7 But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.
7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.
7 Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness;
7 Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion. Exercise daily in God - no spiritual flabbiness, please!
7 But reject profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.
7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly.
16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
16 Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.
16 But avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness,
16 Stay clear of pious talk that is only talk. Words are not mere words, you know. If they're not backed by a godly life,
16 But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness.
16 Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior.
(Read 2 Timothy 2:14-21)
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 dishonour 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. Every one in the church whom God approves, will be devoted to his Master's service, and thus fitted for his use.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Timothy 4:7
Commentary on 1 Timothy 4:6-10
(Read 1 Timothy 4:6-10)
Outward acts of self-denial profit little. What will it avail us to mortify the body, if we do not mortify sin? No diligence in mere outward things could be of much use. The gain of godliness lies much in the promise; and the promises to godly people relate partly to the life that now is, but especially to the life which is to come: though we lose for Christ, we shall not lose by him. If Christ be thus the Saviour of all men, then much more will he be the Rewarder of those who seek and serve him; he will provide well for those whom he has made new creatures.