for bodily exercise is profitable for a little; but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life which now is, and of that which is to come.
The Spirit plainly warns that false teachers will come, placing all holiness in outward ceremonies while they shadow the true spiritual worship of God. Men love hypocrisy by nature, and Satan finds it easy work to persuade them that God is honored by ceremonies rather than by the heart.
AI summary
Commenting on 1 Timothy 4:1-16
Bodily austerities do profit a little, they express a sinner's just revenge upon himself and are the least God expects, but godliness is profitable to all things: it makes a man wise, diligent, and frugal; it brings him a good name; it sweetens all earthly delights and adds pleasures of its own. Thus it promises happiness both now and hereafter.
AI summary
Godliness is spiritual exercise, not outward strictness. The latter, though something to be esteemed if used rightly, is nothing compared to godliness, for it profits only through benefit borrowed from another. Godliness alone carries the promise of both this life and the life to come.
AI summary