2 Timothy 2:24
Verse
Context
The Lord’s Approved Workman
23But reject foolish and ignorant speculation, for you know that it breeds quarreling.24And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing.25He must gently reprove those who oppose him, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The servant of the Lord must not strive - See on Ti1 3:2 (note), Ti1 3:3 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not strive--"The servant of the Lord" must imitate his master in not striving contentiously, though uncompromising in earnestly contending for the faith (Jde 1:3; Mat 12:19). gentle unto all men--"patient" (Greek, "patient in bearing wrongs") in respect to adversaries. He is to be gentle so that he may occasion no evils; patient so that he may endure evils. apt to teach--implying not only solid teaching and ease in teaching, but patience and assiduity in it [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the servant of the Lord must not strive,.... By "the servant of the Lord" is not meant any believer in common, but a minister of the word, as Timothy was; such an one ought not to strive about words to no profit, about mere words, and in a litigious, quarrelsome manner, and for mastery and not truth; though he may, and ought to strive for the faith of the Gospel; this is praiseworthy in him: but be gentle unto all men; not only to troubled minds, and wounded consciences, by supplying them with the precious promises and truths of the Gospel; and to backsliders, by restoring them in a spirit of meekness; but even to those who contradict the truth, and themselves, by mild and kind instructions. Apt to teach, showing a willingness to instruct the ignorant and obstinate, and making use of abilities given for that purpose, notwithstanding all discouragements; for it follows, patient, or "bearing evil"; not only the infirmities of weak brethren in the church, and the reproaches and persecutions of profane men in the world; but also the contradictions and oppositions of the adversaries of truth, so as not to be irritated and provoked, or to be discouraged, and desist from the defence of the Gospel.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:24 A servant of the Lord: See Titus 1:1; cp. Isa 42:1-2; 50:6; 53:7; Matt 12:14-21. • be able to teach, and be patient: See 1 Tim 3:2-3; Titus 3:2.
2 Timothy 2:24
The Lord’s Approved Workman
23But reject foolish and ignorant speculation, for you know that it breeds quarreling.24And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing.25He must gently reprove those who oppose him, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Sequence of Election
By David Cooper2.3K1:15:18Election2TI 2:24In this sermon, the preacher discusses the parable of the workers in the vineyard from the Bible. The landowner hires workers throughout the day, promising to pay them what is right. The first group of workers, who were hired early in the morning, expected to receive more payment than the others. However, when they all received the same amount, they complained and accused the landowner of being unfair. The preacher emphasizes that this parable teaches us about the mysterious ways of God and His power in bringing people to salvation. The sermon ends with a thought-provoking question about the connection between being the elect and a wedding.
Battling the Unbelief of Impatience
By John Piper1.8K28:18PSA 130:5ISA 30:18MAT 6:332TI 2:24In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of faith and patience in the face of challenges and opposition. He uses the example of Charles Simeon, a patient man who served as a pastor for 54 years. The speaker emphasizes the power of the Word of God in fighting against impatience and unbelief. He encourages listeners to preach to themselves using Bible texts to strengthen their faith and trust in God's promises.
Does Doctrine Matter - Part 11
By Derek Melton1.1K49:11DoctrinePSA 30:5MAT 6:33JHN 8:32ROM 3:232CO 5:172TI 2:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the gospel of Christ serves as an indictment against the wickedness within mankind. He explains that before coming to Christ, humans are espoused to evil and wickedness. The gospel reveals the guilty status of all individuals before God, but it also provides a way of escape through the righteousness of Jesus Christ. The preacher highlights the importance of Godly sorrow and how it is temporary, leading to tears at night. He emphasizes that grace not only exposes the condition of the human heart but also reveals the excellencies of truth. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the significance of having a solid theological foundation and the freedom that comes from knowing the truth and being set free from the lies of the enemy.
Personal Evangelism
By Ernest C. Reisinger1.1K1:15:182TI 2:24In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his own conversion experience and the impact of a true witness in his life. He emphasizes the importance of true evangelism and witnessing, highlighting the role of believers in pointing others to Christ. The speaker then focuses on 2 Timothy 2:24-26, discussing the condition of the unconverted and the need for patience and gentleness in sharing the truth. He concludes by urging listeners to go home and share their testimonies with their friends, relatives, and neighbors, emphasizing the power of personal experiences in drawing others to Christ.
The Image of Jesus Christ
By Bill McLeod1.1K29:08Jesus ChristEXO 3:11MAT 11:28MAT 23:37ACT 10:38ROM 8:292CO 10:12TI 2:241JN 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of imitating the meekness and gentleness of Christ. He references how Jesus wept over Israel and highlights the significance of expressing emotions, even for believers. The speaker shares a personal experience of sharing the gospel with a rough-looking man and encourages believers to share their faith without worrying about the reaction. The sermon also discusses the concept of believers being called the sons of God and the future hope of being like Christ. The speaker references 1 John 3:1 and Romans 8 to support the idea that God's plan for believers is to be conformed to the image of Christ.
Suffering for the Sake of the Body - Lesson 2
By John Piper85923:24GEN 1:3MAT 6:33ACT 26:18ROM 11:252CO 4:42CO 4:62TI 2:24In this sermon, John Piper discusses the role of believers in sharing the gospel with those who are in bondage to sin. He emphasizes the importance of behaving with kindness and patience, while also correcting those who oppose the truth. Piper encourages believers to boldly preach the gospel to open the eyes of those who are spiritually blind and lead them to repentance and knowledge of the truth. He also highlights God's sovereignty over Satan's spiritual captivity and reminds believers that all things belong to God and bring Him glory.
The Carnal Christian - Part 2
By Bob Phillips5301:12:09Carnal Christian2TI 2:24In this sermon, the preacher discusses the contrasting outcomes of those who have a heart that is confirmed, strengthened, and established by God's grace and peace, versus those who have an unrepentant and divided heart. The preacher references Malachi 4:1, which describes a day coming when the arrogant and unrepentant will be burned like chaff and stubble. The sermon emphasizes the seriousness of having a heart captured by doctrine that protects sin, and the missed opportunity for freedom. The preacher also highlights the importance of enduring trials and temptations, as they refine and purify the faith of believers, resulting in praise and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
2 Timothy - Part 9
By John Hunter46632:032TI 2:22TI 2:152TI 2:212TI 2:24In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the metaphors used by Paul in 2 Timothy chapter 2 to teach about service to God. The metaphors include the faithful steward, the dedicated soldier, the obedient athlete, the industrious farmer, the skilled workman, the sanctified vessel, and the gentle servant. The speaker emphasizes that these metaphors represent different aspects of service and the motives behind it. He highlights the importance of absolute loyalty, observing the rules, and toiling energetically in serving the Lord. The sermon concludes with a reminder that time is running out and there is much work to be done in serving God.
Evangelism and the Layman #2
By Ernest C. Reisinger2111:10:32EvangelismPRO 11:30PRO 14:25ROM 9:161TI 3:21TI 3:122TI 2:22TI 2:24In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of directing people to the Bible rather than diverting them from it. He had a plan to talk about evangelism, focusing on the man of evangelism, the message of evangelism, and the methods and motives of evangelism. However, he only got halfway through his plan and feels pressured to finish the message. The speaker emphasizes the need to understand that people are different and have different levels of understanding, and that evangelism should involve teaching and instructing rather than simply making decisions. The sermon also highlights the importance of appealing to a person's mind and emotions in order for them to truly embrace and receive the message.
A True Witness #3
By Ernest C. Reisinger561:25:30Christian LifeMAT 28:191TH 2:31TH 2:91TH 2:132TI 2:24In this video, the discussion group focuses on ways to enhance their witness for Christ. One suggestion is for Christians to spend time in prayer and reflection, preparing themselves to effectively convey the gospel message. They also discuss the importance of presenting the gospel in a relevant and understandable way, especially in a society where words can lose their meaning. The group emphasizes the need for Christians to live out their faith beyond just Sundays, acknowledging the challenge of being a Christian in everyday life. The speaker emphasizes that the gospel must reach the whole person, including their intellect, and encourages the group to have a solid understanding of the gospel message in order to effectively communicate it.
Pew and Pulpit #02: The Pew Looks at the Pulpit
By Ernest C. Reisinger371:11:15PreachingPSA 62:5MRK 1:17ACT 20:27ROM 3:23EPH 5:142TI 2:242TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that man is born to be a slave, either to self and sin or captivated by Christ. He argues that there is a free moral agent but no free will since the fall, stating that individuals are free to act according to their fallen nature. The preacher highlights the importance of the Lordship of Christ, using the example of the leper who humbly cries out to God for healing. He also discusses the role of a faithful minister, emphasizing the need for preaching in the demonstration of the Spirit's power rather than relying on enticing words of human wisdom. The preacher concludes by mentioning the simplicity of preaching and the qualities that a servant of God should possess, such as being gentle, kind, able to teach, and patient.
On the Priesthood - Part 5
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 5:19ACT 20:31COL 3:161TH 5:111TI 4:131TI 5:172TI 2:242TI 3:141PE 3:15John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of being skilled and knowledgeable in the ministry, highlighting the dangers of unskilled leadership in the Church. He uses the example of St. Paul's mastery in both speech and doctrine, showing how his teachings and epistles have had a profound impact on the Church. Chrysostom stresses the need for priests and laity to be well-versed in Scripture, capable of defending the faith and refuting false teachings. He warns against the perils of unskilled leadership leading to the spiritual ruin of many souls.
A Minister Should Not to Be Too Sensitive
By J.C. Philpot0PRO 19:111CO 16:13GAL 6:1EPH 4:22TI 2:241PE 3:15J.C. Philpot emphasizes the importance for ministers not to be overly sensitive, as it can lead to being easily wounded by neglect and unkindness, causing rifts in friendships and making enmities irreconcilable. He acknowledges the challenges of dealing with both friends and foes, urging ministers to be firm, faithful, and forgiving, following the example of Jesus who endured much contradiction and betrayal. Philpot highlights the need for a balanced approach, combining sensitiveness with affection, boldness with gentleness, and faithfulness with contention for the faith without compromising the spirit of the gospel.
Revivals That Stay
By E.M. Bounds0ISA 40:11JHN 6:52ACT 7:26GAL 5:222TI 2:24JAS 1:20JAS 4:21PE 3:8JUD 1:3The preacher delves into the meaning of 'machomai,' which signifies intense conflict, whether physical or non-physical, often leading to bitter disputes. This word is used in the Bible to describe arguments, fights, and quarrels among individuals. The sermon emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace, avoiding unnecessary quarrels, and approaching disagreements with a gentle and respectful attitude, as exemplified by biblical figures like Moses and James. Various commentators and writers caution against engaging in heated controversies, highlighting the need for love, kindness, and a spirit of reconciliation in discussions about faith and truth.
The Transfiguration of Christ
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0JER 31:18ZEC 12:10ACT 5:31ACT 20:21ROM 2:42TI 2:24TIT 1:1JAS 1:17Greek Word Studies preaches about the importance of handling opposition with gentleness and meekness, emphasizing the need to correct others humbly and patiently, especially those who are in error. The sermon highlights that opposition not only involves a psychological attitude but also corresponding behavior, and that those who oppose themselves are standing in their own way and hindering their own growth. It stresses the significance of being firm in convictions while communicating truth with love and grace, leading others to repentance through God's life-changing grace.
Don't Argue
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Avoiding StrifeThe Meekness of Christ2TI 2:24Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the importance of avoiding arguments in the pursuit of holiness, drawing from the wisdom of Commissioner Dowdle, the teachings of Paul to Timothy, and the example of Jesus. He highlights that strife and contention are unprofitable and distract from the mission of winning hearts for Christ. Brengle encourages believers to respond with gentleness and patience, reflecting the meekness of Christ, rather than engaging in heated debates. He illustrates that true victory lies not in winning arguments but in winning souls through love and humility.
Gentleness of Spirit
By Charles E. Cowman0MAT 5:5ACT 4:33GAL 5:22PHP 2:32TI 2:24Charles E. Cowman preaches on the importance of gentleness in the life of a servant of the Lord, emphasizing the rarity of this spirit in a dark world and the necessity of undergoing suffering to attain true gentleness. He highlights that grace does not come by chance but requires intentional discernment, choice, and nurturing in our thoughts. Cowman stresses that every step towards grace begins with understanding it and making a prayerful commitment to embody it, often through a process of dying to self and experiencing crucifixion. He warns against a superficial sanctification that lacks the genuine breaking of the heart and mind, advocating for a deep, transformative work that results in a soft, sweet, and triumphant life.
Untempered Zeal
By John Hames0PRO 15:1MAT 10:16COL 4:62TI 2:24JAS 3:17John Hames emphasizes the importance of wisdom and tact in sharing the message of Christ, cautioning against being overzealous and driving souls away rather than drawing them to Christ. He shares personal experiences of unwise approaches in evangelism, highlighting the need for instruction and discernment, especially for newly converted souls. Hames advises against engaging in fruitless arguments and instead encourages a more thoughtful and considerate approach in conversations about religion, aiming to produce conviction rather than strife.
The Gospel of Mark
By A.W. Pink0Compassion in MinistryServanthoodMAT 11:28MRK 1:1LUK 22:27JHN 13:141CO 15:582TI 2:24A.W. Pink explores the distinct characteristics of Mark's Gospel, emphasizing its focus on Jesus as the humble Servant of Jehovah, contrasting it with Matthew's portrayal of Christ as the King. He highlights the omissions in Mark, such as the genealogy and the Sermon on the Mount, which reflect the Gospel's purpose of showcasing Christ's servanthood rather than His royal lineage. Pink notes the frequent use of the term 'immediately' in Mark, illustrating the urgency and promptness of Jesus' ministry. He encourages believers to emulate Christ's example of selfless service, compassion, and dedication to God's work, reminding them that true service is often unrecognized and requires sacrifice.
Epistle 400
By George Fox0GEN 3:15PRO 23:23ISA 32:18JER 9:3JHN 8:321CO 13:72TI 2:24JAS 3:171PE 1:231JN 4:16REV 3:10REV 17:14George Fox preaches about the importance of dwelling in God's love, patience, and truth, emphasizing the eternal nature of God's Word and the need to abide in it. He encourages living in heavenly wisdom, maintaining a gentle and lamb-like nature, and valiantly upholding God's truth without compromise. Fox reminds believers that the truth sets them free and leads to a peaceable habitation, ultimately bringing glory to God in all aspects of their lives.
New Years' Address, January 1858
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 50:16MAT 10:20ACT 20:28EPH 4:311TI 4:162TI 2:24REV 22:1J.C. Philpot delivers a powerful sermon on the importance of self-examination and adherence to sound doctrine in the service of God. He emphasizes the need for ministers and writers in the Church to first take heed to themselves, ensuring their own spiritual well-being before guiding others. Philpot warns against the dangers of hypocrisy, pride, and falling into sin or error, stressing the necessity of genuine faith and experience in preaching and writing. He urges a continuous commitment to the truths of the Gospel, rooted in purity, heavenly power, and the ability to save souls, rather than seeking novelty or worldly approval.
And Pray Ye Without Ceasing in Behalf of Other Men
By Ignatius of Antioch0JER 18:11MAT 5:5LUK 6:27ROM 12:19ROM 12:21EPH 4:271TH 5:172TI 2:241PE 3:9Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of praying continuously for others, holding onto hope for their repentance and return to God. He encourages believers to be ministers of God and the mouth of Christ, guiding others with humility, gentleness, and meekness. Ignatius urges Christians to respond to hatred and persecution with kindness, making enemies into brethren for the glory of the Lord. He highlights the example of Jesus, who showed patience, forgiveness, and love even in the face of suffering and betrayal.
Letter 87
By James Bourne0PRO 14:12ISA 21:10JHN 14:62CO 4:172TI 2:24James Bourne preaches about the importance of not opposing oneself and falling into false reasoning that hinders spiritual growth. He emphasizes the need for a humble, meek, and patient approach to instruction, guided by the Spirit rather than man's devising. Bourne warns against the dangerous condition of a legal conscience that leads to spiritual death and highlights the value of an enlightened ministry in leading souls to the true knowledge of God's ways.
Epistle 133
By George Fox0MAT 5:4ACT 15:91CO 8:11CO 13:6EPH 2:81TI 1:42TI 2:24HEB 11:6JAS 2:171JN 5:4JUD 1:20George Fox preaches about the importance of walking in wisdom, gentleness, meekness, thirst for righteousness, mercy, purity of heart, mourning, peacemaking, and enduring persecution for righteousness' sake as outlined in the Beatitudes. He emphasizes that love is essential for edification and that living faith, which is a gift from God, brings victory over the world, purifies the heart, and pleases God. Fox reminds the listeners that being in covenant with God through faith and love brings peace, while rejecting the light condemns individuals and puts them out of the covenant.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The servant of the Lord must not strive - See on Ti1 3:2 (note), Ti1 3:3 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not strive--"The servant of the Lord" must imitate his master in not striving contentiously, though uncompromising in earnestly contending for the faith (Jde 1:3; Mat 12:19). gentle unto all men--"patient" (Greek, "patient in bearing wrongs") in respect to adversaries. He is to be gentle so that he may occasion no evils; patient so that he may endure evils. apt to teach--implying not only solid teaching and ease in teaching, but patience and assiduity in it [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the servant of the Lord must not strive,.... By "the servant of the Lord" is not meant any believer in common, but a minister of the word, as Timothy was; such an one ought not to strive about words to no profit, about mere words, and in a litigious, quarrelsome manner, and for mastery and not truth; though he may, and ought to strive for the faith of the Gospel; this is praiseworthy in him: but be gentle unto all men; not only to troubled minds, and wounded consciences, by supplying them with the precious promises and truths of the Gospel; and to backsliders, by restoring them in a spirit of meekness; but even to those who contradict the truth, and themselves, by mild and kind instructions. Apt to teach, showing a willingness to instruct the ignorant and obstinate, and making use of abilities given for that purpose, notwithstanding all discouragements; for it follows, patient, or "bearing evil"; not only the infirmities of weak brethren in the church, and the reproaches and persecutions of profane men in the world; but also the contradictions and oppositions of the adversaries of truth, so as not to be irritated and provoked, or to be discouraged, and desist from the defence of the Gospel.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:24 A servant of the Lord: See Titus 1:1; cp. Isa 42:1-2; 50:6; 53:7; Matt 12:14-21. • be able to teach, and be patient: See 1 Tim 3:2-3; Titus 3:2.