But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;

2 TIMOTHY 3:14KJV
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2 Timothy 3:14 (KJV)

What does 2 Timothy 3:14 mean?

2 Timothy 3:14 urges Timothy to remain faithful to the teachings he has received and become convinced of, remembering the trustworthy people who taught him. The verse highlights the importance of holding on to sound instruction, especially in times of challenge or confusion.

Paul, the apostle, is writing to Timothy, his younger coworker and protégé, during a time when false teachings and hardships threaten the early church. Paul reminds Timothy not just to remember what he has learned, but also to consider the reliability of those who taught him—likely referring to Paul himself and Timothy’s family. This verse sits in a section where Paul warns about difficult times and encourages Timothy to stay anchored in what is true.

The Greek behind 2 Timothy 3:14

  • "continue" (μένω, menō): This word means to remain, stay, or persist. Paul is not just asking Timothy to recall past lessons, but to actively stick with them, suggesting ongoing commitment.
  • "learned" (μανθάνω, manthanō): This word means to learn or be taught. It points to both the content Timothy received and the process of being taught, highlighting that his faith is rooted in careful instruction.
  • "knowing" (οἶδα, oida): This word means to know or be certain of. Paul emphasizes that Timothy’s confidence comes not just from the teaching itself, but from knowing the character and trustworthiness of his teachers.

Why 2 Timothy 3:14 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Christian faith is not just about personal conviction, but also about the reliability of the tradition and people who pass it on.
  • It connects Timothy’s present faithfulness to both his past learning and the character of his mentors, showing that both content and source matter.
  • In the wider passage, this verse serves as a bridge between warnings about false teaching and Paul’s call to rely on the Scriptures, grounding Timothy’s confidence in both what he knows and whom he trusts.

Where else these words appear

“learned” Greek G3129 · used in 24 verses

  • Matthew 9:13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
  • Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
  • Colossians 1:7 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;

“continue” Greek G3306 · used in 105 verses

  • Matthew 10:11 And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.
  • John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
  • 2 Corinthians 3:14 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.