1 Timothy 1:17

King eternal. Literally, “the King of the ages,” an expression that occurs only here in the NT. It sets forth the eternal character of God’s universal kingdom (see Rom. 16:26).

Perhaps in his reference to God as “King” Paul may be thinking of the utter contrast between Him and the infamous emperor Nero, who would soon put the apostle to death. But in the everlasting kingdom Paul, with all the redeemed, would possess a life that could not be taken away from him (see 1 Tim. 6:11-16).

Paul’s review of his new life in Christ contrasted with his old life of bigotry and hate lifts his spirit into a glorious doxology of gratitude. For similar songs of praise see Rom. 11:36; 16:27; Gal. 1:5; Eph. 3:21; Phil. 4:20; 1 Tim. 6:15, 16.

Immortal. Gr. aphthartos, “imperishable,” “incorruptible,” “immortal.” Compare the use of aphthartos in 1 Cor. 9:25; 15:52; 1 Peter 1:4, 23.

Invisible. Or, “unseen” (see Heb. 11:27; see on Col. 1:15).

Only wise God. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the omission of “wise.” God has no competitor for men’s affections, for no other possesses the qualities here assigned to God. Only a loving relationship with the “immortal” God will ensure each man’s eternal existence.

Honour and glory. That is, man’s unreserved reverence and service and his spontaneous outbursts of loving gratitude.