“If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.” (1 Timothy 4:6–10, ESV)
The quality of a teacher's service is not solely determined by effort; content is essential. Timothy is charged to keep the truth before the brothers because he had been trained in faith and doctrine. Paul admonished him to avoid myths, superstitions, and arguments and train for godliness. Paul does not say that physical training has no value, but he reminds Timothy that godliness has value in every way in both this life and the life to come. The Greeks placed a high value on physical fitness. But the benefits of physical training are temporary. Godliness describes a life that centers on God. Training will involve God’s Word, prayer, and community with other believers. Paul commends his statement as trustworthy and further states that it is worthy of acceptance. Paul reminds Timothy of the motivation behind contending for the truth and serving in the church. The believer has their hope set on the living God, and he is the only hope in life, death, and the life which is to come.