New Testament
1 Timothy 2:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
Compare translations
For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
What 1 Timothy 2:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes that what is good and pleasing to God is important for us to recognize. It reminds us that God, who is our Savior, values our actions and intentions. When we align our lives with what is good, we reflect His character. This is not just about following rules; it’s about living in a way that honors God. Our choices should be guided by a desire to please Him. By doing what is good, we contribute to a positive impact in the world around us. This verse encourages us to seek out goodness in our daily lives, knowing that it brings joy to God. Ultimately, it’s about building a relationship with Him through our actions and choices, showing that we care about what He values. Recognizing that our efforts to do good are seen by God can motivate us to strive for a life that reflects His love and grace. In this way, we can be instruments of His goodness in our communities and beyond, making a difference in the lives of others as well as our own.
How to apply 1 Timothy 2:3 to your life
Consider how your actions reflect your values. Strive to do good in your daily life, knowing it pleases God. Look for opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Your choices matter and can inspire those around you. Live with intention and purpose, honoring what God values most.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Timothy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Timothy 2:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Timothy 2:3
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Timothy
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 62-66
- Genre
- Letter (pastoral epistle)
- Original Audience
- Timothy and the Ephesian church
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Timothy 2:3 mean?
1 Timothy 2:3 highlights that actions which are good and pleasing to God are important. It emphasizes the significance of aligning our lives with what God values, reflecting His character through our choices.
What is the meaning of 'good and acceptable' in 1 Timothy 2:3?
The phrase 'good and acceptable' in 1 Timothy 2:3 refers to actions and intentions that align with God's will. It suggests that living in a way that honors God brings joy to Him and positively impacts those around us.
How can I apply 1 Timothy 2:3 in my life?
To apply 1 Timothy 2:3, focus on making daily choices that reflect your values and honor God. Look for opportunities to do good and positively impact others, knowing that your actions matter and can inspire those around you.
Why is it important to please God according to 1 Timothy 2:3?
Pleasing God is important according to 1 Timothy 2:3 because it aligns our lives with His character and values. It shows our commitment to living a life that reflects His love and grace, ultimately benefiting both ourselves and our communities.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.