2 Timothy 2:25

KJV

In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

KJV (with Strong's)

In {G1722} meekness {G4236} instructing {G3811} those that oppose themselves {G475}; if {G3379} God {G2316} peradventure {G3379} will give {G1325} them {G846} repentance {G3341} to {G1519} the acknowledging {G1922} of the truth {G225};

Complete Jewish Bible

Also he should be gentle as he corrects his opponents. For God may perhaps grant them the opportunity to turn from their sins, acquire full knowledge of the truth,

Berean Standard Bible

He must gently reprove those who oppose him, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth.

American Standard Version

in meekness correcting them that oppose themselves; if peradventure God may give them repentance unto the knowledge of the truth,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Timothy 2:25 provides crucial guidance for Christian ministry, particularly in confronting error. It instructs believers to engage those who resist the truth with a spirit of humility and gentleness, recognizing that genuine repentance and the ultimate embrace of truth are sovereign gifts from God, not merely products of human persuasion or argument. This verse emphasizes the divine initiative in spiritual transformation, tempering human effort with a profound reliance on God's grace.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's second epistle to Timothy, his spiritual son and protégé, offering comprehensive instruction on faithful ministry in a challenging and increasingly apostate environment. Paul has just exhorted Timothy to be a diligent and approved workman, one who "rightly divideth the word of truth" ([2 Timothy 2:15](/2_timothy/2-15 "2 Timothy 2:15 - A Workman Approved by God")). He warns against "profane and vain babblings" that lead to ungodliness and spread like gangrene ([2 Timothy 2:16-17](/2_timothy/2-16-17 "2 Timothy 2:16-17 - Avoid Profane Babblings")). Immediately preceding [2 Timothy 2:25](/2_timothy/2-25 "2 Timothy 2:25 - Instructing Opponents with Meekness"), Paul outlines the character of "the servant of the Lord," stating that such a one "must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient" ([2 Timothy 2:24](/2_timothy/2-24 "2 Timothy 2:24 - The Lord's Servant Must Not Quarrel")). Thus, [2 Timothy 2:25](/2_timothy/2-25 "2 Timothy 2:25 - Instructing Opponents with Meekness") serves as a direct continuation and specific application of this gentle, patient, and apt-to-teach disposition, detailing the manner in which those caught in error should be approached.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Timothy was serving in Ephesus, a significant metropolitan center known for its diverse religious practices, including the widespread worship of Artemis, magic, and various philosophical schools. The early church in Ephesus, like many nascent Christian communities, faced internal and external pressures. Internally, false teachers were emerging, propagating "fables and endless genealogies" ([1 Timothy 1:4](/1_timothy/1-4 "1 Timothy 1:4 - Avoid Fables and Genealogies")) and promoting doctrines that undermined the purity of the gospel. These false teachings often led to strife and division within the church. Paul's letters to Timothy, therefore, are pastoral manuals designed to equip Timothy to lead, teach, and correct with wisdom and authority in a complex spiritual landscape. The emphasis on meekness and divine initiative reflects the understanding that spiritual battles are not won by human force or intellectual superiority alone, but by God's power working through humble instruments.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Timothy 2:25](/2_timothy/2-25 "2 Timothy 2:25 - Instructing Opponents with Meekness") contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Timothy and Pauline theology. A prominent theme is the **Character of a Godly Minister**, emphasizing qualities like gentleness, patience, and teachability, as seen in [2 Timothy 2:24](/2_timothy/2-24 "2 Timothy 2:24 - The Lord's Servant Must Not Quarrel"). Another key theme is the **Nature of Truth and Error**, with Paul consistently contrasting sound doctrine with "profane and vain babblings" ([2 Timothy 2:16](/2_timothy/2-16 "2 Timothy 2:16 - Shun Profane Babblings")) and urging Timothy to "rightly divideth the word of truth" ([2 Timothy 2:15](/2_timothy/2-15 "2 Timothy 2:15 - Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth")). The verse also highlights the **Sovereignty of God in Salvation**, particularly in the granting of repentance, underscoring that spiritual transformation is ultimately a divine work, not merely a human endeavor. This divine initiative is a recurring motif in Paul's writings, such as in [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Grace Through Faith") where salvation is described as a gift of God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Meekness (Greek, _praiótēs'_):** From G4236, this term denotes gentleness, by implication, humility. It is not weakness or timidity, but rather strength under control, a disposition of humble submission to God and gentle consideration towards others. In the context of correction, it signifies an absence of arrogance, harshness, or self-righteousness, reflecting a spirit that seeks to restore rather than condemn.
* **Instructing (Greek, _paideúō'_):** From G3811, this word means to train up a child, i.e., educate, or (by implication) discipline (by punishment). While it can involve discipline, in this context, it primarily refers to teaching, training, and guiding, often with the aim of correction or moral improvement. It implies a pedagogical process, a patient and deliberate effort to impart understanding and foster growth.
* **Repentance (Greek, _metánoia'_):** From G3341, this signifies compunction (for guilt, including reformation); by implication, reversal (of another's decision). It describes a fundamental change of mind, a turning around, leading to a change of heart and life. It is not merely regret, but a transformative shift in one's orientation, particularly from sin and error to God and truth. The verse explicitly states that this is a divine gift.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves":** This clause sets the tone and method for engaging those in error. The instruction must be delivered with a gentle, humble, and patient disposition, devoid of anger or contention. The phrase "those that oppose themselves" (G475, _antidiatíthemai_) refers to individuals who are resistant or disputatious, setting themselves against the truth. Their opposition is not merely against the messenger, but ultimately against their own spiritual well-being, as their erroneous beliefs or actions are self-defeating and harmful.
* **"if God peradventure will give them repentance":** This crucial conditional clause highlights the divine sovereignty in spiritual transformation. The phrase "if God peradventure" (G3379, _mḗpote_) indicates uncertainty from a human perspective, not God's, emphasizing that repentance (G3341, _metánoia_) is not something a human teacher can compel or produce, but is a gracious gift (G1325, _dídōmi_) from God. Human instruction is necessary, but the ultimate change of heart is God's work.
* **"to the acknowledging of the truth;":** This final phrase states the ultimate goal of the meek instruction and the divinely granted repentance. "Acknowledging" (G1922, _epígnōsis_) means full discernment or complete recognition. The objective is for those who oppose themselves to come to a deep, genuine, and comprehensive understanding and acceptance of "the truth" (G225, _alḗtheia_), which refers to God's revealed truth, particularly the truth of the Gospel, leading to salvation and righteous living.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Didacticism**, as Paul directly instructs Timothy on the proper approach to ministry, emphasizing both the manner and the ultimate source of spiritual change. There is a clear **Conditional Clause** ("if God peradventure will give them repentance"), which highlights the divine initiative and sovereignty in the process of conversion, tempering human effort with a recognition of God's ultimate power. This creates a **Theological Emphasis** on grace and divine gifting, contrasting human striving with God's transformative work. Furthermore, the phrase "those that oppose themselves" functions as a form of **Paradoxical Description**, as it describes individuals whose actions of opposing the truth are, in fact, self-destructive and against their own best interests, creating a subtle but powerful indictment of their spiritual state.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[2 Timothy 2:25](/2_timothy/2-25 "2 Timothy 2:25 - Instructing Opponents with Meekness") profoundly shapes our understanding of evangelism and discipleship, underscoring that while human effort in teaching and persuasion is essential, the spiritual breakthrough of repentance is a divine act. This perspective guards against both human pride (thinking we can convert anyone by our own skill) and despair (when our efforts seem fruitless), fostering a spirit of humble reliance on God's sovereign grace. It calls believers to embody the character of Christ—meekness and truth—in their interactions, knowing that only God can open hardened hearts to acknowledge His truth. This theological truth liberates ministers from the burden of results and empowers them to faithfully sow the seed of the Word with patience and prayer.

* [Acts 5:31](/acts/5-31 "Acts 5:31 - God Grants Repentance and Forgiveness")
* [Romans 2:4](/romans/2-4 "Romans 2:4 - God's Goodness Leads to Repentance")
* [James 1:21](/james/1-21 "James 1:21 - Receive the Engrafted Word with Meekness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse is a timeless guide for all who seek to share the truth of Christ, whether in formal ministry or daily interactions. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and motives when confronting error or engaging in spiritual conversations. Are we motivated by a desire to win an argument, or to see a soul genuinely transformed by God's grace? The call to "meekness" demands humility, patience, and a genuine love for the person, even when their beliefs or actions are deeply misguided. It reminds us that our role is to faithfully sow the seed of truth, but the harvest of repentance is entirely God's work. This understanding should lead us to fervent prayer for those who oppose themselves, trusting that God, in His perfect timing and sovereign will, can grant them the gift of repentance and a full acknowledgment of His saving truth.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on "meekness" challenge your natural inclinations when confronted with disagreement or opposition to the truth?**
* **In what ways does understanding repentance as a "gift from God" impact your approach to sharing the Gospel or correcting error?**
* **How can you cultivate a more patient and prayerful attitude towards those who seem resistant to spiritual truth?**
* **What practical steps can you take to ensure your communication of truth is always accompanied by genuine love and humility?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean that people "oppose themselves" in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "those that oppose themselves" (Greek: _antidiatíthemai_) refers to individuals who set themselves in opposition, are resistant, or are disputatious against the truth. The implication is that by opposing God's truth, they are ultimately acting against their own best interests and spiritual well-being. Their error is self-defeating and spiritually harmful, as they reject the very truth that could lead to their salvation and flourishing. This opposition isn't just against the messenger; it's a fundamental resistance to the divine reality that would bring them life, as seen in Jesus' lament over Jerusalem in [Matthew 23:37](/matthew/23-37 "Matthew 23:37 - Jesus Laments Over Jerusalem").

**Is repentance truly a gift from God, or is it something we choose?**

Answer: [2 Timothy 2:25](/2_timothy/2-25 "2 Timothy 2:25 - Instructing Opponents with Meekness") clearly states that God "will give them repentance." This highlights the theological truth that while humans are called to repent and are responsible for their choices, the ability to genuinely turn from sin and embrace God's truth is ultimately a work of divine grace. It is not something we can conjure up on our own. God's Spirit convicts, enlightens, and enables the heart to respond. This divine initiative is also seen in passages like [Acts 11:18](/acts/11-18 "Acts 11:18 - God Grants Repentance Unto Life"), where Peter concludes that "God hath also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life." This perspective fosters humility in evangelism and reliance on God's power.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[2 Timothy 2:25](/2_timothy/2-25 "2 Timothy 2:25 - Instructing Opponents with Meekness") finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential example of one who instructed "in meekness," declaring Himself "meek and lowly in heart" ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Jesus' Invitation to Rest")). Even when confronting the hardened hearts of the Pharisees, Jesus' rebukes were rooted in a desire for their repentance, not merely condemnation, though He spoke with divine authority. He consistently presented "the truth" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")) to those who opposed themselves, knowing that their rejection of Him was ultimately self-destructive. Furthermore, the concept that God "will give them repentance" is profoundly realized through Christ's atoning work. His death and resurrection not only make salvation possible but also secure the spiritual power necessary for hearts to be transformed. The Holy Spirit, sent by Christ, is the one who convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment ([John 16:8](/john/16-8 "John 16:8 - The Spirit's Convicting Work")), leading to the very repentance and acknowledgment of truth that this verse describes. Thus, Christ is both the perfect model of meek instruction and the divine enabler of the repentance that leads to life.

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

Acts 11:18

When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

Galatians 6:1

¶ Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

1 Timothy 2:4

Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

1 Peter 3:15

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and [be] ready always to [give] an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

Acts 8:22

Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.

1 John 5:16

If any man see his brother sin a sin [which is] not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

Matthew 11:29

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.