1 Timothy 4:12
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let no man despise thy youth - Act with all the gravity and decorum which become thy situation in the Church. As thou art in the place of an elder, act as an elder. Boyish playfulness ill becomes a minister of the Gospel, whatever his age may be. Concerning Timothy's age see the conclusion of the preface to this epistle. Be thou an example of the believers - It is natural for the flock to follow the shepherd; if he go wrong, they will go wrong also. "Himself a wanderer from the narrow way, His silly sheep, no wonder if they stray." Though, according to the just judgement of God, they who die in their sins have their blood on their own head; yet, if they have either gone into sin or continued in it through the watchman's fault, their blood will God require at his hand. How many have endeavored to excuse their transgressions by alleging, in vindication of their conduct, "Our minister does so, and he is more wise and learned than we." What an awful account must such have to give to the Head of the Church when he appears! In word - Εν λογῳ· In doctrine; teach nothing but the truth of God, because nothing but that will save souls. In conversation - Εν αναστροφῃ· In the whole of thy conduct in every department which thou fillest in all thy domestic as well as public relations, behave thyself well. In charity - Εν αγαπῃ· In love to God and man; show that this is the principle and motive of all thy conduct. In spirit - Εν πνευματι· In the manner and disposition in which thou dost all things. How often is a holy or charitable work done in an unholy, uncharitable, and peevish spirit! To the doer, such work is unfruitful. These words are wanting in ACDFG, and several others; both the Syriac, Erpen's Arabic, Ethiopic, Armenian, Vulgate, and Itala, and many of the fathers. Griesbach leaves them out of the text. They have in all probability been added by a later hand. In faith - Εν πιστει· This word πιστις is probably taken here for fidelity, a sense which it often bears in the New Testament. It cannot mean doctrine, for that has been referred to before. Be faithful to thy trust, to thy flock, to thy domestics, to the public, to thy God. Fidelity consists in honestly keeping, preserving, and delivering up when required, whatever is intrusted to our care; as also in improving whatever is delivered in trust for that purpose. Lose nothing that God gives, and improve every gift that he bestows. In purity - Εν ἁγνεια· Chastity of body and mind; a direction peculiarly necessary for a young minister, who has more temptations to break its rules than perhaps any other person. "Converse sparingly with women, and especially with young women," was the advice of a very holy and experienced minister of Christ.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Let no man despise thy youth--Act so as to be respected in spite of thy youth (Co1 16:11; Tit 2:15); compare "youthful" as to Timothy (Ti2 2:22). He was but a mere youth when he joined Paul (Act 16:1-3). Eleven years had elapsed since then to the time subsequent to Paul's first imprisonment. He was, therefore, still young; especially in comparison with Paul, whose place he was filling; also in relation to elderly presbyters whom he should "entreat as a father" (Ti1 5:1), and generally in respect to his duties in rebuking, exhorting, and ordaining (Ti1 3:1), which ordinarily accord best with an elderly person (Ti1 5:19). be thou an example--Greek, "become a pattern" (Tit 2:7); the true way of making men not to despise (slight, or disregard) thy youth. in word--in all that thou sayest in public and private. conversation--that is, "behavior" the Old English sense of the word. in charity . . . faith--the two cardinal principles of the Christian (Gal 5:6). The oldest manuscripts omit, "in spirit." in purity--simplicity of holy motive followed out in consistency of holy action [ALFORD] (Ti1 5:22; Co2 6:6; Jam 3:17; Jam 4:8; Pe1 1:22).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Till I come,.... To Ephesus; where the apostle hoped to be shortly, but was prevented; he afterwards came to Miletus, and sent for the elders of Ephesus thither, when he took his final leave of them. He mentions this circumstance, not as if Timothy was to attend to the following things no longer, but to quicken him to an attendance to them from the consideration of his being shortly with him. Give attendance to reading; that is, of the Scriptures, which the Jews call "reading". (l). "Says R. Tanchum Bar Chanilai, for ever let a man divide his years or life into three parts; one third (let him spend) in the Mikra, (the Scriptures, and the reading of them,) another third in the Misna, and the other third in the Talmud.'' And this is to be understood, not of the reading of the Scriptures in public, for the advantage of others, a custom which obtained in the Jewish synagogues; see Act 13:15 but in private, for his own use and service, that he might be more perfect, and more thoroughly furnished to the work and office to which he was called; for the Scriptures are the fund of spiritual knowledge, as well as the test and standard of doctrine, out of which all must be fetched, and by which it must be tried; and if Timothy, who had known the Scriptures from a child, had been trained up in them, and was always conversant with them, had need to give diligent attention to the reading of them, then much more others: as also to exhortation, to doctrine; as he was privately to read the Scriptures, for his own benefit, he was publicly to expound them, or preach from them, to the advantage of others; for these two, exhortation and doctrine, are branches of the ministerial work, which reading furnishes and qualifies for. "Exhortation" intends the stirring up of believers to the exercise of grace, and the discharge of duty; and is a considerable part of the work of the ministry, and on which a minister of Christ should much insist; and it becomes the saints to suffer every word of exhortation from them, and receive it kindly, Ti2 4:2, Rom 12:8, Heb 13:22. The word signifies also "consolation", and which is another branch of the ministry. Believers are oftentimes disconsolate through the prevalence of corruptions, the power of Satan's temptations, and the hidings of God's face, and need comfort; when the ministers of the Gospel should be Barnabases, sons of consolation, and should speak comfortably to them; for which they are qualified by the God of all comfort, who comforts them in all their tribulations, that they might be capable of speaking good and comfortable words to others. "Doctrine" designs the teaching and instructing of the church in the mysteries of the Gospel; opening and explaining the truths of it; defending them against all opposers, and refuting errors and heresies contrary to them. This is the evangelic Talmud; and these three, "reading", "exhortation", and "doctrine", may answer to the above three things the Jew advises men to divide their time among, the Mikra, Misna, and Talmud: reading answers to the Mikra, and indeed is no other; and exhortation to the Misna, or oral law; and doctrine to the Talmud, and which also that word signifies: but the apostle would have Timothy spend his time in, and give his attention to that which might be truly beneficial to himself, and profitable unto others. (l) T. Bab. Avoda Zara, fol. 19. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:12 Be an example: Only those whose lives are shaped by the Good News are worthy teachers of it (cp. 2 Tim 3:10-11; Titus 2:7; Heb 13:7). The false teachers were not.
1 Timothy 4:12
A Good Servant of Jesus Christ
11Command and teach these things.12Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.13Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(1 Peter - Part 22): Our Walk in the Presence of the Unsaved
By A.W. Tozer22K35:14UnsavedMAT 5:16MAT 6:331CO 10:31PHP 2:151TI 4:12JAS 2:171PE 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living an honest and upright life among non-believers. He highlights that God never gives us instructions to live without Him, and that His precepts are meant to be applied in different situations and contexts. The preacher encourages listeners to understand that the Bible provides broad principles of right living, but the specific application of those principles is determined by individual circumstances. The sermon is based on 1 Peter 2:12, which urges believers to have an honest conversation and conduct among Gentiles, so that their good works may glorify God.
"Where Are the Praying People?"
By David Wilkerson22K01:432CH 7:14PSA 51:10PRO 4:23MAT 5:81CO 10:132CO 6:17EPH 5:111TI 4:12JAS 4:81PE 5:8This sermon emphasizes the speaker's strong desire to remain separate from the sinful influences of the world, committing to prayer, Bible reading, and standing against immorality. The urgency to address the moral decline within churches and society, calling for a return to genuine faith and purity, especially in the face of prevalent sins like pornography. The plea for God to raise up voices of righteousness and intercessors to combat the spiritual apathy and compromise that is leading a generation astray.
Sunday #1 the Welsh Revival of 1904-05
By J. Edwin Orr4.7K43:06Welsh RevivalPSA 27:14MAT 24:42MRK 1:17ACT 2:17ACT 2:421TI 4:12HEB 10:25In this sermon transcript, the speaker describes a powerful revival that took place in a church called Moriah Church. The revival was characterized by the presence of people of all ages, from young to old, coming together and being moved by the preaching of the word of God. The speaker, Evan Roberts, had initially planned to organize a team of young evangelists but felt a strong calling to speak to the young people in his own church. He returned home and began preaching to the young people, leading to a remarkable response from 17 individuals. The revival continued to grow, with various meetings and services being held throughout the week, and eventually leading to a widespread spiritual awakening in the country.
A Look at the Puritan Through Puritan Eyes
By J.I. Packer4.6K48:49ROM 14:51CO 10:31EPH 5:15COL 2:81TI 4:12JAS 4:171PE 2:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Carter, who played a central role in the next chapter of the story. The sermon is divided into three paragraphs: the leaders, the arguments, and the activities of the Puritan Presbyterianising movement. The speaker mentions that Carter and Field were imprisoned for writing a seditious document, which will be discussed in more detail in the next class. The sermon also mentions Elizabeth instructing Parker to enforce conformity in the Church of England, leading to some clergymen being deprived of their living for refusing to comply.
(Mount Vernon) Daniel
By Keith Daniel4.5K56:34DanielDAN 3:16DAN 12:3MAT 5:16PHP 4:61TI 4:12HEB 13:5JAS 1:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a wise and righteous life. He uses the example of a man who behaved wisely because of God's presence with him. The speaker challenges the audience to examine their own lives and ask if they have turned many to righteousness and if their lives have shaken others for God. He also highlights the qualities that made this man's life impactful, such as integrity, transparency, humility, and faithfulness. The speaker encourages the audience to live according to the New Testament standard, being careful for nothing and bringing every thought into obedience to God.
A Godly Example
By Erlo Stegen3.9K21:11Living WorthyMAT 5:161CO 10:31EPH 5:3PHP 2:151TI 4:12TIT 2:71PE 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being a good example, especially to young people. He mentions a survey conducted in American jails, which found that over 90% of serial killers admitted to using pornography when they were young. The preacher urges the congregation to set a clear pattern of integrity and to be a positive influence on both believers and unbelievers. He also highlights the alarming statistics of the pornographic industry, stating that the average age of those involved is 11 years old. The sermon concludes with Bible verses encouraging young people to be examples in speech, life, love, faith, and purity.
A Godly Pattern
By Bill McLeod3.6K57:00Godly PatternMAT 6:33MRK 11:221TI 4:122TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:221PE 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the trials and sufferings that believers may face in their lives. He emphasizes the importance of having faith and not complaining, as everything is in the hands of God. The speaker also highlights the verse that states that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that will be revealed in believers. He encourages listeners to be content with food and clothing and to not neglect the needs of others. The sermon concludes with the reminder that believers are constantly being watched and should strive to live in a way that reflects their faith.
Running From Church to Find God
By Carter Conlon3.4K50:59Seeking GodMAT 6:331TI 4:122TI 2:152TI 3:16TIT 2:11PHM 1:6HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing gratitude for the presence of the Holy Ghost and the transformative power of Jesus Christ. He prays for God's guidance and asks for the grace to release any debts or wrongs done to us. The preacher shares a story about an evangelist who was not afraid of the devil and had a strong trust in the Lord. He then discusses the blessings that come to the righteous, including business sense, a good reputation, and provision for their household. The sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting and obeying God's word and promises that He will provide light in the midst of darkness.
1 Timothy 4:12
By George Verwer2.7K1:25:52Timothy1CO 2:9EPH 4:29COL 3:131TI 4:121TI 5:11TI 6:12JAS 3:6In this sermon, the speaker begins by praising God for the many answers to prayer and professions of faith that have occurred through various ministries. He then references the book of Timothy, specifically chapters 4, 5, and 6, and encourages the audience not to let others look down on their youthfulness but to speak with authority. The speaker shares a personal testimony of his own transformation through Jesus Christ, acknowledging his past sinful nature and the impact of encountering God's spirit in a prison. He also reflects on the tendency of young people to judge and gossip, emphasizing the importance of speaking positively about others. The sermon concludes with gratitude for Indian believers and the speaker's own background, highlighting the journey from materialism to a passion for God.
(Om Orientation) Our Weapons Faith - Part 2
By George Verwer2.3K24:34Spiritual WarfarePSA 34:15MAT 11:28COL 1:171TH 5:161TI 4:12HEB 11:61JN 3:22In this sermon, the speaker addresses the idea that young people should not be despised but should set an example for believers in various aspects of their lives. The speaker acknowledges the temptation for young people to "live it up" and engage in worldly activities, but emphasizes the importance of faith and living according to God's word. The speaker encourages listeners to read Hebrews 11, which highlights the faith and endurance of biblical figures who faced trials and persecution. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of seeking help from God in times of need and cultivating a spirit of thanksgiving and joy in prayer.
Religiosity or Spirituality - God-Centred Not Man-Centred
By Zac Poonen2.1K59:21ReligiosityMAT 6:33PHP 2:51TI 4:121TI 4:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being absorbed in the things of God and not being distracted by the devil or the world. He uses the example of sports enthusiasts who are completely focused on watching a game to illustrate this point. The speaker also highlights the need for our spiritual progress to be evident to others, just like Timothy's progress was visible to the people in his church. He then explores the concept of having the attitude of Christ in various aspects of our lives, such as how we view others, material things, and difficult circumstances. The sermon concludes with a discussion on the difference between being saved and being forgiven, emphasizing that Jesus came to save us from sin rather than to make us prosperous.
The Wonder
By Vance Havner2.1K38:36MAT 18:3MAT 19:14MRK 10:141CO 13:11EPH 5:141TH 1:31TI 4:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the loss of wonder and imagination in children as they grow older. He mentions how children are full of curiosity and imagination, but as they become exposed to more things through technology, they become cynical and lose their sense of wonder. The preacher emphasizes the importance of maintaining a childlike wonder and encourages the congregation to not lose it. He also mentions the importance of making decisions and following through with obedience, using the story of the prodigal son as an example.
Honeydew - Questions and Answers
By Zac Poonen2.0K1:37:11Question AnswerMAT 6:33ACT 2:42ROM 12:31CO 12:7GAL 5:22EPH 4:111TI 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of fellowship in the church. He emphasizes that when people come to a church, they should not only hear the message but also experience the spirit of fellowship. The speaker shares a story about a boy selling peanuts who cleverly entices people to buy by eating the peanuts himself. He uses this story to illustrate the idea that when people see the transformation and blessings in the lives of believers, they will be drawn to want that for themselves. The speaker concludes by praying for lasting fruit and blessing in the lives of the listeners and the church.
Problems Young People Face
By Zac Poonen2.0K59:00Problems1CO 6:131TI 4:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of guarding one's mind in a world that is anti-God. The media, particularly in the area of sex, is portrayed as a tool to destroy people's minds. The speaker also discusses the prevalence of injustice in the world and encourages young people to expect and face it with resilience. The sermon concludes with a reminder to young people to not be discouraged by disappointment, injustice, and failure, but to instead strive to be an example of faith, love, and purity.
The Simple Gospel Message
By Zac Poonen1.9K56:18Gospel MessagePSA 119:11PRO 22:6ECC 12:1ROM 12:21CO 10:13GAL 5:161TI 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of conscience and moral responsibility. He compares life to writing an examination paper, where God is the ultimate evaluator. The preacher highlights the need to follow the manufacturer's instructions, which are found in the Bible, in order to live a better life. He emphasizes that the foundation of our faith is the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and by accepting Him into our lives, we receive the power of the Holy Spirit. The message of Christianity is to freely receive the offer of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Recovery of the Lords Name - Part 2 of 6
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K50:40RecoveryEXO 21:17JDG 6:14PSA 51:17PRO 22:6ISA 40:31MAT 6:331TI 4:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Gideon from the Bible. Gideon finds himself in a seemingly impossible situation, with the enemy strongly entrenched and very little hope for deliverance. However, Gideon does not give up and sets himself to do even the least that could be done. The preacher emphasizes the importance of equipping and providing for the younger generations, not despising their youth but rather passing on the faith to them. The sermon highlights the principle of spiritual youth and the need for continual reproduction in the realm of faith.
19 Reasons Why I Am Going to Urbana
By George Verwer1.5K46:09UrbanaPSA 100:4MAT 28:19JHN 14:6ACT 4:12ROM 12:5EPH 2:81TI 4:12The video is a sermon transcript about the Urbana event, which is an international, interdenominational, and interracial gathering focused on spreading the message of the gospel. The speaker highlights the impact of the event, particularly in terms of the Lordship of Christ, and how the message has reached a wide audience through videos and tapes. The video emphasizes the importance of faith and expectation leading up to the Urbana event, as well as the need to be positive and praise God for the work He is doing in the world. The speaker also mentions the opportunity to learn about God's work in different nations through first-hand reports and missionary exhibits.
The Humility of God
By Dean Stump1.4K1:15:23HumilityZEC 4:10MAT 6:33LUK 16:102CO 4:18PHP 1:231TI 4:12JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the humility of God and how it should be reflected in our lives. He refers to Zechariah chapter four, highlighting the attention to detail that God has and how we should also pay attention to the small things in life. The preacher encourages the audience not to despise the day of small things, emphasizing the importance of how we live our lives, spend our money, and use our time. He shares a personal story of a friend who nearly died and questions why it takes such experiences for us to see God in a greater way.
The Holy Spirit - Part 11
By Keith Daniel1.3K07:172CH 7:14PSA 51:10PRO 27:171TI 4:12JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of encountering Christ and following godly examples, highlighting the impact of living a pure and noble life amidst the moral decadence of the world. The speaker humbly asks for prayers for himself and his family, acknowledging his weaknesses and dependence on God's strength. The congregation is urged to prioritize prayer, consistency in seeking God, and spreading the message of Jesus, while reflecting on their own lives and the need for genuine repentance and revival.
Interviu Cu Leonard Ravenhill (Spanish)
By Leonard Ravenhill1.3K1:52:29PSA 119:105JER 6:16MAT 11:28JHN 6:35ACT 3:191TI 4:12JAS 4:8This sermon reflects on a journey of faith spanning 70 years, witnessing various church tragedies and worldly events. It emphasizes the importance of staying focused on Jesus, reading the Word, and cherishing the old paths of faith. The speaker shares a personal testimony of coming to Jesus out of weariness and a sense of emptiness, rather than traditional reasons like conviction of sin. The sermon also touches on the impact of revivalists and the struggle of young people today to maintain a strong faith amidst distractions and challenges.
History of Revival (1740-1851), 4
By Ian Murray1.2K57:08GEN 1:1PSA 85:6MAT 7:7MAT 28:19ACT 1:14EPH 5:151TI 4:12In this sermon, the speaker shares two authors and their books that he recommends. The first author is Gacy Ryle, who wrote a book called "Five Christian Leaders." The book provides a detailed account of the revivals that took place in the 18th century in the British Isles. It explores the lives of the leaders and draws out practical lessons from these revivals. The speaker strongly urges the audience to obtain this book. The second author mentioned is Robert Murray McChain, whose memoir by Andrew Boner is recommended. The speaker mentions that McChain's sermons are also available and highly regarded.
Living for Jesus in a Modern Babylon - 1
By Freddy Bafuka1.2K56:52BabylonPSA 119:11PRO 13:20DAN 1:8MAT 4:19ROM 12:21TI 4:12JAS 4:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making wise choices in life. He uses the example of Daniel from the Bible, who chose to follow God and was rewarded with wisdom. The speaker also shares his personal experience of choosing to follow Jesus and how it transformed his life. He encourages the audience to evaluate their relationships and the influence they have on their faith, as well as to prioritize prayer and spending time with God.
Studies in 1 Timothy-05 1 Timothy-5
By William MacDonald1.2K38:37DEU 25:4LUK 10:71TI 5:23The sermon transcript discusses various instructions given by Paul to Timothy on how to behave towards different classes in the Christian family. It begins by addressing the old and young, male and female, emphasizing the importance of showing honor and respect. The transcript then moves on to discussing the care and support of widows, highlighting the responsibility of the church in providing for them. It also touches on the role of elders in the church, emphasizing the need for financial care, caution in appointing men, and the importance of having multiple witnesses in cases of accusation. Overall, the transcript emphasizes the practical advice given by Paul to Timothy for the care of believers in the Christian assembly.
Beware of Peoples Pet Doctrines
By George Verwer1.2K1:16:48Pet DoctrinesPRO 3:5MAT 6:33MAT 22:39ACT 1:8ROM 12:101TI 4:122TI 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of building and helping others, even in the face of potential destruction or opposition. The speaker shares Alfie Frank's testimony about a fire, highlighting the need to continue building despite setbacks. The sermon also addresses the challenges of living in a pluralistic society and the need to adapt the message to different cultural contexts. The speaker mentions a book on inductive preaching that has influenced pastors to change their preaching style, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in spreading the vision of God.
Paul Before Agrippa - Part 2
By Joshua Daniel1.1K08:34JOB 19:25ROM 8:111CO 15:202CO 5:17PHP 4:81TI 4:121PE 1:18This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of encountering Jesus compared to worldly spectacles or achievements. It highlights the importance of focusing on positive, pure thoughts from the Word of God, rather than negative and critical conversations. The speaker warns against the dangers of indulging in immoral content online and the impact it can have on one's life and future generations. Ultimately, the message centers on the unmatched assurance and hope found in knowing and declaring that 'My Redeemer lives' even in the face of tragedy and challenges.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let no man despise thy youth - Act with all the gravity and decorum which become thy situation in the Church. As thou art in the place of an elder, act as an elder. Boyish playfulness ill becomes a minister of the Gospel, whatever his age may be. Concerning Timothy's age see the conclusion of the preface to this epistle. Be thou an example of the believers - It is natural for the flock to follow the shepherd; if he go wrong, they will go wrong also. "Himself a wanderer from the narrow way, His silly sheep, no wonder if they stray." Though, according to the just judgement of God, they who die in their sins have their blood on their own head; yet, if they have either gone into sin or continued in it through the watchman's fault, their blood will God require at his hand. How many have endeavored to excuse their transgressions by alleging, in vindication of their conduct, "Our minister does so, and he is more wise and learned than we." What an awful account must such have to give to the Head of the Church when he appears! In word - Εν λογῳ· In doctrine; teach nothing but the truth of God, because nothing but that will save souls. In conversation - Εν αναστροφῃ· In the whole of thy conduct in every department which thou fillest in all thy domestic as well as public relations, behave thyself well. In charity - Εν αγαπῃ· In love to God and man; show that this is the principle and motive of all thy conduct. In spirit - Εν πνευματι· In the manner and disposition in which thou dost all things. How often is a holy or charitable work done in an unholy, uncharitable, and peevish spirit! To the doer, such work is unfruitful. These words are wanting in ACDFG, and several others; both the Syriac, Erpen's Arabic, Ethiopic, Armenian, Vulgate, and Itala, and many of the fathers. Griesbach leaves them out of the text. They have in all probability been added by a later hand. In faith - Εν πιστει· This word πιστις is probably taken here for fidelity, a sense which it often bears in the New Testament. It cannot mean doctrine, for that has been referred to before. Be faithful to thy trust, to thy flock, to thy domestics, to the public, to thy God. Fidelity consists in honestly keeping, preserving, and delivering up when required, whatever is intrusted to our care; as also in improving whatever is delivered in trust for that purpose. Lose nothing that God gives, and improve every gift that he bestows. In purity - Εν ἁγνεια· Chastity of body and mind; a direction peculiarly necessary for a young minister, who has more temptations to break its rules than perhaps any other person. "Converse sparingly with women, and especially with young women," was the advice of a very holy and experienced minister of Christ.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Let no man despise thy youth--Act so as to be respected in spite of thy youth (Co1 16:11; Tit 2:15); compare "youthful" as to Timothy (Ti2 2:22). He was but a mere youth when he joined Paul (Act 16:1-3). Eleven years had elapsed since then to the time subsequent to Paul's first imprisonment. He was, therefore, still young; especially in comparison with Paul, whose place he was filling; also in relation to elderly presbyters whom he should "entreat as a father" (Ti1 5:1), and generally in respect to his duties in rebuking, exhorting, and ordaining (Ti1 3:1), which ordinarily accord best with an elderly person (Ti1 5:19). be thou an example--Greek, "become a pattern" (Tit 2:7); the true way of making men not to despise (slight, or disregard) thy youth. in word--in all that thou sayest in public and private. conversation--that is, "behavior" the Old English sense of the word. in charity . . . faith--the two cardinal principles of the Christian (Gal 5:6). The oldest manuscripts omit, "in spirit." in purity--simplicity of holy motive followed out in consistency of holy action [ALFORD] (Ti1 5:22; Co2 6:6; Jam 3:17; Jam 4:8; Pe1 1:22).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Till I come,.... To Ephesus; where the apostle hoped to be shortly, but was prevented; he afterwards came to Miletus, and sent for the elders of Ephesus thither, when he took his final leave of them. He mentions this circumstance, not as if Timothy was to attend to the following things no longer, but to quicken him to an attendance to them from the consideration of his being shortly with him. Give attendance to reading; that is, of the Scriptures, which the Jews call "reading". (l). "Says R. Tanchum Bar Chanilai, for ever let a man divide his years or life into three parts; one third (let him spend) in the Mikra, (the Scriptures, and the reading of them,) another third in the Misna, and the other third in the Talmud.'' And this is to be understood, not of the reading of the Scriptures in public, for the advantage of others, a custom which obtained in the Jewish synagogues; see Act 13:15 but in private, for his own use and service, that he might be more perfect, and more thoroughly furnished to the work and office to which he was called; for the Scriptures are the fund of spiritual knowledge, as well as the test and standard of doctrine, out of which all must be fetched, and by which it must be tried; and if Timothy, who had known the Scriptures from a child, had been trained up in them, and was always conversant with them, had need to give diligent attention to the reading of them, then much more others: as also to exhortation, to doctrine; as he was privately to read the Scriptures, for his own benefit, he was publicly to expound them, or preach from them, to the advantage of others; for these two, exhortation and doctrine, are branches of the ministerial work, which reading furnishes and qualifies for. "Exhortation" intends the stirring up of believers to the exercise of grace, and the discharge of duty; and is a considerable part of the work of the ministry, and on which a minister of Christ should much insist; and it becomes the saints to suffer every word of exhortation from them, and receive it kindly, Ti2 4:2, Rom 12:8, Heb 13:22. The word signifies also "consolation", and which is another branch of the ministry. Believers are oftentimes disconsolate through the prevalence of corruptions, the power of Satan's temptations, and the hidings of God's face, and need comfort; when the ministers of the Gospel should be Barnabases, sons of consolation, and should speak comfortably to them; for which they are qualified by the God of all comfort, who comforts them in all their tribulations, that they might be capable of speaking good and comfortable words to others. "Doctrine" designs the teaching and instructing of the church in the mysteries of the Gospel; opening and explaining the truths of it; defending them against all opposers, and refuting errors and heresies contrary to them. This is the evangelic Talmud; and these three, "reading", "exhortation", and "doctrine", may answer to the above three things the Jew advises men to divide their time among, the Mikra, Misna, and Talmud: reading answers to the Mikra, and indeed is no other; and exhortation to the Misna, or oral law; and doctrine to the Talmud, and which also that word signifies: but the apostle would have Timothy spend his time in, and give his attention to that which might be truly beneficial to himself, and profitable unto others. (l) T. Bab. Avoda Zara, fol. 19. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:12 Be an example: Only those whose lives are shaped by the Good News are worthy teachers of it (cp. 2 Tim 3:10-11; Titus 2:7; Heb 13:7). The false teachers were not.