2 Timothy 2:19

¶ Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

Nevertheless {G3305} the foundation {G2310} of God {G2316} standeth {G2476} sure {G4731}, having {G2192} this {G5026} seal {G4973}, The Lord {G2962} knoweth {G1097} them that are {G5607} his {G846}. And {G2532}, Let {G868} every one {G3956} that nameth {G3687} the name {G3686} of Christ {G5547} depart {G868} from {G575} iniquity {G93}.

Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands, stamped with these words:

“The Lord knows his own,”

and,

“Let everyone who claims he belongs to the Lord
stand apart from wrongdoing.”

Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from iniquity.”

Howbeit the firm foundation of God standeth, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his: and, Let every one that nameth the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.

2 Timothy 2:19 stands as a powerful declaration of God's unwavering truth and the essential characteristics of His true followers amidst spiritual deception. Paul, writing to his young protégé Timothy, offers reassurance and a clear call to genuine faith and conduct.

Context

This verse comes in the midst of Paul's instructions to Timothy on how to lead the church and combat false teachings. Paul has just discussed the destructive nature of "profane and vain babblings" and the erroneous doctrines of Hymenaeus and Philetus, who had "erred concerning the truth" (2 Timothy 2:17). In contrast to the instability and decay brought by error, verse 19 asserts the steadfastness of God's own established truth. It serves as a bedrock principle for rightly dividing the word of truth and maintaining sound doctrine.

Key Themes

  • God's Unshakeable Foundation: The phrase "the foundation of God standeth sure" refers to God's eternal purpose, His truth, or perhaps His established church. It emphasizes the absolute stability and permanence of God's plan and His covenant with His people, which cannot be undermined by human error or apostasy.
  • Divine Knowledge and Ownership: The first "seal" or inscription, "The Lord knoweth them that are his," highlights God's sovereign and intimate knowledge of His true believers. This is not merely intellectual awareness but a deep, personal recognition and relationship, akin to a shepherd knowing his sheep (John 10:14). It provides immense comfort and security to those who genuinely belong to Him.
  • Call to Holiness and Separation: The second "seal," "And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity," presents the indispensable human response to God's ownership. True faith is not just a verbal profession; it is demonstrated by a life of active separation from sin and unrighteousness. This is a clear ethical imperative for all who claim to follow Christ.
  • Distinguishing True from False: Implicit in this verse is the distinction between genuine believers and mere professors. While God knows His own, those who are His also bear the mark of departing from iniquity, providing a practical criterion for discernment within the Christian community.

Linguistic Insights

The term "foundation" (Greek: themelios) metaphorically represents the established, unmovable basis of God's truth and purpose. The phrase "standeth sure" (Greek: hesteken stereos) conveys absolute firmness and immovability. The word "seal" (Greek: sphragis) refers to an identifying mark or impression, often used to authenticate, secure, or declare ownership. Here, it signifies the two essential truths inscribed upon God's foundation concerning His people: His divine election and their corresponding call to holiness.

Practical Application

In an age of shifting values and diverse spiritual claims, 2 Timothy 2:19 offers timeless guidance. It assures believers that God's truth remains constant despite confusion or apostasy. For those who belong to Christ, there is profound security in knowing they are intimately known by God. Simultaneously, the verse issues a powerful challenge: authentic faith is evidenced by a transformed life that actively departs from iniquity. This calls every Christian to a life of genuine commitment, not just outward profession, demonstrating the reality of their relationship with God through their pursuit of holiness and righteous living.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • John 10:14

    I am the good shepherd, and know my [sheep], and am known of mine.

  • 1 Corinthians 8:3

    But if any man love God, the same is known of him.

  • Nahum 1:7

    The LORD [is] good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.

  • 1 John 3:7

    Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.

  • 1 John 3:10

    In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.

  • Numbers 16:5

    And he spake unto Korah and unto all his company, saying, Even to morrow the LORD will shew who [are] his, and [who is] holy; and will cause [him] to come near unto him: even [him] whom he hath chosen will he cause to come near unto him.

  • John 10:27

    My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
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