2 Timothy 4:2
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Preach the word - Κηρυξον τον λογον· Proclaim the doctrine, the doctrine of Christ crucified, for the sins of the whole world; the doctrine, that the Gentiles are invited to be fellow heirs with the Jews, and that for Jews and Gentiles there is no salvation but by faith in Christ. Be instant in season, out of season - Επιστηθι ευκαιρως, ακαιρως. Be urgent whether the times be prosperous or adverse, whenever there is an opportunity; and when there is none, strive to make one. The Judge is at the door, and to every man eternity is at hand! Wherever thou meetest a sinner, speak to him the word of reconciliation. Do not be contented with stated times and accustomed places merely; all time and place belong to God, and are proper for his work. Wherever it can be done, there it should be done. Satan will omit neither time nor place where he can destroy. Omit thou none where thou mayest be the instrument of salvation to any. Reprove - Ελεγξον· Confute, the false teacher. Rebuke - Επιτιμησον· Reprove cuttingly and severely those who will not abandon their sins. Exhort - Παρακαλεσον· Comfort the feeble-minded, the diffident and the tempted. With all long-suffering - In reference to each and all of these cases. And doctrine - The different modes of teaching suited to each.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Preach--literally, "proclaim as a herald." The term for the discourses in the synagogue was daraschoth; the corresponding Greek term (implying dialectial style, dialogue, and discussion, Act 17:2, Act 17:18; Act 18:4, Act 18:19) is applied in Acts to discourses in the Christian Church. JUSTIN MARTYR [Apology, 2], describes the order of public worship, "On Sunday all meet and the writings of the apostles and prophets are read; then the president delivers a discourse; after this all stand up and pray; then there is offered bread and wine and water; the president likewise prays and gives thanks, and the people solemnly assent, saying, Amen." The bishops and presbyters had the right and duty to preach, but they sometimes called on deacons, and even laymen, to preach. EUSEBIUS [Ecclesiastical History, 6.19]; in this the Church imitated the synagogue (Luk 4:17-22; Act 13:15-16). be instant--that is, urgent, earnest, in the whole work of the ministry. in season, out of season--that is, at all seasons; whether they regard your speaking as seasonable or unseasonable. "Just as the fountains, though none may draw from them, still flow on; and the rivers, though none drink of them, still run; so must we do all on our part in speaking, though none give heed to us" [CHRYSOSTOM, Homily, 30, vol. 5., p. 221]. I think with CHRYSOSTOM, there is included also the idea of times whether seasonable or unseasonable to Timothy himself; not merely when convenient, but when inconvenient to thee, night as well as day (Act 20:31), in danger as well as in safety, in prison and when doomed to death as well as when at large, not only in church, but everywhere and on all occasions, whenever and wherever the Lord's work requires it. reprove--"convict," "confute." with, &c.--Greek, "IN (the element in which the exhortation ought to have place) all long-suffering (Ti2 2:24-25; Ti2 3:10) and teaching"; compare Ti2 2:24, "apt to teach." The Greek for "doctrine" here is didache, but in Ti2 3:16, didascalia. "Didascalia" is what one receives; "didache" is what is communicated [TITTMANN].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Preach the word,.... Either Christ the essential Word, who is the sum and substance of the Gospel ministry; or the word of truth and faith, the Gospel of salvation, the word of righteousness, peace, and reconciliation by Christ; which is to be preached, or published, in like manner as heralds proclaim the will of their princes; openly, publicly, and with a loud voice, without adding to it, or taking from speaking out the whole, and keeping back no part of it; and that with all courage and boldness: some copies read, "the word of God"; and the Ethiopic version, "his word"; that is, the word of Christ: be instant in season, out of season; that is, be constant and assiduous in the work of the ministry; be always and wholly in it, either preparing for it, or performing it; or doing those things which are annexed to it, or follow upon it; redeem time, and take every opportunity of dispensing the mysteries of grace, as a faithful steward of them; not only make use of the common and stated seasons for the ministration of the word and ordinances, but embrace every other that offers; make use not only of those seasons which may seem commodious and advantageous both to preacher and hearer, and promise usefulness and success, but even such as may seem incommodious and disadvantageous to flesh and blood; such as times of persecution and opposition; but none of these things should deter and move from the preaching of the Gospel. Several parts of the ministerial function to be insisted on and attended to are next mentioned, as being within the solemn charge given before God and Christ: reprove; errors, and men for their errors and heresies; make use of convincing arguments taken out of the Scriptures, which are profitable for reproof of this kind; and which reproof sometimes is to be given with sharpness, as the case requires, that men may be sound in the faith. Rebuke; or chide for sin; some privately, others more publicly, according to the nature and circumstances of the offence; some more gently, others more roughly, as is needful. Exhort; to all the duties of religion respecting God and man; to show love, and to do good works; to hold fast the profession of faith, and walk as becomes the Gospel of Christ; and to persevere in faith and holiness: or "comfort", as the word may be rendered; for as the ministers of the Gospel are in some cases to be "Boanergeses", sons of thunder, so other cases they should be Barnabases, sons of consolation; and comfort distressed minds, by preaching the comfortable doctrines of peace, pardon, righteousness and salvation by Jesus Christ: with all longsuffering: or patience. The success of the Gospel ministry should be patiently waited for as husbandmen do for the fruits of the earth. Those that give into error, and oppose themselves to the truth, should be instructed in meekness; and those who are overtaken in a fault should be gently rebuked, and restored in such a spirit; and every exhortation should be pressed as persons are able to bear it: and doctrine; in a way that is instructive and teaching, and in agreement with the doctrine of the Scriptures, which are profitable for that purpose.
2 Timothy 4:2
Preach the Word
1I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of His appearing and His kingdom:2Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and encourage with every form of patient instruction.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Ten Indictments Against the Modern Church
By Paul Washer68K1:56:35EXO 25:9MAT 6:33ROM 12:21CO 4:71TI 4:162TI 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for revival and awakening in the church. He cautions against expecting the Holy Spirit to clean up the mess without taking responsibility for our actions. The speaker urges believers to align their lives and the church with the clear direction given in the Word of God. He encourages humility and a willingness to change, even in the later stages of life. The sermon also addresses the younger ministers, urging them to approach these truths with love and humility when implementing them in their churches.
(Israel) Preaching Christ With Authority
By David Wilkerson18K50:53AuthorityISA 58:12JER 23:28MAT 28:18ACT 4:131CO 2:42CO 10:42TI 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God with spiritual authority. He shares a personal experience of a young man who came seeking wisdom but criticized the preacher for not truly listening. The speaker reflects on his own preaching journey and recalls moments when he felt a powerful spiritual authority in his messages. He then discusses the need to preach Christ with authority and highlights the example of a humble leader who took the lowest seat in the house despite being a respected bishop in six nations.
(Costa Rica) Another Gospel
By David Wilkerson15K54:46Another GospelPRO 15:28MAT 6:24ACT 1:82TH 2:31TI 6:102TI 4:2JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of discerning false teachings and being cautious of preachers who mix the gospel with harmful messages. He shares a story about an encounter with a woman who received an envelope as an offering, but it took a long time for the actual offering to be collected. The preacher warns that even though a preacher may sound deep and deliver a good message, if there is no mention of sin and a lot of focus on money, it may be a sign of a false teaching. He also shares a personal experience of preaching a strong message and feeling fear that he may have wounded God's people, but later realizing that his message was changing hearts. The preacher concludes by warning that another gospel is coming to the church and urges believers to stay true to the gospel and not compromise, even if it may offend people.
(2008 Usa Tour) Preachers in the Last Days!
By Keith Daniel7.7K1:12:59LUK 21:15ACT 6:101TI 4:132TI 2:152TI 4:22TI 4:51PE 3:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for preachers to separate themselves from worldly influences and dedicate themselves fully to preaching the word of God. He criticizes theological centers and seminars that teach preachers to be entertainers rather than faithful messengers of the Bible. The preacher warns against compromising the message of the Bible for the sake of pleasing the masses, stating that this leads to a distortion of God's blueprint for our lives. He urges preachers to prioritize the salvation of souls over entertaining the congregation, emphasizing the importance of preaching the truth even if it may offend some.
(True Disciple Conference) Question & Answer Session
By Paul Washer7.1K1:25:53Question AnswerMAT 6:33ACT 1:82TI 4:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the fear and anxiety that can arise when Christians feel the pressure to share their faith with others. He emphasizes the importance of serving others and approaching conversations with a genuine and normal demeanor. The speaker uses a metaphor of enemy soldiers and a battle to illustrate the struggle of witnessing to others. He also encourages pastors to spend ample time studying and understanding the text they are preaching, allowing it to transform their own lives before sharing it with others.
Die, Wait, and Get Alone
By Leonard Ravenhill6.0K1:12:13Dying To SelfMAT 4:4JHN 12:23JHN 15:7JHN 17:22TI 2:152TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that believing in Jesus is not enough, there is something more that God needs to do in us. The preacher refers to the Gospel of John and explains that there is one Gospel told by four different people. He compares the Gospels to the different parts of the Tabernacle, with John being the holy place and John 17 being the holy of holies. The primary purpose of Jesus coming into the world was not just to save sinners from hell, but to bring glory to the Son of man. The preacher also encourages the audience to seek God's vision and be willing to give their all for Him.
The Power of Weeping
By Michael Youssef5.9K20:48PRO 8:13JER 9:1MAT 22:37ROM 1:161CO 9:162TI 4:2JAS 4:10In this sermon, the speaker expresses deep concern and lament over the current condition of the Church of Jesus Christ. He urges the audience not to dismiss his words as judgmental or negative, but rather to share his concern and join him in sounding the alarm. The speaker criticizes the church for its spiritual apathy, reliance on statistics and entertainment, and focus on profitability rather than biblical truth. He emphasizes the need for repentance and turning to God, and confesses his own journey of realizing the importance of tears and vulnerability in his ministry.
(Hebrews - Part 38): Heroes of Faith
By A.W. Tozer5.5K22:16ExpositionalGEN 5:24GEN 6:8GEN 8:22GEN 12:1EZR 7:102TI 4:2HEB 11:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to God and understanding His high expectations for us. He encourages the audience to put away sin, separate themselves from the world, and offer themselves to God in faith. The preacher reminds the audience that God accepts the poor in spirit, regardless of their background. He prays for God's blessing and asks for the word to come alive in their hearts. The preacher also mentions the examples of Ezra and Paul, who emphasized the importance of reading and preaching the word of God. He concludes by highlighting the importance of faith, obedience, and love, and encourages the audience to be alive and active in their faith rather than being spiritually dead.
The Human Face of God
By David Wilkerson4.9K55:00MAT 23:33JHN 20:19JHN 21:1ROM 2:41TI 2:42TI 3:162TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching both the goodness and severity of God to produce a healthy congregation. He highlights the human face of God as seen in Christ, which is characterized by unconditional love and kindness. The preacher emphasizes the need for a personal relationship with God, where we are called to love Him above all else. He shares the testimony of Nikki Cruz, who attributes his long-lasting faith to his love for Jesus. The preacher also mentions that Jesus chose three special manifestations to reveal who God is to his disciples. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to express their love for Jesus and acknowledge His faithfulness.
(Guidelines) Read the Bible
By J. Vernon McGee4.9K08:15NEH 8:7PSA 36:9PRO 2:1MAT 6:33JHN 16:132TI 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching and teaching the Word of God. He quotes Dr. Morgan who said that inspiration is 95% perspiration, highlighting the hard work and dedication required in delivering God's message. The speaker encourages the audience to read the Bible, stating that it is through reading and understanding the Word of God that we find light and truth. He also mentions the example of Dr. G. Campbell Morgan, who wrote helpful books on the Bible and emphasized the importance of reading the Bible distinctly.
(Biographies) John Owen
By John Piper4.5K1:33:02PSA 119:105PSA 119:130MAT 6:33JHN 15:71CO 15:572TI 4:21PE 1:22In this sermon, Pastor John Piper reflects on the life and legacy of John Owen, a prominent theologian and pastor. He emphasizes the lesson of trusting in God's providence, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Piper highlights Owen's passion for preaching the gospel and his commitment to holiness. He also shares a personal anecdote about how God's providence ensured that he was prepared to deliver this message. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to learn from Owen's faith and strive for holiness in their own lives.
The Great and Final Separation
By David Wilkerson4.2K47:282CH 7:14MRK 13:37ACT 2:42CO 6:171TI 4:12TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking God's face and being separated from the world. He challenges the congregation to examine their commitment to living a strict Christian life and not being swayed by worldly desires. The preacher acknowledges that while 95% of the Christian life may be good, it is the remaining 5% that can be detrimental. He also highlights the decline of Christianity in modern times and urges believers to stir themselves and long for the coming of Jesus. The sermon concludes with a reminder that Jesus loved sinners and calls for personal transformation and a commitment to live out the preached message.
The Life of c.t. Studd
By George Stevenson3.2K46:47C.T. StuddMAT 6:33MRK 8:36ACT 26:182TI 4:2HEB 11:35HEB 11:38In this sermon, the preacher discusses the life and ministry of C.T. Studd, a missionary who dedicated his life to spreading the gospel. Studd's conviction to go to China was solidified when he read the Bible verse about a man's foes being those of his own household. He was joined by six other men, known as the Cambridge Seven, and together they sparked a revival among student groups in England. Studd committed himself to living for Christ and doing God's will alone, regardless of what others said. Through his obedience and faith, Studd left a lasting legacy and was used by God in a remarkable way.
(Exodus) Exodus 36:1-2
By J. Vernon McGee2.8K05:23JDG 7:5MAT 6:33ROM 14:51CO 15:58COL 3:232TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God with enthusiasm and eagerness. He criticizes a young preacher who lacks enthusiasm in his preaching and suggests that he should not be in the ministry if he does not love studying the word of God. The preacher uses the example of Bezalel, who worked diligently and eagerly in building the tabernacle, to illustrate the kind of attitude and passion that should be present in doing God's work. He also highlights the need for Christians to be fully persuaded and eager in their service to God, citing Paul's words in Romans 14:5.
Preach the Word
By John Walvoord2.5K26:27PSA 119:105MAT 28:19JHN 8:32ACT 4:12ROM 10:92TI 3:162TI 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God effectively. He references 2 Timothy chapter 4, where Paul outlines the elements of effective speaking. The speaker shares his personal experience of being saved by a preacher who clearly explained the gospel message. He criticizes modern preaching that fails to address the salvation message and emphasizes the need for expository preaching that covers the whole Bible. The purpose of Dallas Theological Seminary is also mentioned, which is to equip students with a strong biblical foundation for expository preaching.
Elijah - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.5K08:571KI 18:212CH 7:14ISA 66:2JOL 2:17MAL 4:5LUK 4:18JHN 15:16ACT 1:82TI 4:2This sermon focuses on the theme of revival and the role of prophets like Elijah in bringing about spiritual awakening. It emphasizes the need for a return to God's ways and the importance of trembling at His Word when preaching. The speaker challenges preachers to approach their ministry with a sense of urgency and reverence, highlighting the impact of individuals like Richard Baxter in leading revival at a family level.
Keeping a Good Conscience
By Zac Poonen2.4K49:13ConsciencePSA 1:2JER 15:191TI 1:192TI 4:21PE 3:15REV 3:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of keeping a sensitive conscience and living a life that honors Christ. He encourages believers to always be ready to defend their faith with gentleness and reverence. The speaker acknowledges his own failures and emphasizes the need for repentance and mourning over sin. He also highlights the importance of faithfulness in all areas of life, including words, money, and relationships. The sermon concludes with a reminder to hold fast to what one has and to strive for perfection in Christlikeness.
Stir Up the Gift of God
By Leonard Ravenhill2.3K1:08:36Gift Of GodMAL 3:12TI 3:162TI 4:2In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful personal experience of someone being called by Jesus to follow Him. The speaker emphasizes that this person had no knowledge of Jesus or the virgin birth, yet still responded to the call. The speaker then discusses the importance of revival and how it should impact people's lives, causing them to prioritize spiritual matters over worldly pursuits. The speaker also highlights the need for preachers to focus on preaching the word of God rather than just addressing societal issues.
The Judgment Seat of Christ (Alternate 3)
By Leonard Ravenhill2.1K58:30Judgment SeatGEN 1:1MAT 6:332TI 4:2HEB 9:27REV 20:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of Jesus' resurrection and how it defeated death. He highlights the foolishness of those who tried to put eternal life to death and how Jesus triumphantly rose from the grave. The preacher also acknowledges the support and hospitality he received during his time at the church. He concludes by reminding the audience that everyone will face judgment, regardless of their status or wealth, and that God will ultimately do what is right.
The Apostasy - the Remnant Part 2
By David Wilkerson1.9K04:47ISA 62:6EZK 16:60EZK 33:6JOL 2:28ACT 2:171CO 16:13EPH 6:132TI 4:21PE 5:8REV 3:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of being watchmen and warning others of impending spiritual dangers to avoid having blood on our hands. It speaks of a remnant that will turn away from idolatry and apostasy, being led by the Spirit to stand firm in the truth of God's Word amidst the challenges of the age. The message calls for a humble, unmovable people anchored in the Bible, ready to preach the full Gospel without compromise.
The Cost to Leadership
By Stephen Olford1.9K46:01LeadershipMAT 6:33JHN 21:221TI 4:132TI 4:22TI 4:5HEB 13:7HEB 13:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of leadership and the qualities that mark a true leader. He emphasizes the importance of character, conduct, and commitment in leadership. The preacher also highlights the need for leaders to have a genuine love and loyalty to Christ as Lord. He uses the example of Peter's denial and Jesus' questioning to illustrate the significance of love as a motivation for leadership. The sermon concludes with a reminder to remain faithful and obedient to Christ's call to leadership.
(The Sufficiency of the Saviour) 2. for Church Life
By Stephen Olford1.9K57:29Sufficiency Of The SaviourMAT 6:33COL 3:122TI 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of compassion in the life of a Christian. He contrasts the lack of mercy in the ancient world with the transformative power of Jesus, who showed compassion to all. The speaker also highlights the significance of Bible exposition and the role of preaching the word in the church. He encourages a reexamination of worship, emphasizing the need for depth and content in songs. Finally, he emphasizes the importance of performing the work of Christ in both word and deed.
Sermon Substance
By Jim Cymbala1.8K42:09Sermon Preparation2CH 7:1MAT 22:37JHN 13:341CO 2:42TI 4:2JAS 1:221PE 4:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God. He encourages preachers to focus on delivering a message from God's word rather than relying on their own abilities or clever points. The speaker highlights the need for ministers to lead people into a love for the Bible, as it is through the word of God that individuals can draw near to God. He also warns against being incompetent ministers who seek attention or fail to feed the people spiritually. The sermon concludes with a reminder that preaching should be accompanied by a demonstration of the power of the Holy Spirit.
Parable of the Sower
By Charles E. Fuller1.7K50:44SowerMRK 4:14ACT 2:14ACT 8:52TI 4:2HEB 10:26HEB 11:25REV 3:20In this sermon, the preacher uses an illustration of a man in a railroad station to emphasize the importance of paying attention to the message of Jesus. He explains that just like the man in the station who may not hear or pay attention to the train announcer, people can be indifferent or engrossed in worldly matters and miss the gospel message. The preacher then focuses on the parable of the sower sowing the seed, explaining the different ways in which people receive the gospel. He highlights the importance of having eyes to see the unseen and becoming fruitful by hearkening and paying attention to the word of God.
3 Chapel of the Air Interviews of Leonard Ravenhill
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K00:002CH 7:14PRO 27:17EPH 4:292TI 4:2HEB 10:24This sermon discusses the importance of spiritual revival, emphasizing the need for discipline, depth in understanding, and a return to the profound teachings of earlier generations. It touches on the challenges and potential misuse of religious media, urging for a strong, consistent message rooted in holiness and the majesty of God. The speaker reflects on the state of the church, the impact of radio and television ministries, and the hope for a national revival.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Preach the word - Κηρυξον τον λογον· Proclaim the doctrine, the doctrine of Christ crucified, for the sins of the whole world; the doctrine, that the Gentiles are invited to be fellow heirs with the Jews, and that for Jews and Gentiles there is no salvation but by faith in Christ. Be instant in season, out of season - Επιστηθι ευκαιρως, ακαιρως. Be urgent whether the times be prosperous or adverse, whenever there is an opportunity; and when there is none, strive to make one. The Judge is at the door, and to every man eternity is at hand! Wherever thou meetest a sinner, speak to him the word of reconciliation. Do not be contented with stated times and accustomed places merely; all time and place belong to God, and are proper for his work. Wherever it can be done, there it should be done. Satan will omit neither time nor place where he can destroy. Omit thou none where thou mayest be the instrument of salvation to any. Reprove - Ελεγξον· Confute, the false teacher. Rebuke - Επιτιμησον· Reprove cuttingly and severely those who will not abandon their sins. Exhort - Παρακαλεσον· Comfort the feeble-minded, the diffident and the tempted. With all long-suffering - In reference to each and all of these cases. And doctrine - The different modes of teaching suited to each.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Preach--literally, "proclaim as a herald." The term for the discourses in the synagogue was daraschoth; the corresponding Greek term (implying dialectial style, dialogue, and discussion, Act 17:2, Act 17:18; Act 18:4, Act 18:19) is applied in Acts to discourses in the Christian Church. JUSTIN MARTYR [Apology, 2], describes the order of public worship, "On Sunday all meet and the writings of the apostles and prophets are read; then the president delivers a discourse; after this all stand up and pray; then there is offered bread and wine and water; the president likewise prays and gives thanks, and the people solemnly assent, saying, Amen." The bishops and presbyters had the right and duty to preach, but they sometimes called on deacons, and even laymen, to preach. EUSEBIUS [Ecclesiastical History, 6.19]; in this the Church imitated the synagogue (Luk 4:17-22; Act 13:15-16). be instant--that is, urgent, earnest, in the whole work of the ministry. in season, out of season--that is, at all seasons; whether they regard your speaking as seasonable or unseasonable. "Just as the fountains, though none may draw from them, still flow on; and the rivers, though none drink of them, still run; so must we do all on our part in speaking, though none give heed to us" [CHRYSOSTOM, Homily, 30, vol. 5., p. 221]. I think with CHRYSOSTOM, there is included also the idea of times whether seasonable or unseasonable to Timothy himself; not merely when convenient, but when inconvenient to thee, night as well as day (Act 20:31), in danger as well as in safety, in prison and when doomed to death as well as when at large, not only in church, but everywhere and on all occasions, whenever and wherever the Lord's work requires it. reprove--"convict," "confute." with, &c.--Greek, "IN (the element in which the exhortation ought to have place) all long-suffering (Ti2 2:24-25; Ti2 3:10) and teaching"; compare Ti2 2:24, "apt to teach." The Greek for "doctrine" here is didache, but in Ti2 3:16, didascalia. "Didascalia" is what one receives; "didache" is what is communicated [TITTMANN].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Preach the word,.... Either Christ the essential Word, who is the sum and substance of the Gospel ministry; or the word of truth and faith, the Gospel of salvation, the word of righteousness, peace, and reconciliation by Christ; which is to be preached, or published, in like manner as heralds proclaim the will of their princes; openly, publicly, and with a loud voice, without adding to it, or taking from speaking out the whole, and keeping back no part of it; and that with all courage and boldness: some copies read, "the word of God"; and the Ethiopic version, "his word"; that is, the word of Christ: be instant in season, out of season; that is, be constant and assiduous in the work of the ministry; be always and wholly in it, either preparing for it, or performing it; or doing those things which are annexed to it, or follow upon it; redeem time, and take every opportunity of dispensing the mysteries of grace, as a faithful steward of them; not only make use of the common and stated seasons for the ministration of the word and ordinances, but embrace every other that offers; make use not only of those seasons which may seem commodious and advantageous both to preacher and hearer, and promise usefulness and success, but even such as may seem incommodious and disadvantageous to flesh and blood; such as times of persecution and opposition; but none of these things should deter and move from the preaching of the Gospel. Several parts of the ministerial function to be insisted on and attended to are next mentioned, as being within the solemn charge given before God and Christ: reprove; errors, and men for their errors and heresies; make use of convincing arguments taken out of the Scriptures, which are profitable for reproof of this kind; and which reproof sometimes is to be given with sharpness, as the case requires, that men may be sound in the faith. Rebuke; or chide for sin; some privately, others more publicly, according to the nature and circumstances of the offence; some more gently, others more roughly, as is needful. Exhort; to all the duties of religion respecting God and man; to show love, and to do good works; to hold fast the profession of faith, and walk as becomes the Gospel of Christ; and to persevere in faith and holiness: or "comfort", as the word may be rendered; for as the ministers of the Gospel are in some cases to be "Boanergeses", sons of thunder, so other cases they should be Barnabases, sons of consolation; and comfort distressed minds, by preaching the comfortable doctrines of peace, pardon, righteousness and salvation by Jesus Christ: with all longsuffering: or patience. The success of the Gospel ministry should be patiently waited for as husbandmen do for the fruits of the earth. Those that give into error, and oppose themselves to the truth, should be instructed in meekness; and those who are overtaken in a fault should be gently rebuked, and restored in such a spirit; and every exhortation should be pressed as persons are able to bear it: and doctrine; in a way that is instructive and teaching, and in agreement with the doctrine of the Scriptures, which are profitable for that purpose.