word of God
     5053   responsibility, for world
     5787   ambition, positive
     5894   intelligence
     7760   preachers, responsibilities
     8239   earnestness
     8251   faithfulness, to God
     8252   faithfulness, relationships
     8369   worthiness
     8422   equipping, spiritual
     8674   study

2 Timothy 2:15-18

     8316   orthodoxy, in NT

Library
Twenty-Seventh Day. Holiness and Service.
If a man therefore cleanse himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, meet for the Master's use, prepared unto every good work.'--2 Tim. ii. 21. 'A holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices. A holy nation, that ye may show forth the excellences of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light.'--1 Pet. ii. 5, 9. Through the whole of Scripture we have seen that whatever God sanctifies is to be used in the service of His Holiness. His Holiness
Andrew Murray—Holy in Christ

"But Ye are not in the Flesh, but in the Spirit, if So be that the Spirit of God Dwell in You. Now, if any Man
Rom. viii. 9.--"But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now, if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." Application is the very life of the word, at least it is a necessary condition for the living operation of it. The application of the word to the hearts of hearers by preaching, and the application of your hearts again to the word by meditation, these two meeting together, and striking one upon another, will yield fire.
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

In Memoriam.
DR. TALMAGE-THE MAN. BY REV. W. S. SWANSON, D.D. [Dr. Swanson was for twenty years a valued member of the English Presbyterian Mission at Amoy, and subsequently Secretary of the Board of Foreign Missions of the Presbyterian Church of England until his death, November 24, 1893] My first meeting with Dr. Talmage took place in the early days of July, 1860, and from that day till the day of his death he was regarded as not only one of the best and most valued friends, but I looked up to him as a father
Rev. John Gerardus Fagg—Forty Years in South China

"Most Gladly Therefore Will I Rather Glory in My Infirmities, that the Power of Christ May Rest Upon Me. " -- 2 Cor. 12:9.
"It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with Him: if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him." -- 2 Tim 2:11,12. "Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." -- 2 Cor. 12:9. Compassed about with songs, my soul was still -- But not for lack of light its bliss to see; Thy heart, my Father, could the temple fill, And its deep silence was a song to Thee. My mind reposed in its captivity, By the clear evidence
Miss A. L. Waring—Hymns and Meditations

The victory of the Lamb
"If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him."--2 Tim. ii. 12. J. Heerman, 1647. tr., Emma Frances Bevan, 1899 I go from grief and sighing, the valley and the clod, To join the chosen people in the palaces of God-- There sounds no cry of battle amidst the shadowing palms, But the mighty song of victory, and glorious golden psalms. The army of the conquerors, a palm in every hand, In robes of state and splendour, in rest eternal stand; Those marriage robes of glory, the righteousness of God-- He
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen and Others (Second Series)

Of This, Then, Ye have Now Received, have Meditated...
2. Of this, then, ye have now received, have meditated, and having meditated have held, that ye should say, "I believe in God the Father Almighty." God is Almighty, and yet, though Almighty, He cannot die, cannot be deceived, cannot lie; and, as the Apostle says, "cannot deny Himself." [1765] How many things that He cannot do, and yet is Almighty! yea therefore is Almighty, because He cannot do these things. For if He could die, He were not Almighty; if to lie, if to be deceived, if to do unjustly,
St. Augustine—On the Creeds

Introductory Note to the Epistle of Mathetes to Diognetus
[a.d. 130.] The anonymous author of this Epistle gives himself the title (Mathetes) "a disciple [263] of the Apostles," and I venture to adopt it as his name. It is about all we know of him, and it serves a useful end. I place his letter here, as a sequel to the Clementine Epistle, for several reasons, which I think scholars will approve: (1) It is full of the Pauline spirit, and exhales the same pure and primitive fragrance which is characteristic of Clement. (2) No theory as to its date very much
Mathetes—The Epistle of Mathetes to Diognetus

Epistle xxxv. To Leontius, Ex-Consul.
To Leontius, Ex-Consul. Gregory to Leontius, &c. Since in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth, and some indeed to honour but some to dishonour (2 Tim. ii. 20), who can be ignorant that in the bosom of the Universal Church some as vessels of dishonour are deputed to the lowest uses, but others, as vessels of honour, are fitted for clean uses. And yet it commonly comes to pass that the citizens of Babylon serve in task-work for Jerusalem, while
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of the Exceeding Mercy of God in Christ, to his Poor Servant, John Bunyan
In this my relation of the merciful working of God upon my soul, it will not be amiss, if in the first place, I do in a few words give you a hint of my pedigree, and manner of bringing up; that thereby the goodness and bounty of God towards me, may be the more advanced and magnified before the sons of men. 2. For my descent then, it was, as is well known by many, of a low and inconsiderable generation; my father's house being of that rank that is meanest, and most despised of all the families in
John Bunyan—Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners

The vine and the Branches
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away; and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much
J. W. Byers—Sanctification

To the High and Mighty Prince Charles, Prince of Wales.
Tolle malos, extolle pios, cognosce teipsum: Sacra tene, paci consule, disce pati. Christ Jesus, the Prince of princes, bless your Highness with length of days, and an increase of all graces, which may make you truly prosperous in this life, and eternally happy in that which is to come. Jonathan shot three arrows to drive David further off from Saul's fury; and this is the third epistle which I have written, to draw your Highness nearer to God's favour, by directing your heart to begin, like Josiah,
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

Concerning the Sacrament of Baptism
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to the riches of His mercy has at least preserved this one sacrament in His Church uninjured and uncontaminated by the devices of men, and has made it free to all nations and to men of every class. He has not suffered it to be overwhelmed with the foul and impious monstrosities of avarice and superstition; doubtless having this purpose, that He would have little children, incapable of avarice and superstition, to be initiated into
Martin Luther—First Principles of the Reformation

That, Namely, Befalleth them which in Undisciplined Younger Widows...
26. That, namely, befalleth them which in undisciplined younger widows, the same Apostle saith must be avoided: "And withal they learn to be idle; and not only idle, but also busy bodies and full of words, speaking what they ought not." [2562] This very thing said he concerning evil women, which we also in evil men do mourn and bewail, who against him, the very man in whose Epistles we read these things, do, being idle and full of words, speak what they ought not. And if there be any among them who
St. Augustine—Of the Work of Monks.

The Apostle Has Made Known to us Certain Three Unions...
23. The Apostle has made known to us certain three unions, Christ and the Church, husband and wife, spirit and flesh. Of these the former consult for the good of the latter, the latter wait upon the former. All the things are good, when, in them, certain set over by way of pre-eminence, certain made subject in a becoming manner, observe the beauty of order. Husband and wife receive command and pattern how they ought to be one with another. The command is, "Let wives be subject unto their own husbands,
St. Augustine—On Continence

It Behoves those who Preside Over the Churches, Every Day but Especially on Lord's Days...
It behoves those who preside over the churches, every day but especially on Lord's days, to teach all the clergy and people words of piety and of right religion, gathering out of holy Scripture meditations and determinations of the truth, and not going beyond the limits now fixed, nor varying from the tradition of the God-bearing fathers. And if any controversy in regard to Scripture shall have been raised, let them not interpret it otherwise than as the lights and doctors of the church in their
Philip Schaff—The Seven Ecumenical Councils

Under the Shepherd's Care.
A NEW YEAR'S ADDRESS. "For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."--1 Peter ii. 25. "Ye were as sheep going astray." This is evidently addressed to believers. We were like sheep, blindly, willfully following an unwise leader. Not only were we following ourselves, but we in our turn have led others astray. This is true of all of us: "All we like sheep have gone astray;" all equally foolish, "we have turned every one to his own way." Our first
J. Hudson Taylor—A Ribband of Blue

Glorious Predestination
Note, also, that Paul in this chapter has been treating of the sufferings of this present time; and though by faith he speaks of them as very inconsiderable compared with the glory to be revealed, yet we know that they were not inconsiderable in his case. He was a man of many trials; he went from one tribulation to another for Christ's sake; he swam through many seas of affliction to serve the church. I do not wonder, therefore, that in his epistles he often discourses upon the doctrines of foreknowledge,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 18: 1872

The Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son.
LUKE xv. The three parables of this chapter, like the seven in Matt. xiii., constitute a connected series. As soon as we begin to look into their contents and relations, it becomes obvious that they have been arranged according to a logical scheme, and that the group so framed is not fragmentary but complete. We cannot indeed fully comprehend the reciprocal relations of all until we shall have examined in detail the actual contents of each; and yet, on the other hand, a preliminary survey of the
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

That the Ruler Relax not his Care for the Things that are Within in his Occupation among the Things that are Without, nor Neglect to Provide
The ruler should not relax his care for the things that are within in his occupation among the things that are without, nor neglect to provide for the things that are without in his solicitude for the things that are within; lest either, given up to the things that are without, he fall away from his inmost concerns, or, occupied only with the things that are within bestow not on his neighbours outside himself what he owes them. For it is often the case that some, as if forgetting that they have
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

God's Faithfulness
'Know therefore that the Lord thy God, He is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love Him.'--DEUT. vii. 9. 'Faithful,' like most Hebrew words, has a picture in it. It means something that can be (1) leant on, or (2) builded on. This leads to a double signification--(1) trustworthy, and that because (2) rigidly observant of obligations. So the word applies to a steward, a friend, or a witness. Its most wonderful and sublime application is to God. It presents to
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Curiosity a Temptation to Sin.
"Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away."--Proverbs iv. 14, 15. The chief cause of the wickedness which is every where seen in the world, and in which, alas! each of us has more or less his share, is our curiosity to have some fellowship with darkness, some experience of sin, to know what the pleasures of sin are like. I believe it is even thought unmanly by many persons (though they may not like to say
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII

Answer to Mr. W's Fifth Objection.
5. The consideration that none of these raised persons did or could, after the return to their bodies, tell any tales of their separate existence; otherwise the Evangelists had not been silent in this main point, &c. p. 32. None of these persons, Mr. W. says, told any tales of their separate existence. So I suppose with him. As for the two first: How should they? being only, as Mr. W. says, an insignificant boy and girl, of twelve years of age, or thereabouts. Or if they did, the Evangelists were
Nathaniel Lardner—A Vindication of Three of Our Blessed Saviour's Miracles

"And the Life. " How Christ is the Life.
This, as the former, being spoken indefinitely, may be universally taken, as relating both to such as are yet in the state of nature, and to such as are in the state of grace, and so may be considered in reference to both, and ground three points of truth, both in reference to the one, and in reference to the other; to wit, 1. That our case is such as we stand in need of his help, as being the Life. 2. That no other way but by him, can we get that supply of life, which we stand in need of, for he
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

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