1 Timothy 4:6

KJV

¶ If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

KJV (with Strong's)

If thou put {G5294} the brethren {G80} in remembrance {G5294} of these things {G5023}, thou shalt be {G2071} a good {G2570} minister {G1249} of Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, nourished up {G1789} in the words {G3056} of faith {G4102} and {G2532} of good {G2570} doctrine {G1319}, whereunto {G3739} thou hast attained {G3877}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If you present all this to the brothers, you will be serving the Messiah Yeshua well; it will show that you have digested the words of the faith and of the good teaching which you have followed.

Berean Standard Bible

By pointing out these things to the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of faith and sound instruction that you have followed.

American Standard Version

If thou put the brethren in mind of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished in the words of the faith, and of the good doctrine which thou hast followed until now:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Timothy 4:6 provides a profound blueprint for effective Christian leadership, emphasizing that a faithful minister of Jesus Christ is one who diligently reminds believers of essential truths, particularly in the face of encroaching error. This verse underscores that a minister's capacity to serve well is directly proportional to their own spiritual sustenance, being continually nourished by the "words of faith and of good doctrine," truths they have personally embraced and embodied.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Paul’s pastoral instruction to Timothy, his young protégé leading the church in Ephesus. Immediately preceding [1 Timothy 4:6](/1_timothy/4-6 "1 Timothy 4:6 - A Good Minister"), Paul issues a stern warning in [1 Timothy 4:1-5](/1_timothy/4-1-5 "1 Timothy 4:1-5 - Warnings Against False Teachers") about the emergence of false teachers who would propagate "doctrines of demons," advocating ascetic practices and prohibitions (like forbidding marriage and certain foods) that contradict God's good creation. Verse 6 serves as a direct counterpoint and antidote to these errors, presenting the positive duty of a minister to uphold and teach sound truth. It transitions from the problem (false teaching) to the solution (faithful teaching), highlighting Timothy's responsibility to equip the church against spiritual deception by grounding them in the "words of faith and of good doctrine."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Timothy was serving in Ephesus, a prominent city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its diverse religious landscape and philosophical currents. The early church in Ephesus, like many nascent Christian communities, was vulnerable to syncretism and internal doctrinal disputes. Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus (the Pastoral Epistles) were written to provide guidance on church order, leadership qualifications, and the preservation of sound doctrine against various heresies, some of which seem to have Gnostic tendencies or legalistic leanings. Timothy, likely a younger leader, needed Paul’s apostolic authority and wisdom to navigate these challenges, establish proper church structure, and maintain doctrinal purity in a complex cultural environment where new ideas and spiritual movements were constantly emerging.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Timothy 4:6](/1_timothy/4-6 "1 Timothy 4:6 - The Minister's Nourishment") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 1 Timothy. Firstly, it champions the **primacy of sound doctrine** (Greek: _kalē didaskalia_), presenting it as the indispensable foundation for Christian faith and practice, in stark contrast to the "myths and endless genealogies" Paul warns against in [1 Timothy 1:4](/1_timothy/1-4 "1 Timothy 1:4 - Myths and Genealogies"). Secondly, it defines the **qualities of a faithful minister**, emphasizing that effective leadership is not merely about administrative skill but about spiritual integrity and diligent adherence to truth. The minister's role is not to innovate but to faithfully transmit the "words of faith." Thirdly, the verse highlights the concept of **spiritual nourishment**, underscoring that a minister's ability to teach and lead others effectively stems from their own continuous and deep grounding in God's Word, akin to being "nourished up" by life-giving food. This personal cultivation of truth enables them to both discern and combat error, as further elaborated in [2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-Breathed").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Minister (Greek, _diákonos'_):** This term, from which we get "deacon," refers to an attendant or servant. In this context, it signifies one who serves Christ and His church by carrying out specific duties, particularly in teaching and leadership. It implies a humble yet vital role of service, emphasizing that a "good" minister is not one who lords over others but one who faithfully serves by delivering the message of Christ.
* **Nourished up (Greek, _entréphō'_):** Literally meaning "to be brought up in" or "to be trained in," this verb, in the passive voice, conveys the idea of being continuously fed, nurtured, or educated in something. It suggests an ongoing process of spiritual formation where the minister is thoroughly steeped in and sustained by the "words of faith and of good doctrine," indicating that their effectiveness flows from a deep, internal assimilation of truth, not merely an intellectual understanding.
* **Doctrine (Greek, _didaskalía'_):** This word refers to instruction, teaching, or the content of what is taught. When paired with "good" (_kalós_), it denotes teaching that is wholesome, beneficial, morally excellent, and true, standing in stark opposition to the false teachings Paul condemns. It encompasses the entire body of Christian truth that guides belief and practice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things":** This opening clause establishes Timothy's primary duty: to actively remind the believers of the truths Paul has just articulated, particularly the contrast between the sound doctrine of creation and the errors of asceticism. This isn't just a one-time teaching, but an ongoing process of reinforcing foundational truths to guard against spiritual amnesia and deception.
* **"thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ":** This is the direct consequence and commendation. By fulfilling the duty of reminding and teaching, Timothy demonstrates himself to be a "good" (morally excellent, honorable, effective) servant of Christ. His ministry is defined by its faithfulness to Christ's message and its benefit to the church, rather than by human accolades or worldly success.
* **"nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine":** This phrase explains the source and sustenance of a good minister's effectiveness. Their ability to teach and remind others comes from their own continuous spiritual nourishment. "Words of faith" refers to the content of the gospel and Christian belief, while "good doctrine" encompasses the entire body of wholesome, true teaching. The passive voice ("nourished up") implies that this is a divine work, though requiring Timothy's active participation in receiving and internalizing these truths.
* **"whereunto thou hast attained":** This concluding phrase affirms Timothy's personal grasp and experience of these truths. It implies that he has already diligently followed, traced out, and conformed to these teachings. A good minister teaches not from mere theory, but from a place of personal conviction, having absorbed and lived out the doctrine themselves, making their instruction authentic and powerful.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in [1 Timothy 4:6](/1_timothy/4-6 "1 Timothy 4:6 - A Minister's Foundation") to convey his message with clarity and emphasis. The central device is **Metaphor**, specifically in the phrase "nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine." This vivid imagery likens spiritual growth and ministerial effectiveness to physical sustenance, implying that just as the body requires food to thrive, the spiritual life, especially of a leader, demands continuous feeding on divine truth. This metaphor highlights the vital, life-sustaining quality of sound doctrine. There is also an implicit **Contrast** at play, as the "good doctrine" Timothy is to be nourished by stands in stark opposition to the "doctrines of demons" and "old wives' fables" mentioned in the preceding verses, underscoring the critical choice between truth and error. Furthermore, the passage carries a strong **Didactic Tone**, characteristic of Paul's pastoral epistles, as he provides direct, practical instruction and commendation to Timothy, emphasizing the importance of teaching and personal integrity in ministry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Timothy 4:6 profoundly articulates the theological truth that effective Christian ministry is fundamentally rooted in a deep, personal engagement with divine revelation. It posits that a minister's capacity to edify, guide, and protect the flock from error is directly proportional to their own spiritual vitality, which is sustained by the "words of faith and of good doctrine." This highlights a crucial principle: one cannot faithfully dispense what one has not first faithfully received and internalized. The verse underscores the active and ongoing process of spiritual nourishment, emphasizing that sound doctrine is not merely intellectual assent but a life-giving sustenance that shapes character, informs teaching, and empowers service. It connects the minister's personal growth to their public ministry, asserting that spiritual health is a prerequisite for spiritual leadership.

* [2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "The Profitability of Scripture"): "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
* [Titus 1:9](/titus/1-9 "Holding Fast to Sound Doctrine"): "Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers."
* [Acts 20:28-31](/acts/20-28-31 "Paul's Warning to Ephesian Elders"): "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember..."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Timothy 4:6 offers timeless wisdom for every believer, not just those in formal ministry. It reminds us that spiritual effectiveness, whether in leading a congregation or simply living a faithful Christian life, flows from a continuous, intentional engagement with God's truth. Just as a physical body withers without proper nourishment, our spiritual lives will become anemic and susceptible to error if we neglect the "words of faith and of good doctrine." This verse calls us to be proactive in our spiritual growth, diligently studying Scripture, embracing sound teaching, and allowing these truths to deeply nourish our souls. It challenges us to not only receive truth but to embody it, so that our lives become authentic reflections of what we believe. For those in leadership, it is a powerful reminder that the best way to serve others is to first be well-served by God's Word, equipping us to discern false teachings and faithfully shepherd His flock with integrity and wisdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways am I actively "nourishing up" in the words of faith and good doctrine in my daily life?**
* **How does my personal engagement with truth impact my ability to serve others and discern spiritual error?**
* **What "things" (truths) do I need to be better at putting others "in remembrance of" in my sphere of influence?**
* **Am I truly striving to be a "good minister of Jesus Christ" by living out the truths I claim to believe?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to be a "good minister of Jesus Christ" according to this verse?**

Answer: To be a "good minister of Jesus Christ" means to be a faithful, effective, and morally upright servant of Christ and His church. According to [1 Timothy 4:6](/1_timothy/4-6 "1 Timothy 4:6 - A Good Minister"), this goodness is demonstrated by two key actions: first, diligently reminding fellow believers of essential truths, particularly in contrast to false teachings; and second, being personally "nourished up" in sound doctrine and the words of faith. It implies that one's ministry is rooted in personal integrity and a deep, continuous engagement with God's truth, enabling them to rightly divide the word and lead others in spiritual health.

**How does one "nourish up" in the words of faith and good doctrine?**

Answer: To "nourish up" in the words of faith and good doctrine implies a continuous, active process of spiritual sustenance. This involves consistent and diligent study of the Bible, engaging with sound theological teaching (through sermons, books, and discipleship), meditation on God's Word, and applying its truths to one's life. It's not a passive reception but an active internalizing and living out of the truth, allowing it to feed, guide, and transform one's mind and spirit. This ongoing spiritual diet equips believers to grow in discernment and maturity, as highlighted in [Hebrews 5:12-14](/hebrews/5-12-14 "Hebrews 5:12-14 - Mature Believers Discern Good and Evil").

**What are "these things" that Timothy is to put the brethren in remembrance of?**

Answer: "These things" refer to the truths and warnings Paul has just presented in the preceding verses of [1 Timothy 4](/1_timothy/4 "1 Timothy 4 - Warnings and Instructions"). Specifically, they include the warnings against false teachers who promote ascetic practices and erroneous doctrines ([1 Timothy 4:1-5](/1_timothy/4-1-5 "1 Timothy 4:1-5 - Warnings Against False Teachers")), as well as the positive truths about God's good creation and the sanctification of food through prayer. Timothy is to remind the believers of the distinction between these life-giving truths and the deceptive teachings that lead people astray, thereby safeguarding the purity of the faith and the spiritual well-being of the congregation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Timothy 4:6, though a practical instruction for ministerial conduct, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ Himself. Christ is the quintessential "good minister" because He perfectly embodied and proclaimed the "words of faith and of good doctrine." He is the very **Word made flesh** ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), the ultimate revelation of God's truth and the source of all sound teaching. When Paul speaks of being "nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine," he implicitly points to Christ as the living embodiment of that truth. Jesus declared, "[I am the way, the truth, and the life](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, the Life")", making Himself the very content of the faith. He also presented Himself as the spiritual sustenance, "[the bread of life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")" that nourishes eternally. Therefore, a minister is "good" and truly "nourished up" when their life and teaching are saturated with Christ, for in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Treasures of Wisdom in Christ")). The faithful minister, like Timothy, is called to point not to themselves, but to the one who is the summation of all good doctrine and the very object of our faith, Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the mission of God by laying down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "The Good Shepherd")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Titus 2:7

In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine [shewing] uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

Titus 2:10

Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.

Colossians 3:16

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

2 Timothy 3:14

But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned [them];

2 Timothy 3:17

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Titus 2:1

¶ But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

2 Peter 3:1

¶ This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in [both] which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: