1 Timothy 4:8

KJV

For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} bodily {G4984} exercise {G1129} profiteth {G2076} little {G4314}{G3641}: but {G1161} godliness {G2150} is {G2076} profitable unto {G4314} all things {G3956}, having {G2192} promise {G1860} of the life {G2222} that now is {G3568}, and {G2532} of that which is to come {G3195}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For although physical exercise does have some value, godliness is valuable for everything, since it holds promise both for the present life and for the life to come.

Berean Standard Bible

For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come.

American Standard Version

for bodily exercise is profitable for a little; but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life which now is, and of that which is to come.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Timothy 4:8 presents a profound contrast between the limited, temporal benefits of physical training and the comprehensive, eternal advantages of godliness. Paul asserts that while bodily exercise offers some minor profit, true piety—a life devoted to God—yields immeasurable dividends, bringing blessings not only in the present life but also securing the promises of eternal existence. This verse serves as a foundational call to prioritize spiritual discipline over mere physical pursuits, emphasizing the enduring value of a Christ-centered life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's pastoral instructions to Timothy regarding the proper conduct and teaching within the Ephesian church. Immediately preceding [1 Timothy 4:8](/1_timothy/4-8 "1 Timothy 4:8 - The Value of Godliness"), Paul warns against false teachers who promote "doctrines of demons" and advocate ascetic practices like forbidding marriage and abstaining from certain foods ([1 Timothy 4:1-3](/1_timothy/4-1-3 "1 Timothy 4:1-3 - Warnings Against False Teachers")). Paul counters these legalistic, external disciplines by affirming God's good creation and emphasizing that everything created by God is good if received with thanksgiving ([1 Timothy 4:4-5](/1_timothy/4-4-5 "1 Timothy 4:4-5 - God's Good Creation")). He then exhorts Timothy to be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of faith and sound doctrine, and to "train yourself for godliness" ([1 Timothy 4:6-7](/1_timothy/4-6-7 "1 Timothy 4:6-7 - Train Yourself for Godliness")). Thus, [1 Timothy 4:8](/1_timothy/4-8 "1 Timothy 4:8 - The Value of Godliness") serves as the theological rationale for this spiritual training, contrasting its boundless benefits with the meager returns of physical training or the ascetic practices of the false teachers.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church in Ephesus, like many urban centers of the Roman Empire, was a melting pot of diverse philosophical and religious ideas. Paul's warnings in [1 Timothy 4](/1_timothy/4 "1 Timothy 4 - Warnings and Instructions") suggest the emergence of proto-Gnostic tendencies or other ascetic philosophies that denigrated the physical world and advocated for severe bodily discipline as a means to spiritual enlightenment or purity. These teachings often stood in stark contrast to the prevailing Greco-Roman culture, which highly valued physical training, athleticism, and the pursuit of bodily perfection, often showcased in public gymnasia and athletic games. Paul's use of "bodily exercise" (Greek: _gymnasía_) would have resonated with his audience, who were familiar with the rigorous training regimens of athletes. By contrasting this familiar concept with "godliness" (_eusébeia_), Paul directly challenges the prevailing cultural and emerging spiritual misconceptions, redirecting their focus from external, physical pursuits to internal, spiritual transformation.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Timothy 4:8](/1_timothy/4-8 "1 Timothy 4:8 - The Value of Godliness") contributes significantly to several key themes in 1 Timothy and the broader Pauline corpus. One primary theme is the **Supremacy of Sound Doctrine and Godly Living** over false teachings and external rituals. Paul consistently champions a life transformed by the gospel, not by legalistic adherence to rules. Another crucial theme is **Spiritual Discipline and Training**, highlighted by Paul's exhortation to "train yourself for godliness" in [1 Timothy 4:7](/1_timothy/4-7 "1 Timothy 4:7 - Train Yourself for Godliness"). This isn't passive piety but an active, intentional pursuit. Furthermore, the verse underscores the **Comprehensive and Enduring Value of Godliness**, emphasizing that its benefits extend to "all things," encompassing both temporal and eternal dimensions. This leads to the theme of **Present and Future Blessings**, where godliness is shown to have "promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come," providing a holistic perspective on the blessings of faith that impact every aspect of a believer's existence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **exercise (Greek, _gymnasía'_):** From this word, we derive "gymnasium" and "gymnastics." It refers to physical training, athletic discipline, or ascetic practices. In this context, Paul acknowledges its limited utility, perhaps referring to the physical disciplines common in Greek culture or the ascetic practices promoted by false teachers. Its profit is constrained to the physical realm and is temporary.
* **godliness (Greek, _eusébeia'_):** This term signifies piety, reverence, or devotion towards God. It describes a life lived in conscious and consistent devotion to God, characterized by reverence, moral integrity, and right worship. It's not merely an internal feeling but an outward expression of a transformed life, reflecting a proper relationship with God.
* **promise (Greek, _epangelía'_):** This word denotes an announcement, especially a divine assurance of good. Here, it refers to the certain, guaranteed blessings that accrue to those who pursue godliness. It highlights the divine faithfulness and the reliability of God's word concerning the benefits of a godly life, both in the present and in eternity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For bodily exercise profiteth little:"** Paul begins by acknowledging that physical training or discipline (whether athletic or ascetic) has some benefit, but he immediately qualifies it as "little." This "little" implies a limited scope—it pertains only to the physical body and to this temporal life, and its effects are ultimately fleeting. It is not condemned, but its value is correctly assessed as secondary and transient.
* **"but godliness is profitable unto all things,"** In stark contrast to physical exercise, godliness is presented as universally beneficial ("unto all things"). This signifies its comprehensive value, impacting every dimension of a person's life—spiritual, emotional, relational, and even physical in a holistic sense. Its profit is not limited to a specific area but extends to the entirety of one's existence.
* **"having promise of the life that now is,"** The comprehensive profit of godliness includes tangible blessings and benefits in the present, earthly life. This can encompass peace, wisdom, contentment, strong relationships, divine guidance, and resilience in trials. Godliness is not just for the afterlife but actively shapes and enriches the believer's experience in the here and now.
* **"and of that which is to come."** Beyond the present benefits, godliness secures the ultimate and eternal promise: the life to come. This refers to eternal life with God, the resurrection, and the full realization of salvation in glory. This dual promise underscores the enduring and ultimate value of godliness, transcending the boundaries of time and mortality.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs a powerful **Antithesis** in this verse, juxtaposing "bodily exercise" with "godliness" to highlight their contrasting values and outcomes. This is further emphasized by the use of **Contrast** in the adjectives "little" for bodily exercise and "all things" for godliness, creating a stark distinction in their profitability. The phrase "profiteth little" can be seen as a form of **Understatement** or **Meiosis**, downplaying the value of physical training to elevate the supreme importance of godliness. The structure of the verse itself, moving from a concession about the lesser to an emphatic declaration about the greater, functions as a **Climax**, building to the ultimate truth about the comprehensive and eternal benefits of godliness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly shapes our understanding of Christian priorities and the nature of true spiritual flourishing. It challenges any worldview, ancient or modern, that places ultimate value on physical appearance, athletic achievement, or ascetic practices divorced from genuine piety. Theologically, it affirms that God's plan for humanity is holistic, encompassing both the present and the future. Godliness is not merely a means to an end (eternal life) but a way of life that brings blessing and purpose in every moment. It underscores the biblical emphasis on internal transformation over external conformity, reminding us that true spiritual wealth is found in a right relationship with God, which then overflows into every aspect of our existence. This perspective guards against both a hyper-spiritualized faith that neglects practical living and a materialistic worldview that ignores eternal realities.

* [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom"): "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
* [Romans 8:6](/romans/8-6 "Romans 8:6 - Mind Set on Spirit is Life and Peace"): "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."
* [Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7-8 "Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul's Loss for Christ"): "But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Timothy 4:8 serves as a powerful and timeless call to re-evaluate our priorities in a world often obsessed with physical appearance, health fads, and temporal achievements. While caring for our bodies is a good stewardship practice, Paul's words remind us that such pursuits, however beneficial, are ultimately limited in scope and duration. Our primary investment of time, energy, and focus should be in cultivating godliness—a deep, consistent, and active devotion to God that transforms our character and conduct. This means intentionally engaging in spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, worship, fellowship, and service, allowing the Holy Spirit to conform us to the image of Christ. The promise of godliness is not just for some distant future, but for the "life that now is," bringing peace, joy, wisdom, and resilience in the face of life's challenges. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that our present actions in pursuit of godliness have profound and lasting consequences, securing an inheritance that will never fade away.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I currently prioritize "bodily exercise" versus "godliness" in my daily life and schedule?**
* **What specific practices or habits would help me "train myself for godliness" more effectively?**
* **In what ways have I experienced the "promise of the life that now is" through my pursuit of godliness?**
* **How does an eternal perspective ("that which is to come") motivate my spiritual disciplines today?**

### FAQ
**Does this verse mean that physical exercise or caring for one's body is wrong or unimportant for Christians?**

Answer: No, this verse does not condemn physical exercise or caring for one's body. Paul simply places it in its proper perspective. The Greek word _gymnasía_ (exercise) refers to physical training, and Paul acknowledges that it "profiteth little." This means its benefits are limited to the physical realm and to this temporal life. He is not saying it's bad, but rather that its value is far outweighed by the comprehensive and eternal benefits of godliness. Christians are called to steward their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19-20 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Your Body is a Temple")), which implies responsible care. The emphasis here is on **priority**: spiritual health is paramount.

**What exactly does "godliness" mean in this context, and how does one pursue it?**

Answer: "Godliness" (Greek: _eusébeia_) refers to a life characterized by piety, reverence, and devotion to God. It's not merely an outward show but an inner disposition that manifests in righteous living, moral integrity, and proper worship. It encompasses a deep respect for God, a desire to please Him, and a life lived in accordance with His will. One pursues godliness through intentional spiritual disciplines, such as consistent prayer, diligent study of God's Word ([2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-Breathed")), active participation in Christian community, obedience to Christ's commands, and reliance on the Holy Spirit's power to transform one's character ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit")).

**How does godliness have "promise of the life that now is"? What are these present-day benefits?**

Answer: The "promise of the life that now is" means that godliness brings tangible benefits and blessings in the present, earthly life, not just in the afterlife. These present-day benefits are multifaceted. They include inner peace and contentment that transcends circumstances ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")), wisdom for navigating life's challenges ([James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Wisdom from God")), joy that is not dependent on external factors, stronger and more loving relationships, resilience in the face of adversity, and a clear sense of purpose and meaning. A godly life, rooted in Christ, provides a stable foundation and a guiding compass for navigating the complexities of this world, leading to a more abundant and fulfilling existence even before eternal glory is fully realized.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Timothy 4:8, while contrasting physical and spiritual training, ultimately points us to Christ as the very embodiment and source of true godliness. Jesus Christ perfectly lived out the meaning of _eusébeia_—a life of complete devotion and obedience to God the Father. His entire earthly ministry, from His humble birth to His sacrificial death, was an act of perfect godliness, demonstrating what it means to live in full reverence and submission to God's will ([John 6:38](/john/6-38 "John 6:38 - Jesus Does the Father's Will")). The "promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come" is ultimately fulfilled in Him. Through His atoning work on the cross and His resurrection, Jesus provides the means for us to be reconciled to God and to receive the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live godly lives ([Titus 2:11-14](/titus/2-11-14 "Titus 2:11-14 - Grace Teaches Godliness")). He is not only the perfect example of godliness but also the divine enabler, making it possible for us to participate in His divine nature ([2 Peter 1:3-4](/2_peter/1-3-4 "2 Peter 1:3-4 - Partakers of the Divine Nature")). Thus, our pursuit of godliness is, at its core, a pursuit of Christlikeness, finding our life and hope in the One who is the "resurrection and the life" ([John 11:25](/john/11-25 "John 11:25 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life")), securing for us both present blessings and eternal glory.

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

Matthew 6:33

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

1 Timothy 6:6

¶ But godliness with contentment is great gain.

Psalms 37:3

Trust in the LORD, and do good; [so] shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.

Psalms 37:4

Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Proverbs 19:23

¶ The fear of the LORD [tendeth] to life: and [he that hath it] shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

Proverbs 22:4

¶ By humility [and] the fear of the LORD [are] riches, and honour, and life.

Mark 10:30

But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.