2 Timothy 2:16 - Exposition

Profane for profane and vain, A.V.; proceed further in ungodliness for increase unto more ungodliness, A.V. Shun ( περιΐ́στασο , as in Titus 3:9 ); literally, step out of the way of, or stand away from—an unusual use of the word, found also in Josephus, 'Ant. Jud.,' 4. 6:12. Profane babblings (see 1 Timothy 4:7 ; 1 Timothy 6:20 ). They will proceed ( προκόψουσιν ); see note on προκοπή in 1 Timothy 4:15 . Further in ungodliness ( ἐπὶ πεῖον ἀσεβείας ); surely better rendered in the A.V. to more ungodliness. It may be questioned whether "they" refers to the babblings or to the false teachers. It makes very good sense to say, "Avoid these profane babblings, for they won't stop there—they will grow into open impiety and blasphemy." But verse 17, as Alford observes, is in favour of the "teachers" being the subject of "will proceed;" but it is not conclusive. If a full stop be put after "ungodliness," as in the A.V., verse 17 comes in quite naturally with the further statement that "their word will eat as doth a gangrene."