1 Timothy 4:13
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Give attendance to reading - Timothy could easily comprehend the apostle's meaning; but at present this is not so easy. What books does the apostle mean? The books of the Old Testament were probably what he intended; these testified of Jesus, and by these he could either convince or confound the Jews. But, whether was the reading of these to be public or private? Probably both. It was customary to read the law and the prophets in the synagogue, and doubtless in the assemblies of the Christians; after which there was generally an exhortation founded upon the subject of the prophecy. Hence the apostle says: Give attendance to reading, to Exhortation, to Doctrine. Timothy was therefore to be diligent in reading the sacred writings at home, that he might be the better qualified to read and expound them in the public assemblies to the Christians, and to others who came to these public meetings. As to other books, there were not many at that time that could be of much use to a Christian minister. In those days the great business of the preacher was to bring forward the grand facts of Christianity, to prove these, and to show that all had happened according to the prediction of the prophets; and from these to show the work of God in the heart, and the evidence of that work in a holy life. At present the truth of God is not only to be proclaimed, but defended; and many customs or manners, and forms of speech, which are to us obsolete, must be explained from the writings of the ancients, and particularly from the works of those who lived about the same times, or nearest to them, and in the same or contiguous countries. This will require the knowledge of those languages in which those works have been composed, the chief of which are Hebrew and Greek, the languages in which the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments have been originally written. Latin is certainly of the next consequence; a language in which some of the most early comments have been written; and it is worth the trouble of being learned, were it only for the sake of the works of St. Jerome, who translated and wrote a commentary on the whole of the Scriptures; though in many respects it is both erroneous and superficial. Arabic and Syriac may be added with great advantage: the latter being in effect the language in which Christ and his apostles spoke and preached in Judea; and the former being radically the same with the Hebrew, and preserving many of the roots of that language, the derivatives of which often occur in the Hebrew Bible, but the roots never. The works of various scholars prove of how much consequence even the writings of heathen authors, chiefly those of Greece and Italy, are to the illustration of the sacred writings. And he who is best acquainted with the sacred records will avail himself of such helps, with gratitude both to God and man. Though so many languages and so much reading are not absolutely necessary to form a minister of the Gospel, (for there are many eminent ministers who have not such advantages), yet they are helps of the first magnitude to those who have them and know how to use them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Till I come--when Timothy's commission would be superseded for the time by the presence of the apostle himself (Ti1 1:3; Ti1 3:14). reading--especially in the public congregation. The practice of reading Scripture was transferred from the Jewish synagogue to the Christian Church (Luk 4:16-20; Act 13:15; Act 15:21; Co2 3:14). The New Testament Gospel and Epistles being recognized as inspired by those who had the gift of discerning spirits, were from the first, according as they were written, read along with the Old Testament in the Church (Th1 5:21, Th1 5:27; Col 4:16), [JUSTIN MARTYR, Apology, 1.67]. I think that while public reading is the prominent thought, the Spirit intended also to teach that Scripture reading in private should be "the fountain of all wisdom from which pastors ought to draw whatever they bring before their flock" [ALFORD]. exhortation--addressed to the feelings and will with a view to the regulation of the conduct. doctrine--Greek (ministerial), "teaching" or instruction. Addressed to the understanding, so as to impart knowledge (Ti1 6:2; Rom 12:7-8). Whether in public or private, exhortation and instruction should be based on Scripture reading.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Neglect not the gift that is in thee,.... What qualifies men for the work of the ministry is a gift from God: it is not of nature, nor is it mere natural abilities and capacity; nor is it any thing acquired, it is not human learning, or the knowledge of languages, arts, and sciences; nor is it special saving grace; for a man may have all these, and yet not be apt to teach, or fit for the ministry; but it is a peculiar and distinct gift, it is a gift of interpreting the Scriptures, and of dispensing the mysteries of grace to the edification of others; which, when it meets in a man with all the rest before mentioned, makes him very considerable: and this gift is in a man; it is a treasure put into earthen vessels, a good treasure in the heart, out of which a good minister of Christ brings forth many good things, things new and old, both for the delight and profit of men: and this gift is by no means to be neglected; this talent should not be hid in the earth, or wrapped up in a napkin; it should not lie dormant and useless, but should be stirred up, cultivated, and improved, as it may by reading, meditation, and prayer. And in order to enforce this exhortation on Timothy, the apostle adds, which was given thee by prophecy; that is, it was prophesied of before hand, by some of the prophets in the church, that a very extraordinary gift should be bestowed upon this young man, which would make him a very useful person in the church of God; see Ti1 1:18 and since it was now given, he ought not therefore to neglect it: or it was given him, as some read it, with prophecy, that he should use it, and it should be of great advantage to many souls; or, together with this gift of preaching, he had also a gift of foretelling things to come; or it may be, the words may be better rendered, "for prophecy": that is, for preaching, for prophesying is frequently used for preaching; see Co1 13:2 and then the sense is, that this gift was given him to qualify him for the interpreting of the Scriptures, the explaining of the prophecies of the Old Testament, and for the preaching of the Gospel; and therefore he should not neglect it, but use it for this purpose: and he adds, that it was given him with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery; or "of the eldership", or elders. So "eldership", is used by the Septuagint on Exo 3:16 for the elders of Israel. Now of these elders Paul was one, Ti2 1:6 nor is it unusual to call the apostles elders; see Pe1 5:1. Who joined with the apostle, in the imposition of hands on Timothy, is not certain; I should think only apostles, since here was a gift of the Holy Ghost came along with it; and it was only through the laying on of the hands of the apostles that the Holy Ghost was given. Philip, an evangelist, laid not hands on the believing Samaritans; but Peter and John, apostles, were sent down from Jerusalem to Samaria to do it, whereby many received the gifts of the Holy Ghost, fitting them to take the care of those new converts, and to spread the Gospel further in those parts, Act 8:5. And since gifts have ceased being conveyed this way, the rite of laying on of hands in ordinations seems useless, and of no avail. The apostle in calling those that joined with him, in putting hands on Timothy, the "presbytery or eldership", may have some reference to , "the elders of the congregation", which laid hands on the bullock for a sin offering, Lev 4:15 by whom some understand the great sanhedrim (m); others (n), not all the elders, but some particular persons, in number three; and so the ordination of a Rabbi was by three (o); hence we read of , "imposition of hands by the elders" (p). (m) Bartenora in Misn. Menachot, c. 9. sect. 3. (n) Siphri in Maimon. in Misn. ib. c. 9. sect. 7. (o) Misn. Sanhedrin, c. 1. sect. 3. & Maimon. & Bartenora in ib. (p) T. Hieros. Horayot, fol. 46. 2.
1 Timothy 4:13
A Good Servant of Jesus Christ
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
The Best, Not the Good
By Vance Havner11K41:03PerfectionROM 1:211CO 15:101CO 15:332CO 6:14PHP 3:131TI 4:13REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making choices in life between the bad, the good, and the best. He highlights the danger of settling for the good when we could have had the best. The speaker also warns against complacency and the need for revival, even among good people. He encourages listeners to press on towards the ideal and not let lesser goals hinder their progress.
(2008 Usa Tour) Preachers in the Last Days!
By Keith Daniel7.7K1:12:59LUK 21:15ACT 6:101TI 4:132TI 2:152TI 4:22TI 4:51PE 3:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for preachers to separate themselves from worldly influences and dedicate themselves fully to preaching the word of God. He criticizes theological centers and seminars that teach preachers to be entertainers rather than faithful messengers of the Bible. The preacher warns against compromising the message of the Bible for the sake of pleasing the masses, stating that this leads to a distortion of God's blueprint for our lives. He urges preachers to prioritize the salvation of souls over entertaining the congregation, emphasizing the importance of preaching the truth even if it may offend some.
(Biographies) George Mueller
By John Piper5.2K1:15:32PSA 34:8PSA 119:11PSA 119:16PSA 119:105JHN 17:3PHP 3:101TI 4:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of memorizing extended passages of Scripture as a means of meditating on God's Word. He highlights the life of George Mueller, who sought to glorify God by caring for orphans and trusting in His provision. The speaker encourages listeners to "see God" and find satisfaction in Him, which will lead to freedom from greed and fear and a willingness to take risks and sacrificially love others. He concludes by emphasizing the crucial role of knowing God through the Bible and fighting for joy in Him.
Bakht Singh Funeral - Part 2
By Bakht Singh3.0K06:00PSA 119:105MAT 4:4ACT 2:42EPH 4:161TI 4:13HEB 10:24This sermon is a powerful testimony of Baksh Singh's journey in Christian ministry, from humble beginnings of sharing his faith on the streets to impacting thousands with the word of God. It highlights the importance he placed on personal Bible possession, prayer, and dedication to serving the Lord and His people. The establishment of Hebron Church with its unique characteristics and emphasis on equality in Christ is a testament to Baksh Singh's deep faith and commitment to a simple, prayerful, and community-focused church life.
(The Real Jesus) 5 Jesus Overcame in Weakness
By Zac Poonen2.9K1:19:58JHN 6:70ACT 17:111TI 4:13In this sermon, the speaker shares personal experiences of facing opposition and attacks from people who disagreed with his teachings. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's faith and not being swayed by worldly desires or traditions. The speaker encourages young people to allow God to break them and mold them into vessels for His work. He also highlights the example of Jesus, who faced constant ridicule and pressure but remained steadfast in his mission. The sermon concludes with a reminder that relying on human strength and support is not enough, and that true strength comes from a deep relationship with the Lord.
(Biographies) John G. Paton
By John Piper2.7K1:19:50GEN 5:24PSA 119:11PRO 22:6MAT 6:33ACT 16:311TH 5:171TI 4:13In this sermon, the speaker shares personal anecdotes about his experiences with his children and the importance of teaching them reverence for God. He also mentions a missionary named John Patton who faced great danger and opposition while spreading the Gospel. The speaker emphasizes the need for courage in the face of criticism and highlights the impact of a godly father in raising children who love and serve God. The sermon concludes with a story of the speaker's own encounter with armed men and his reliance on prayer and trust in Jesus during that difficult moment.
Wanted: Men of God
By Alan Cairns2.5K1:22:26CallingMAT 22:37MAT 28:19JHN 5:39ACT 20:211TI 4:132TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for men of God in today's society. He highlights the importance of preachers who are not influenced by the world, but rather have a deep understanding of the Word of God and are transformed by its power. The preacher calls for individuals to seek God's guidance and to be willing to do whatever He asks of them. He also emphasizes the need for men who have knowledge of the times and can discern what actions are necessary in the present, rather than dwelling in the past.
He Is Love
By George Warnock2.4K50:12Love Of GodPSA 133:1MAT 6:33MAT 22:37JHN 17:151CO 3:12PHP 1:91TI 4:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man named Dunmighty who was told by God to set his house in order because all that he produced was wood, hay, and stubble. The speaker then references Paul's letter to the Philippians, where he prays for their love to abound more and more. The speaker recounts a conversation with a man who suggested that love is all that is needed and that doctrine and other things should be forgotten. The speaker introduces George, who has the gift of exhortation, and emphasizes the importance of both reading and exhortation in Timothy's letter from Paul. The speaker also highlights the need for unity among believers and the importance of seeking God's glory in reaching the world. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the highest form of relationship with God is when one lays down everything for His sake, and that only what proceeds from His Spirit and anointing is important in the sight of God. The speaker warns against being deceived by a mighty ministry or gifts, as all works will be judged by God on the day of judgment.
Submission and Piety at Home
By Keith Daniel2.1K1:33:18Godly HomeJER 20:9EZK 3:14ACT 4:20ACT 5:41ROM 10:141CO 9:161TI 4:13In this video, the speaker reflects on an eight-week preaching tour they recently completed, covering 17 different states. They express their gratitude for the opportunity to preach and the support they received from the church and pastor. The speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the gospel, even in the face of opposition or discouragement. They draw inspiration from the biblical example of Jeremiah or Ezekiel, who felt compelled to speak God's word, even when others did not want to hear it. The speaker encourages listeners to never give up on preaching, even if it means facing challenges or persecution.
The Cost to Leadership
By Stephen Olford1.9K46:01LeadershipMAT 6:33JHN 21:221TI 4:132TI 4:22TI 4:5HEB 13:7HEB 13:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of leadership and the qualities that mark a true leader. He emphasizes the importance of character, conduct, and commitment in leadership. The preacher also highlights the need for leaders to have a genuine love and loyalty to Christ as Lord. He uses the example of Peter's denial and Jesus' questioning to illustrate the significance of love as a motivation for leadership. The sermon concludes with a reminder to remain faithful and obedient to Christ's call to leadership.
Why God Hates Pride
By Harold Vaughan1.8K1:07:19Pride2CH 7:14PSA 51:10ISA 40:3MAT 6:33ROM 12:22CO 10:5EPH 6:12COL 3:131TI 4:13JAS 4:7In this sermon, Pastor Joe encourages listeners to humble themselves before God and confess their sins. He emphasizes the importance of being honest and open with God, acknowledging our pride and shortcomings. He shares a personal story about a friend who taught him the importance of waiting for God's timing and not taking matters into our own hands. The sermon concludes with a reminder that we will be held accountable for our own actions and that we should focus on our own relationship with God rather than criticizing others.
Does Doctrine Matter - Part 1
By Derek Melton1.4K1:00:27DoctrineJDG 7:7MAT 6:33MRK 16:20ACT 2:42ROM 6:18EPH 4:141TI 4:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of doctrine in the church. He acknowledges the impact of their online presence, with thousands of people downloading sermons from their website. Despite the small numerical value of the congregation, the preacher draws a parallel to Gideon's small army, highlighting the potential impact of a dedicated few. The sermon focuses on the power of doctrine to demolish mindsets and beliefs that keep believers in bondage, and the preacher prays for the congregation to embrace pure doctrine with passion. The sermon references Romans 6 and 1 Timothy 4, emphasizing the need for believers to be rooted and grounded in doctrine.
Epistle to the Ephesians
By Ignatius of Antioch1.3K17:48Audio BooksJHN 6:53EPH 2:14COL 1:151TH 5:171TI 4:13JAS 2:181PE 4:8The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of running in harmony with the mind of God and following the teachings of Jesus Christ. It encourages believers to strive for peace and unity, as faith and love are the foundation of a noble life. The transcript also highlights the significance of actions over mere profession of faith, as one's true character is revealed through their deeds. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for frequent gatherings for thanksgiving and worship, as well as the importance of being in unity with the bishop and the church.
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.
What Is the True Nature of the Local Church
By Ralph Sutera1.1K1:10:20Local ChurchPRO 11:14MAT 18:20ACT 2:421CO 14:26EPH 4:121TI 4:13JAS 5:16The video discusses the topic of world evangelism and the three ways to witness to the world: love, unity, and joy. The speaker emphasizes that these are the only three ways God has outlined for us to share the message of the Gospel. The video also mentions a study manual that includes a worksheet for groups to use in applying these principles to their own lives. Additionally, the video touches on the importance of revival preceding evangelism and the role of the congregation in shaping the church's direction and ministry.
Gravity and Gladness on Sunday Morning - Lesson 4b
By John Piper76927:10JHN 4:24ROM 12:11CO 10:31COL 3:171TI 4:13HEB 10:24JAS 1:22In this sermon, Pastor John Piper discusses the topic of worship and culture. He emphasizes the importance of being mindful of how we hear the word of God and encourages the congregation to seek a deep and profound satisfaction in God. He also mentions a chapter in his book, "A Godward Life Book 2," titled "Take Heed How You Hear," which he recommends reading. Additionally, he briefly touches on the tension between fine and folk in worship, and how the mingling of historic and contemporary elements can enhance our worship experience.
How to Start a Discipleship Group
By E.A. Johnston74027:22DiscipleshipPSA 119:11PRO 29:18JHN 15:8ACT 2:421TI 4:132TI 2:2HEB 11:6The video is a sermon on the importance of discipleship and reaching the world for Christ. The speaker emphasizes the need for vision and training disciples to fulfill the great commission. He encourages the audience to focus on reproducing faithful men and women who will go out and teach others. The speaker also provides a format for discipleship meetings and suggests using inspirational videos and testimonies to deepen one's walk with God.
Marriage - Part 2
By George Verwer7291:16:09MarriagePRO 22:6MAT 6:331CO 7:3EPH 5:221TH 5:171TI 3:21TI 4:13In this sermon, the speaker addresses the challenges and confusion surrounding the topic of raising children. He acknowledges the influence of culture and the pressure from relatives in shaping our views on parenting. The speaker emphasizes the need for spiritual balance and the importance of instilling biblical principles in the lives of our children. He also highlights the significance of communication and organization within the home, as well as the need for sensitivity towards the needs of our family and marriage partners.
Worship & Foot Washing
By George Verwer6941:08:04WorshipMAT 6:33MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ROM 15:201TI 4:132TI 2:15In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of people becoming slaves to the pleasure cult, particularly in our country. He emphasizes the importance of not getting caught up in worldly pleasures and instead focusing on the message and challenge of the gospel. The speaker also mentions the need for training and equipping believers in countries like Somalia and Bhutan, where there are few believers. He cautions against an overemphasis on emotions and encourages a greater emphasis on dying to self and discipline. Overall, the sermon highlights the need for a balanced and disciplined approach to living out the Christian faith.
Spiritual Balance in World Missions
By George Verwer6191:08:09PRO 16:9MAT 6:33ACT 1:8ROM 12:22CO 2:111TH 5:171TI 4:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of personal relationships in spreading the word of God. While mass media and other methods can be effective, they should not replace the personal connection between individuals. The speaker also discusses the balance between social work and evangelism, highlighting the need to reach out to others while staying true to biblical teachings. Additionally, the sermon touches on various tangents that can distract young believers from a Bible-based Christianity, such as the ego trip of success and the debate between teams and the local church.
How to Almost Get to Heaven - William Blackburn
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons37029:41RadioJHN 3:3ACT 24:24ROM 10:172CO 5:171TI 4:13HEB 4:12JAS 1:22In this sermon, William Blackburn discusses the topic of how to get to heaven. He emphasizes the importance of being born again and having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Blackburn highlights the story of Felix, who came close to salvation but ultimately rejected it due to four common mistakes. These mistakes include relying on good deeds, feeling convicted of sin without repentance, being influenced by fear or pressure, and making excuses to reject Jesus. Blackburn urges listeners to examine their own lives and ensure they have truly surrendered to God for salvation.
Improving Preaching (3) (1.9.1983)
By Nigel Lee20838:32PreachingPSA 119:11PRO 4:7COL 3:161TI 4:132TI 2:15JAS 1:221PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of preaching in a convention in India. He initially prepared four messages but ended up finishing them all in just 25 minutes. He emphasizes the importance of daily studying and meditating on God's word to grow in knowledge and understanding. The speaker also discusses the different types of preaching, including evangelistic, doctrinal, and devotional, and highlights the need for messages to arise from a personal relationship with God.
6. the Priority of the Word
By Chuck Smith2The Importance of ScriptureExpositional PreachingNEH 8:8ISA 28:13DAN 12:3MAT 13:8ACT 20:271TI 4:13Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the Word of God in preaching, advocating for a systematic approach to teaching the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation. He argues that this method allows pastors to declare the whole counsel of God, addressing both inspiring and difficult topics without bias. Smith highlights the need for patience in ministry, as true growth and understanding of God's Word take time, contrasting it with the fleeting success of flashy ministries. He encourages a commitment to expositional preaching, where the focus is on reading, understanding, and applying Scripture. Ultimately, he reminds the congregation that lasting fruit comes from a deep and consistent engagement with God's Word.
The German Mass and Order of Divine Service
By Martin Luther0ROM 14:191CO 14:261CO 14:40GAL 5:13COL 3:161TI 4:13HEB 10:241PE 4:10Martin Luther emphasizes the importance of Christian liberty in the Order of Divine Service, urging against making it a compulsory law but rather using it in love and consideration for others. He advocates for a unified approach to Divine Service, highlighting the need for simplicity, Scripture reading, and teaching for the growth of Christians and the youth. Luther discusses the different types of Divine Service, including the use of Latin, German Mass, and private gatherings for serious Christians, emphasizing the focus on the Word of God and love for one's neighbor.
Find Your Best Friend in Books (Part 3)
By K.P. Yohannan0Spiritual GrowthThe Power of ReadingJOS 1:8PSA 1:2PSA 119:105PRO 4:7ISA 40:8ROM 15:4COL 3:161TI 4:132TI 3:16HEB 4:12K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the transformative power of reading, particularly the impact of good literature and Scripture on personal growth and relationships. He shares compelling stories of couples and individuals who found healing and hope through reading, illustrating how books can lead to forgiveness and a renewed perspective on life. Yohannan encourages the audience to cultivate a daily reading habit, focusing on uplifting materials and dedicating time to God's Word, as it is essential for spiritual nourishment and personal development.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Give attendance to reading - Timothy could easily comprehend the apostle's meaning; but at present this is not so easy. What books does the apostle mean? The books of the Old Testament were probably what he intended; these testified of Jesus, and by these he could either convince or confound the Jews. But, whether was the reading of these to be public or private? Probably both. It was customary to read the law and the prophets in the synagogue, and doubtless in the assemblies of the Christians; after which there was generally an exhortation founded upon the subject of the prophecy. Hence the apostle says: Give attendance to reading, to Exhortation, to Doctrine. Timothy was therefore to be diligent in reading the sacred writings at home, that he might be the better qualified to read and expound them in the public assemblies to the Christians, and to others who came to these public meetings. As to other books, there were not many at that time that could be of much use to a Christian minister. In those days the great business of the preacher was to bring forward the grand facts of Christianity, to prove these, and to show that all had happened according to the prediction of the prophets; and from these to show the work of God in the heart, and the evidence of that work in a holy life. At present the truth of God is not only to be proclaimed, but defended; and many customs or manners, and forms of speech, which are to us obsolete, must be explained from the writings of the ancients, and particularly from the works of those who lived about the same times, or nearest to them, and in the same or contiguous countries. This will require the knowledge of those languages in which those works have been composed, the chief of which are Hebrew and Greek, the languages in which the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments have been originally written. Latin is certainly of the next consequence; a language in which some of the most early comments have been written; and it is worth the trouble of being learned, were it only for the sake of the works of St. Jerome, who translated and wrote a commentary on the whole of the Scriptures; though in many respects it is both erroneous and superficial. Arabic and Syriac may be added with great advantage: the latter being in effect the language in which Christ and his apostles spoke and preached in Judea; and the former being radically the same with the Hebrew, and preserving many of the roots of that language, the derivatives of which often occur in the Hebrew Bible, but the roots never. The works of various scholars prove of how much consequence even the writings of heathen authors, chiefly those of Greece and Italy, are to the illustration of the sacred writings. And he who is best acquainted with the sacred records will avail himself of such helps, with gratitude both to God and man. Though so many languages and so much reading are not absolutely necessary to form a minister of the Gospel, (for there are many eminent ministers who have not such advantages), yet they are helps of the first magnitude to those who have them and know how to use them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Till I come--when Timothy's commission would be superseded for the time by the presence of the apostle himself (Ti1 1:3; Ti1 3:14). reading--especially in the public congregation. The practice of reading Scripture was transferred from the Jewish synagogue to the Christian Church (Luk 4:16-20; Act 13:15; Act 15:21; Co2 3:14). The New Testament Gospel and Epistles being recognized as inspired by those who had the gift of discerning spirits, were from the first, according as they were written, read along with the Old Testament in the Church (Th1 5:21, Th1 5:27; Col 4:16), [JUSTIN MARTYR, Apology, 1.67]. I think that while public reading is the prominent thought, the Spirit intended also to teach that Scripture reading in private should be "the fountain of all wisdom from which pastors ought to draw whatever they bring before their flock" [ALFORD]. exhortation--addressed to the feelings and will with a view to the regulation of the conduct. doctrine--Greek (ministerial), "teaching" or instruction. Addressed to the understanding, so as to impart knowledge (Ti1 6:2; Rom 12:7-8). Whether in public or private, exhortation and instruction should be based on Scripture reading.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Neglect not the gift that is in thee,.... What qualifies men for the work of the ministry is a gift from God: it is not of nature, nor is it mere natural abilities and capacity; nor is it any thing acquired, it is not human learning, or the knowledge of languages, arts, and sciences; nor is it special saving grace; for a man may have all these, and yet not be apt to teach, or fit for the ministry; but it is a peculiar and distinct gift, it is a gift of interpreting the Scriptures, and of dispensing the mysteries of grace to the edification of others; which, when it meets in a man with all the rest before mentioned, makes him very considerable: and this gift is in a man; it is a treasure put into earthen vessels, a good treasure in the heart, out of which a good minister of Christ brings forth many good things, things new and old, both for the delight and profit of men: and this gift is by no means to be neglected; this talent should not be hid in the earth, or wrapped up in a napkin; it should not lie dormant and useless, but should be stirred up, cultivated, and improved, as it may by reading, meditation, and prayer. And in order to enforce this exhortation on Timothy, the apostle adds, which was given thee by prophecy; that is, it was prophesied of before hand, by some of the prophets in the church, that a very extraordinary gift should be bestowed upon this young man, which would make him a very useful person in the church of God; see Ti1 1:18 and since it was now given, he ought not therefore to neglect it: or it was given him, as some read it, with prophecy, that he should use it, and it should be of great advantage to many souls; or, together with this gift of preaching, he had also a gift of foretelling things to come; or it may be, the words may be better rendered, "for prophecy": that is, for preaching, for prophesying is frequently used for preaching; see Co1 13:2 and then the sense is, that this gift was given him to qualify him for the interpreting of the Scriptures, the explaining of the prophecies of the Old Testament, and for the preaching of the Gospel; and therefore he should not neglect it, but use it for this purpose: and he adds, that it was given him with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery; or "of the eldership", or elders. So "eldership", is used by the Septuagint on Exo 3:16 for the elders of Israel. Now of these elders Paul was one, Ti2 1:6 nor is it unusual to call the apostles elders; see Pe1 5:1. Who joined with the apostle, in the imposition of hands on Timothy, is not certain; I should think only apostles, since here was a gift of the Holy Ghost came along with it; and it was only through the laying on of the hands of the apostles that the Holy Ghost was given. Philip, an evangelist, laid not hands on the believing Samaritans; but Peter and John, apostles, were sent down from Jerusalem to Samaria to do it, whereby many received the gifts of the Holy Ghost, fitting them to take the care of those new converts, and to spread the Gospel further in those parts, Act 8:5. And since gifts have ceased being conveyed this way, the rite of laying on of hands in ordinations seems useless, and of no avail. The apostle in calling those that joined with him, in putting hands on Timothy, the "presbytery or eldership", may have some reference to , "the elders of the congregation", which laid hands on the bullock for a sin offering, Lev 4:15 by whom some understand the great sanhedrim (m); others (n), not all the elders, but some particular persons, in number three; and so the ordination of a Rabbi was by three (o); hence we read of , "imposition of hands by the elders" (p). (m) Bartenora in Misn. Menachot, c. 9. sect. 3. (n) Siphri in Maimon. in Misn. ib. c. 9. sect. 7. (o) Misn. Sanhedrin, c. 1. sect. 3. & Maimon. & Bartenora in ib. (p) T. Hieros. Horayot, fol. 46. 2.