1 Timothy 6:20
Verse
Context
Guard the Faith
19treasuring up for themselves a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.20O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid irreverent, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of so-called “knowledge,” 21which some have professed and thus swerved away from the faith. Grace be with you all.
Sermons
Joe Focht
Brian Brodersen
Kent Hovind
William MacDonaldWilliam MacDonald
Arno Clemens Gaebelein 
T. Austin-SparksSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust - This is another repetition of the apostolic charge. (See Ti1 1:5, Ti1 1:18, Ti1 1:19; Ti1 4:6, Ti1 4:7,Ti1 4:14, Ti1 4:15, Ti1 4:16; Ti1 5:21; Ti1 6:13.) Carefully preserve that doctrine which I have delivered to thee. Nothing can be more solemn and affectionate than this charge. Avoiding profane and vain babblings - See on Ti1 1:4 (note), and Ti1 4:7 (note) And oppositions of science falsely so called - Και αντιθεσεις της ψευδωνυμου γνωσεως· And oppositions of knowledge falsely so named. Dr. Macknight's note here is worthy of much attention: "In the enumeration of the different kinds of inspiration bestowed on the first preachers of the Gospel, Co1 12:8, we find the word of knowledge mentioned; by which is meant that kind of inspiration which gave to the apostles and superior Christian prophets the knowledge of the true meaning of the Jewish Scriptures. This inspiration the false teachers pretending to possess, dignified their misinterpretations of the ancient Scriptures with the name of knowledge, that is, inspired knowledge; for so the word signifies, Co1 14:6. And as by these interpretations they endeavored to establish the efficacy of the Levitical atonements, the apostle very properly termed these interpretations oppositions of knowledge, because they were framed to establish doctrines opposite to, and subversive of, the Gospel. To destroy the credit of these teachers, he affirmed that the knowledge from which they proceeded was falsely called inspired knowledge; for they were not inspired with the knowledge of the meaning of the Scriptures, but only pretended to it." Others think that the apostle has the Gnostics in view. But it is not clear that these heretics, or whatever they were, had any proper existence at this time. On the whole, Dr. Macknight's interpretation seems to be the best.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Recapitulatory conclusion: the main aim of the whole Epistle being here summarily stated. O Timothy--a personal appeal, marking at once his affection for Timothy, and his prescience of the coming heresies. keep--from spiritual thieves, and from enemies who will, while men sleep, sow tares amidst the good seed sown by the Son of man. that which is committed to thy trust--Greek, "the deposit" (Ti1 1:18; Ti2 1:12, Ti2 1:14; Ti2 2:2). "The true" or "sound doctrine" to be taught, as opposed to "the science falsely so called," which leads to "error concerning the faith" (Ti1 6:21). "It is not thine: it is another's property with which thou hast been entrusted: Diminish it not at all" [CHRYSOSTOM]. "That which was entrusted to thee, not found by thee; which thou hast received, not invented; a matter not of genius, but of teaching; not of private usurpation, but of public tradition; a matter brought to thee, not put forth by thee, in which thou oughtest to be not an enlarger, but a guardian; not an originator, but a disciple; not leading, but following. 'Keep,' saith he, 'the deposit,'; preserve intact and inviolate the talent of the catholic faith. What has been entrusted to thee, let that same remain with thee; let that same be handed down by thee. Gold thou hast received, gold return. I should be sorry thou shouldest substitute aught else. I should be sorry that for gold thou shouldest substitute lead impudently, or brass fraudulently. I do not want the mere appearance of gold, but its actual reality. Not that there is to be no progress in religion in Christ's Church. Let there be so by all means, and the greatest progress; but then let it be real progress, not a change of the faith. Let the intelligence of the whole Church and its individual members increase exceedingly, provided it be only in its own kind, the doctrine being still the same. Let the religion of the soul resemble the growth of the body,which, though it develops its several parts in the progress of years, yet remains the same as it was essentially" [VINCENTIUS LIRINENSIS, A.D. 434]. avoiding--"turning away from" (compare Ti2 3:4). Even as they have "turned away from the truth" (Ti1 1:6; Ti1 5:15; Ti2 4:4). profane-- (Ti1 4:7; Ti2 2:16). vain--Greek, "empty": mere "strifes of words," Ti1 6:4, producing no moral fruit. oppositions--dialectic antithesis of the false teachers [ALFORD]. WIESINGER, not so probably, "oppositions to the sound doctrine." I think it likely germs existed already of the heresy of dualistic oppositions, namely, between the good and evil principle, afterwards fully developed in Gnosticism. Contrast Paul's just antithesis (Ti1 3:16; Ti1 6:5-6; Ti2 2:15-23). science falsely so called--where there is not faith, there is not knowledge [CHRYSOSTOM]. There was true "knowledge," a special gift of the Spirit, which was abused by some (Co1 8:1; Co1 12:8; Co1 14:6). This gift was soon counterfeited by false teachers arrogating to themselves pre-eminently the gift (Col 2:8, Col 2:18, Col 2:23). Hence arose the creeds of the Church, called symbols, that is, in Greek, "watchwords," or a test whereby the orthodox might distinguish one another in opposition to the heretical. Perhaps here, Ti1 6:20, and Ti2 1:13-14, imply the existence of some such brief formula of doctrine then existing in the Church; if so, we see a good reason for its not being written in Scripture, which is designed not to give dogmatic formularies, but to be the fountain whence all such formularies are to be drawn according to the exigencies of the several churches and ages. Probably thus a portion of the so-called apostle's creed may have had their sanction, and been preserved solely by tradition on this account. "The creed, handed down from the apostles, is not written on paper and with ink, but on fleshy tables of the heart" JEROME [Against John of Jerusalem, 9]. Thus, in the creed, contrary to the "oppositions" (the germs of which probably existed in the Church in Paul's latter days) whereby the aeons were set off in pairs, God is stated to be "the Father Almighty," or all-governing "maker of heaven and earth" [BISHOP HINDS].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Keep that which is committed to thy trust,.... That is, the Gospel, see Ti1 1:11 which is a rich treasure put into earthen vessels, and ought to be kept pure and uncorrupt, and faithfully dispensed, and diligently preserved, that so it may be continued genuine and sincere, and not be either adulterated and depraved, or be taken away by false teachers. And it may also include his gifts for the ministration of it, which were to be kept in use, and stirred up, and not neglected, but cultivated and improved to the advantage of the church, and of the interest of Christ: avoiding profane and vain babblings; about the law, and circumcision, and other things, which the false teachers insisted much on, and amused their hearers with; and which were vain, empty, useless, and unprofitable talk. Some copies, and so the Vulgate Latin version, read, "profane newnesses of words"; or new words, which ought not to be introduced, for they often bring in new doctrines: the form of sound words, the wholesome words, the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, the words which the Holy Ghost teacheth, should be held fast; and especially all new words should be avoided, which are contrary to them, or in the least weaken them, or detract from them. And oppositions of science falsely so called; the false teachers boasted of their science and knowledge, but it was not true, solid, spiritual, and saving; it was not an experimental knowledge of the Gospel; it was not the excellent knowledge of Christ, which has eternal life connected with it; it was merely notional and speculative; it was idle, empty, and useless, mere Pagan philosophy, and vain deceit, upon which they formed antitheses, or oppositions and objections to the truths of the Gospel; and even opposed themselves, and the word of God, as well as the faithful ministers of it. (Knowledge is not determined by a "show of hands". Even though the majority of people believe something, that does not make it true. The majority today do not believe in Noah's flood, Pe2 3:4. It was so in Noah's day also, but the unbelievers all drowned! Many fervently believe in evolution and try to compromise the scriptures with it. This verse stands as a stark warning to those who do not try everything through God's Word. Isa 8:20 Editor.)
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:20-21 This brief but pointed exhortation summarizes and shows the importance of Timothy’s task in Ephesus (cp. 1:18-20; 2 Tim 1:13-14). 6:20 what God has entrusted to you (literally the deposit): The Good News is a deposit entrusted to the church and its leaders for safekeeping (1:15; 2:5-6; 3:16). It encompasses the whole pattern of conduct that follows from it (2 Tim 1:13-14; 3:10-11). It stabilizes and purifies the church when it is buffeted by counterfeits in the polluted environment of difficult times (2 Tim 3:1). The deposit belongs to the “tradition” of the church (see 2 Tim 2:2; 1 Cor 11:23-25; 15:1-8; 2 Thes 2:15; 3:6). It requires creative and faithful interpretation to meet changing circumstances and problems (see 2 Tim 1:12-14).
1 Timothy 6:20
Guard the Faith
19treasuring up for themselves a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.20O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid irreverent, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of so-called “knowledge,” 21which some have professed and thus swerved away from the faith. Grace be with you all.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Genesis) Genesis 1:1-8
By Joe Focht2.0K1:00:03GEN 1:1GEN 3:1GEN 4:1MAT 6:33EPH 1:31TI 6:202TI 1:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of not overlooking the creation account in the Bible. He emphasizes the need to recognize the power and authority of God as the creator of the heavens and the earth. The speaker also highlights the flaws in the theory of evolution, comparing it to the story of the emperor's new clothes. He encourages believers to trust in the living Word of God and not to engage in arguments over false science.
(1 Timothy) Guard What Was Committed to Your Trust
By Brian Brodersen1.4K58:57JER 9:23JHN 13:351TI 6:101TI 6:151TI 6:202PE 3:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the things of the Spirit and not being led astray. He warns against the temptation to get caught up in intellectualism and philosophy, which can distract from the simplicity of the gospel message. The speaker also highlights the need for believers to be salt and light in the world, influencing various spheres of society with their faith. The primary goal for Christians is to spread the love, truth, and grace of Jesus Christ and to see people come into the kingdom of God.
Cse Seminar 7(2003) Questions and Answers
By Kent Hovind1.0K2:28:52GEN 1:1PSA 14:1PRO 3:5ROM 1:221CO 1:20COL 2:81TI 6:20
This sermon by Kent Hovind delves into the topics of creation, evolution, and dinosaurs, emphasizing the belief that the Bible is scientifically accurate and evolution is a flawed religion. The seminar includes a question and answer session where various scientific and philosophical perspectives on evolution are discussed, challenging the conventional narrative taught in schools. The speaker highlights the views of renowned scientists and philosophers who question the validity of evolution as a scientific theory, presenting evidence that challenges mainstream scientific beliefs.
The True Discipleship Broadcast-1983-14 True Discipleship
By William MacDonald86523:18True Discipleship1TI 6:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the dangers of pursuing wealth. He shares anecdotes and quotes from various sources to illustrate his point. The speaker highlights the story of a man who worked tirelessly to accumulate wealth, only to realize the emptiness of his pursuits when faced with his own mortality. Ultimately, the sermon encourages listeners to prioritize their relationship with Jesus over material possessions and to seek fulfillment in Him rather than in worldly gain.
The True Discipleship Broadcast-1983-15 True Discipleship
By William MacDonald80724:22True Discipleship1TI 6:20In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of a wealthy man named John who lived in a palatial house but was spiritually empty. He had everything money could buy but never prayed, read the Bible, or attended church. On the other hand, there was a poor man named John who lived a humble and faithful life, known as a man of God. One day, the wealthy man received a visit from the poor man, who delivered a message that the richest man in the valley would die at midnight. The wealthy man dismissed it as foolishness but later that night, he received the news of his own father's death. The sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God and finding true joy and fulfillment in Him rather than pursuing worldly possessions.
Modern Day Delusions
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0MAT 24:242CO 11:13GAL 1:61TH 5:32TH 2:101TI 4:11TI 6:202TI 4:31JN 4:1The preacher Arno Clemens Gaebelein warns against the dangers of various cults and false teachings, such as the rapid growth of the Science cult on the Pacific Coast, the spread of Christian Science, the rise of the 'New Thought Movement,' the deceptive practices of Bahaism, the expansion of Mormonism, and the influence of Abdul Baha's false teachings. These cults and movements promote anti-Christian beliefs, deny essential Christian doctrines, and lead people away from the truth of the Gospel. The preacher emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the faith, exposing false teachings, and remaining vigilant against deceptive ideologies that seek to undermine true Christianity.
The Spiritual Basis of the Christian Life
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual FoundationThe Role of the Holy SpiritJHN 1:13JHN 3:6ACT 2:41ROM 8:91CO 2:14GAL 5:251TI 1:181TI 6:202TI 1:62TI 2:2T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical need for Christians to recognize the spiritual foundation of their faith, warning against the tendency to slip into a mere formalism that lacks true spiritual vitality. He highlights Paul's letters to Timothy as a call to remember the original anointing and the essential role of the Holy Spirit in the Christian life. Sparks urges believers to understand the distinction between the natural and the spiritual, asserting that true spirituality is a fundamental change in one's being, enabled by the Holy Spirit. He points to the Gospel of John as a reminder of the necessity of being born of the Spirit to grasp the deeper truths of Christianity. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the sovereignty of the Spirit in the life of the Church, emphasizing that all growth and understanding must come from the Holy Spirit's work within us.
2 Peter 2:18
By John Gill0False TeachersSpiritual VigilanceDAN 11:36MAT 7:15ROM 16:17GAL 5:7EPH 5:61TI 6:202TI 4:32PE 2:181JN 4:1JUD 1:16John Gill emphasizes the dangers posed by false teachers who use grandiose and empty rhetoric to mislead believers. He explains that these individuals boast of their knowledge and flatter others for personal gain, ultimately leading the faithful astray through their enticing words and immoral behavior. Gill warns that even those who have escaped from error can be ensnared by the lusts of the flesh and the allure of wantonness, highlighting the need for vigilance against such influences.
First Epistle to Timothy
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein01TI 1:31TI 3:141TI 4:11TI 6:61TI 6:111TI 6:171TI 6:20Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches on the pastoral Epistles addressed to Timothy and Titus, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sound doctrine, godly conduct, and faithfulness in ministry. The early Church fathers affirmed the authenticity of these epistles, while heretics and critics rejected them. The personal history of Timothy reveals his conversion by Paul, his faithful service, and his role in various churches. The dating of 1 Timothy indicates Paul's release from imprisonment and subsequent travels. The purpose of the Epistle is to provide practical instructions for maintaining order, purity, and faithfulness in the church as the house of God, combating false teachings and preparing for the last days.
The Divine Reaction
By T. Austin-Sparks0Leadership in CrisisSpiritual IntegrityEZK 12:61TI 3:151TI 4:121TI 6:202TI 2:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the crisis faced by the early church as Paul prepares to depart, leaving Timothy and others to uphold the truth amidst moral laxity and spiritual decline. He warns against the dangers of formalism and the need for spiritual integrity in leadership, highlighting Timothy as a symbol of God's reaction to these challenges. Sparks stresses that true spirituality is rooted in weakness and dependence on God's grace, urging believers to maintain their spiritual measure in the face of adversity. He calls for a return to the essence of spiritual life, where authority and knowledge are derived from genuine spiritual character rather than official titles. Ultimately, the sermon serves as a reminder that God's men and women must honor Him above all else to preserve the purity of His testimony.
Meister Eckhart
By W.R. Inge0MAT 7:151TI 6:202TI 4:32PE 2:11JN 4:1W.R. Inge delves into the life and teachings of Meister Eckhart, a prominent philosopher-mystic born in Thuringia. Eckhart's journey in the Dominican Order led him to various leadership roles, including preaching in Strassburg and Cologne. Despite his popularity among devout women and the mystical movement, Eckhart faced accusations of heresy and was posthumously condemned for several erroneous teachings, leading to a long neglect of his writings until a revival in the 19th century.
The Ignatian Epistles Entirely Spurious - Part 3
By William Dool Killen0PRO 12:22PRO 19:91TI 6:202TI 2:151JN 4:1William Dool Killen preaches about the controversy surrounding the date of the martyrdom of Polycarp and its implications on the Ignatian Epistles. He discusses the arguments presented by Dr. Lightfoot and Archbishop Ussher, highlighting the discrepancies in chronology and the historical evidence supporting a later date for Polycarp's martyrdom. Killen emphasizes the importance of accurate historical context in understanding the authenticity of ancient texts and the significance of reliable testimonies from early Christian writers like Eusebius and Jerome.
Garden of the Heart - Part 3
By J.R. Miller0Rest in ChristFaithfulnessISA 26:3MAT 5:9MAT 25:21ROM 15:22CO 1:3GAL 6:2PHP 4:61TI 6:20JAS 1:271PE 5:7J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of guarding the sacred trusts God has given us, urging believers to live each day with purpose and faithfulness. He illustrates that our responsibilities, whether in relationships, duties, or our Christian walk, require diligence and a commitment to purity, akin to the ermine's desire to keep its fur unspotted. Miller encourages Christians to find rest not in escaping life's struggles but in fulfilling their duties with a heart at peace, drawing strength from Christ. He concludes by highlighting the need for comfort and the role of peacemakers, reminding us that our actions should uplift others and reflect God's love. Ultimately, he calls for a life lived in accountability to God, where we report our daily actions and intentions to Him.
Love of the World
By Charles Finney0GEN 2:7ISA 30:14ISA 42:81CO 1:262CO 4:72CO 4:101TI 6:202TI 2:20The preacher delves into the metaphorical use of 'ostrakinos' in the Bible, describing it as fragile or lowly, emphasizing the contrast between the valuable treasure within and the commonness of the vessel. This metaphor signifies that human weakness does not hinder the divine intention when supported by God's power. The sermon highlights the concept of believers being like earthen vessels, emphasizing the need for humility and readiness for honorable service. Various biblical figures and authors are referenced to illustrate the significance of being 'jars of clay' in God's hands.
Third Lesson. ‘Pray to Thy Father, Which Is in Secret;’ Or, Alone With God
By Andrew Murray0JER 23:28JHN 14:61TI 1:61TI 6:20The preacher delves into the concept of 'astocheo,' meaning to deviate from truth or miss the mark spiritually. Paul highlights how false teachers strayed from the central truth, leading to a disruption in faith. Emphasizing the importance of handling the Word of Truth accurately, Paul warns against the disastrous consequences of mishandling it. The sermon underscores the significance of staying true to the core teachings and not being led astray by fruitless discussions or false knowledge.
Observations on Gnosticism and Manicheism
By Howard F. Vos01CO 1:201CO 2:6COL 2:81TI 6:201JN 4:1Howard F. Vos delves into the history and impact of Gnosticism, a belief system that emerged in the first century, blending elements from various religions and philosophies to combine revelation with worldly wisdom. Gnostics believed in the inherent evil of matter and the goodness of spirit, emphasizing the attainment of knowledge of the good God for salvation. This system, though short-lived, influenced ascetic practices and the hierarchical structure within the church, leading to a clearer definition of Christian doctrine and canon. The remnants of Gnosticism can be seen in Manicheism and the Mandaeans, highlighting the lasting effects of this ancient belief system.
Incarnation - the Humiliation of God
By George Warnock01TI 1:91TI 4:71TI 6:202TI 2:16HEB 12:16Greek Word Studies, in a sermon on 1 Timothy 4:7, delves into the meaning of 'bebelos,' which refers to that which is profane, worldly, and devoid of anything sacred or holy. This term describes fables that contradict the truth of God's Word and signifies a lack of connection or relation to God. Paul uses 'bebelos' to highlight behaviors and teachings that are contrary to sound doctrine and lead to ungodliness, emphasizing the importance of guarding against such worldly influences.
Attacks on Biblical Truths
By J.C. Philpot0JHN 14:61CO 16:13EPH 6:131TI 6:202TI 1:14J.C. Philpot addresses the relentless attacks on Biblical truths, highlighting the disputes and arguments that have been raised against various aspects of divine revelation. Despite the efforts to deny God's existence, the necessity of divine revelation, the Deity of Jesus, and the eternal transactions of covenant love, truth remains unshaken by human assaults, upheld by the almighty power and invincible grace of 'the Truth.' Philpot emphasizes the importance of defending and holding onto all revealed truths, even when faced with disagreements from other respected individuals in the faith.
Where Truth Leads Us
By A.W. Tozer0ACT 17:22ROM 16:171CO 1:30COL 2:3COL 2:81TI 6:20JAS 1:26The preacher delves into the concept of philosophy, which is the love of wisdom, and its negative connotation in the Bible as erroneous teaching. Paul encountered Epicureanism and Stoicism, the leading philosophies of his time, warning against the deceptive nature of philosophy that deviates from Christ. While secular philosophy may be a quest for truth, true wisdom is found in Jesus, and any philosophy not rooted in divine revelation is considered false and harmful.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust - This is another repetition of the apostolic charge. (See Ti1 1:5, Ti1 1:18, Ti1 1:19; Ti1 4:6, Ti1 4:7,Ti1 4:14, Ti1 4:15, Ti1 4:16; Ti1 5:21; Ti1 6:13.) Carefully preserve that doctrine which I have delivered to thee. Nothing can be more solemn and affectionate than this charge. Avoiding profane and vain babblings - See on Ti1 1:4 (note), and Ti1 4:7 (note) And oppositions of science falsely so called - Και αντιθεσεις της ψευδωνυμου γνωσεως· And oppositions of knowledge falsely so named. Dr. Macknight's note here is worthy of much attention: "In the enumeration of the different kinds of inspiration bestowed on the first preachers of the Gospel, Co1 12:8, we find the word of knowledge mentioned; by which is meant that kind of inspiration which gave to the apostles and superior Christian prophets the knowledge of the true meaning of the Jewish Scriptures. This inspiration the false teachers pretending to possess, dignified their misinterpretations of the ancient Scriptures with the name of knowledge, that is, inspired knowledge; for so the word signifies, Co1 14:6. And as by these interpretations they endeavored to establish the efficacy of the Levitical atonements, the apostle very properly termed these interpretations oppositions of knowledge, because they were framed to establish doctrines opposite to, and subversive of, the Gospel. To destroy the credit of these teachers, he affirmed that the knowledge from which they proceeded was falsely called inspired knowledge; for they were not inspired with the knowledge of the meaning of the Scriptures, but only pretended to it." Others think that the apostle has the Gnostics in view. But it is not clear that these heretics, or whatever they were, had any proper existence at this time. On the whole, Dr. Macknight's interpretation seems to be the best.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Recapitulatory conclusion: the main aim of the whole Epistle being here summarily stated. O Timothy--a personal appeal, marking at once his affection for Timothy, and his prescience of the coming heresies. keep--from spiritual thieves, and from enemies who will, while men sleep, sow tares amidst the good seed sown by the Son of man. that which is committed to thy trust--Greek, "the deposit" (Ti1 1:18; Ti2 1:12, Ti2 1:14; Ti2 2:2). "The true" or "sound doctrine" to be taught, as opposed to "the science falsely so called," which leads to "error concerning the faith" (Ti1 6:21). "It is not thine: it is another's property with which thou hast been entrusted: Diminish it not at all" [CHRYSOSTOM]. "That which was entrusted to thee, not found by thee; which thou hast received, not invented; a matter not of genius, but of teaching; not of private usurpation, but of public tradition; a matter brought to thee, not put forth by thee, in which thou oughtest to be not an enlarger, but a guardian; not an originator, but a disciple; not leading, but following. 'Keep,' saith he, 'the deposit,'; preserve intact and inviolate the talent of the catholic faith. What has been entrusted to thee, let that same remain with thee; let that same be handed down by thee. Gold thou hast received, gold return. I should be sorry thou shouldest substitute aught else. I should be sorry that for gold thou shouldest substitute lead impudently, or brass fraudulently. I do not want the mere appearance of gold, but its actual reality. Not that there is to be no progress in religion in Christ's Church. Let there be so by all means, and the greatest progress; but then let it be real progress, not a change of the faith. Let the intelligence of the whole Church and its individual members increase exceedingly, provided it be only in its own kind, the doctrine being still the same. Let the religion of the soul resemble the growth of the body,which, though it develops its several parts in the progress of years, yet remains the same as it was essentially" [VINCENTIUS LIRINENSIS, A.D. 434]. avoiding--"turning away from" (compare Ti2 3:4). Even as they have "turned away from the truth" (Ti1 1:6; Ti1 5:15; Ti2 4:4). profane-- (Ti1 4:7; Ti2 2:16). vain--Greek, "empty": mere "strifes of words," Ti1 6:4, producing no moral fruit. oppositions--dialectic antithesis of the false teachers [ALFORD]. WIESINGER, not so probably, "oppositions to the sound doctrine." I think it likely germs existed already of the heresy of dualistic oppositions, namely, between the good and evil principle, afterwards fully developed in Gnosticism. Contrast Paul's just antithesis (Ti1 3:16; Ti1 6:5-6; Ti2 2:15-23). science falsely so called--where there is not faith, there is not knowledge [CHRYSOSTOM]. There was true "knowledge," a special gift of the Spirit, which was abused by some (Co1 8:1; Co1 12:8; Co1 14:6). This gift was soon counterfeited by false teachers arrogating to themselves pre-eminently the gift (Col 2:8, Col 2:18, Col 2:23). Hence arose the creeds of the Church, called symbols, that is, in Greek, "watchwords," or a test whereby the orthodox might distinguish one another in opposition to the heretical. Perhaps here, Ti1 6:20, and Ti2 1:13-14, imply the existence of some such brief formula of doctrine then existing in the Church; if so, we see a good reason for its not being written in Scripture, which is designed not to give dogmatic formularies, but to be the fountain whence all such formularies are to be drawn according to the exigencies of the several churches and ages. Probably thus a portion of the so-called apostle's creed may have had their sanction, and been preserved solely by tradition on this account. "The creed, handed down from the apostles, is not written on paper and with ink, but on fleshy tables of the heart" JEROME [Against John of Jerusalem, 9]. Thus, in the creed, contrary to the "oppositions" (the germs of which probably existed in the Church in Paul's latter days) whereby the aeons were set off in pairs, God is stated to be "the Father Almighty," or all-governing "maker of heaven and earth" [BISHOP HINDS].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Keep that which is committed to thy trust,.... That is, the Gospel, see Ti1 1:11 which is a rich treasure put into earthen vessels, and ought to be kept pure and uncorrupt, and faithfully dispensed, and diligently preserved, that so it may be continued genuine and sincere, and not be either adulterated and depraved, or be taken away by false teachers. And it may also include his gifts for the ministration of it, which were to be kept in use, and stirred up, and not neglected, but cultivated and improved to the advantage of the church, and of the interest of Christ: avoiding profane and vain babblings; about the law, and circumcision, and other things, which the false teachers insisted much on, and amused their hearers with; and which were vain, empty, useless, and unprofitable talk. Some copies, and so the Vulgate Latin version, read, "profane newnesses of words"; or new words, which ought not to be introduced, for they often bring in new doctrines: the form of sound words, the wholesome words, the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, the words which the Holy Ghost teacheth, should be held fast; and especially all new words should be avoided, which are contrary to them, or in the least weaken them, or detract from them. And oppositions of science falsely so called; the false teachers boasted of their science and knowledge, but it was not true, solid, spiritual, and saving; it was not an experimental knowledge of the Gospel; it was not the excellent knowledge of Christ, which has eternal life connected with it; it was merely notional and speculative; it was idle, empty, and useless, mere Pagan philosophy, and vain deceit, upon which they formed antitheses, or oppositions and objections to the truths of the Gospel; and even opposed themselves, and the word of God, as well as the faithful ministers of it. (Knowledge is not determined by a "show of hands". Even though the majority of people believe something, that does not make it true. The majority today do not believe in Noah's flood, Pe2 3:4. It was so in Noah's day also, but the unbelievers all drowned! Many fervently believe in evolution and try to compromise the scriptures with it. This verse stands as a stark warning to those who do not try everything through God's Word. Isa 8:20 Editor.)
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:20-21 This brief but pointed exhortation summarizes and shows the importance of Timothy’s task in Ephesus (cp. 1:18-20; 2 Tim 1:13-14). 6:20 what God has entrusted to you (literally the deposit): The Good News is a deposit entrusted to the church and its leaders for safekeeping (1:15; 2:5-6; 3:16). It encompasses the whole pattern of conduct that follows from it (2 Tim 1:13-14; 3:10-11). It stabilizes and purifies the church when it is buffeted by counterfeits in the polluted environment of difficult times (2 Tim 3:1). The deposit belongs to the “tradition” of the church (see 2 Tim 2:2; 1 Cor 11:23-25; 15:1-8; 2 Thes 2:15; 3:6). It requires creative and faithful interpretation to meet changing circumstances and problems (see 2 Tim 1:12-14).