Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

1 TIMOTHY 4:14KJV
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1 Timothy 4:14 (KJV)

What does 1 Timothy 4:14 mean?

1 Timothy 4:14 urges Timothy not to ignore or set aside the special ability or "gift" that he has received, which was given to him through a prophetic message and confirmed by the laying on of hands by a group of elders. The verse highlights the importance of recognizing and using spiritual gifts that have been affirmed by the community and God.

Paul, the apostle, is writing to Timothy, a young church leader, encouraging him to stay faithful in his responsibilities. The mention of prophecy and the laying on of hands points to a specific event when Timothy was publicly recognized and empowered for ministry. Paul’s words remind Timothy that his calling and abilities are not accidental but have been affirmed both by God and by respected leaders in the church.

The Greek behind 1 Timothy 4:14

  • χάρισμα (charisma, G5486): This word is translated as "gift" and often refers to a spiritual ability or endowment given by God for service. Paul is reminding Timothy that this is not just a natural talent but something divinely given.
  • προφητεία (prophēteia, G4394): Translated as "prophecy," this refers to a message or revelation from God, often delivered through someone recognized as a prophet. The verse suggests Timothy’s gift was identified or confirmed through such a message.
  • πρεσβυτέριον (presbyterion, G4244): This word means "presbytery" or "council of elders." The laying on of hands by this group shows that Timothy’s ministry was recognized and supported by the leadership of the church, not just by Paul alone.

Why 1 Timothy 4:14 matters

  • The verse clarifies that spiritual gifts are not just personal or private; they are recognized and affirmed within the community of believers, often through established leaders.
  • Paul’s reminder to Timothy shows that even those called to important roles can be tempted to neglect their gifts, so encouragement and accountability are needed.
  • This verse connects to the wider passage where Paul is urging Timothy to be diligent and faithful in his ministry, showing that spiritual gifts come with responsibility and should be actively used.

Where else these words appear

“presbytery” Greek G4244 · used in 3 verses

  • Luke 22:66 And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led him into their council, saying,
  • Acts 22:5 As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished.

“on” Greek G1936 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 8:18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,
  • 2 Timothy 1:6 Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
  • Hebrews 6:2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

“Neglect” Greek G272 · used in 5 verses

  • Matthew 22:5 But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise:
  • Hebrews 2:3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
  • Hebrews 8:9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.

“gift” Greek G5486 · used in 17 verses

  • Romans 1:11 For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;
  • Romans 12:6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
  • 1 Corinthians 12:28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.