1 Timothy 4:14
Verse
Context
A Good Servant of Jesus Christ
13Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching.14Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given you through the prophecy spoken over you at the laying on of the hands of the elders.15Be diligent in these matters and absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Neglect not the gift that is in thee - The word χαρισμα here must refer to the gifts and graces of the Divine Spirit, which Timothy received when set apart to the work of an evangelist by the imposition of St. Paul's hands, Ti2 1:6, and by that of the presbytery or eldership; for it most evidently appears, from this verse and that above quoted, that he received this double imposition, not probably at different times, but on one and the same occasion. These very gifts and graces might be improved; and we have reason to believe, if not improved, would be withdrawn by the great Head of the Church. Given thee by prophecy - It has already been conjectured (see the preface, and the note on Ti1 1:18) that there had been some remarkable prediction relative to the future destiny and usefulness of Timothy. And probably it was in consequence of this that he was set apart to the office of evangelist and bishop in the Church at Ephesus. When apostles laid their hands on men, they ordinarily received the Holy Spirit with this imposition. This may be what the apostle calls to the remembrance of Timothy, and tells him not to neglect what he had received, nor the purpose for which he had received it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Neglect not the gift--by letting it lie unused. In Ti2 1:6 the gift is represented as a spark of the Spirit lying within him, and sure to smoulder by neglect, the stirring up or keeping in lively exercise of which depends on the will of him on whom it is bestowed (Mat 25:18, Mat 25:25, Mat 25:27-28). The charism or spiritual gift, is that of the Spirit which qualified him for "the work of an evangelist" (Eph 4:11; Ti2 4:5), or perhaps the gift of discerning spirits, specially needed in his function of ordaining, as overseer [BISHOP HINDS]. given thee--by God (Co1 12:4, Co1 12:6). by prophecy--that is, by the Holy Spirit, at his general ordination, or else consecration, to the special see of Ephesus, speaking through the prophets God's will to give him the graces needed to qualify him for his work (Ti1 1:18; Act 13:1-3). with . . . laying on of . . . hands--So in Joshua's case (Num 27:18-20; Deu 34:9). The gift was connected with the symbolical act of laying on hands. But the Greek "with" implies that the presbyter's laying on hands was the mere accompaniment of the conferring of the gift. "By" (Ti2 1:6) implies that Paul's laying on his hands was the actual instrument of its being conferred. of the presbytery--In Ti2 1:6 the apostle mentions only his own laying on of hands. But there his aim is to remind Timothy specially of the part he himself took in imparting to him the gift. Here he mentions the fact, quite consistent with the other, that the neighboring presbyters took part in the ordination or consecration, he, however, taking the foremost part. Paul, though having the general oversight of the elders everywhere, was an elder himself (Pe1 5:1; Jo2 1:1). The Jewish council was composed of the elders of the Church (the presbytery, Luk 22:66; Act 22:5), and a presiding rabbi; so the Christian Church was composed of apostles, elders, and a president (Act 15:16). As the president of the synagogue was of the same order as his presbyters, so the bishop was of the same order as his presbyters. At the ordination of the president of the synagogue there were always three presbyters present to lay on hands, so the early Church canons required three bishops to be present at the consecration of a bishop. As the president of the synagogue, so the bishop of the Church alone could ordain, he acting as the representative, and in the name of the whole presbytery [VITRINGA]. So, in the Anglican Church, the bishop ordains, the presbyters or priests present joining with him in laying on hands.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Meditate on these things,.... Not only on those instructions, advices, and exhortations, which the apostle had given him, throughout this chapter, which might be very useful to him, often to think of, and revolve in his mind, and seriously consider and reflect upon; but upon the Scriptures, the reading of which he had recommended to him, and the doctrines contained therein; it becomes every man not only to read, but meditate on the word of God, and much more ministers of the Gospel. The Scriptures should be read with care, and be industriously and laboriously searched into, as men dig in mines for silver or golden ore; and passages in it should be carefully compared together, the more obscure with those that are more plain and easy; and the whole is to be studied with great attention and application: give thyself wholly to them: to the reading of the Scriptures, meditation upon them, and preaching the doctrines contained in them, clear of all secular affairs, or worldly business and employment. The apostles threw off the branch of deaconship, or ministering to the poor, that they might give themselves up wholly to the ministry of the word, and prayer; and much more should worldly business be cast off, where the circumstances of ministers and churches will admit of it; a Christian soldier, or minister of the Gospel, ought not, if possible, to be entangled with the affairs of this life; he finds enough to do without, in the discharge of his ministerial function; and though the apostles sometimes wrought with their own hands, yet it was not because they had so much leisure from the ministry, or time on their hands, or because they had not a power of forbearing working, but out of necessity, see Act 20:34, or these words may be rendered, be thou in these things; let thine heart be in them; for if a minister's heart is not in his work, if he does not take delight in it, it will be a slavery and drudgery to him; spend all the time and strength in them, give thyself continually to them, and be always diligent and laborious in them: that thy profiting may appear to all; that it may be manifest to all that attend the ministry of the word that there is an increase in gifts, a growing in spiritual knowledge, an improvement of the talents bestowed: or that this profiting or increase might appear in all things; in every branch of the ministry, both in exhortation or consolation, and in doctrine; or that it might be manifest among all; that is, all that hear might receive some profit, might learn, and be comforted and edified; faith might be increased, and the joy of it be furthered; and all under the ministry visibly thrive and flourish.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:14 laid their hands on you: The gesture signified recognition, authorization, and blessing (see Acts 13:1-3; 6:6). This was probably the same event as in 2 Tim 1:6-7 (see 1 Tim 1:18; cp. Rom 12:6-8; 1 Cor 12:7-11; Eph 4:7-13). Paul’s ministry and that of his delegates was under the authority of the church.
1 Timothy 4:14
A Good Servant of Jesus Christ
13Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching.14Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given you through the prophecy spoken over you at the laying on of the hands of the elders.15Be diligent in these matters and absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Exodus) Exodus 31:1-6
By J. Vernon McGee3.2K07:07EXO 31:1MAT 6:33ROM 12:61CO 12:4EPH 4:111TI 4:141PE 4:10In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about a man who had stage fright and felt unable to speak in public. Despite this, the man was incredibly helpful and willing to serve in other ways. The speaker then discusses the importance of recognizing and utilizing the gifts that God has given us. He uses the example of Bezaliel, who was filled with the Spirit of God and given special skills to work on the tabernacle. The speaker emphasizes the importance of using our gifts faithfully and not trying to do things we are not equipped for.
Quote - Laying on of Hands
By Leonard Ravenhill1.6K00:11Ravenhill QuoteLaying on of HandsSpiritual EmpowermentMRK 16:18ACT 8:171TI 4:14HEB 6:2JAS 5:14Leonard Ravenhill reflects on the profound practice of laying on of hands, a tradition he learned from his father, a devout believer in the Bible. He emphasizes the significance of this act in imparting blessings, healing, and spiritual empowerment, showcasing the deep faith and conviction that accompanies such a practice. Ravenhill's message encourages believers to embrace this biblical principle as a means of connecting with God's power and grace.
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.
Church - Part 5
By Ken Baird1.0K59:05MAT 6:33MRK 16:17ROM 14:1ROM 15:71CO 12:41TI 4:14JAS 5:14In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the topic of spiritual gifts and the importance of the remembrance of the Lord Jesus. He emphasizes that there are diversities of gifts, but they all come from the same spirit. The speaker also highlights the significance of the Lord's Supper as a time of worship and remembrance of Jesus' sacrifice. He mentions that this special meeting sets apart the remembrance of the Lord in a unique way and discusses the functions of the church, including worship, witness, and government.
A Short Address to His Brethren on the Nature and Constitution of the Church of Christ, and of the Branch of It Established in England
By J.H. Newman0JHN 20:22ACT 20:281CO 1:101CO 12:28EPH 4:111TI 4:14TIT 1:5HEB 13:171PE 5:2J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of understanding the nature and history of the Church, particularly the Church of England, as a branch of the holy Catholic Church. He emphasizes the divine authority and succession of ordained ministers, highlighting the significance of Apostolic succession in the Church's structure and the transmission of spiritual gifts. Newman explains the roles of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons in the Church, detailing the process of ordination and consecration, and the responsibilities each ordained minister carries. He underscores the continuity of the Church's authority and the necessity of revering and upholding the Church's teachings and unity, as well as the importance of avoiding schism and dissent.
The Divine Resource
By T. Austin-Sparks0Divine StrengthChristian IdentityISA 40:31ROM 8:372CO 12:9EPH 3:20PHP 4:131TI 4:142TI 1:62TI 2:11PE 5:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the divine resources available to Christians through the example of Timothy, who, despite his weaknesses and the immense responsibilities placed upon him by Paul, is called to rely on God's supernatural strength. Paul does not demand Timothy to be a super-man in his own strength but encourages him to draw from the divine gift and grace provided by God. The sermon highlights that every Christian is equipped with supernatural resources to face life's challenges, underscoring that true strength comes from Christ. Sparks reassures believers that they are called to a higher purpose and can endure hardships through the power of God. Ultimately, he encourages Christians to recognize their unique identity and capabilities in Christ, which surpass human limitations.
Hebrews 12:11-15
By St. John Chrysostom0PRO 18:191CO 6:9GAL 6:21TH 5:111TI 4:14HEB 12:11HEB 12:14John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of enduring chastisement and trials, comparing it to bitter medicine that yields the fruit of righteousness in the end. He encourages believers to lift up their hands and make straight paths, emphasizing the need to endure patiently and have faith in the good outcome of their struggles. Chrysostom urges the congregation to follow peace with all men, live in holiness, and support each other in their spiritual journey, highlighting the significance of mutual encouragement and accountability. He stresses the importance of reproving and exhorting one another with gentleness and love, reminding them that by bearing each other's burdens, they fulfill the law of Christ and contribute to each other's edification.
The All-Inclusive Goal
By T. Austin-Sparks0Church Unity and GrowthThe Fulness of ChristROM 12:41CO 12:12EPH 1:23EPH 4:10EPH 4:13COL 4:171TI 4:142TI 1:62TI 4:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the ultimate goal of the Church is to attain 'the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ,' as stated in Ephesians 4:13. He explains that the Church, as the Body of Christ, is essential for His completeness, and that various ministries within the Church must work together in harmony to achieve this goal. Each member's unique gifts and functions should be recognized and utilized for the collective growth of the body, avoiding imbalance that can lead to weakness. Sparks highlights the importance of being led by the Holy Spirit in discovering one's ministry, rather than relying on human appointment. Ultimately, the Church's progress towards the fulness of Christ requires mutual cooperation and a focus on spiritual maturity.
Kingdom of God
By Martyn-Lloyd Jones0MAT 25:29EPH 4:301TH 5:191TI 4:142TI 1:6Paul exhorts Timothy to continually keep the gift of God within him at full flame, using the metaphor of kindling a fire to emphasize the need to keep the zeal and passion for ministry burning brightly. Various commentators and theologians stress the importance of not allowing spiritual gifts to diminish but to actively stir them up, using them for the benefit of others and for the glory of God. The present tense in 'stir up the gift' conveys the idea of continuous action, urging Timothy to keep the flame of his spiritual gifts blazing despite challenges and difficulties.
Letters on Revival--No. 14.
By Charles Finney0RevivalSpiritual Leadership2CH 7:14EZK 34:2MAT 28:19ACT 2:17ROM 12:111TI 4:142TI 1:6HEB 10:24JAS 5:161PE 5:2Charles Finney addresses the alarming decline of revival spirit among ministers, emphasizing that without a passionate commitment to revival from the ministry, the church cannot expect to experience spiritual renewal. He argues that ministers must lead by example, embodying a deep spiritual awakening to inspire their congregations. Finney believes that the superficiality in the hearts of ministers is a significant barrier to revival, and that a truly revived ministry will naturally lead to a revitalized church. He calls for ministers to confess their own shortcomings and to actively engage in promoting revivals, asserting that the health of the church is directly linked to the spiritual state of its leaders.
The Duty of a Pastor to His People.
By John Gill0Doctrinal IntegrityPastoral ResponsibilityMAT 25:29ACT 20:281CO 9:271TI 4:141TI 5:81TI 6:32TI 1:62TI 4:16JAS 5:201PE 4:11John Gill emphasizes the vital responsibilities of a pastor towards his congregation, urging them to take heed of themselves and their doctrine as outlined in 2 Timothy 4:16. He highlights the importance of self-care, doctrinal integrity, and the need for ministers to be exemplary in their conduct, as their actions significantly impact the spiritual well-being of their flock. Gill stresses that by adhering to these principles, pastors not only safeguard their own salvation but also play a crucial role in the salvation of those who hear them. The sermon serves as a solemn reminder of the weighty calling of pastoral ministry and the accountability that comes with it.
Of the Church in Its Pure, Declining, and Declined State, and Recovery
By Isaac Penington0DEU 5:29DEU 30:19ISA 61:1ISA 63:7JER 31:20JER 44:4ROM 9:201TI 4:14REV 15:4REV 21:2REV 22:17Isaac Penington preaches about the state of the church in its first pure state, its declining state, its declined state, and its recovery. He emphasizes the importance of faith in receiving the gospel and the need for obedience and righteousness in the new covenant of life. Penington explains that God's grace is freely given to all, but it is the individual's response to the grace that determines its effect in their life, leading to either justification or condemnation.
1 Timothy 1:18, 19
By St. John Chrysostom01TI 4:14John Chrysostom emphasizes the divine election and dignity of the office of a Teacher and Priest, highlighting the importance of being chosen by God and not by human considerations. He stresses the need for strong faith, good conscience, and obedience to God's calling, warning against neglecting the gifts and responsibilities given by God. Chrysostom urges Timothy to 'war a good warfare' by maintaining faith and a good conscience, emphasizing the spiritual battle and the necessity for continual vigilance and preparation for conflicts. He also addresses the consequences of turning away from faith, using examples like Hymenaeus and Alexander who made shipwreck concerning the faith, and explains the concept of delivering someone to Satan for instruction and correction.
Adherence to the Apostolical Succession the Safest Course
By J.H. Newman0ISA 6:81CO 11:231TI 4:14HEB 13:171PE 2:9J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of acknowledging the high privilege of belonging to the Apostolic Church for those who believe in the Nicene Creed. He questions why many are indifferent to this privilege and explores the reasons behind this lack of enthusiasm, emphasizing the need to uphold the divine ministerial commission as conveyed through the hands of commissioned persons. Newman urges for a return to the principles of the early Church Fathers in valuing and preserving the Apostolic Succession as a means of ensuring the conveyance of Christ's sacrifice and maintaining communion with Him.
The Message of 2 Timothy
By G. Campbell Morgan0Faithfulness in ServiceMinistry1CO 9:16EPH 4:111TI 4:142TI 1:62TI 1:122TI 2:152TI 3:162TI 4:5HEB 13:171PE 4:10G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the essential qualities of a true minister of Jesus Christ in his sermon on 2 Timothy, focusing on the importance of perfect equipment through gifts and grace, prevailing methods of construction and character, and the supreme work of knowing and preaching the Word. He highlights the urgent call to 'fulfill thy ministry' amidst the perils threatening the church, urging ministers to stir up their gifts and be strengthened in grace. Morgan stresses the significance of the ministry of the Word as a corrective to the challenges faced by the church and the necessity for the church to recognize and support those called to ministry.
The Episcopal Church Apostolical
By J.H. Newman0MAT 28:18ACT 1:241CO 4:1EPH 4:111TI 4:142TI 2:2TIT 1:5HEB 13:171PE 5:1JUD 1:3J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of Apostolic Succession in the Church, emphasizing the divine providence in preserving this Succession throughout history. He argues that the doctrine of a Succession is natural and clear from Scripture, as those ordained by the Apostles are the rightful representatives of Christ. Newman highlights the significance of the Ministerial Office being perpetuated through a fixed law of Succession, ensuring the continuity of the Church's authority and spiritual guidance.
The Personal Element of Religion
By Aaron Hills0PSA 139:23MAT 25:15MRK 9:24JHN 14:1ROM 12:61CO 12:4EPH 2:10COL 3:231TI 4:14Aaron Hills preaches about the importance of recognizing and embracing our individual responsibility to God, emphasizing the unique gifts, abilities, and opportunities that God has given to each person. He highlights the need for personal effort, zeal, and active engagement in sharing the Gospel and saving souls, pointing out the detrimental effects of neglecting one's personal duty and responsibility. Hills urges believers to be conscious of their distinct personality, to engage in personal service and special duties according to their gifts, and to understand the significance of individualism in fulfilling God's purposes.
The First Church Manuals and Liturgies
By J.B. Galloway0PRO 4:14ACT 6:31CO 6:11GAL 5:221TH 5:231TI 3:81TI 4:141TI 4:161PE 1:151PE 4:10J.B. Galloway preaches on 'The Didache,' the oldest church manual in existence, believed to be from the first century. It contains instructions on church rites, baptism, fasting, and the Lord's Prayer. The document emphasizes holiness, urging believers to flee from evil and embrace meekness, long-suffering, and goodness. The 'Didache' highlights the sanctified ones as the true Church of God, praying for deliverance from evil and perfection in love. Additionally, Apostolic Constitutions and Canons provide insights on ecclesiastical ordinances, emphasizing spiritual worthiness and the importance of the Holy Spirit in church officers.
Thoughts on the Ministerial Commission
By J.H. Newman0ACT 20:28EPH 4:111TI 4:142TI 1:6HEB 13:17J.H. Newman, in his sermon, urges fellow clergy members to rise up and support the Church in the face of evil times, emphasizing the need to take action rather than just acknowledge the Church's perilous state. He challenges them to consider their role in supporting bishops and the Church, especially if the government and country turn against it, highlighting the importance of their apostolic descent and authority as ministers of Christ. Newman stresses the significance of the Apostolical Succession in maintaining the integrity and authority of the Christian Ministry, urging clergy to uphold their divine mission and not be swayed by worldly influences.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Neglect not the gift that is in thee - The word χαρισμα here must refer to the gifts and graces of the Divine Spirit, which Timothy received when set apart to the work of an evangelist by the imposition of St. Paul's hands, Ti2 1:6, and by that of the presbytery or eldership; for it most evidently appears, from this verse and that above quoted, that he received this double imposition, not probably at different times, but on one and the same occasion. These very gifts and graces might be improved; and we have reason to believe, if not improved, would be withdrawn by the great Head of the Church. Given thee by prophecy - It has already been conjectured (see the preface, and the note on Ti1 1:18) that there had been some remarkable prediction relative to the future destiny and usefulness of Timothy. And probably it was in consequence of this that he was set apart to the office of evangelist and bishop in the Church at Ephesus. When apostles laid their hands on men, they ordinarily received the Holy Spirit with this imposition. This may be what the apostle calls to the remembrance of Timothy, and tells him not to neglect what he had received, nor the purpose for which he had received it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Neglect not the gift--by letting it lie unused. In Ti2 1:6 the gift is represented as a spark of the Spirit lying within him, and sure to smoulder by neglect, the stirring up or keeping in lively exercise of which depends on the will of him on whom it is bestowed (Mat 25:18, Mat 25:25, Mat 25:27-28). The charism or spiritual gift, is that of the Spirit which qualified him for "the work of an evangelist" (Eph 4:11; Ti2 4:5), or perhaps the gift of discerning spirits, specially needed in his function of ordaining, as overseer [BISHOP HINDS]. given thee--by God (Co1 12:4, Co1 12:6). by prophecy--that is, by the Holy Spirit, at his general ordination, or else consecration, to the special see of Ephesus, speaking through the prophets God's will to give him the graces needed to qualify him for his work (Ti1 1:18; Act 13:1-3). with . . . laying on of . . . hands--So in Joshua's case (Num 27:18-20; Deu 34:9). The gift was connected with the symbolical act of laying on hands. But the Greek "with" implies that the presbyter's laying on hands was the mere accompaniment of the conferring of the gift. "By" (Ti2 1:6) implies that Paul's laying on his hands was the actual instrument of its being conferred. of the presbytery--In Ti2 1:6 the apostle mentions only his own laying on of hands. But there his aim is to remind Timothy specially of the part he himself took in imparting to him the gift. Here he mentions the fact, quite consistent with the other, that the neighboring presbyters took part in the ordination or consecration, he, however, taking the foremost part. Paul, though having the general oversight of the elders everywhere, was an elder himself (Pe1 5:1; Jo2 1:1). The Jewish council was composed of the elders of the Church (the presbytery, Luk 22:66; Act 22:5), and a presiding rabbi; so the Christian Church was composed of apostles, elders, and a president (Act 15:16). As the president of the synagogue was of the same order as his presbyters, so the bishop was of the same order as his presbyters. At the ordination of the president of the synagogue there were always three presbyters present to lay on hands, so the early Church canons required three bishops to be present at the consecration of a bishop. As the president of the synagogue, so the bishop of the Church alone could ordain, he acting as the representative, and in the name of the whole presbytery [VITRINGA]. So, in the Anglican Church, the bishop ordains, the presbyters or priests present joining with him in laying on hands.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Meditate on these things,.... Not only on those instructions, advices, and exhortations, which the apostle had given him, throughout this chapter, which might be very useful to him, often to think of, and revolve in his mind, and seriously consider and reflect upon; but upon the Scriptures, the reading of which he had recommended to him, and the doctrines contained therein; it becomes every man not only to read, but meditate on the word of God, and much more ministers of the Gospel. The Scriptures should be read with care, and be industriously and laboriously searched into, as men dig in mines for silver or golden ore; and passages in it should be carefully compared together, the more obscure with those that are more plain and easy; and the whole is to be studied with great attention and application: give thyself wholly to them: to the reading of the Scriptures, meditation upon them, and preaching the doctrines contained in them, clear of all secular affairs, or worldly business and employment. The apostles threw off the branch of deaconship, or ministering to the poor, that they might give themselves up wholly to the ministry of the word, and prayer; and much more should worldly business be cast off, where the circumstances of ministers and churches will admit of it; a Christian soldier, or minister of the Gospel, ought not, if possible, to be entangled with the affairs of this life; he finds enough to do without, in the discharge of his ministerial function; and though the apostles sometimes wrought with their own hands, yet it was not because they had so much leisure from the ministry, or time on their hands, or because they had not a power of forbearing working, but out of necessity, see Act 20:34, or these words may be rendered, be thou in these things; let thine heart be in them; for if a minister's heart is not in his work, if he does not take delight in it, it will be a slavery and drudgery to him; spend all the time and strength in them, give thyself continually to them, and be always diligent and laborious in them: that thy profiting may appear to all; that it may be manifest to all that attend the ministry of the word that there is an increase in gifts, a growing in spiritual knowledge, an improvement of the talents bestowed: or that this profiting or increase might appear in all things; in every branch of the ministry, both in exhortation or consolation, and in doctrine; or that it might be manifest among all; that is, all that hear might receive some profit, might learn, and be comforted and edified; faith might be increased, and the joy of it be furthered; and all under the ministry visibly thrive and flourish.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:14 laid their hands on you: The gesture signified recognition, authorization, and blessing (see Acts 13:1-3; 6:6). This was probably the same event as in 2 Tim 1:6-7 (see 1 Tim 1:18; cp. Rom 12:6-8; 1 Cor 12:7-11; Eph 4:7-13). Paul’s ministry and that of his delegates was under the authority of the church.