1 Timothy 5:22

²² Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.

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Other Translations of 1 Timothy 5:22

King James Version

²² Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.

English Standard Version

²² Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, nor take part in the sins of others; keep yourself pure.

The Message

²² Don't appoint people to church leadership positions too hastily. If a person is involved in some serious sins, you don't want to become an unwitting accomplice. In any event, keep a close check on yourself.

New King James Version

²² Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people's sins; keep yourself pure.

New Living Translation

²² Never be in a hurry about appointing a church leader. Do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Timothy 5:22

Commentary on 1 Timothy 5:17-25

(Read 1 Timothy 5:17-25)

Care must be taken that ministers are maintained. And those who are laborious in this work are worthy of double honour and esteem. It is their just due, as much as the reward of the labourer. The apostle charges Timothy solemnly to guard against partiality. We have great need to watch at all times, that we do not partake of other men's sins. Keep thyself pure, not only from doing the like thyself, but from countenancing it, or any way helping to it in others. The apostle also charges Timothy to take care of his health. As we are not to make our bodies masters, so neither slaves; but to use them so that they may be most helpful to us in the service of God. There are secret, and there are open sins: some men's sins are open before-hand, and going before unto judgment; some they follow after. God will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make known the counsels of all hearts. Looking forward to the judgment-day, let us all attend to our proper offices, whether in higher or lower stations, studying that the name and doctrine of God may never be blasphemed on our account.