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Book of 1 Timothy - Chapter 2 - Verse 15

2:15
Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

Meaning

Interpreting the verse "Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety" can be complex and subject to different interpretations. One common understanding is that women can find salvation through the act of childbirth, as childbirth is a natural and blessed event that reflects God's plan for creation and the continuation of humanity. However, the verse also emphasizes the importance of faith, charity, holiness, and sobriety in achieving salvation. This suggests that while childbirth may play a role in a woman's spiritual journey, it is not the sole factor in determining her salvation. It is the combination of faith, charity, holiness, and sobriety that ultimately leads to salvation, with childbearing being just one aspect of a woman's life that can be sanctified through these qualities. Overall, the verse encourages women to embody these virtues in their lives to experience the fullness of salvation.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the Apostle Paul addresses a controversial passage in his letter to Timothy, where he mentions that women will be saved in childbearing. The theological interpretation of this verse varies among different scholars. Some suggest that the salvation mentioned here is not about spiritual salvation, but rather about the preservation of physical life during childbirth, which was a significant concern in ancient times when maternal mortality rates were high. Others believe that Paul is emphasizing the role of motherhood in the overall context of a woman's life, highlighting the importance of faith, charity, holiness, and sobriety in the upbringing of children. Additionally, word studies on the original Greek text reveal that the word 'saved' can also be translated as 'kept safe', implying a sense of protection rather than justification. Overall, this verse emphasizes the significance of faith, love, and purity in the lives of women, particularly in the context of bearing and raising children.

American Standard Version

but she shall be saved through her child-bearing, if they continue in faith and love and sanctification with sobriety.
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