King James Version

What Does 2 Timothy 2:16 Mean?

“But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.”

Context

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.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; canker: or, gangrene

Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(16) **But shun profane and vain babblings.**—*But, *in strong contrast to the conduct just urged, on the workman of God, *do thou avoid* (or, *withdraw thyself from*)* vain babblings.* The word rendered “shun” is a strong one, and signifies literally, to make a circuit so as to avoid; or, as Alford paraphrases it, “the meaning seems to come from a number of persons falling back from an object of fear or loathing, and standing at a distance round it.” The word is used in Titus 3:9. On the words “profane,” “vain-babblings,” see 1Timothy 6:20. **For they will increase unto more ungodliness.**—Better translated, *for they will advance unto . . .* The tendency of these useless discussions and idle disputes is to lead men into vain and profitless speculations, which end too often—as in the case, cited below, of Hymenæus and Philetus—in the most fatal doctrinal error. The close connection between grave fundamental errors in doctrine and a lax and purely selfish life is constantly alluded to by St. Paul.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Timothy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Timothy 2:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.