2 Timothy 3:5

KJV

Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

KJV (with Strong's)

Having {G2192} a form {G3446} of godliness {G2150}, but {G1161} denying {G720} the power {G1411} thereof {G846}: from {G2532} such {G5128} turn away {G665}.

Complete Jewish Bible

as they retain the outer form of religion but deny its power.

Stay away from these people!

Berean Standard Bible

having a form of godliness but denying its power. Turn away from such as these!

American Standard Version

holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power thereof: from these also turn away.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul's urgent warning in 2 Timothy 3:5 serves as a profound call for spiritual discernment, identifying a dangerous characteristic prevalent in the "last days": an outward display of religious piety that fundamentally lacks genuine inner transformation and the vital, empowering presence of God. This verse exposes the perilous nature of spiritual hypocrisy, where external conformity to religious practices masks an internal void, devoid of the Holy Spirit's life-changing power.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a critical section of Paul's final epistle to his protégé, Timothy, specifically [2 Timothy 3:1-9](/2_timothy/3-1-9 "2 Timothy 3:1-9 - Perilous Times and Godless People"). Paul's primary aim in this chapter is to prepare Timothy, and by extension, the church, for the moral and spiritual decay that will characterize the "perilous times" (χαλεποὶ καιροί, *chalepoi kairoi*) of the last days. The preceding verses (2 Timothy 3:2-4) list a litany of vices—self-love, covetousness, boastfulness, disobedience, unholiness, and a general lack of genuine affection—culminating in the summary indictment of verse 5. This verse acts as a capstone, highlighting the most insidious danger: those who maintain a religious facade while actively rejecting the very power that defines true godliness. It underscores the deceptive nature of outward appearances when divorced from inner reality, urging Timothy to exercise keen spiritual discernment in his ministry within the Ephesian church.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Timothy was ministering in Ephesus, a bustling metropolitan center known for its diverse religious practices, including the widespread worship of Artemis, emperor worship, and various philosophical schools. This environment presented a fertile ground for syncretism and superficial religiosity. Paul's warnings likely addressed specific challenges faced by the early church, where false teachers and those with impure motives could easily infiltrate the community, adopting Christian terminology and practices without genuine conversion or submission to Christ's authority. The early church was constantly battling against external pressures and internal corruptions, making Paul's emphasis on authentic faith and the rejection of mere "form" particularly pertinent. The cultural context often valued outward displays of piety, making it crucial for believers to distinguish between performative religion and Spirit-empowered transformation.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme of [2 Timothy 3:5](/2_timothy/3-5 "2 Timothy 3:5 - Warning Against Hypocrisy") is the stark **contrast between outward religious conformity and true spiritual vitality**. Paul warns against **hypocrisy**, where individuals present a "form of godliness" (an external appearance of piety) but "deny the power thereof," indicating a rejection or absence of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. This exposes the **emptiness of ritual without relationship**, emphasizing that genuine godliness is not merely a set of rules or traditions but a dynamic, empowering relationship with God that fundamentally alters one's character and conduct. Furthermore, the verse introduces the critical theme of **discernment and separation**, as Paul instructs Timothy to "turn away" from such individuals. This is not a call for judgmentalism but for wise spiritual discernment, protecting the integrity of the church and ensuring that believers are not led astray by those whose lives contradict their professed faith, echoing warnings found in passages like [Matthew 7:15-20](/matthew/7-15-20 "Matthew 7:15-20 - False Prophets and Their Fruits") regarding false prophets known by their fruits.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **mórphōsis (Greek, _mórphōsis'_):** Derived from *morphoo* (to form, shape), this term refers to an outward shape, outline, or semblance. It denotes a pattern or structure that might appear correct or proper but lacks the inner substance or reality. In this context, it signifies a superficial, external religious display that imitates true piety without possessing its essence. It's the "form" or "shell" of godliness, not the living reality.
* **eusébeia (Greek, _eusébeia'_):** This word translates to "godliness," "piety," "reverence," or "devotion to God." It encompasses the idea of living a life that is pleasing to God, characterized by reverence, respect, and a right relationship with Him. Paul often uses this term to describe the practical, ethical outworking of true faith, as seen in [1 Timothy 4:7-8](/1_timothy/4-7-8 "1 Timothy 4:7-8 - Godliness is Profitable"). Here, it refers to the outward manifestation of religious practice and devotion.
* **dýnamis (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** This powerful term signifies inherent ability, strength, or miraculous power, from which we derive "dynamite." In a theological sense, it refers to the spiritual energy, moral force, and transformative influence that accompanies a genuine relationship with God, enabled by the Holy Spirit. It is the active, effective power of God at work, capable of producing true spiritual change and enabling righteous living. To "deny" this power means to reject its efficacy or to live in a way that demonstrates its absence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Having a form of godliness,"**: This clause describes individuals who outwardly appear religious. They may participate in religious rituals, use pious language, attend church, and conform to certain moral standards. Their external conduct gives the impression of devotion and reverence for God (*eusébeia*). However, the use of *mórphōsis* implies that this is merely an outline or semblance, a superficial imitation, lacking the true inner substance and vitality that should accompany genuine godliness. It's a performance, a facade, rather than an authentic, heart-felt reality.
* **"but denying the power thereof:"**: This is the critical counterpoint to the first clause, introduced by the strong adversative particle *dé* ("but"). While maintaining an outward appearance of piety, these individuals simultaneously "deny" (*arnéomai*) the transformative "power" (*dýnamis*) that should accompany true godliness. This denial can manifest in several ways: an explicit rejection of God's supernatural work, a practical denial through a lifestyle that contradicts their profession, or an implicit denial by living as if God's power is irrelevant or absent in their lives. This "power" refers to the Holy Spirit's ability to regenerate, sanctify, empower for service, and produce spiritual fruit, leading to genuine character change and moral strength. Their lives demonstrate that the *dýnamis* of God is not at work within them, rendering their "form" empty.
* **"from such turn away."**: This is Paul's direct, imperative instruction to Timothy. The verb "turn away" (*apotrépō*) means to deflect or avoid, implying a decisive separation. It is a command for spiritual discernment and protective action. Timothy, and by extension all believers, are called to recognize these individuals—not necessarily to judge their eternal state, but to identify their spiritual barrenness and distance themselves from their influence. This separation is crucial to prevent being corrupted by their hypocrisy, undermined by their false teaching, or misled by their lack of genuine spiritual vitality, thereby preserving the integrity and purity of the church and individual faith.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several potent literary devices in this concise verse to underscore his urgent warning. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, a sharp contrast between "a form of godliness" and "denying the power thereof." This juxtaposition immediately highlights the hypocrisy and spiritual emptiness Paul is addressing, emphasizing the critical difference between outward appearance and inner reality. The phrase "form of godliness" itself functions as a **Metonymy**, where "form" stands in for the external, superficial aspects of religious practice, while "power" represents the dynamic, transformative work of the Holy Spirit. The entire verse serves as a **Warning** and a direct **Exhortation**, characteristic of Paul's pastoral epistles, commanding Timothy to take decisive action ("turn away") in response to this spiritual danger. The vivid imagery of a "form" without "power" evokes a sense of hollowness or a lifeless shell, making the spiritual danger palpable.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The warning in 2 Timothy 3:5 resonates deeply with core biblical truths about the nature of true faith and the dangers of superficial religiosity. It underscores that authentic Christianity is not merely an adherence to external rites or a display of moral rectitude, but a dynamic, Spirit-empowered relationship with God that transforms the inner person and produces genuine spiritual fruit. The "power" denied by these individuals is precisely the Holy Spirit's indwelling presence and work, which alone can regenerate, sanctify, and empower believers to live lives pleasing to God. Without this divine *dýnamis*, any "form of godliness" becomes a hollow imitation, a dangerous deception that undermines the very essence of the gospel. This highlights the ongoing need for spiritual discernment within the church, distinguishing between those who merely profess faith and those whose lives demonstrate its transformative reality.

* [Matthew 7:21-23](/matthew/7-21-23 "Matthew 7:21-23 - Not Everyone Who Says 'Lord, Lord'")
* [Titus 1:16](/titus/1-16 "Titus 1:16 - They Profess to Know God")
* [1 Corinthians 4:20](/1_corinthians/4-20 "1 Corinthians 4:20 - The Kingdom of God is Not in Word but in Power")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For believers today, 2 Timothy 3:5 serves as an urgent and timeless call to introspection and vigilance. It compels us to examine the authenticity of our own faith: is our Christianity merely an outward performance, a set of rituals, or a cultural identity, or is it a vibrant, Spirit-empowered reality that genuinely transforms our character, thoughts, and actions? We are challenged to move beyond superficial adherence to religious norms and to cultivate a deep, living relationship with God that manifests in true spiritual power—the power to overcome sin, to love sacrificially, to serve humbly, and to bear witness to Christ with integrity. Furthermore, this verse underscores the critical importance of spiritual discernment in a world where religious facades are common. We are called to be wise, to recognize and distance ourselves from influences, teachings, or associations that promote a hollow faith, compromise our spiritual integrity, or deny the transformative power of God in practical ways. Our aim should be to live lives that not only profess godliness but genuinely embody its empowering reality, reflecting the glory of God to a watching world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be presenting a "form of godliness" without truly experiencing or relying on its "power"?**
* **How do I discern between genuine spiritual transformation and mere outward religious performance in myself and others?**
* **What does it mean practically to "deny the power" of godliness in today's context?**
* **How can I ensure my faith is deeply rooted in a transformative relationship with God, rather than being a superficial display?**
* **In what ways am I called to "turn away" from influences that promote a hollow or powerless faith?**

### FAQ

**What does "having a form of godliness" specifically mean?**

Answer: "Having a form of godliness" refers to an outward appearance or semblance of piety, devotion, or religious observance. The Greek word *mórphōsis* (G3446) indicates an external shape, outline, or formula. It means that individuals may engage in religious practices, use spiritual language, attend church, or even uphold certain moral standards that give the impression of being devout. However, this "form" is superficial; it lacks the inner reality, substance, and transformative power that true godliness entails. It's like a shell without the living organism inside, a performance without genuine conviction or spiritual vitality.

**How does one "deny the power thereof"?**

Answer: To "deny the power thereof" means to reject, disown, or render ineffective the true, transformative power of God that should accompany genuine godliness. The Greek word for "power" is *dýnamis* (G1411), referring to inherent ability, strength, or miraculous power, often associated with the Holy Spirit's work. This denial can manifest in several ways:
1. **Practical Denial:** Living a lifestyle that contradicts one's professed faith, demonstrating that God's power has not fundamentally changed their heart or behavior (e.g., [Titus 1:16](/titus/1-16 "Titus 1:16 - They Profess to Know God")).
2. **Theological Denial:** Explicitly rejecting the supernatural work of God, the Holy Spirit's role in sanctification, or the possibility of divine intervention in daily life.
3. **Spiritual Barrenness:** While maintaining outward religious activities, their lives show no evidence of spiritual fruit, growth, or the ability to overcome sin, indicating an absence of God's empowering presence.
In essence, they might acknowledge God's existence or even His historical power, but they deny its active, transformative efficacy in their own lives or in the lives of others.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The warning in 2 Timothy 3:5 finds its ultimate contrast and fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodied true godliness with undeniable power. Unlike those who merely possess a "form," Jesus was the very embodiment of divine piety and spiritual authority. His life was not a superficial display but an authentic manifestation of God's character and will, demonstrating complete submission to the Father and living a life utterly devoid of hypocrisy. He did not merely have a "form of godliness" but was God incarnate, full of grace and truth ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). The "power" that others deny was inherent in Him and flowed through His ministry—healing the sick, casting out demons, raising the dead, and ultimately, conquering sin and death through His resurrection ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority in Heaven and on Earth")). His miracles were not mere displays of might but tangible expressions of the kingdom of God breaking into the world ([Luke 11:20](/luke/11-20 "Luke 11:20 - The Finger of God")). For believers, true godliness is found in union with Christ, where His Spirit indwells us, transforming us from the inside out, enabling us to live lives of genuine power, not just outward conformity ([Romans 8:9-11](/romans/8-9-11 "Romans 8:9-11 - The Spirit of Christ Dwells in You")). The power denied by the hypocritical is the very power that raised Christ from the dead and now works in us to produce holiness and fruit ([Ephesians 1:19-20](/ephesians/1-19-20 "Ephesians 1:19-20 - His Incomparably Great Power for Us")). Thus, Christ is the standard and the source of authentic godliness and its transformative power, calling us to a faith that is real, vital, and effective through Him.

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

Isaiah 29:13

Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near [me] with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:

Titus 1:16

They profess that they know God; but in works they deny [him], being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

Matthew 23:27

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead [men's] bones, and of all uncleanness.

Matthew 23:28

Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.

1 Timothy 5:8

But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

Romans 2:20

An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law.

Romans 2:24

For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.