What does 1 Timothy 5:25 mean?

In this final verse, Paul concludes his words on elders beginning in verse 17 and completes the second half of his statement from the previous verse. In contrast with those with obvious sins and those who conceal sins, he mentions two categories of people known for good works. First, he writes that some good deeds are obvious to others and seen by many people.

Second, however, are good works which are not as clear. Just as human eyes can miss the hidden sins of others, so too can human eyes miss the good done by fellow human beings. And yet, both sins and good works are known by God. Even minor, less obvious, or secret good deeds cannot be hidden (Matthew 6:4). God sees everything, and people eventually discover the good works of others as well. These words closely reflect Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount that state: "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).