• 2 Timothy 2:25
    The Kingdom Interlinear Translation of the Greek Scriptures

    • 25 ἐν in πραΰτητι mildness παιδεύοντα instructing τοὺς the (ones) ἀντιδιατιθεμένους, putting selves thoroughly against, μή not ποτε sometime δῴη may he give αὐτοῖς to them ὁ the θεὸς God μετάνοιαν repentance εἰς into ἐπίγνωσιν accurate knowledge ἀληθείας, of truth,

  • 2 Timothy Study Notes—Chapter 2
    New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Study Edition)

    • 2:25

      instructing with mildness: In this context, the word rendered “instructing” may also convey the idea of “correcting; giving guidance.” One reference work says that the word means to help a person develop the ability to make appropriate choices. “A slave of the Lord” must offer such instruction “with mildness,” that is, with a humble, meek spirit. He would thus be “gentle toward all.”​—2Ti 2:24 and study note; see also study note on Ga 5:23.

      those not favorably disposed: Paul uses a Greek word that in this context refers to people who resist Christian teachings or who place themselves in opposition to them. Paul may have had in mind, among others, those in the congregation in Ephesus who had a negative attitude toward following Scriptural counsel or heeding admonition from brothers taking the lead.

      God may give them repentance: When a Christian elder mildly corrects or instructs “those not favorably disposed,” the good result may be repentance, or “a change of mind.” (See Glossary, “Repentance.”) The credit for such a change in thinking and attitude goes, not to any human, but to Jehovah, who helps the wayward Christian make this vital change. Paul goes on to mention some of the beautiful results of such repentance​—it leads the sinner to a more accurate knowledge of the truth, it helps him come back to his proper senses, and it enables him to escape from Satan’s snares.​—2Ti 2:26.