ἔπεχε σεαυτῷ καὶ τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ, ἐπίμενε αὐτοῖς· τοῦτο γὰρ ποιῶν καὶ σεαυτὸν σώσεις καὶ τοὺς ἀκούοντάς σου. (1 Timothy 4:16)
Fidelity in Doctrine and Discipline
This exhortation from Paul to Timothy delivers a profound charge through a string of imperatives and participles. The grammatical structure unites self-discipline and sound doctrine into one saving path—both for the teacher and the hearers. Let us trace the syntax of spiritual vigilance and pedagogical persistence.
Analyzing the Syntax and Commands
| Greek Phrase | Grammatical Role | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| ἔπεχε σεαυτῷ καὶ τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ | 2nd person singular present active imperative + datives | “Pay attention to yourself and to the teaching”—parallel datives indicate dual focus |
| ἐπίμενε αὐτοῖς | 2nd person singular present active imperative + dative | “Persevere in them”—referring back to the two datives: lifestyle and doctrine |
| τοῦτο γὰρ ποιῶν | Present active participle + neuter demonstrative | “For doing this”—summarizing the entire instruction |
| καὶ σεαυτὸν σώσεις | Future active indicative + reflexive pronoun | “You will save yourself”—emphasizing individual accountability |
| καὶ τοὺς ἀκούοντάς σου | Articular participle + possessive pronoun | “And those listening to you”—impact extends beyond self to community |
Key Observations
- Dual Dative: The structure σεαυτῷ καὶ τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ links ethics and theology, behavior and belief—suggesting both are essential for true leadership.
- Imperative Repetition: The verbs ἔπεχε and ἐπίμενε both call for continual action—this is not a one-time alert but a lifelong habit.
- Present Participial Clause: ποιῶν encapsulates the instruction in a single enduring act—doing this guarantees a dual effect.
- Future Salvation: The phrase σώσεις has eschatological weight—perseverance leads to salvation, not only for the minister but for his flock.
A Lifeline of Discipline
Paul’s syntax is careful and weighty: attention to self, persistence in doctrine, and consistency in practice all form a salvation chain. The future verb σώσεις dangles hope—grounded not in works-righteousness, but in faithfulness to divine calling. Grammar becomes a lifeline; syntax becomes salvation.
