1 Timothy 1:4

4 or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith.

1 Timothy 1:4 in Other Translations

KJV
4 Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.
ESV
4 nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith.
NLT
4 Don’t let them waste their time in endless discussion of myths and spiritual pedigrees. These things only lead to meaningless speculations, which don’t help people live a life of faith in God.
MSG
4 Apparently some people have been introducing fantasy stories and fanciful family trees that digress into silliness instead of pulling the people back into the center, deepening faith and obedience.
CSB
4 or to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies. These promote empty speculations rather than God's plan, which operates by faith.

1 Timothy 1:4 In-Context

2 To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer
4 or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith.
5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
6 Some have departed from these and have turned to meaningless talk.

Cross References 3

  • 1. 1 Timothy 4:7; 2 Timothy 4:4; Titus 1:14
  • 2. Titus 3:9
  • 3. S 2 Timothy 2:14; 1 Timothy 6:4
Scripture quoted by permission.  Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®.  NIV®.  Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica.  All rights reserved worldwide.