Bible Strands
1 Timothy 5:20
But those who persist in sin should be rebuked in front of everyone, so that the others will stand in fear of sin.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul writes to Timothy, instructing him on church discipline regarding elders immediately after establishing the two- or three-witness requirement for accusations. The charge is delivered solemnly before God, Christ Jesus, and the elect angels to enforce impartiality.
The words — ἁμαρτάνοντας (hamartanontas) denotes those actively or persistently sinning, while ἔλεγχε (elegche) commands a public rebuke. These terms ground the directive in ongoing moral failure rather than isolated mistakes.
The thread — The pattern of public correction to deter further transgression echoes Deuteronomy 13:11 and Paul’s later charge in 2 Timothy 4:2 to reprove and rebuke. It also aligns with the disciplinary handing over of Hymenaeus and Alexander in 1 Timothy 1:20.
Why it lands — The text requires church leaders to enforce transparent discipline so that communal fear of sin preserves corporate holiness. It demands impartial action without emotional bias or private compromise.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
Cross-references
- 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and encourage with every form of patient instruction.
- Deuteronomy 13:11 Then all Israel will hear and be afraid, and will never again do such a wicked thing among you.
- 1 Timothy 1:20 Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.
- Titus 1:13 This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sternly, so that they will be sound in the faith
- Acts 5:11 And great fear came over the whole church and all who heard about these events.
- Galatians 2:11 When Cephas came to Antioch, however, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned.
- Deuteronomy 19:20 Then the rest of the people will hear and be afraid, and they will never again do anything so evil among you.
- Acts 5:5 On hearing these words, Ananias fell down and died. And great fear came over all who heard what had happened.
- Deuteronomy 17:13 Then all the people will hear and be afraid, and will no longer behave arrogantly.
- Deuteronomy 21:21 Then all the men of his city will stone him to death. So you must purge the evil from among you, and all Israel will hear and be afraid.