1 Timothy 2:10

But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

But {G235}(which {G3739} becometh {G4241} women {G1135} professing {G1861} godliness {G2317}) with {G1223} good {G18} works {G2041}.

Rather, they should adorn themselves with what is appropriate for women who claim to be worshipping God, namely, good deeds.

but with good deeds, as is proper for women who profess to worship God.

but (which becometh women professing godliness) through good works.

Commentary

Context

This verse is part of Paul's pastoral instructions to Timothy, his protégé, regarding order and conduct within the early Christian church in Ephesus. In 1 Timothy 2, Paul addresses various aspects of public worship, including prayer and the behavior of men and women. Verse 10 builds directly on the preceding instruction in 1 Timothy 2:9, which advises women to dress modestly. Here, the focus shifts from external adornment to the internal character and outward actions that truly define a godly woman.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Authentic Godliness Overrides Outward Show: The primary message is that genuine piety, or "godliness," is not merely a verbal profession or an external display of modesty. It is most truly and beautifully expressed through a life of "good works." This emphasizes that one's actions are the most significant testimony to their faith.
  • The Nature of "Good Works": "Good works" in this context refer to deeds that are morally excellent, beneficial, and commendable in God's sight. These include acts of charity, service, hospitality, and living a life that reflects righteousness and love. Such works are seen as the natural fruit of a transformed heart and a sincere faith.
  • A Proper Adornment: Paul suggests that while outward appearance has its place, the ultimate adornment for women who profess faith in God is not expensive clothing or elaborate hairstyles, but rather the consistent demonstration of a life dedicated to God through active service and righteous living. These deeds are the true ornaments that "become" (are appropriate for) a godly woman. This aligns with the biblical teaching that believers are "created in Christ Jesus unto good works".

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "professing godliness" translates from the Greek `theosebeia` (θεοσέβεια), which signifies reverence for God, piety, or devotion. It speaks of a life characterized by a deep respect and worship of God. "Good works" comes from `ergois agathois` (ἔργοις ἀγαθοῖς), emphasizing deeds that are inherently good, beneficial, and morally sound. It's not just any work, but work that is aligned with divine will and purpose.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a timeless principle for all believers, not just women, highlighting that our faith must be accompanied by corresponding actions. It challenges us to examine whether our lives genuinely reflect the godliness we claim to possess. For those who "profess godliness," the call is to ensure that their actions are consistent with their confession. It encourages a life of active service, kindness, and righteousness, demonstrating the transforming power of Christ. This principle is vital in Christian life, echoing the sentiment found in James 2:18, "I will shew thee my faith by my works." Ultimately, our good works bring glory to God and serve as a powerful witness to the world.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Peter 2:12 (6 votes)

    Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by [your] good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

  • 1 Peter 3:3 (4 votes)

    Whose adorning let it not be that outward [adorning] of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;

  • 1 Peter 3:5 (4 votes)

    For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:

  • Acts 9:36 (3 votes)

    ¶ Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

  • Proverbs 31:31 (3 votes)

    Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

  • Revelation 2:19 (3 votes)

    I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last [to be] more than the first.

  • 2 Peter 3:11 (2 votes)

    ¶ [Seeing] then [that] all these things shall be dissolved, what manner [of persons] ought ye to be in [all] holy conversation and godliness,