King James Version

What Does 1 Timothy 5:25 Mean?

1 Timothy 5:25 in the King James Version says “Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.” — study this verse from 1 Timothy chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.”

1 Timothy 5:25 · KJV

Context

23

Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.

24

Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.

25

Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand (ὡσαύτως καὶ τὰ ἔργα τὰ καλὰ πρόδηλά ἐστιν, hōsautōs kai ta erga ta kala prodēla estin)—'likewise the good works of some are clearly evident.' Just as some sins are immediately obvious (5:24), some good works are publicly manifest—easily recognized and honored. Kalos means good, beautiful, noble.

And they that are otherwise cannot be hid (καὶ τὰ ἄλλως ἔχοντα κρυβῆναι οὐ δύνανται, kai ta allōs echonta krybēnai ou dynantai)—'and those that are otherwise cannot remain hidden.' Good deeds done in secret will eventually be revealed. Just as hidden sins eventually surface, so do hidden good works.

This balances the warning of verse 24. Don't be discouraged if your faithful service goes unnoticed—God sees, and eventually others will too. Conversely, don't seek recognition—do good in secret, trusting God will reward appropriately (Matthew 6:4). The principle: ultimate reality will be revealed—evil will be exposed, good will be honored. Serve faithfully, trusting God's perfect justice.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Timothy's faithful ministry in Ephesus likely went unappreciated by many, while false teachers received attention and acclaim. Paul encourages him: your faithful service, though hidden now, cannot remain hidden forever. God sees, and ultimate vindication is coming. Meanwhile, persist in quiet faithfulness without seeking recognition.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does knowing that hidden good works will be revealed encourage faithful service?
  2. Why is it important to serve without demanding immediate recognition?
  3. How do these verses (24-25) together encourage patient pursuit of holiness and justice?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
ὡσαύτως1 of 14

“Likewise”

G5615

as thus, i.e., in the same way

καὶ2 of 14

“also”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τὰ3 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

καλὰ4 of 14

“the good”

G2570

properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished

ἔργα5 of 14

“works”

G2041

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

πρόδηλα6 of 14

“manifest beforehand”

G4271

plain before all men, i.e., obvious

ἐστίν7 of 14

“of some are”

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

καὶ8 of 14

“also”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τὰ9 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἄλλως10 of 14

“otherwise”

G247

differently

ἔχοντα11 of 14

“they that are”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

κρυβῆναι12 of 14

“be hid”

G2928

to conceal (properly, by covering)

οὐ13 of 14

“cannot”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

δύναται14 of 14
G1410

to be able or possible

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Timothy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Timothy 5:25 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Timothy 5:25 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 10:9Luke 11:33Psalms 37:5-6Matthew 6:3-6Acts 9:36Acts 10:22

Test Your Knowledge

1 Timothy 5 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Timothy Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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