TRV
Translation
King James Version
¶ Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Complete Jewish Bible
So, flee the passions of youth; and, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart, pursue righteousness, faithfulness, love and peace.
Berean Standard Bible
Flee from youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, together with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
American Standard Version
But flee youthful lusts, and follow after righteousness, faith, love, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
World English Bible Messianic
Flee from youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Flee also from the lustes of youth, and follow after righteousnes, faith, loue, and peace, with them that call on the Lord with pure heart,
Young's Literal Translation
and the youthful lusts flee thou, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace, with those calling upon the Lord out of a pure heart;
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In the KJVVerse 29,850 of 31,102
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Commentary on 2 Timothy 2 verses 22–26
22 ¶ Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
I. Paul here exhorts Timothy to beware of youthful lusts, Ti2 2:22. Though he was a holy good man, very much mortified to the world, yet Paul thought it necessary to caution him against youthful lusts: "Flee them, take all possible care and pains to keep thyself pure from them." The lusts of the flesh are youthful lusts, which young people must carefully watch against, and the best must not be secure. He prescribes an excellent remedy against youthful lusts: Follow righteousness, faith, charity peace, etc. Observe, 1. Youthful lusts are very dangerous, for which reason even hopeful young people should be warned of them, for they war against the soul, Pe1 2:11. 2. The exciting of our graces will be the extinguishing of our corruptions; the more we follow that which is good the faster and the further we shall flee from that which is evil. Righteousness, and faith, and love, will be excellent antidotes against youthful lusts. Holy love will cure impure lust. - Follow peace with those that call on the Lord. The keeping up of the communion of saints will take us off from all fellowship with unfruitful works of darkness. See the character of Christians: they are such as call on the Lord Jesus Christ, out of a pure heart. Observe, Christ is to be prayed to. It is the character of all Christians that they call upon him; but our prayers to God and Christ are not acceptable nor successful except they come out of a pure heart.
II. He cautions him against contention, and, to prevent this (Ti2 2:23), cautions him against foolish and unlearned questions, that tend to no benefit, strifes of words. Those who advanced them, and doted upon them, thought themselves wise and learned; but Paul calls them foolish and unlearned. The mischief of these is that they gender strifes, that they breed debates and quarrels among Christians and ministers. It is very remarkable how often, and with what seriousness, the apostle cautions Timothy against disputes in religion, which surely was not without some such design as this, to show that religion consists more in believing and practising what God requires than in subtle disputes. - The servant of the Lord must not strive, Ti2 2:24. Nothing worse becomes the servant of the Lord Jesus, who himself did not strive nor cry (Mat 12:19), but was a pattern of meekness, and mildness, and gentleness to all, than strife and contention. The servant of the Lord must be gentle to all men, and thereby show that he is himself subject to the commanding power of that holy religion which he is employed in preaching and propagating. - Apt to teach. Those are unapt to teach who are apt to strive, and are fierce and froward. Ministers must be patient, bearing with evil, and in meekness instructing (Ti2 2:25) not only those who subject themselves, but those who oppose themselves. Observe, 1. Those who oppose themselves to the truth are to be instructed; for instruction is the scripture-method of dealing with the erroneous, which is more likely to convince them of their errors than fire and faggot: he does not bid us kill their bodies, under pretence of saving their souls. 2. Such as oppose themselves are to be instructed in meekness, for our Lord is meek and lowly (Mat 11:29), and this agrees well with the character of the servant of the Lord (Ti2 2:24): He must not strive, but be gentle to all men, apt to teach, patient. This is the way to convey truth in its light and power, and to overcome evil with good, Rom 12:21. 3. That which ministers must have in their eyes, in instructing those who oppose themselves, must be their recovery: If God, peradventure, will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth. Observe, (1.) Repentance is God's gift. (2.) It is a gift with a peradventure in the case of those who oppose themselves; and therefore, though we are not to despair of the grace of God, yet we must take heed of presuming upon it. To the acknowledging of the truth. (3.) The same God who gives us the discovery of the truth does by his grace bring us to the acknowledging of it, otherwise our hearts would continue in rebellion against it, for we are to confess with our mouths as well as to believe with our hearts, Rom 10:9, Rom 10:10. And thus sinners recover themselves out of the snare of the devil; see here, [1.] The misery of sinners: they are in the snare of the devil, and are led captive by him at his will, Ti2 2:26. They are slaves to the worst of task-masters; he is the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience, Eph 2:2. They are taken in a snare, and in the worst snare, because it is the devil's; they are as fishes that are taken in n evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare. Further, They are under Ham's curse (a servant of servants shall he be, Gen 9:25), they are slaves to him who is but a slave and vassal. [2.] The happiness of those who repent: they recover themselves out of this snare, as a bird out of the snare of the fowler; the snare is broken and they have escaped; and the greater the danger the greater the deliverance. When sinners repent, those who before were led captive by the devil at his will come to be led into the glorious liberty of the children of God, and have their wills melted into the will of the Lord Jesus. The good Lord recover us all out of the snare.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 22–26. Public domain.
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John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily on 2 Timothy 6
"Flee also youthful lusts." Not only the lust of fornication, but every inordinate desire is a youthful lust. Let the aged learn that they ought not to do the deeds of the youthful. If one be given to insolence, or a lover of power, of riches, of bodily pleasures, it is a youthful lust, and foolish. These things must proceed from a heart not yet established, from a mind not deeply grounded, but in a wavering state. What then does he advise in order that none may be captivated by these things? "Flee youthful" imaginations, "but Follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart." He calls virtue in general, "righteousness": godliness of life, "faith, meekness, charity." What is meant by "those that call upon the Lord out of a pure heart"? It is as if he said, Rejoice not in those who only call upon the Lord; but those who call upon Him sincerely and unfeignedly, who have nothing of deceit about them, who approach Him in peace, who are not contentious. With these associate thyself. But with others be not easy, but only as far as lies in you, be peaceable.
OecumeniusAD 990
COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY
Flee from youthful lust. But pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
Youthful lust is not only fornication alone, but also every improper desire, whether one lusts for power or for wealth; for these fantasies are foolish and unstable of mind. Indeed, even an old man becomes youthful.
But pursue righteousness. Righteousness is defined as the true and loyal temperament toward those we love.
love, and peace with those who call on the Lord. That is, to those who trust alone, those who call upon the Lord without deception and deceit; to the peaceful, the unarmed, unite with them, pursue what has been said with them.
from a pure heart. For one can also call upon piousness with hypocrisy.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Second Timothy 2:22 provides a crucial pastoral admonition from Paul to Timothy, urging him to actively avoid the moral pitfalls and impulsive desires often associated with youth, while simultaneously pursuing a life characterized by core Christian virtues. This pursuit is not to be undertaken in isolation but in intentional fellowship with other genuine believers who sincerely seek and worship the Lord, highlighting the communal aspect of spiritual growth and purity in ministry.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is nestled within Paul's second letter to Timothy, a deeply personal and urgent epistle written from prison. Chapter 2 is a pivotal section where Paul outlines the qualities and responsibilities of a faithful minister of the Gospel. He begins by exhorting Timothy to be strong in grace and to entrust the truth to reliable people (2 Timothy 2:1-2). Paul then uses various analogies – a soldier, an athlete, a farmer – to illustrate the discipline, endurance, and hard work required for effective ministry (2 Timothy 2:3-7). Following this, he emphasizes the foundational truth of Christ's resurrection (2 Timothy 2:8) and the necessity of rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). The immediate verses leading up to 2 Timothy 2:22 warn against "profane and vain babblings" and "foolish and unlearned questions" that lead to strife and ungodliness (2 Timothy 2:16-21). Paul likens such individuals to "vessels unto dishonour," contrasting them with those who cleanse themselves to be "vessels unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use" (2 Timothy 2:20-21). Thus, 2 Timothy 2:22 serves as a direct, practical application of this call to purity and usefulness for Timothy's personal conduct and ministerial effectiveness.
Historical & Cultural Context: Timothy was a young leader, likely in his late 20s or early 30s, serving in the challenging and influential church in Ephesus. Ephesus was a major metropolitan center known for its diverse religious practices, including the widespread worship of Artemis, and a vibrant, often morally lax, culture. This environment presented numerous temptations and philosophical challenges to Christian leaders and congregants alike. Paul's admonition to "flee youthful lusts" would have resonated deeply in such a context, addressing not only sexual temptations but also the broader range of impulsive desires, pride, ambition, and argumentative tendencies common to younger individuals in positions of authority. The emphasis on "righteousness, faith, charity, peace" would have stood in stark contrast to the prevailing values of the Greco-Roman world, which often prioritized personal gain, honor, and sensual gratification. The call to associate with those who "call on the Lord out of a pure heart" also speaks to the need for discerning fellowship in a time when false teachers and insincere believers were actively undermining the church from within.
Key Themes: This verse contributes significantly to several major themes found throughout Paul's letters and specifically in 2 Timothy. First, it underscores the theme of Personal Purity and Holiness, emphasizing that a minister's effectiveness is intrinsically linked to their moral character. This echoes Paul's broader concern for sanctification, as seen in passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7. Second, it highlights the theme of Spiritual Discipline and Active Pursuit of Virtue. Christian living is not merely abstaining from evil but actively cultivating godly attributes, a concept central to the pursuit of godliness described in 1 Timothy 4:7-8. Third, the verse emphasizes the Importance of Godly Community and Fellowship. It teaches that spiritual growth and the pursuit of holiness are not solitary endeavors but are fostered and sustained within a community of like-minded believers, reinforcing the biblical emphasis on the body of Christ as seen in Ephesians 4:1-3. Finally, it subtly touches upon the theme of Discernment in Ministry, distinguishing between those who genuinely seek the Lord with integrity and those who might be driven by less pure motives, a recurring concern for Paul in his pastoral epistles.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. Antithesis is prominent, setting up a clear contrast between "fleeing youthful lusts" and "following righteousness, faith, charity, peace." This opposition highlights the two-fold nature of Christian living: abstaining from evil and actively pursuing good. The use of Metaphor is also evident in the verbs "flee" and "follow," which evoke images of a race or a pursuit, underscoring the active, dynamic, and urgent nature of the spiritual life. "Flee" suggests a strategic retreat from danger, while "follow" implies a determined chase after a desired goal. Furthermore, Synecdoche is present in the phrase "out of a pure heart," where "heart" (Greek kardía) stands for the entire inner person—the mind, will, emotions, and conscience—emphasizing the sincerity and integrity required for true devotion and fellowship.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Timothy 2:22 powerfully articulates the dual nature of sanctification: a negative command to abstain from sin and a positive command to actively pursue godliness. This holistic approach to holiness is not a solitary endeavor but is deeply communal, emphasizing the indispensable role of genuine Christian fellowship. The virtues listed—righteousness, faith, charity (love), and peace—are not merely moralistic ideals but are foundational aspects of a life transformed by the Holy Spirit, reflecting the character of God Himself. This pursuit of purity and virtue, in community, prepares believers, especially leaders like Timothy, to be "vessels unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use" (2 Timothy 2:21).
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Timothy 2:22 offers timeless wisdom for believers across all generations, providing a clear roadmap for living a life pleasing to God. It calls for a proactive and discerning approach to temptation, recognizing that some battles are best won by strategic avoidance rather than direct confrontation. This requires self-awareness to identify our personal "youthful lusts"—whether they are desires for worldly approval, unchecked ambition, impulsiveness, or sensual pleasures—and the discipline to create boundaries that protect us from them. Simultaneously, the verse challenges us to be intentional and zealous in our pursuit of core Christian virtues. Holiness is not merely the absence of sin but the active cultivation of righteousness, unwavering faith, selfless love (charity), and inner and relational peace. This active pursuit demands consistent effort, prayer, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Crucially, the verse reminds us that this journey is not meant to be walked alone. The company we keep profoundly shapes our spiritual trajectory. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who genuinely "call on the Lord out of a pure heart" provides vital encouragement, accountability, and a supportive environment for growth, helping us to remain steadfast and fruitful in our walk with Christ.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "youthful lusts" mean beyond sexual desires?
Answer: While "lusts" (Greek epithymía) can certainly include sexual desires, the qualifier "youthful" (Greek neōterikós) broadens its scope significantly. It refers to the strong desires, impulses, and characteristics often associated with younger people, which can lead to sin. This can encompass a range of issues such as pride, ambition, impulsiveness, a contentious or argumentative spirit, a desire for worldly recognition, love of pleasure, impatience, or even a tendency towards theological quarrels. Paul's instruction is for Timothy to avoid these characteristic pitfalls that could hinder his ministry and personal walk.
Why does Paul say "flee" instead of "resist" or "fight"?
Answer: The Greek word for "flee" (G5343, pheúgō) implies an urgent, decisive, and complete avoidance or escape. It suggests that for certain temptations, particularly those that are deeply ingrained or highly seductive, the most effective strategy is not to engage in a direct confrontation but to remove oneself entirely from the situation or influence. This is a pragmatic spiritual discipline, recognizing human weakness and the power of temptation. It's a call to strategic withdrawal to preserve one's purity, as seen in other Pauline commands like "flee fornication" (1 Corinthians 6:18) or "flee from idolatry" (1 Corinthians 10:14).
What is the significance of "with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart"?
Answer: This phrase underscores the communal nature of Christian living and spiritual growth. It highlights that the pursuit of holiness and virtue is not a solitary endeavor but is best achieved within the context of genuine, godly fellowship. "Calling on the Lord" (G1941, epikaléomai) signifies sincere worship, prayer, and true devotion, while "out of a pure heart" (G2513, katharós; G2588, kardía) emphasizes sincerity, integrity, and freedom from hidden motives or spiritual defilement. Timothy is encouraged to seek out and associate with believers who are genuinely devoted to God, as such companionship provides essential encouragement, accountability, and a supportive environment for living a life pleasing to God, contrasting with those who might be false teachers or insincere in their faith.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Timothy 2:22 finds its ultimate fulfillment and enabling power in Jesus Christ. He is the perfect embodiment of the virtues Timothy is commanded to "follow": He is the very Righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21), the object and author of our Faith (Hebrews 12:2), the supreme demonstration of Charity (Agape love) in His sacrificial death (John 15:13), and our source of Peace with God and with one another (Ephesians 2:14). Moreover, Christ perfectly "fled" the lusts of the world, though tempted in every way, He was without sin (Hebrews 4:15). He perfectly called "on the Lord out of a pure heart" through His constant communion with the Father (John 17). For believers, the ability to "flee youthful lusts" and "follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace" is not achieved through mere human effort but through the indwelling Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live out Christ's character within us (Galatians 5:16-25). As we fix our eyes on Jesus, we are transformed into His likeness, becoming more and more like the One who perfectly modeled the life of purity and devotion that Paul exhorts Timothy to pursue (2 Corinthians 3:18).