1 Timothy 6:14

KJV

That thou keep [this] commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:

KJV (with Strong's)

That thou {G4571} keep {G5083} this commandment {G1785} without spot {G784}, unrebukeable {G423}, until {G3360} the appearing {G2015} of our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}:

Complete Jewish Bible

to obey your commission spotlessly and irreproachably until our Lord Yeshua the Messiah appears.

Berean Standard Bible

Keep this commandment without stain or reproach until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ,

American Standard Version

that thou keep the commandment, without spot, without reproach, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Timothy 6:14 presents a profound charge from the Apostle Paul to his spiritual son, Timothy, urging him to maintain unwavering faithfulness, moral purity, and doctrinal integrity in his life and ministry. This comprehensive "commandment" is to be upheld without blemish or legitimate accusation, serving as a steadfast commitment that endures until the glorious Second Coming of Jesus Christ, which serves as both the ultimate motivation and the final accountability for all believers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a powerful concluding exhortation within a significant section of Paul's first letter to Timothy, particularly following a detailed discussion on the dangers of false teaching and the pitfalls of material wealth. Paul has just contrasted the destructive pursuit of riches with a passionate call for Timothy to "flee these things" and instead "pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness" [1 Timothy 6:11](/1_timothy/6-11 "1 Timothy 6:11 - Paul's Charge to Timothy"). He then urges Timothy to "fight the good fight of the faith" and "take hold of the eternal life" [1 Timothy 6:12](/1_timothy/6-12 "1 Timothy 6:12 - Fight the Good Fight"). Verse 14, therefore, crystallizes these preceding instructions into a singular, overarching command, emphasizing the enduring nature and high standard of Timothy's pastoral and personal conduct. It is a solemn charge, reinforced by the presence of God and Christ in the preceding verse [1 Timothy 6:13](/1_timothy/6-13 "1 Timothy 6:13 - Paul's Solemn Charge").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Timothy was a young pastor serving in Ephesus, a prominent city known for its diverse religious practices, philosophical schools, and significant pagan worship (including the cult of Artemis). This environment presented numerous challenges to the nascent Christian community, including the infiltration of false doctrines and ungodly lifestyles. Paul's emphasis on keeping the commandment "without spot, unrebukeable" was particularly crucial in a culture where personal reputation and public perception heavily influenced one's credibility and effectiveness. For Timothy to lead the church effectively and counter the pervasive errors, his character had to be beyond reproach, providing a living testament to the truth of the gospel amidst moral decay and spiritual deception. The concept of a "blameless" life was also understood within the Greco-Roman world as an ideal for leaders and those of high standing, making Paul's charge culturally resonant while elevating it to a divine standard.
* **Key Themes:** First Timothy 6:14 contributes significantly to several key themes woven throughout the epistle. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Pastoral Integrity and Conduct**, emphasizing that a leader's life must align with the truth they proclaim, a recurring motif in the Pastoral Epistles (e.g., [Titus 1:7-9](/titus/1-7-9 "Titus 1:7-9 - Qualifications for Elders")). Secondly, the phrase "this commandment" points to the **Comprehensive Nature of Christian Discipleship and Doctrine**, encompassing not just specific rules but the entire body of sound teaching and godly living that Paul has been outlining. Thirdly, the call to remain steadfast "until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ" highlights the **Eschatological Hope and Motivation** that undergirds Christian perseverance. This future event, the glorious return of Christ, serves as the ultimate deadline and the final judgment, providing a powerful incentive for present faithfulness and a reminder of ultimate accountability, a hope also articulated in [Titus 2:13](/titus/2-13 "Titus 2:13 - The Blessed Hope").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **commandment (Greek, _entolḗ_):** From a verb meaning "to enjoin" or "to command," this term signifies an authoritative prescription or injunction. In this context, it refers not to a single specific rule but to the comprehensive body of instructions Paul has given Timothy regarding his personal conduct, his teaching, and his responsibilities as a leader in the church. It encompasses the entirety of the Christian life and ministry as presented in the letter.
* **without spot (Greek, _áspilos_):** Composed of a negative particle ("a-") and a word for "spot" or "blemish," this term means unblemished, pure, or undefiled. It refers to moral purity, suggesting a life free from moral stain, defect, or defilement. It emphasizes an internal and external purity that reflects the character of Christ.
* **unrebukeable (Greek, _anepílēptos_):** Derived from a negative particle ("an-") and a word related to "to seize" or "to lay hold of," this term means not able to be seized or laid hold of, hence inculpable, blameless, or beyond reproach. It signifies living in such a way that no legitimate accusation or charge can be brought against one's character or actions, ensuring one's credibility and integrity remain intact.
* **appearing (Greek, _epipháneia_):** From a word meaning "to shine upon" or "to manifest," this term denotes a manifestation, a shining forth, or a glorious advent. In the New Testament, particularly in the Pastoral Epistles, it consistently refers to the glorious Second Coming of Christ, emphasizing its visible, undeniable, and divinely orchestrated nature. It points to the culmination of God's redemptive plan.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That thou keep this commandment":** This clause issues a direct, imperative charge to Timothy. The "commandment" is not a singular dictate but encapsulates the entire scope of Paul's instructions throughout the letter, particularly those concerning godliness, sound doctrine, and faithful ministry. Timothy is called to "keep" (Greek: _tēréō_), which implies not merely intellectual assent but active preservation, guarding, observing, and fulfilling these instructions in his life and work. It signifies a continuous, diligent adherence.
* **"without spot, unrebukeable":** These two descriptive phrases define the manner in which the commandment is to be kept. "Without spot" refers to moral purity, freedom from blemish or defilement, suggesting an inner integrity that manifests outwardly. "Unrebukeable" speaks to one's public reputation and conduct, meaning beyond legitimate accusation or reproach. Together, they paint a picture of comprehensive integrity—a life that is both inwardly pure and outwardly unimpeachable, essential for a leader's credibility and the gospel's honor.
* **"until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ":** This phrase establishes the duration and the ultimate horizon for Timothy's faithfulness. The "appearing" (Greek: _epipháneia_) refers specifically to the glorious Second Coming of Christ. This eschatological reference provides both the motivation and the ultimate accountability for Timothy's steadfastness. His faithfulness is not for a temporary season but is a lifelong commitment, enduring until the very moment Christ returns, at which point all will be revealed and judged according to His perfect standard.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. The **Imperative Mood** is strongly present, though implied in the "that thou keep" structure, conveying a direct and authoritative command from Paul to Timothy, underscoring the urgency and non-negotiable nature of the instruction. The phrases "without spot" and "unrebukeable" function as **Metaphors** for moral and ethical purity, drawing on imagery of cleanliness and legal blamelessness to describe an ideal state of character. "Without spot" evokes the idea of a sacrificial animal without blemish, hinting at the purity required for service. The entire verse is framed by **Eschatological Language**, with "until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ" serving as a powerful **Motif** that provides the ultimate temporal boundary and motivational force for Timothy's perseverance. This future event acts as a **Telos** or ultimate goal, shaping present conduct.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Timothy 6:14 deeply connects to the broader biblical themes of perseverance, sanctification, and eschatological hope. The charge to keep the commandment "without spot, unrebukeable" underscores the New Testament emphasis on the believer's call to holiness and blamelessness, not as a means of earning salvation, but as the fruit of a transformed life and a necessary witness to a watching world. This pursuit of purity is not a fleeting endeavor but a lifelong commitment, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The ultimate motivation for this endurance is the "appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ," a foundational doctrine that anchors Christian hope and provides the ultimate accountability. Believers are called to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that their faithfulness will be revealed and rewarded at Christ's glorious return, which serves as the consummation of God's redemptive plan.

* [Philippians 1:6](/philippians/1-6 "Confidence in God's Work")
* [Colossians 1:22](/colossians/1-22 "Presented Holy and Blameless")
* [Titus 2:13](/titus/2-13 "The Blessed Hope")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Timothy 6:14, though addressed specifically to a pastor, resonates profoundly with all believers today, calling us to a life of unwavering integrity and steadfast faithfulness. In a world often characterized by moral compromise and fleeting commitments, Paul's charge reminds us that our Christian walk is a marathon, not a sprint, requiring sustained diligence and a clear conscience. We are called to live in such a way that our character and conduct are beyond legitimate reproach, reflecting the purity of Christ in every sphere of life—in our homes, workplaces, and communities. This means actively pursuing righteousness, fleeing temptation, and cultivating a reputation for honesty and truthfulness. Furthermore, the "appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ" serves as a powerful and enduring motivation. Knowing that we will one day stand before Him should inspire us to live with intentionality, purifying ourselves as He is pure, and eagerly anticipating His glorious return. This eternal perspective transforms our daily choices, grounding us in hope and propelling us towards greater holiness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific areas of my life might be considered "spotted" or "rebukeable" by the world, and what steps can I take to align them with Christ's purity?**
* **How does the hope of Christ's return practically motivate my daily decisions and long-term commitments?**
* **In what ways can I more diligently "keep this commandment" – the comprehensive call to godly living and faithful service – in my current season of life?**
* **How does maintaining personal integrity strengthen my witness for Christ to those around me?**

### FAQ
**What exactly is "this commandment" that Timothy is to keep?**

Answer: "This commandment" (Greek: _entolḗ_) in [1 Timothy 6:14](/1_timothy/6-14 "Keep this Commandment") refers to the entire body of instruction and charge that Paul has given to Timothy throughout the letter, especially in the preceding verses. It's not a single, isolated rule, but a comprehensive summary of the Christian life, ministry, and sound doctrine. This includes fleeing from the love of money, pursuing righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness [1 Timothy 6:11](/1_timothy/6-11 "Paul's Charge to Timothy"), fighting the good fight of faith, and taking hold of eternal life [1 Timothy 6:12](/1_timothy/6-12 "Fight the Good Fight"). It encapsulates the high standards of character and conduct expected of a believer, particularly a leader, in light of the gospel.

**What does it mean to be "without spot, unrebukeable"?**

Answer: To be "without spot" (Greek: _áspilos_) means to be free from moral blemish, defilement, or impurity. It speaks to an inner purity of heart and motive, akin to a sacrificial lamb without blemish [1 Peter 1:19](/1_peter/1-19 "Redeemed by the Precious Blood of Christ"). To be "unrebukeable" (Greek: _anepílēptos_) means to be beyond reproach or legitimate accusation. It refers to one's outward conduct and reputation, living in such a way that no valid charge can be brought against one's character or actions. Together, these phrases describe a life of complete integrity—inwardly pure and outwardly blameless—which is essential for maintaining credibility and effectively representing Christ in the world. This standard is echoed in the qualifications for elders and deacons in [1 Timothy 3](/1_timothy/3 "Qualifications for Leaders").

**Why is the "appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ" mentioned as the deadline?**

Answer: The "appearing" (Greek: _epipháneia_) of our Lord Jesus Christ refers to His glorious Second Coming. This serves as the ultimate horizon and motivation for Christian faithfulness for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a clear temporal boundary, emphasizing that our commitment to God's commands is lifelong, enduring until the very end of this age. Secondly, it highlights the ultimate accountability we will all face before Christ, who will judge both the living and the dead [2 Timothy 4:1](/2_timothy/4-1 "Paul's Charge to Timothy"). Thirdly, it offers profound hope and encouragement, knowing that our perseverance will culminate in His glorious return, at which point all things will be made right, and we will be fully glorified with Him [Titus 2:13](/titus/2-13 "The Blessed Hope"). This eschatological hope fuels our present pursuit of holiness and endurance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Timothy 6:14 finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect standard in the person of Jesus Christ Himself. He is the one who perfectly "kept this commandment" in every aspect, living a life "without spot, unrebukeable" from beginning to end. Unlike us, He was truly without sin, "a lamb without blemish or spot" [1 Peter 1:19](/1_peter/1-19 "Redeemed by the Precious Blood of Christ"), and "in him is no sin" [1 John 3:5](/1_john/3-5 "Christ Appeared to Take Away Sins"). His entire earthly ministry, from His teachings to His actions, perfectly embodied the "commandment" of God's will, culminating in His obedient sacrifice on the cross [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Humility and Obedience"). Furthermore, the "appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ" is the very event that grants us the power and hope to strive for such blamelessness. It is through His first advent that we are redeemed and empowered by His Spirit, and it is His promised second advent that serves as our blessed hope and the ultimate motivation for our perseverance. We are called to purify ourselves "just as He is pure" [1 John 3:3](/1_john/3-3 "Purifying Ourselves in Hope of His Return"), knowing that when He appears, "we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is" [1 John 3:2](/1_john/3-2 "We Shall Be Like Him"). Thus, Christ is not only the perfect example of the commandment kept but also the empowering source and the glorious goal of our faithful endurance.

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

2 Peter 3:14

Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

1 Peter 1:7

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

1 Thessalonians 5:23

¶ And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Jude 1:24

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present [you] faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,

Titus 2:13

Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Hebrews 9:28

So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

1 Timothy 4:11

These things command and teach.