2 Timothy 3:14

But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned [them];

But {G1161} continue {G3306} thou {G4771} in {G1722} the things which {G3739} thou hast learned {G3129} and {G2532} hast been assured of {G4104}, knowing {G1492} of {G3844} whom {G5101} thou hast learned {G3129} them;

But you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, recalling the people from whom you learned it;

But as for you, continue in the things you have learned and firmly believed, since you know from whom you have learned them.

But abide thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;

2 Timothy 3:14 serves as a powerful exhortation from the Apostle Paul to his spiritual son, Timothy, urging him to remain steadfast in the foundational truths he has received. This verse stands in stark contrast to the warnings about moral decay and false teachers described earlier in the chapter.

Context

This verse immediately follows Paul's somber prophecy regarding the difficult times and the rise of ungodliness and false teachers in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1-9). Instead of succumbing to these pressures or being led astray, Timothy is admonished to cling to the established truth. Paul highlights his own life and doctrine as an example for Timothy to follow (2 Timothy 3:10-11), setting the stage for this command to persevere in sound doctrine.

Key Themes

  • Perseverance in Truth: The core message is the necessity of steadfastly continuing in the Christian faith and the teachings received. This isn't a passive retention but an active commitment to live by and uphold these truths.
  • Certainty and Assurance: The phrase "hast been assured of" implies a deep conviction, a full persuasion or certainty. Timothy's faith was not based on mere speculation but on reliable, proven truths.
  • Authority of the Teacher: "Knowing of whom thou hast learned them" underscores the credibility and spiritual authority of Paul, who taught Timothy. This also implicitly points to God as the ultimate source of truth, conveyed through His chosen apostles and inspired Scripture.
  • Spiritual Heritage: This verse subtly connects to Timothy's spiritual upbringing, including the faith of his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice (2 Timothy 1:5), reinforcing the idea of a trusted lineage of truth.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "assured of" is plerophoreo (πληροφορέω), which means "to be fully convinced," "to be fully persuaded," or "to carry out fully." It suggests a deep, settled conviction based on ample evidence and understanding, not just a superficial belief. This term emphasizes the solid ground upon which Timothy's faith and learning were built.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Timothy 3:14 is a vital reminder to:

  • Hold Fast to Foundational Truths: In a world filled with shifting opinions and diverse ideologies, it is crucial to remain grounded in the unchanging truths of God's Word.
  • Discern Sources of Teaching: Just as Timothy was to consider "of whom" he learned, we too must critically evaluate the sources of our spiritual instruction, ensuring they align with biblical principles.
  • Cultivate Deep Conviction: Our faith should not be based on fleeting emotions or external pressures, but on a deep, personal assurance of the Gospel's truth and power. This conviction strengthens us to stand firm against spiritual deception.
  • Persevere Through Challenges: The call to "continue" implies endurance. As society changes and challenges to faith arise, this verse encourages steadfastness and faithfulness to what we know to be true.
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.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:13

    ¶ For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received [it] not [as] the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

  • 2 Timothy 2:2

    And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

  • 2 Timothy 1:13

    Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

  • 1 Thessalonians 1:5

    For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.

  • Hebrews 10:22

    Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

  • Hebrews 6:11

    And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:

  • 1 Timothy 4:16

    Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

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