New Testament
1 Timothy 5:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Those who are sinning should be rebuked publicly, so that others may also fear.
Compare translations
Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
What 1 Timothy 5:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the focus is on accountability within a community. When someone is caught in wrongdoing, it’s important to address it openly. This isn’t about shaming the person but rather about maintaining integrity and encouraging others to reflect on their own actions. Public rebuke serves as a warning, reminding everyone of the seriousness of sin. It’s a call to uphold moral standards and to foster a culture of honesty and responsibility. By addressing sin publicly, the community can learn from these situations and develop a healthy fear of the consequences of wrongdoing. This fear isn’t about being scared but about understanding the weight of our choices and their impact on ourselves and others. Ultimately, this approach aims to protect the community and guide individuals toward better behavior, reinforcing the importance of living in a way that honors shared values and beliefs. It’s a reminder that we are all accountable to one another, and our actions can influence those around us.
How to apply 1 Timothy 5:20 to your life
When you see someone making poor choices, consider how you can address it constructively. Speak up in a way that encourages growth rather than shame. Remember, your actions can inspire others to reflect on their own behavior and make positive changes. Be a source of support and guidance for those around you, fostering a culture of honesty and responsibility in your community.
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 Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. 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.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
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 5:20
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 5:20
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 5:20 mean by public rebuke?
1 Timothy 5:20 emphasizes the importance of addressing sin openly within a community. Public rebuke is not meant to shame the individual but to uphold accountability and integrity. By confronting wrongdoing in a public manner, it serves as a warning to others about the seriousness of sin, encouraging them to reflect on their own actions and maintain moral standards.
Why is public rebuke necessary in a community?
Public rebuke is necessary to foster a culture of honesty and responsibility. It helps maintain moral standards by addressing issues openly, which can deter others from similar behavior. This practice reinforces the idea that everyone is accountable for their actions and encourages individuals to consider the impact of their choices on the community.
How can I approach someone who needs to be rebuked?
When addressing someone who needs rebuke, focus on constructive criticism rather than shame. Approach the person privately first, if possible, and express your concerns with empathy and support. Frame the conversation around the importance of integrity and the impact of their actions on the community, encouraging growth and positive change.
What is the difference between rebuke and shaming?
Rebuke is a corrective action aimed at addressing wrongdoing with the intention of promoting accountability and improvement. In contrast, shaming seeks to humiliate or belittle someone. The goal of a rebuke is to guide individuals toward better behavior while maintaining respect and dignity, whereas shaming can damage relationships and discourage growth.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.