but with good deedsThis phrase emphasizes the importance of actions over appearances. In the cultural context of the early church, women were often judged by their outward appearance, but Paul redirects focus to their conduct. Good deeds are a recurring theme in the New Testament, reflecting the teachings of Jesus in passages like
Matthew 5:16, where believers are encouraged to let their light shine through good works. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that faith without works is dead (
James 2:26). The emphasis on deeds also connects to the fruit of the Spirit (
Galatians 5:22-23), highlighting that true faith manifests in tangible actions.
as is proper for women
The term "proper" suggests a standard of behavior that aligns with Christian values. In the Greco-Roman world, societal norms often dictated a woman's role and behavior, but Paul redefines propriety in terms of godliness rather than cultural expectations. This reflects a counter-cultural stance where Christian women are called to live by the standards of the Kingdom of God rather than those of the surrounding society. The idea of propriety is also seen inTitus 2:3-5, where older women are instructed to teach what is good, further emphasizing the role of women in exemplifying Christian virtues.
who profess to worship God
This phrase identifies the audience as those who claim to follow God, implying a public declaration of faith. The Greek term for "profess" suggests a verbal acknowledgment, which in the early church was often associated with baptism and public testimony. Worship in this context is not limited to ritual or ceremony but encompasses a lifestyle of devotion and obedience to God. This aligns withRomans 12:1, where believers are urged to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of spiritual worship. The call to worship through deeds underscores the holistic nature of Christian worship, integrating belief with practice.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Paul the ApostleThe author of the letter, providing guidance and instruction to Timothy, a young church leader.
2.
TimothyThe recipient of the letter, a young pastor in Ephesus, tasked with leading and instructing the church.
3.
EphesusThe city where Timothy was ministering, known for its diverse culture and the Temple of Artemis, which influenced local religious practices.
4.
Women in the Early ChurchThe specific group being addressed in this passage, highlighting their role and conduct within the Christian community.
5.
The Early Christian ChurchThe broader context in which these instructions were given, focusing on maintaining order and godliness.
Teaching Points
Adorning with Good DeedsThe emphasis is on character and actions rather than external appearance. Women are encouraged to let their lives reflect their faith through good works.
Professing GodlinessTrue worship is demonstrated through a lifestyle that honors God. This involves aligning one's actions with the teachings of Christ.
Cultural Context and Christian ConductUnderstanding the cultural backdrop of Ephesus helps us appreciate the counter-cultural call to godliness and modesty in behavior.
Role of Women in the ChurchWomen have a significant role in the church, and their conduct can be a powerful testimony to their faith and devotion to God.
Practical Application of FaithThe passage challenges believers to consider how their daily actions and choices reflect their commitment to God.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of 1 Timothy 2:10?
2.How can women "adorn themselves with good deeds" in today's society?
3.What are examples of "good deeds" mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament?
4.How does 1 Timothy 2:10 relate to Proverbs 31:10-31?
5.Why is character emphasized over appearance in 1 Timothy 2:10?
6.How can the church encourage women to focus on "good deeds"?
7.How does 1 Timothy 2:10 define "good deeds" for women in a modern context?
8.Why does 1 Timothy 2:10 emphasize good deeds over outward adornment for women?
9.How should 1 Timothy 2:10 influence women's roles in the church today?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Timothy 2?
11.Is salvation possible through childbearing?
12.Can women teach in church? (1 Timothy 2:12 vs. Acts 18:26)
13.1 Timothy 2:9-10: Does the emphasis on modesty and dress reflect cultural norms of the time, and can it be applied universally in today's context?
14.How should we dress to honor God?What Does 1 Timothy 2:10 Mean
ButPaul begins with the contrasting word “but,” redirecting the focus from outward adornment (v. 9) to something far more valuable—inner goodness. The shift underscores that God’s primary concern is not fashion but faithfulness (1 Samuel 16:7;1 Peter 3:3-4). Outward beauty fades, yet a life marked by obedience remains eternally significant (Proverbs 31:30).
with good deeds• “Good deeds” are tangible acts of love that flow from genuine faith (Ephesians 2:10;James 2:17).
• These works are not a means of earning salvation but fruit that proves it real (Matthew 5:16).
• Examples include serving family (Proverbs 31:15), aiding the needy (Acts 9:36), showing hospitality (Romans 12:13), and discipling younger women (Titus 2:3-5).
When a woman chooses kindness over self-promotion, she mirrors the servanthood of Christ Himself (Mark 10:45).
as is properPaul roots his instruction in what is “proper”—fitting, orderly, and consistent with God’s design (1 Corinthians 14:40). A lifestyle aligned with Scripture brings honor to the gospel (Titus 2:10). Anything less undercuts the credibility of a believer’s testimony (Philippians 1:27).
for womenScripture never diminishes women; it elevates them by calling them to a high, holy standard (Genesis 1:27;Galatians 3:28). Paul’s words address the unique influence women wield in home, church, and community (2 Timothy 1:5). Their faith lived out shapes generations.
who professTo “profess” is to declare openly that Jesus is Lord (Romans 10:9). Empty words are common; credible confession marries lips with life (Luke 6:46). The church—and a watching world—should be able to look at a woman’s conduct and say, “Her Savior is real” (1 Peter 2:12).
to worship GodTrue worship is not confined to Sunday gatherings; it is the continual offering of one’s body “as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). Every good deed becomes an act of praise, turning ordinary moments into holy ministry (Colossians 3:17). Such worship delights the Father and reflects His character (John 4:23-24).
summary1 Timothy 2:10 calls women who proclaim Christ to showcase their faith through practical goodness. In contrast to fleeting outward adornment, a life rich in loving service is what God deems beautiful, proper, and worshipful. Good deeds authenticate profession, uphold biblical order, and display the glory of the One they claim to honor.
(10)
But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.--That is to say, "Let them adorn themselves in that which is befitting women who profess godliness--viz., in good works." The Apostle, still speaking of women's true part in public divine service--urges that their
works should be in accord with their
words of prayer--tells them that a woman's truest and most beautiful ornament consisted in those tender works of mercy and pity--her peculiar province--in other words, that they, like Dorcas of Joppa, whose praise is in the Book of Life, "should be full of good works and alms deeds" (
Acts 9:36).
Verse 10. -
Through for
with, A.V. (The change from "with" to "through" is quite unnecessary, though more strictly accurate. "With" does equally well for
ἐν and
διά, the one applied to the ornaments and dress
in or
with which the woman adorns herself, the other to the good works
by which she is adorned.)
Professing godliness. In all ether passages in the New Testament where it occurs,
ἐπαγγέλλεσθαι means "to promise," except in
1 Timothy 6:21, where, as here, it means "to profess," as it frequently does in classical Greek:
Απαγγέλλεσθαι ἀρετήν σοφίαν, etc.
Θεοσεβεία only occurs here in the New Testament; but it is used in the LXX. in
Job 28:28;
Genesis 20:11; also in Xenophon. In
John 9:31 we have
Θεοσεβής, "a worshipper of God."
Through good works. Compare the description of Dorcas (
Acts 9:36, 39).
Ἔργα ἀγαθά mean especially acts of charity (comp.
1 Timothy 5:10;
2 Corinthians 9:8, 9;
Colossians 1:11; elsewhere it is us, d more generally, like
ἔργα καλά, though this phrase also sometimes points especially to acts of charity, as in
1 Timothy 5:10;
1 Timothy 6:18;
Titus 3:14;
Hebrews 10:24).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek
butἀλλ’(all’)Conjunction
Strong's 235:But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.withδι’(di’)Preposition
Strong's 1223:A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.goodἀγαθῶν(agathōn)Adjective - Genitive Neuter Plural
Strong's 18:A primary word; 'good'.deeds,ἔργων(ergōn)Noun - Genitive Neuter Plural
Strong's 2041:From a primary ergo; toil; by implication, an act.[as]ὃ(ho)Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3739:Who, which, what, that.is properπρέπει(prepei)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 4241:It becomes, is fitting to, is right. Apparently a primary verb; to tower up, i.e. to be suitable or proper.for women [who]γυναιξὶν(gynaixin)Noun - Dative Feminine Plural
Strong's 1135:A woman, wife, my lady. Probably from the base of ginomai; a woman; specially, a wife.professἐπαγγελλομέναις(epangellomenais)Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Dative Feminine Plural
Strong's 1861:From epi and the base of aggelos; to announce upon, i.e. to engage to do something, to assert something respecting oneself.to worship God.θεοσέβειαν(theosebeian)Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 2317:Reverence for God, fear of God, godliness, piety. From theosebes; devoutness, i.e. Piety.
Links
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NT Letters: 1 Timothy 2:10 But which becomes women professing godliness (1 Tim. 1Ti iTi 1tim i Tm) 
