1 Timothy 6:12
Verse
Context
Sermons



Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fight the good fight of faith - "Agonize the good agony." Thou hast a contest to sustain in which thy honor, thy life, thy soul, are at stake. Live the Gospel, and defend the cause of God. Unmask hypocrites, expel the profligate, purge and build up the Church, live in the spirit of thy religion, and give thyself wholly to this work. Lay hold on eternal life - All this is in allusion to the exercises in the public Grecian games: Fight, conquer, and seize upon the prize; carry off the crown of eternal life! Whereunto thou art also called - The allusion to the public games is still carried on: Thou hast been called into this palaestra; thou hast been accepted as one proper to enter the lists with any antagonists that may offer; in the presence of many witnesses thou hast taken the necessary engagements upon thee, and submitted to be governed by the laws of the stadium; many eyes are upon thee, to see whether thou wilt fight manfully, and be faithful. Timothy's faith was undoubtedly tried by severe persecution. In Heb 13:23, it is said: Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty. Hence it appears that he was imprisoned for the testimony of Christ, and perhaps it was then, more than at his ordination, that he made the good confession here mentioned. He risked his life and conquered. If not a martyr, he was a confessor.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Fight the good fight--BIRKS thinks this Epistle was written from Corinth, where contests in the national games recurred at stated seasons, which will account for the allusion here as in Co1 9:24-26. Contrast "strifes of words" (Ti1 6:4). Compare Ti1 1:18; Ti2 4:7. The "good profession" is connected with the good fight (Psa 60:4). lay hold on eternal life--the crown, or garland, the prize of victory, laid hold of by the winner in the "good fight" (Ti2 4:7-8; Phi 3:12-14). "Fight (literally, 'strive') with such striving earnestness as to lay hold on the prize, eternal life." also--not in the oldest manuscripts. professed a good profession--Greek, "didst confess THE good confession," namely, the Christian confession (as the Greek word is the same in this verse as that for "confession" in Ti1 6:13, probably the profession here is the confession that Christ's kingdom is the kingdom of the truth, Joh 18:36-37), at thy being set apart to thy ministerial function (whether in general, or as overseer at Ephesus): the same occasion as is referred to in Ti1 1:18; Ti1 4:14; Ti2 1:4. before many witnesses--who would testify against thee if thou shouldest fall away [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Fight the good fight of faith,.... The apostle suggests to Timothy, that he had other business to do than to mind the things of this world; his life was a state of warfare; he was a soldier, and was not to entangle himself with the things of this life; he had many enemies to engage with, as Satan, and his principalities and powers; sin, and the lusts of the flesh; the world, and the men of it, and a great fight of afflictions to endure with them; as also false teachers, with, whom particularly he was to fight the good fight of faith, that so the truth of the Gospel, which they resisted, might continue with the saints. This fight is called "the fight of faith"; partly in opposition to the law, and to , "the fight", or "war of the law" the Jews (r) so much talk of; and in which the false teachers, in the apostle's time, were so much engaged, and against whom the apostles set themselves; and partly because the doctrine of faith, the faith of the Gospel, the faith once delivered to the saints, is what they earnestly contended, strove, and fought for; and because the grace of faith, as conversant with the Scriptures of truth, was the weapon they fought with: and this may be called a "good fight", because it is in a good cause, the cause of God and truth; and under a good Captain, Jesus Christ the Captain of our salvation; for which good weapons are provided, even the whole armour of God, and which are not carnal, but spiritual and mighty; to which may be added, that those who are engaged in this fight may be sure of victory, and the crown of glory, life, and righteousness: so that when they have done fighting they have nothing else to do but to lay hold on eternal life; as Timothy for his encouragement is here bid to do. Eternal life is the prize of the high calling of God, which is held up, and held forth to those who are fighting the Lord's battles; and this they should look unto as the recompense of reward; and this they may lay hold upon, even now by faith, believing their interest in it, their right unto it, and that they shall enjoy it; of which they may be the more assured, because of their effectual calling: whereunto thou art also called; not barely by the external ministration of the Gospel, in which sense many are called, but few chosen and saved; but internally, by the special grace and power of the Spirit of God; and such who are so called, are not only called to grace, but to eternal glory; and the God of all grace, who has called unto it, of his sovereign good will and pleasure, is faithful, and will bestow it. The word "also" is left out in the Alexandrian copy, and in the Vulgate Latin, and in all the Oriental versions; but it seems to be emphatic, and is used to strengthen Timothy's faith, as to the enjoyment of eternal life; since it was not only the reward of grace, following upon the good fight of faith, but was that also to which he was called by the grace of God: and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses; both before the brethren at Lystra, at his baptism and admission into the church, before whom he gave an account of his faith, and made a profession of it; and who, upon this, and his agreeable life and conversation, gave a good report of him to the Apostle Paul, Act 16:1 and before the apostle, and the rest of the elders, when they laid their hands on him, whereby an extraordinary gift was conveyed unto him, Ti1 4:14 or it may be before the men of the world, some violent persecutors, before whom he bravely, and with great intrepidity, professed his faith in Christ Jesus; and which he continued constantly to do, in every place wherever he came; and which being done so often, and so publicly, is a reason why he should keep on till the battle was over. (r) Zohar in Numb. fol. 99. 4. T. Hieros. Taanith, fol. 69. 2. & Bab. Chagiga, fol. 14. 1. Megilia, fol. 15. 2. & Sanhedrin, fol. 93. 2. & 111. 2. Midrash Ruth, fol. 31. 4. Echa Rabbati, fol. 53. 2. Caphtor, fol. 93. 2. & Seder Olam Rabba, c. 25. & Jarchi in Cant. iii. 8.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:12 The promise of eternal life moderates the appeal of wealth (cp. 6:19). • Paul is probably referring to the time when Timothy declared his faith at baptism.
1 Timothy 6:12
Fight the Good Fight
11But you, O man of God, flee from these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.12Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession before many witnesses.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Pdf Book) Apostolic Foundations
By Art Katz5.9K00:00EbooksApostolic FoundationsEternal PerspectiveMAT 5:11ACT 13:2ROM 10:142CO 4:16EPH 3:10COL 3:11TH 1:51TI 6:12HEB 11:1REV 20:6Art Katz emphasizes the critical importance of the term 'apostolic' in the church, arguing that its loss threatens the very foundation of faith. He calls for a restoration of apostolic principles, which are rooted in a deep understanding of God's character and purpose, and highlights the necessity of humility, suffering, and a focus on eternity in the life of believers. Katz illustrates that true apostolic living requires a radical commitment to God's glory over personal ambition, and that the church must confront the principalities and powers of darkness with a clear, powerful message of repentance and the coming judgment. Ultimately, he urges the church to embody the essence of Christ's humility and sacrifice, becoming a living testimony of God's eternal purpose.
Becoming a Solider God's Army Requires a Personal Calvary (High Quality)
By Keith Daniel3.7K44:21Dying To SelfPSA 16:11MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 17:30ROM 1:161CO 9:161TI 6:12In this sermon, the preacher, Booth, is described as a fearless leader who marches his soldiers into dangerous and crime-infested areas. He dresses his soldiers in unique and cheap uniforms, but equips them with one powerful weapon - the gospel. Booth teaches and prays for these former drunks, transforming them into holy men of God. The sermon emphasizes the sacrifice and worthiness of spreading the message of Jesus, comparing it to the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross. The preacher also mentions a powerful moment where even the prostitutes in the brothels were moved to repentance and brokenness before God's love.
Becoming a Solider God's Army Requires a Personal Calvary
By Keith Daniel3.3K44:21Dying To SelfISA 55:6EZK 33:11ROM 2:41TI 6:12HEB 3:15In this sermon, the preacher talks about the power of the word of God as a weapon. He shares the story of William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, who fearlessly marched his soldiers into crime-infested areas to bring the message of God's love. Despite facing violence and opposition, Booth's soldiers, including former prostitutes and criminals, were transformed by their encounter with God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of personal surrender to Jesus Christ and the willingness to deny oneself for the privilege of carrying the cross.
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.
(Laying Hold on Eternity) Knowing Jesus as Our Lord
By Zac Poonen1.9K55:47GEN 3:6MAT 1:21MAT 6:33ROM 6:231TI 6:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding what Jesus went through on the cross. He explains that Jesus endured not only physical suffering but also the concentrated punishment of an eternity in hell in just three hours. The speaker highlights that Jesus came to save people not only from the penalty of sin but also from the power of sin. He uses the analogy of a father forgiving his disobedient son who fell into a pit to illustrate the concept of justification and forgiveness. The sermon also emphasizes the need to know Jesus and follow his example in living a righteous life.
Three Keys to Spiritual Victory
By Jim Cymbala1.8K32:51Spiritual Victory2SA 15:21MAT 16:26ROM 7:19EPH 6:121TI 6:122TI 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of fighting for souls and standing against evil. He encourages believers to fight for their loved ones through prayer, even when they are facing difficult situations. The preacher also highlights the need to discern when to walk away from certain battles and not waste time and energy on unnecessary conflicts. He calls for a deeper commitment to Christianity, beyond just attending church on Sundays, and urges believers to be all in for God's work. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of being fully engaged and committed in every aspect of life, just like a dedicated basketball player on the court.
(2 Samuel) the Sweet Psalmist and the Mighty Men
By David Guzik1.3K53:031SA 16:12SA 24:12SA 24:10PSA 30:5PSA 71:1MAT 6:331TI 6:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses a short psalm written by David towards the end of his life. The psalm contains wisdom and lessons from David's life. The speaker admires David for living a life that seemed larger than others, accomplishing more in one lifetime than most people do in several. David's humble beginnings are highlighted, as he came from a humble farming family. The importance of justice in leadership is emphasized, as David reflects on the need for rulers to exercise justice and rule in the fear of God. The speaker also emphasizes David's trust in God and his belief that God will take care of his enemies. The psalm ends with David acknowledging that his own house may not have the same blessings as described earlier, but he still trusts in God.
Knowing God and Jesus Christ (Kannada)
By Zac Poonen1.2K59:19HAG 2:11JHN 15:5JHN 16:7JHN 17:3ROM 12:51CO 12:131CO 15:33EPH 5:181TI 6:12JUD 1:24This sermon emphasizes the true meaning of eternal life as knowing God and Jesus Christ, not just living forever. It highlights the importance of continually laying hold of eternal life, as seen in the exhortation to Timothy to 'take hold of eternal life.' The message stresses the need to choose to pursue eternal life over worldly pursuits and the significance of knowing God deeply to experience spiritual growth and transformation.
What Can We Take Into Eternity?
By Peter Masters1.1K33:06PSA 49:17PRO 11:4MAT 6:19MAT 16:261TI 6:61TI 6:121TI 6:19REV 3:17This sermon emphasizes the reality that we enter and leave this world with nothing material, highlighting the importance of spiritual preparation for eternity. It contrasts the fate of those who die without Christ, taking only guilt, with those who know the Lord, taking great riches and gain into eternity. The message urges listeners to lay hold on eternal life and store up a good foundation for the time to come, emphasizing the significance of knowing and belonging to Christ.
Knowing God Through Brokenness
By Zac Poonen1.1K1:07:36JOB 40:4ISA 53:3JER 9:23MAT 8:17JHN 17:32CO 4:16PHP 3:81TI 6:12JAS 5:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing God personally and experiencing eternal life as defined by Jesus in John 17. It highlights that eternal life is not just living forever but knowing God intimately, being broken to know Him better, and laying hold of eternal life by fighting the good fight to deepen our relationship with God.
(1 Timothy) Waging the Good Warfare
By Brian Brodersen91348:38MAT 6:33ACT 13:21TI 1:181TI 6:12HEB 12:1HEB 12:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying committed to the fight of faith. He uses the analogy of a shipwrecked vessel to illustrate how people can lose their way and drift away from serving God. The speaker encourages the audience to stand on the word of God and any specific prophecies they have received. He also shares a personal story of someone who started off strong in their faith but allowed worldly desires to lead them astray. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the Christian life is a battle and leaders in particular will face intense opposition.
Studies in Psalm 16:-05
By James K. Boswell87041:33PSA 16:6ISA 9:6MAT 14:221TI 6:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a working knowledge of the word of God. He encourages listeners to spend time studying and understanding the scriptures in order to be transformed and changed in the glory of Jesus. The speaker also mentions a scripture from Isaiah 9:6, which proves the divinity and humanity of Jesus. He shares a personal anecdote about a phrase he heard in the middle of the night, highlighting the idea that God can speak to us even in our subconscious. The sermon concludes with a reminder to focus on positive and uplifting thoughts, and to think about the Lord before going to sleep and upon waking up.
Under Authority and Having Authority
By Zac Poonen6451:00:301SA 3:19AMO 5:13MAT 8:8LUK 10:19JHN 5:30JHN 17:2EPH 6:41TI 6:12This sermon emphasizes the importance of living under God's authority, focusing on leading others to eternal life. It highlights the need to prioritize obedience to God's will, humility, and serving others over seeking authority over people or Satan. The speaker stresses the significance of having authority to guide others towards eternal life, correcting, disciplining, and instructing in the ways of the Lord. The ultimate goal is to live without fear of Satan, trusting in God's authority and leading others to eternal life.
The Way of Overcoming
By Stephen Kaung5501:19:191TI 6:12This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual warfare and the need to stand firm in the Lord against the schemes of the devil. It highlights the defensive and offensive armory provided by God, including truth, righteousness, readiness to share the gospel, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer. The message encourages believers to abide in Christ, confess Him boldly, and rely on the victory secured through the blood of the Lamb and the power of God's Word.
The Full Meaning of Life - Part 1
By Paris Reidhead11953:05LifeMAT 5:14JHN 3:16ACT 20:24ROM 10:91CO 9:24EPH 2:81TI 6:12In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the fire of remorse that has taken away joy from their life, but they have found peace with God. They discuss the tragedy of wasting opportunities to witness for God, especially when others are looking up to them. The speaker shares a personal story of a conference where they were asked to pray for someone, highlighting the importance of waking up to the potential accidents in life. They emphasize that every life has a big tragedy that only God can bear, and that God has a plan for every individual. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about a sign that said "God has a plan for every life" and a story of how God answered a prayer for help during a difficult time.
The Scriptures and the World
By A.W. Pink0Spiritual GrowthSeparation from the WorldMAT 5:17LUK 16:15JHN 15:19GAL 1:41TI 6:12JAS 4:42PE 1:191JN 2:151JN 5:41JN 5:19A.W. Pink emphasizes the Christian's relationship with the world, warning believers against conforming to its values and distractions. He explains that the world is an enemy of God, and Christians must resist its allure and focus on spiritual growth through the Scriptures. Pink encourages self-examination to determine if one's heart is truly aligned with God or entangled in worldly desires. He highlights that true faith enables believers to overcome the world and that Christ's sacrifice frees them from its bondage. Ultimately, Pink calls for a separation from worldly influences, urging Christians to find their joy and satisfaction in God alone.
Oliver Cromwell
By Ian Paisley02CH 7:14PSA 27:1PSA 75:6EPH 6:121TI 6:12Ian Paisley preaches about the Divine intervention in nations' history, particularly during crises when God's sovereignty is concealed but later manifested beyond natural explanation. He highlights the historical events of Oliver Cromwell's life, emphasizing the battle against the Papacy and the resurgence of Popery in Europe. Paisley draws parallels between Cromwell's time and the present, warning about the political-religious structures seeking to grasp control. He delves into Cromwell's character, defending him against the slander and portraying him as a man of prayer, faith, and a defender of the Protestant faith amidst opposition and persecution.
Notes (From the August 1888 Sword and Trowel)
By C.H. Spurgeon0FaithfulnessDefense of the Gospel1CO 16:13EPH 6:11PHP 1:27COL 2:81TI 6:122TI 4:2HEB 10:272PE 2:11JN 4:1JUD 1:3C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the life and legacy of Joseph Tritton, a man of deep faith and commitment to evangelical teachings, whose hymns and service to the Baptist Missionary Society left a lasting impact. Spurgeon emphasizes Tritton's refined spirit and the importance of preserving his works as a testament to his faithfulness. He also addresses the 'Down-Grade' controversy, urging the church to hold firmly to the truth of the gospel amidst rising false teachings. Spurgeon and others express their support for the defense of scriptural truth, highlighting the need for vigilance against heresy. The sermon concludes with a call for unity among believers in standing for the faith once delivered to the saints.
Opposition Made Unto the Church as Built Upon the Person of Christ.
By John Owen0Opposition to the ChurchThe Person of ChristMAT 16:18JHN 10:28ROM 8:312CO 10:4EPH 6:12COL 2:81TI 6:12HEB 12:31PE 5:81JN 4:4John Owen emphasizes the promise of Christ regarding the church's preservation and the inevitable opposition it faces from the forces of hell. He explains that this opposition manifests through both persecution from the world and heretical teachings that seek to undermine the faith in Christ's person and work. Owen highlights that the church, built upon the foundation of Christ, will endure despite these challenges, as the gates of hell cannot prevail against it. He calls believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to recognize the importance of Christ's dual nature as both God and man, which is essential for the church's foundation. Ultimately, Owen encourages the church to uphold its confession of Christ as the Son of the living God amidst the ongoing spiritual battles.
The Conflict of the Christian
By Andrew Murray0Victory in ChristConflict of FaithEXO 14:142CH 20:15LUK 13:24EPH 6:101TI 6:122TI 4:71JN 5:4Andrew Murray emphasizes the twofold conflict of the Christian life, beginning with the immediate need for the unconverted to strive to enter through the narrow door of salvation. Once inside, believers face a lifelong battle characterized by faith, as they contend against spiritual enemies. Murray clarifies that true conflict arises not from struggling against God, but from the ongoing fight of faith, where believers must remain in Christ, their stronghold, to overcome. He highlights that victory comes through faith in Jesus, who empowers believers to stand firm against the enemy. Ultimately, the sermon calls Christians to understand their position in Christ and to rely on His strength for the battles they face.
Shew Thyself a Man
By Billy Sunday0ManhoodStrength of Character1KI 2:2JOB 1:1PRO 20:7DAN 1:81CO 16:13EPH 6:10PHP 4:131TI 6:122TI 1:7HEB 12:1Billy Sunday emphasizes the significance of true manhood, urging men to strive for strength of character and purpose, as exemplified by biblical figures like David, Abraham, and Job. He highlights that manhood is not defined by physical stature but by self-control, moral integrity, and a commitment to noble aims. Sunday encourages young men to avoid aimlessness and instead pursue high aspirations, drawing inspiration from the life of Christ as the ultimate model of manhood. He stresses the importance of making deliberate choices that align with one's values and the necessity of education and self-discipline in achieving true greatness. Ultimately, he calls for men to embody the qualities of strength, purpose, and integrity that God admires.
Are You Fighting?
By J.C. Ryle0Spiritual WarfareFaith in ActionEPH 6:111TI 6:12J.C. Ryle emphasizes the significance of spiritual warfare in the life of a Christian, urging believers to 'fight the good fight of faith' as stated in 1 Timothy 6:12. He explains that true Christianity is characterized by struggle against the world, the flesh, and the devil, and that this fight is not only necessary but also a good fight, as it is led by Christ and supported by the Holy Spirit. Ryle warns against complacency in faith, highlighting that genuine belief is marked by an active engagement in this spiritual battle. He encourages Christians to rely on their faith for strength and to remember the eternal rewards that await those who persevere in their fight. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to the Christian cause, reminding believers that they are not alone in their struggles.
A History of the Life and Actions of the Very Reverend Dr. Martin Luther - Part 2
By Philip Melancthon0PRO 3:5EPH 6:181TH 5:171TI 6:122TI 4:7Philip Melancthon delivers a heartfelt address to the students at the University of Wittenburg on the death of Martin Luther, emphasizing Luther's role in revealing the true doctrine of the Son of God. Melancthon recounts Luther's final moments, his prayerful commendation to God, and his significant impact on the Church. He praises Luther's unwavering faith, dedication to prayer, and profound understanding of the Gospel, highlighting his pivotal role in clarifying essential truths and guiding the Church through turbulent times.
The Fight
By J.C. Ryle0Spiritual WarfareFaith in ActionEPH 6:111TI 6:12J.C. Ryle emphasizes the necessity of spiritual warfare in the Christian life, urging believers to 'fight the good fight of faith' as a fundamental aspect of true Christianity. He explains that this fight is not against fellow Christians but against the world, the flesh, and the devil, and that every believer is called to be a soldier in this battle. Ryle highlights that true faith is the foundation of this struggle, and that the Christian's fight is ultimately a good fight, leading to eternal rewards. He encourages believers to remain vigilant, wear the full armor of God, and rely on their faith in Christ to overcome the challenges they face. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging Christians to engage in this fight with the assurance of victory through Jesus.
Growth in Holiness
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 37:5PRO 3:51CO 15:572CO 2:14PHP 4:61TI 6:12Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the continuous triumph we have in Christ, emphasizing the importance of fighting the good fight with Christ as our strength and guide. She encourages starting each day by surrendering ourselves to God, seeking His wisdom, strength, and guidance through prayer to overcome challenges. Tileston highlights the joy of growing daily in Christ's love, conquering ourselves, and striving for increased holiness.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fight the good fight of faith - "Agonize the good agony." Thou hast a contest to sustain in which thy honor, thy life, thy soul, are at stake. Live the Gospel, and defend the cause of God. Unmask hypocrites, expel the profligate, purge and build up the Church, live in the spirit of thy religion, and give thyself wholly to this work. Lay hold on eternal life - All this is in allusion to the exercises in the public Grecian games: Fight, conquer, and seize upon the prize; carry off the crown of eternal life! Whereunto thou art also called - The allusion to the public games is still carried on: Thou hast been called into this palaestra; thou hast been accepted as one proper to enter the lists with any antagonists that may offer; in the presence of many witnesses thou hast taken the necessary engagements upon thee, and submitted to be governed by the laws of the stadium; many eyes are upon thee, to see whether thou wilt fight manfully, and be faithful. Timothy's faith was undoubtedly tried by severe persecution. In Heb 13:23, it is said: Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty. Hence it appears that he was imprisoned for the testimony of Christ, and perhaps it was then, more than at his ordination, that he made the good confession here mentioned. He risked his life and conquered. If not a martyr, he was a confessor.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Fight the good fight--BIRKS thinks this Epistle was written from Corinth, where contests in the national games recurred at stated seasons, which will account for the allusion here as in Co1 9:24-26. Contrast "strifes of words" (Ti1 6:4). Compare Ti1 1:18; Ti2 4:7. The "good profession" is connected with the good fight (Psa 60:4). lay hold on eternal life--the crown, or garland, the prize of victory, laid hold of by the winner in the "good fight" (Ti2 4:7-8; Phi 3:12-14). "Fight (literally, 'strive') with such striving earnestness as to lay hold on the prize, eternal life." also--not in the oldest manuscripts. professed a good profession--Greek, "didst confess THE good confession," namely, the Christian confession (as the Greek word is the same in this verse as that for "confession" in Ti1 6:13, probably the profession here is the confession that Christ's kingdom is the kingdom of the truth, Joh 18:36-37), at thy being set apart to thy ministerial function (whether in general, or as overseer at Ephesus): the same occasion as is referred to in Ti1 1:18; Ti1 4:14; Ti2 1:4. before many witnesses--who would testify against thee if thou shouldest fall away [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Fight the good fight of faith,.... The apostle suggests to Timothy, that he had other business to do than to mind the things of this world; his life was a state of warfare; he was a soldier, and was not to entangle himself with the things of this life; he had many enemies to engage with, as Satan, and his principalities and powers; sin, and the lusts of the flesh; the world, and the men of it, and a great fight of afflictions to endure with them; as also false teachers, with, whom particularly he was to fight the good fight of faith, that so the truth of the Gospel, which they resisted, might continue with the saints. This fight is called "the fight of faith"; partly in opposition to the law, and to , "the fight", or "war of the law" the Jews (r) so much talk of; and in which the false teachers, in the apostle's time, were so much engaged, and against whom the apostles set themselves; and partly because the doctrine of faith, the faith of the Gospel, the faith once delivered to the saints, is what they earnestly contended, strove, and fought for; and because the grace of faith, as conversant with the Scriptures of truth, was the weapon they fought with: and this may be called a "good fight", because it is in a good cause, the cause of God and truth; and under a good Captain, Jesus Christ the Captain of our salvation; for which good weapons are provided, even the whole armour of God, and which are not carnal, but spiritual and mighty; to which may be added, that those who are engaged in this fight may be sure of victory, and the crown of glory, life, and righteousness: so that when they have done fighting they have nothing else to do but to lay hold on eternal life; as Timothy for his encouragement is here bid to do. Eternal life is the prize of the high calling of God, which is held up, and held forth to those who are fighting the Lord's battles; and this they should look unto as the recompense of reward; and this they may lay hold upon, even now by faith, believing their interest in it, their right unto it, and that they shall enjoy it; of which they may be the more assured, because of their effectual calling: whereunto thou art also called; not barely by the external ministration of the Gospel, in which sense many are called, but few chosen and saved; but internally, by the special grace and power of the Spirit of God; and such who are so called, are not only called to grace, but to eternal glory; and the God of all grace, who has called unto it, of his sovereign good will and pleasure, is faithful, and will bestow it. The word "also" is left out in the Alexandrian copy, and in the Vulgate Latin, and in all the Oriental versions; but it seems to be emphatic, and is used to strengthen Timothy's faith, as to the enjoyment of eternal life; since it was not only the reward of grace, following upon the good fight of faith, but was that also to which he was called by the grace of God: and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses; both before the brethren at Lystra, at his baptism and admission into the church, before whom he gave an account of his faith, and made a profession of it; and who, upon this, and his agreeable life and conversation, gave a good report of him to the Apostle Paul, Act 16:1 and before the apostle, and the rest of the elders, when they laid their hands on him, whereby an extraordinary gift was conveyed unto him, Ti1 4:14 or it may be before the men of the world, some violent persecutors, before whom he bravely, and with great intrepidity, professed his faith in Christ Jesus; and which he continued constantly to do, in every place wherever he came; and which being done so often, and so publicly, is a reason why he should keep on till the battle was over. (r) Zohar in Numb. fol. 99. 4. T. Hieros. Taanith, fol. 69. 2. & Bab. Chagiga, fol. 14. 1. Megilia, fol. 15. 2. & Sanhedrin, fol. 93. 2. & 111. 2. Midrash Ruth, fol. 31. 4. Echa Rabbati, fol. 53. 2. Caphtor, fol. 93. 2. & Seder Olam Rabba, c. 25. & Jarchi in Cant. iii. 8.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:12 The promise of eternal life moderates the appeal of wealth (cp. 6:19). • Paul is probably referring to the time when Timothy declared his faith at baptism.