1 Timothy 4:8
Verse
Context
A Good Servant of Jesus Christ
7But reject irreverent, silly myths. Instead, train yourself for godliness.8For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come.9This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For bodily exercise profiteth little - Προς ολιγον εστιν ωφελιμος. Those gymnastic exercises, so highly esteemed among the Greeks, are but little worth; they are but of short duration; they refer only to this life, and to the applause of men: but godliness has the promise of this life, and the life to come; it is profitable for all things; and for both time and eternity. But godliness is profitable unto all things - By godliness we are to understand every thing that the Christian religion either promises or prescribes: the life of God in the soul of man; and the glory of God as the object and end of that life. To receive the first, a man must renounce his sins, deny himself, take up his cross, and follow his Lord through evil and through good report. To obtain the latter, a man must labor to enter into that rest which remains for the people of God. Having promise, of the life that now is - The man that fears, loves, and serves God, has God's blessing all through life. His religion saves him from all those excesses, both in action and passion, which sap the foundations of life, and render existence itself often a burden. The peace and love of God in the heart produces a serenity and calm which cause the lamp of life to burn clear, strong, and permanent. Evil and disorderly passions obscure and stifle the vital spark. Every truly religious man extracts the uttermost good out of life itself, and through the Divine blessing gets the uttermost good that is in life; and, what is better than all, acquires a full preparation here below for an eternal life of glory above. Thus godliness has the promise of, and secures the blessings of, both worlds.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
profiteth little--Greek, "profiteth to (but) a small extent." Paul does not deny that fasting and abstinence from conjugal intercourse for a time, with a view to reaching the inward man through the outward, do profit somewhat, Act 13:3; Co1 7:5, Co1 7:7; Co1 9:26-27 (though in its degenerate form, asceticism, dwelling solely on what is outward, Ti1 4:3, is not only not profitable but injurious). Timothy seems to have had a leaning to such outward self-discipline (compare Ti1 5:23). Paul, therefore, while not disapproving of this in its due proportion and place, shows the vast superiority of godliness or piety, as being profitable not merely "to a small extent," but unto all things; for, having its seat within, it extends thence to the whole outward life of a man. Not unto one portion only of his being, but to every portion of it, bodily and spiritual, temporal and eternal [ALFORD]. "He who has piety (which is 'profitable unto all things') wants nothing needed to his well-being, even though he be without those helps which, 'to a small extent,' bodily exercise furnishes" [CALVIN]. "Piety," which is the end for which thou art to "exercise thyself" (Ti1 4:7), is the essential thing: the means are secondary. having promise, &c.--Translate as Greek, "Having promise of life, that which now is, and that which is to come." "Life" in its truest and best sense now and hereafter (Ti2 1:1). Length of life now so far as it is really good for the believer; life in its truest enjoyments and employments now, and life blessed and eternal hereafter (Mat 6:33; Mar 10:29-30). "Now in this time" (Psa 84:11; Psa 112:1-10; Rom 8:28; Co1 3:21-22, "all things are yours . . . the world, life . . . things present, things to come"). Christianity, which seems to aim only at our happiness hereafter, effectually promotes it here (Ti1 6:6; Pe2 1:3). Compare Solomon's prayer and the answer (Kg1 3:7-13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For bodily exercise profiteth little,.... Meaning not the exercise of the body in the Olympic games, as by running, wrestling, &c. which profited but little, for the obtaining of a corruptible crown at most; though since a word is used here, and in the preceding verse, borrowed from thence, there may be an allusion to it: much less exercise of the body for health or recreation, as riding, walking, playing at any innocent diversion; which profits but for a little time, as the Syriac and Arabic versions read; and the latter renders the phrase "bodily recreation": nor is the exercise of the body in the proper employment of trade and business, to which a man is called, and which profits for the support of life for a little while, intended; nor any methods made use of for the mortification of the body, and the keeping of it under, as watchings, fastings, lying on the ground, scourging, &c. but rather mere formal external worship, as opposed to godliness, or spiritual worship. There ought to be an exercise of the body, or a presenting of that in religious worship before God; there should be an outward attendance on the word and ordinances; but then, without internal godliness, this will be of little advantage: it is indeed showing an outward regard to public worship, and may be a means of keeping persons out of bad company, and from doing evil things; but if this is trusted to, and depended on, it will be of no avail to everlasting life; see Luk 13:26 but godliness is profitable unto all things; to the health of the body, and the welfare of the soul; to the things of this life, and of that which is to come; to themselves and others, though not to God, or in a way of merit: having promise of the life that now is; of the continuance of it, of length of days, of living long in the earth, and of enjoying all necessary temporal good things, the mercies of life; for God has promised to his spiritual worshippers, to them that fear him, and walk uprightly, that their days shall be prolonged, that they shall want no good thing, nor will he withhold any from them that is for their good, that is proper and convenient for them: and of that which is to come; even of eternal life; not that eternal life is received or procured hereby; for it is the free gift of God, and is not by any works of men, for otherwise it would not be by promise; for its being by promise shows it to be of grace: there is nothing more or less in it than this, that God promises glory to his own grace; for internal godliness, which animates and maintains spiritual worship, is of God, is of his own grace, and every part of it is a free gift of his, as faith, hope, love, fear, &c.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:8-9 physical training . . . godliness: Cp. 1 Cor 9:24-27; Col 2:23. • benefits in this life . . . the life to come: Cp. 1 Tim 4:16; 6:6-8; Mark 10:29-30; Eph 6:2-3. • trustworthy saying: See study note on 1 Tim 1:15.
1 Timothy 4:8
A Good Servant of Jesus Christ
7But reject irreverent, silly myths. Instead, train yourself for godliness.8For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come.9This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Call of God - a Loving Father in Heaven
By Zac Poonen2.7K1:23:17Character Of GodGEN 3:15JOB 13:15PSA 23:1MAT 6:33EPH 6:41TI 4:8HEB 4:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding comfort and consolation in God during times of tribulation. He highlights the repetition of the words "comfort" and "consolation" in the Bible verses, emphasizing the role of God as the source of comfort. The speaker shares his personal experience of how his love for God has transformed his ministry, making it a joyful and effortless task. He also discusses the need for individuals to break free from the rut of religious traditions and external standards, and instead seek a deep and personal relationship with God.
Studies in 1 Timothy-05 1 Timothy-5
By William MacDonald1.2K38:37DEU 25:4LUK 10:71TI 5:23The sermon transcript discusses various instructions given by Paul to Timothy on how to behave towards different classes in the Christian family. It begins by addressing the old and young, male and female, emphasizing the importance of showing honor and respect. The transcript then moves on to discussing the care and support of widows, highlighting the responsibility of the church in providing for them. It also touches on the role of elders in the church, emphasizing the need for financial care, caution in appointing men, and the importance of having multiple witnesses in cases of accusation. Overall, the transcript emphasizes the practical advice given by Paul to Timothy for the care of believers in the Christian assembly.
Exercising Yourself Unto Godliness
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.2K29:18GodlinessISA 40:30EPH 3:161TI 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing what one is doing in order to succeed in life. He uses the analogy of price fighters who abstain from anything that might weaken their bodies in order to win their fights. The preacher contrasts this dedication with the lack of effort he observed in a married man who relied on his wife to work while he did nothing. He also highlights the importance of studying and mastering the fundamentals, using examples of famous musicians and sculptors who dedicated themselves to their craft. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the need for diligence and hard work in order to achieve success.
Having a Spiritual Life Outside of Church Meetings
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.1K17:41Spiritual LifePSA 46:10PSA 139:1ISA 26:3MAT 8:26JHN 14:11TH 5:171TI 4:8In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about two missionary children who remained joyful and carefree during a storm on a boat while others were in despair. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having Jesus as our pilot in life and experiencing the abundant life He offers. The sermon encourages believers to keep their minds stayed on Jesus and to continually pray without ceasing, as it is necessary for our spiritual life. The preacher also highlights the significance of living out our faith in between church meetings and practicing the presence of God in our daily lives.
Your Call to Ministry
By John Gowans72636:11MAT 6:33JHN 4:23JHN 14:21JHN 14:23ROM 8:92CO 4:181TI 4:8In this sermon, the speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of obeying Jesus' commands and loving Him. He explains that those who love Jesus will be loved by the Father and Jesus will disclose Himself to them. The speaker highlights that God is seeking people who will worship Him in spirit and truth and desires a close relationship with them. He acknowledges that humans are flawed and sinful, but God still desires a relationship with them despite their imperfections. The speaker marvels at the idea that such a magnificent God would want a relationship with insignificant human beings.
The Only Good Life
By James Blaine Chapman0MAT 25:14LUK 12:16JHN 14:27ROM 15:132CO 1:22PHP 4:71TI 4:81PE 1:3James Blaine Chapman preaches about the contrast between a life focused on worldly pursuits, which ultimately profit little, and a life centered on godliness, which is beneficial in this life and the one to come. He emphasizes the importance of investing one's life wisely, either in pursuing bodily exercise without Christ or in embracing godliness through a faithful Christian life. Chapman highlights that true fulfillment and lasting joy come from being a Christian, experiencing peace, joy, love, and hope that surpass worldly pleasures and possessions. He concludes by pointing out that being a Christian not only brings blessings in the present world but also offers the assurance of a heavenly home and eternal life.
2 Peter 1:6
By John Gill0PatienceTemperanceROM 12:11CO 8:1GAL 5:22PHP 4:13COL 3:231TI 4:8HEB 12:1JAS 1:21PE 5:102PE 1:6John Gill emphasizes the importance of temperance and patience in the Christian life, arguing that knowledge alone is insufficient if it is not accompanied by a life of self-control and purity. He warns against the dangers of intemperance, particularly in relation to the teachings of false prophets like Simon Magus, who equated knowledge with salvation despite leading immoral lives. Gill highlights that true knowledge must be coupled with love and that patience is essential for enduring the challenges of faith, including afflictions and persecutions. He also discusses the significance of godliness, which encompasses both internal grace and external worship, as vital components of a believer's life.
Letter, 1 Timothy 4:8
By John Nelson Darby0Peaceful LivingGodlinessEXO 15:1PSA 34:12MRK 10:301TI 4:81PE 3:101JN 1:9John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of godliness as a pathway to happiness and blessing in life, drawing from 1 Timothy 4:8 and its connection to Psalm 34. He explains that living a peaceful and upright life, while avoiding evil, leads to good days, except when facing persecution for righteousness. Darby contrasts the teachings of Peter with those of Paul and John, suggesting that many evangelicals remain limited in their understanding of God's governance and the fullness of forgiveness through Christ. He also highlights the importance of faith in Christ's work and the sealing of the Holy Spirit in believers. The sermon reflects on the transformative nature of God's goodness and holiness post-redemption.
To Ministers of the Gospel of All Denominations [#2]
By Charles Finney0Spiritual HealthPhysical Well-beingROM 8:6ROM 12:11CO 9:271CO 10:312CO 5:10GAL 5:24PHP 3:191TI 4:8JAS 4:71PE 2:11Charles Finney addresses ministers of the Gospel, urging them to recognize the detrimental influence of sensuality and poor physical habits on their spiritual lives and the Church. He emphasizes the connection between physical health and spiritual vitality, warning that neglecting this relationship leads to backsliding and a lack of spirituality among ministers. Finney calls for a reformation in dietetic habits and a deeper understanding of the body's influence on the mind, asserting that true spirituality cannot flourish without addressing these issues. He laments the silence of the ministry on these matters and encourages ministers to lead by example in their personal and family lives. Ultimately, he stresses the need for ministers to be aware of their influence and to uphold the principles of the Gospel in all aspects of life.
On Fasting
By St. Paisy of Neamt0PRO 23:20MAT 6:161CO 9:27GAL 5:221TI 4:8St. Paisy of Neamt emphasizes the importance of fasting as a virtue, advocating for a daily practice of eating a little bit to keep the body submissive to the spirit and capable of spiritual labors. He warns against excessive fasting that may lead to weakness and indulgence in delicious foods, highlighting the need for moderation and establishing a definite measure in one's eating habits. The preacher encourages a balanced approach to fasting, citing examples of Saints enduring lengthy fasts for specific purposes and the benefits of a moderate and sensible fast as the foundation of all virtues.
Dirt Handsomely Fashioned
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual DisciplineBody and SoulGEN 2:7PSA 103:14ECC 12:7MAT 6:19ROM 12:11CO 9:272CO 4:161TI 4:8JAS 1:101PE 1:24Thomas Brooks emphasizes that our physical bodies, formed from dust, are merely 'dirt handsomely fashioned.' He warns against the tendency to pamper the body while neglecting the soul, highlighting the danger of adorning ourselves externally while our inner selves lack grace and holiness. Brooks calls for a disciplined approach to life, urging believers to prioritize spiritual well-being over physical appearance.
Guidelines for the Godly Man
By Eli Brayley0GEN 4:6GEN 5:3LEV 19:28PSA 1:1PSA 5:3PSA 55:17PSA 103:2PRO 8:8PRO 10:11PRO 10:19PRO 15:3ISA 29:23MAT 5:16MAT 6:1MAT 12:37MAT 18:20MAT 23:25MRK 2:16LUK 3:11LUK 6:45LUK 12:57JHN 3:30JHN 14:5JHN 17:4JHN 17:15ACT 2:441CO 8:91CO 10:311CO 12:41CO 15:332CO 5:20GAL 2:20PHP 1:27PHP 3:81TI 4:82TI 2:21JAS 3:111PE 3:31PE 3:161JN 3:14Eli Brayley preaches on the calling of the man of God to live a life of full consecration, obedience, and service unto the Kingdom of God. The purpose of the man of God is to conform to the image of the Father, just as Jesus Christ did on earth, bringing glory to God in all things. This calling requires a solitary practice of devotion through regular study of the Word and prayer, done privately for God's eyes only. In the public sphere, the man of God must represent God on earth by displaying the fruit of the Spirit, maintaining an above-reproach lifestyle, and presenting Christ through every aspect of his being.
The Monastic Life
By Archbishop Chrysostomos0MAT 23:3PHP 2:3COL 3:231TI 4:8JAS 1:22Archbishop Chrysostomos addresses the misunderstandings and challenges presented by Abbot Laurence regarding Orthodox monasticism, emphasizing the importance of traditional practices and the true essence of monastic life. He highlights the dangers of focusing on external appearances and superficial practices rather than the internal transformation and spiritual growth that monasticism should cultivate. Archbishop Chrysostomos defends the Prayer of Jesus as a central aspect of Orthodox monasticism, refuting accusations of idolatry and emphasizing its profound spiritual significance. He also stresses the significance of obedience, simplicity, and humility in the monastic life, contrasting it with the misconceptions and misinterpretations presented by Abbot Laurence.
Ten Years in Canaan
By Daniel Steele0PRO 16:9ECC 3:1JHN 4:141CO 6:191CO 9:242CO 4:16COL 3:161TI 4:8Daniel Steele reflects on a decade of spiritual growth and freedom from doubt, fear, and sin, emphasizing the abiding glory and joy found in Christ through the Holy Spirit. Despite facing physical challenges and life's trials, Steele's inner peace and joy remain unshaken, illustrating the deep well of everlasting life within believers. He highlights the importance of external worship, sacraments, and confession of Christ as vital expressions of the hidden life in Christ, rejecting a mysticism that disregards these practices. Steele also shares a cautionary tale about balancing zealous work for God with physical limitations, urging for sanctified common sense in serving God without neglecting self-care.
(Living as Jesus Lived) 3. Living in Holiness
By Zac Poonen0GEN 1:31PRO 14:27JHN 12:26ROM 8:31TI 4:81TI 6:16HEB 4:15HEB 10:19HEB 12:10JAS 1:21PE 4:12PE 1:31JN 1:51JN 4:8Zac Poonen preaches on the holiness of God and the call for believers to also walk in holiness. Through the example of Jesus, who faced and overcame every temptation without sin, believers are encouraged to follow His path of obedience and self-denial. Jesus, as our Forerunner, paved the way for us to run the race of faith with endurance, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin and live in victory. The life of Jesus demonstrates that through obedience to God's Word and a life of godliness, believers can partake in the divine nature and experience the joy of walking as Jesus walked.
Physical Infirmities
By Harmon A. Baldwin01CO 6:192CO 12:9GAL 5:16PHP 4:131TI 4:8Harmon A. Baldwin delves into the classification of infirmities by Wesley and Fletcher, focusing on physical weaknesses and the interdependence of body, mind, and spirit. He emphasizes the limitations of the physical man, the necessity of rest, and the need for self-denial to keep the body under control. Baldwin discusses the struggles faced by God's saints due to physical ailments, highlighting the importance of maintaining spiritual strength even in the midst of bodily weaknesses.
Feast the Slave, and Starve the Wife?
By Thomas Brooks0Soul CareEternal PerspectivePRO 4:23MAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 12:202CO 4:18PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 4:8HEB 12:1JAS 1:21Thomas Brooks emphasizes the paramount importance of prioritizing the eternal welfare of our souls over earthly concerns. He argues that it is foolish to nourish the body while neglecting the soul, equating this neglect to madness. Brooks warns that those who prioritize their physical needs above their spiritual well-being risk losing everything of true value, including God and eternal glory. He urges listeners to diligently care for their souls, as true comfort in life and confidence in death hinge on this vital work.
Being Prepared
By Peter Hammond0GEN 6:11GEN 41:331SA 17:45JOB 5:7PRO 3:25PRO 24:10PRO 27:12ECC 9:12MAT 7:24LUK 12:4LUK 22:36ACT 14:22ROM 8:281CO 9:24PHP 4:121TI 4:81TI 5:8Peter Hammond preaches on the importance of being prudent and prepared for adversity, drawing lessons from biblical figures like Noah, Joseph, and the Apostle Paul who faced hardships but trusted in God. The sermon emphasizes the need to fear God alone, make practical preparations for the future, and build a strong foundation on God's Word to endure life's storms. It highlights the significance of mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical preparedness, urging believers to trust in God's sovereignty and cultivate a deep personal relationship with Him.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For bodily exercise profiteth little - Προς ολιγον εστιν ωφελιμος. Those gymnastic exercises, so highly esteemed among the Greeks, are but little worth; they are but of short duration; they refer only to this life, and to the applause of men: but godliness has the promise of this life, and the life to come; it is profitable for all things; and for both time and eternity. But godliness is profitable unto all things - By godliness we are to understand every thing that the Christian religion either promises or prescribes: the life of God in the soul of man; and the glory of God as the object and end of that life. To receive the first, a man must renounce his sins, deny himself, take up his cross, and follow his Lord through evil and through good report. To obtain the latter, a man must labor to enter into that rest which remains for the people of God. Having promise, of the life that now is - The man that fears, loves, and serves God, has God's blessing all through life. His religion saves him from all those excesses, both in action and passion, which sap the foundations of life, and render existence itself often a burden. The peace and love of God in the heart produces a serenity and calm which cause the lamp of life to burn clear, strong, and permanent. Evil and disorderly passions obscure and stifle the vital spark. Every truly religious man extracts the uttermost good out of life itself, and through the Divine blessing gets the uttermost good that is in life; and, what is better than all, acquires a full preparation here below for an eternal life of glory above. Thus godliness has the promise of, and secures the blessings of, both worlds.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
profiteth little--Greek, "profiteth to (but) a small extent." Paul does not deny that fasting and abstinence from conjugal intercourse for a time, with a view to reaching the inward man through the outward, do profit somewhat, Act 13:3; Co1 7:5, Co1 7:7; Co1 9:26-27 (though in its degenerate form, asceticism, dwelling solely on what is outward, Ti1 4:3, is not only not profitable but injurious). Timothy seems to have had a leaning to such outward self-discipline (compare Ti1 5:23). Paul, therefore, while not disapproving of this in its due proportion and place, shows the vast superiority of godliness or piety, as being profitable not merely "to a small extent," but unto all things; for, having its seat within, it extends thence to the whole outward life of a man. Not unto one portion only of his being, but to every portion of it, bodily and spiritual, temporal and eternal [ALFORD]. "He who has piety (which is 'profitable unto all things') wants nothing needed to his well-being, even though he be without those helps which, 'to a small extent,' bodily exercise furnishes" [CALVIN]. "Piety," which is the end for which thou art to "exercise thyself" (Ti1 4:7), is the essential thing: the means are secondary. having promise, &c.--Translate as Greek, "Having promise of life, that which now is, and that which is to come." "Life" in its truest and best sense now and hereafter (Ti2 1:1). Length of life now so far as it is really good for the believer; life in its truest enjoyments and employments now, and life blessed and eternal hereafter (Mat 6:33; Mar 10:29-30). "Now in this time" (Psa 84:11; Psa 112:1-10; Rom 8:28; Co1 3:21-22, "all things are yours . . . the world, life . . . things present, things to come"). Christianity, which seems to aim only at our happiness hereafter, effectually promotes it here (Ti1 6:6; Pe2 1:3). Compare Solomon's prayer and the answer (Kg1 3:7-13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For bodily exercise profiteth little,.... Meaning not the exercise of the body in the Olympic games, as by running, wrestling, &c. which profited but little, for the obtaining of a corruptible crown at most; though since a word is used here, and in the preceding verse, borrowed from thence, there may be an allusion to it: much less exercise of the body for health or recreation, as riding, walking, playing at any innocent diversion; which profits but for a little time, as the Syriac and Arabic versions read; and the latter renders the phrase "bodily recreation": nor is the exercise of the body in the proper employment of trade and business, to which a man is called, and which profits for the support of life for a little while, intended; nor any methods made use of for the mortification of the body, and the keeping of it under, as watchings, fastings, lying on the ground, scourging, &c. but rather mere formal external worship, as opposed to godliness, or spiritual worship. There ought to be an exercise of the body, or a presenting of that in religious worship before God; there should be an outward attendance on the word and ordinances; but then, without internal godliness, this will be of little advantage: it is indeed showing an outward regard to public worship, and may be a means of keeping persons out of bad company, and from doing evil things; but if this is trusted to, and depended on, it will be of no avail to everlasting life; see Luk 13:26 but godliness is profitable unto all things; to the health of the body, and the welfare of the soul; to the things of this life, and of that which is to come; to themselves and others, though not to God, or in a way of merit: having promise of the life that now is; of the continuance of it, of length of days, of living long in the earth, and of enjoying all necessary temporal good things, the mercies of life; for God has promised to his spiritual worshippers, to them that fear him, and walk uprightly, that their days shall be prolonged, that they shall want no good thing, nor will he withhold any from them that is for their good, that is proper and convenient for them: and of that which is to come; even of eternal life; not that eternal life is received or procured hereby; for it is the free gift of God, and is not by any works of men, for otherwise it would not be by promise; for its being by promise shows it to be of grace: there is nothing more or less in it than this, that God promises glory to his own grace; for internal godliness, which animates and maintains spiritual worship, is of God, is of his own grace, and every part of it is a free gift of his, as faith, hope, love, fear, &c.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:8-9 physical training . . . godliness: Cp. 1 Cor 9:24-27; Col 2:23. • benefits in this life . . . the life to come: Cp. 1 Tim 4:16; 6:6-8; Mark 10:29-30; Eph 6:2-3. • trustworthy saying: See study note on 1 Tim 1:15.