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2 Timothy 2:25
ESV correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth,
NIV Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth,
NASB with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth,
CSB instructing his opponents with gentleness. Perhaps God will grant them repentance leading them to the knowledge of the truth.
NLT Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.
KJV In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

What does 2 Timothy 2:25 mean?

Paul adds a fourth positive attribute to his list from the previous verse. The ability to give a mature, loving, effective answer is crucial to Christian leadership. Peter likewise mentioned the importance of this trait, stating, "In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15). Apologetics, or defending the Christian faith, involves both the ability to teach (2 Timothy 2:24) and an attitude of gentleness in instructing others.

The goal of kindness, teaching, enduring evil, and correcting opponents with gentleness is the repentance of lost people. The goal of Christian knowledge and conversation is not to win an argument but to win souls to Christ. Those who watch their life and doctrine closely (1 Timothy 4:16) will find effective ministry among the unbelievers they serve.
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