1 Timothy 5:21

KJV

I charge [thee] before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.

KJV (with Strong's)

I charge {G1263} thee before {G1799} God {G2316}, and {G2532} the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, and {G2532} the elect {G1588} angels {G32}, that {G2443} thou observe {G5442} these things {G5023} without {G5565} preferring one before another {G4299}, doing {G4160} nothing {G3367} by {G2596} partiality {G4346}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Before God, the Messiah Yeshua and the chosen angels, I solemnly charge you to observe these instructions, not pre-judging and not doing anything out of favoritism.

Berean Standard Bible

I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels to maintain these principles without bias, and to do nothing out of partiality.

American Standard Version

I charge thee in the sight of God, and Christ Jesus, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul delivers a profound and solemn charge to Timothy, his protégé and leader of the Ephesian church, emphasizing the critical importance of impartiality in all aspects of ministry and church governance. This verse serves as a foundational ethical mandate, underscoring that decisions, especially concerning discipline and leadership, must be made without prejudice, favoritism, or any form of bias, as if under the direct scrutiny of God, Christ, and the elect angels.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This weighty injunction in [1 Timothy 5:21](/1_timothy/5-21 "1 Timothy 5:21 - Paul's Charge to Timothy") is strategically placed within Paul’s instructions regarding the internal administration and conduct of the church in Ephesus. Immediately preceding this verse, Paul provides detailed guidance on how Timothy should handle accusations against elders, stipulating that such charges should only be accepted on the testimony of "two or three witnesses" ([1 Timothy 5:19](/1_timothy/5-19 "1 Timothy 5:19 - Accusations Against Elders")). He also instructs on public rebuke for persistent sin ([1 Timothy 5:20](/1_timothy/5-20 "1 Timothy 5:20 - Public Rebuke of Sinning Elders")). Therefore, [1 Timothy 5:21](/1_timothy/5-21 "1 Timothy 5:21 - The Solemn Charge") acts as a crucial ethical safeguard, ensuring that these sensitive and potentially divisive matters are handled with the utmost integrity, fairness, and transparency, free from personal agendas or external pressures. The broader context of [1 Timothy 5](/1_timothy/5 "1 Timothy 5 - Instructions for Church Conduct") also includes Paul's directives on caring for widows ([1 Timothy 5:3-16](/1_timothy/5-3-16 "1 Timothy 5:3-16 - Care for Widows")) and honoring faithful elders ([1 Timothy 5:17-18](/1_timothy/5-17-18 "1 Timothy 5:17-18 - Honoring Elders")), all of which necessitate a spirit of discernment and equitable treatment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Timothy was operating in Ephesus, a prominent city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its diverse population, pagan worship (especially of Artemis), and significant Jewish and Christian communities. The early church, still in its formative stages, faced internal challenges related to leadership, false teaching, and the practicalities of community life. In Greco-Roman society, patronage and social status often dictated relationships and legal outcomes. Paul's emphasis on impartiality directly countered these prevailing cultural norms, which often favored the wealthy or influential. The concept of "elect angels" as witnesses might resonate with both Jewish apocalyptic traditions, where angels observe human affairs and divine judgments, and broader ancient Near Eastern legal customs where witnesses were called to validate oaths or proceedings. Paul’s charge elevates the standard of church conduct far above that of the surrounding secular world, grounding it in divine accountability.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within 1 Timothy and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **sound doctrine and godly conduct** in the church, emphasizing that right belief must translate into right practice, especially in leadership. Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **pastoral integrity and accountability**, placing a heavy burden of responsibility on Timothy to lead justly, knowing his actions are observed by divine witnesses. This echoes Paul's consistent call for leaders to be "above reproach" ([1 Timothy 3:2](/1_timothy/3-2 "1 Timothy 3:2 - Qualifications for Overseers")). Thirdly, the verse underscores the theme of **unity and purity in the church**, as partiality inevitably leads to division, injustice, and compromise of the gospel message. Paul consistently champions unity and love as hallmarks of the Christian community, as seen in his emphasis on love as the goal of instruction in [1 Timothy 1:5](/1_timothy/1-5 "1 Timothy 1:5 - The Goal of Instruction"). Finally, it speaks to the **nature of God's justice and impartiality**, urging human leaders to mirror the divine character in their judgments, a principle found throughout Scripture, from the Law to the Prophets and the New Testament ([Deuteronomy 1:17](/deuteronomy/1-17 "Deuteronomy 1:17 - Impartial Judgment") and [Romans 2:11](/romans/2-11 "Romans 2:11 - God Shows No Partiality")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Charge (Greek, _diamartýromai'_):** This word (G1263) comes from a compound of "through" (δια) and "to bear witness" (μαρτυρέω). It means "to attest or protest earnestly, or (by implication) hortatively." Paul is not merely advising Timothy; he is solemnly appealing, testifying, and strongly urging him with the weight of divine authority. It conveys a sense of earnest exhortation, often with a warning or an appeal to conscience, indicating the gravity of the instruction.
* **Preferring one before another (Greek, _prókrima'_):** This term (G4299) is derived from "before" (πρό) and "to judge" (κρίνω), meaning "a prejudgment (prejudice), i.e., prepossession." It refers to forming an opinion or making a decision in advance, without sufficient information or based on bias. It speaks to the internal disposition of the judge or leader – the pre-existing bias that can taint a judgment before the facts are fully considered.
* **Partiality (Greek, _prósklisis'_):** This word (G4346) comes from "towards" (πρός) and "to lean" (κλίνω), signifying "a leaning towards, i.e., (figuratively) proclivity (favoritism)." While _prókrima_ refers to the internal prejudice, _prósklisis_ describes the outward manifestation of that bias – the act of showing favoritism or respect of persons based on external factors like wealth, social status, or personal relationship, rather than on merit or truth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I charge [thee] before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels,"**: Paul initiates his command with a solemn adjuration, invoking the highest possible witnesses. This is not a casual instruction but a divine mandate, placing Timothy's actions under the direct scrutiny of the triune God (Father and Son) and the heavenly host. The "elect angels" serve as cosmic witnesses, emphasizing the profound spiritual significance and accountability of Timothy's ministry, indicating that the integrity of the church's leadership has cosmic implications.
* **"that thou observe these things"**: "These things" refers to the specific instructions Paul has just given regarding the handling of accusations against elders (vv. 19-20) and, by extension, the broader principles of church administration and discipline outlined in the chapter. Timothy is commanded to "observe" (G5442, _phylássō_), meaning to watch, guard, preserve, and obey these instructions carefully and diligently.
* **"without preferring one before another,"**: This clause directly addresses the internal disposition of the leader. It warns against _prókrima_ (prejudice or prejudgment). Timothy is to approach every situation with an open mind, free from preconceived notions, personal biases, or pre-existing opinions that might sway his judgment before all facts are considered. Decisions must be based on objective truth, not subjective inclination.
* **"doing nothing by partiality."**: This clause complements the previous one by focusing on the outward action. It forbids _prósklisis_ (favoritism or respect of persons). Timothy is not to allow external factors—such as a person's social standing, wealth, personal friendship, or influence—to dictate his decisions or actions. Every individual, regardless of their status, must be treated equally under the church's standards and divine law.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices to underscore the gravity of his charge. The most prominent is **Solemn Adjuration**, where he invokes the names of "God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels." This elevates the command from a mere human instruction to a divinely witnessed and sanctioned imperative, impressing upon Timothy the immense spiritual weight of his responsibilities. Furthermore, Paul uses **Parallelism** and **Synonymy** through the phrases "without preferring one before another" and "doing nothing by partiality." While distinct in their nuances (internal prejudice vs. external favoritism), these two phrases are closely related and reinforce the same core principle of absolute impartiality, creating a powerful rhetorical emphasis through repetition of a similar idea. Finally, the use of **Emphasis through Negation** ("without preferring," "doing nothing") clearly delineates what Timothy *must not* do, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the absolute prohibition of bias in leadership.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly connects to the biblical theme of God's perfect justice and impartiality, serving as a mandate for human leaders to reflect the divine character. God himself "shows no partiality" ([Romans 2:11](/romans/2-11 "Romans 2:11 - God Shows No Partiality")), judging all according to their deeds, not their outward status or human distinctions. Therefore, those who represent Him in leadership are called to embody this same standard of righteousness. This principle is deeply rooted in the Old Testament Law, which repeatedly warns against perverting justice or showing favoritism to the rich or poor ([Deuteronomy 1:17](/deuteronomy/1-17 "Deuteronomy 1:17 - Impartial Judgment") and [Leviticus 19:15](/leviticus/19-15 "Leviticus 19:15 - Impartiality in Judgment")). The New Testament reiterates this truth, particularly in the epistle of James, which strongly condemns favoritism within the church, declaring it a sin that violates the "royal law" of love ([James 2:1-9](/james/2-1-9 "James 2:1-9 - The Sin of Partiality")). Paul's charge to Timothy thus aligns the ethical conduct of church leadership with the very nature of God and the consistent ethical demands of His covenant.

* [Deuteronomy 1:17](/deuteronomy/1-17 "Deuteronomy 1:17 - Impartial Judgment")
* [Romans 2:11](/romans/2-11 "Romans 2:11 - God Shows No Partiality")
* [James 2:1-9](/james/2-1-9 "The Sin of Partiality")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Timothy 5:21 stands as a timeless and urgent call for integrity in all forms of leadership, particularly within the church. It challenges every believer, especially those in positions of authority, to examine their hearts and actions for any trace of prejudice or favoritism. In a world often driven by social status, wealth, and personal connections, the church is called to be a counter-cultural community that embodies divine justice and treats every individual with equal dignity and respect under God's righteous standards. This requires intentional self-awareness to identify our own biases, humility to seek counsel, and courage to make difficult decisions based on truth rather than popularity or personal gain. Our decisions, whether in church discipline, ministry appointments, or even everyday interactions, are not merely human affairs but are witnessed by God, Christ, and the elect angels, carrying eternal weight. Embracing impartiality fosters trust, promotes unity, and ensures that the church truly reflects the character of its impartial Head, Jesus Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or leadership might I be prone to unconscious bias or partiality?**
* **How can I actively cultivate a mindset of impartiality, seeking to treat all individuals with equal respect and fairness, regardless of their background or status?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure that my decisions, especially those impacting others, are rooted in truth and biblical principles rather than personal preferences or external pressures?**

### FAQ
**Why does Paul invoke "elect angels" as witnesses alongside God and Christ?**

Answer: The inclusion of "elect angels" (G1588, _eklektós_, meaning chosen or select; G32, _ángelos_, messenger) alongside God and the Lord Jesus Christ serves to heighten the solemnity and cosmic significance of Paul's charge. In ancient Jewish thought and early Christian understanding, angels are often depicted as observers of human affairs, witnesses to divine judgments, and participants in God's heavenly court. By invoking them, Paul emphasizes that Timothy's conduct in ministry is not merely a human matter but is under divine scrutiny, visible to the heavenly realm. This underscores the profound spiritual accountability of leadership within God's household and the eternal consequences of upholding or compromising justice. It also implies that the integrity of the church's internal life has implications that extend beyond the earthly sphere.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The charge for impartiality in [1 Timothy 5:21](/1_timothy/5-21 "1 Timothy 5:21 - The Solemn Charge") finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Our Lord consistently demonstrated absolute impartiality throughout His earthly ministry. He did not show favoritism based on social status, wealth, or religious background, but welcomed sinners, tax collectors, and outcasts ([Matthew 9:10-13](/matthew/9-10-13 "Matthew 9:10-13 - Jesus Eats with Sinners")). When challenged by those seeking to trap Him, Jesus's response affirmed His unwavering commitment to truth over human opinion: "Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances" ([Matthew 22:16](/matthew/22-16 "Matthew 22:16 - Jesus' Impartiality")). His sacrifice on the cross was for all humanity, without partiality, offering salvation to "whoever believes in him" ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")). Furthermore, Christ is the righteous judge who will return to judge the living and the dead, and His judgment will be perfectly just and without bias ([Acts 17:31](/acts/17-31 "Acts 17:31 - God's Appointed Judge")). As the Head of the Church, Christ calls His body to reflect His own character of perfect justice and love. Therefore, the church's pursuit of impartiality in its leadership and community life is a direct participation in the ongoing mission of Christ to establish His righteous kingdom, where all are treated with dignity and justice, reflecting the very nature of God Himself.

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

1 Timothy 6:13

¶ I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and [before] Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;

2 Peter 2:4

For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast [them] down to hell, and delivered [them] into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;

2 Timothy 4:1

¶ I charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

2 Timothy 2:14

¶ 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.

Jude 1:6

And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.

2 Corinthians 5:16

¶ Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we [him] no more.

Matthew 25:41

Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: