"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)
"Study to show thyself approved" is a Bible phrase from the second book of Timothy by Paul the Apostle. This letter was written from Rome (2 Timothy 1:17) when Paul was chained, suffering, and near his execution.
The major theme of this book is overcoming hardship in the ministry. Let's view other translations of the Bible verse this phrase comes from to get a better understanding of its meaning:
Translations of 2 Timothy 2:15
(NKJV) ~ "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
(ESV) ~ "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."
(NLT) ~ "Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth."
(NIV) ~ "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."
Meaning of 'Study to Show Ourselves Approved'
This exact phrase from the Bible is only found in the King James Version, where it is translated as "be diligent" and "do your best" in more contemporary versions of scripture.
The House to House magazine gives a good explanation of the difference in translations, saying:
"The rendering, study to show thyself approved unto God is found only in the King James Version, translated in the year 1611. In 1611 the word study meant strive, or be diligent. Thus the New American Standard Bible renders the verse, Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth. The New International Version renders the verse, Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."
Therefore, we can understand this Bible phrase to mean more than simply the studying of God's Word, though that is essential for Christian lives. The Apostle Paul meant this phrase as the full workload for ministers of the faith in serving their churches. The clergy of Christianity is called to a responsibility to lead others in the truth of God's Word.
The objective of being an approved workman should be the pursuit of all of God’s children. In the verses immediately preceding 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul emphasized the significance of living loyally to God, even to the end of suffering. If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us (2 Timothy 2:12).
The preacher Timothy was to instruct his flock of believers about Christ's sacrifice, the necessity for serving Him, and the importance to work diligently to be approved workmen before God. The engaged application of all our energy to the service of God will allow us to join Timothy in standing before God without remorse.
Bible Commentary on 2 Timothy 2
Those disposed to strive, commonly strive about matters of small moment. But strifes of words destroy the things of God. The apostle mentions some who erred. They did not deny the resurrection, but they corrupted that true doctrine. Yet nothing can be so foolish or erroneous, but it will overturn the temporary faith of some professors. This foundation has two writings on it. One speaks our comfort. None can overthrow the faith of any whom God hath chosen. The other speaks our duty. Those who would have the comfort of the privilege must make conscience of the duty Christ gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, (Titus 2:14).
The church of Christ is like a dwelling: some furniture is of great value; some of smaller value and put to meaner uses. Some professors of religion are like vessels of wood and earth. When the vessels of dishonor are cast out to be destroyed, the others will be filled with all the fulness of God. We must see to it that we are holy vessels. Everyone in the church whom God approves will be devoted to his Master's service, and thus fitted for His use. (Excerpt from Matthew Henry)
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