2 Timothy 4:5
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But watch thou in all things - It is possible to be overtaken in a fault, to neglect one's duty, and to lose one's soul. Watching unto prayer prevents all these evils. Endure afflictions - Let no sufferings affright thee; nor let the dread of them either cause thee to abandon the truth, or relax in thy zeal for the salvation of men. Do the work of an evangelist - That is: Preach Christ crucified for the sins of the whole world; for this, and this alone, is doing the work of an evangelist, or preacher of the glad tidings of peace and salvation by Christ. An angel from God was first sent to do the work of an evangelist, and how did he do it? Behold, said he, I bring you good tidings of great joy; Ιδου γαρ, ευαγγελιζομαι ὑμιν χαραν μεγαλην, ἡτις εσται παντι τῳ λαῳ. Behold, I evangelize unto you great joy, which shall be to all people; to you is born a Savior. Those who do not proclaim Christ as having tasted death for every man, and who do not implicitly show that every human soul may be saved, do not perform the work of evangelists; they, God help them! limit the Holy One of Israel. Yet, as far as they preach the truth in sincerity, so far God acknowledges and blesses them and their labors; they do a part of the work, but not the whole. Make full proof of thy ministry - Push all thy principles to their utmost power of activity; carry them on to all their consequences; and try what God will do for thee, and by thee. Neglect no part of thy sacred function; perform faithfully all the duties of which it is composed; and do God's work in his own way and in his own spirit.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I am no longer here to withstand these things; be thou a worthy successor of me, no longer depending on me for counsel, but thine own master, and swimming without the corks [CALVIN]; follow my steps, inherit their result, and the honor of their end [ALFORD]. watch thou--literally, "with the wakefulness of one sober." in all things--on all occasions and under all circumstances (Tit 2:7). endure affliction--suffer hardships [ALFORD]. evangelist--a missionary bishop preacher, and teacher. make full proof of--fulfil in all its requirements, leaving nothing undone (Act 12:25; Rom 15:19; Col 4:17).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But watch thou in all things,.... Relating to himself, his doctrine, and conversation; and to others, to feed the flock of God under his care, to know the state of them, and care for them; to give the time of night, and notice of approaching danger, and see the laws of Christ put in execution; either in allusion to shepherds, who watch over their flocks night and day; or to watchmen that are upon the walls of cities, or go about them; or to the priests and Levites in the temple: endure afflictions; the Alexandrian copy adds, "as a good soldier of Jesus Christ", as in Ti2 2:3 meaning reproaches and persecutions for the sake of the Gospel, from without, and all trials and exercises from within, through the infirmities and ill conduct of the saints themselves; all which are to be endured patiently, cheerfully, and courageously; so as not to be moved by them to desist from the work of the ministry: do the work of an evangelist; which may design either an officer, then in the church, distinct from apostles and prophets on the one hand, and pastors and teachers on the other; and was below the former, and above the latter; and was aiding and assisting to the apostles, and such an one Timothy may be thought to be: or it may intend a preacher of the Gospel in common; and to do the work of such an one is not to read lectures of morality, or to preach up justification and salvation by the works of the law; or to mix law and Gospel together, and confound them both; but to preach peace, pardon, righteousness, life, and salvation alone by Jesus Christ, and through the free grace of God: make full proof of thy ministry: the work of the ministry, which lies in preaching the Gospel, and administering ordinances, and doing all the duties belonging to it, which is to fulfil it, or discharge it; and which gives full proof of a man's being a true and faithful minister of the word; particularly when he diligently and constantly attends to his work; seeks not his own things, but the things of Christ; cheerfully and patiently suffers for Christ and his Gospel, and lives an agreeable life and conversation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5-8 Paul effectively hands the mantle of leadership to Timothy (cp. Deut 31:7-8; 34:9; 2 Kgs 2:1-18). 4:5 This final charge summarizes what has been said before (1:6-14; 2:1-15, 24-26; 3:12).
2 Timothy 4:5
Preach the Word
4So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.5But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.6For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(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.
Increasingly Radical
By Francis Chan6.6K52:16RadicalACT 4:132TI 4:12TI 4:5In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the frustration of witnessing people turning away from sound teaching and seeking out teachers who cater to their own desires. He emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God and fulfilling the ministry of evangelism. The speaker encourages believers to be ready to reprove, rebuke, and exhort with patience and teaching. He also highlights the need for believers to step out of their comfort zones and engage in actions that may be uncomfortable or scary in order to experience the presence of God and bring about unity among believers.
The Wonderful Love of Jesus
By David Wilkerson3.2K54:06MAT 6:33LUK 6:352TI 4:22TI 4:52TI 4:181PE 3:8REV 3:16REV 3:18In this sermon, the speaker shares about his recent encounter with two young men, Nicky Cruz and Sonny Argonzoni, who have powerful testimonies of transformation through Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of presenting Jesus accurately to the world, as opposed to the distorted view of a vengeful and judgmental God. He highlights the need for believers to be faithful ambassadors of Christ, showing compassion and love to others. The speaker references the story of the prodigal son to illustrate God's mercy and forgiveness towards those who repent and turn to Him.
Principles for Serving God - Fulfilling Our Appointed Task
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:01:41PrinciplesMAT 6:33MRK 13:34ACT 2:22ROM 12:6EPH 4:112TI 4:51PE 4:10In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of being zealous and radical in one's faith versus being diplomatic and sitting on the fence. He compares this to watching a football game and criticizing the players' decisions from the sidelines. The speaker emphasizes that clarity in one's ministry takes time and should not be compared to those who have been walking with the Lord for many years. He encourages listeners to be faithful in whatever task or ministry they have been assigned by God, reminding them that they have been given authority by the Holy Spirit to fulfill their tasks.
A Light to Others
By Zac Poonen2.0K1:06:15ExampleMAT 5:14MAT 6:33MAT 13:57LUK 15:20JHN 1:18ACT 1:82TI 4:5In this video, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sharing the truth of God's word with others. They encourage young people to take on the responsibility of being a light to those around them, whether through preaching, writing letters, or engaging in short conversations. The speaker highlights the purpose of light, stating that just as the sun and moon were created to give light to the earth, believers are called to shine their light and share the love of God with those who are spiritually lost. They urge listeners to not wait until they are perfect, but to start serving God and reaching out to others, trusting that God will expand their influence and use them to bring rivers of living water to those in need.
Fren-18 Apostolic Foundations - Preaching
By Art Katz1.9K1:25:39PreachingACT 4:202CO 3:62TI 4:22TI 4:52TI 4:8HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker reflects on moments of physical weakness and disorientation while preaching the word of God. Despite the risk of failure and humiliation, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching with authority and confidence, knowing that the words spoken are not their own but from God. The speaker shares a personal experience of delivering a powerful message that caused controversy and offense, but also led to a profound encounter with God. The sermon concludes with the reminder that even in moments of discouragement and weariness, the spoken word holds great reverence and power.
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.
Christians Must Perform the Truth - Part 3
By Stephen Olford1.3K54:08TruthMAT 6:331TH 4:162TI 3:162TI 4:22TI 4:52JN 1:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the truth of the gospel. He highlights the method of communication chosen by God, which includes both written (paper and ink) and spoken (face to face) forms. The speaker encourages Christians to proclaim the truth with a standard of commitment and a service of involvement. He also shares examples of the impact that spreading the written word (such as through tracks) and sharing the spoken word can have in leading people to righteousness. The sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to actively engage in proclaiming the truth of the gospel.
The Fourfold Purpose of the Gospel
By Jeff Rose1.2K45:46PSA 96:3PRO 23:2ISA 49:2MAT 24:37LUK 14:31ROM 1:16EPH 4:112TI 4:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ without compromise, highlighting the need to return to the true gospel message, the resistance faced when preaching the gospel, and the transformative power of the gospel in individuals and the church. It calls for a bold and uncompromising proclamation of the gospel for the glory of God, as the only answer to man's dilemma, to strengthen and nourish the body of Christ, and to fulfill the Great Commission.
Let Him Be Accursed
By Rolfe Barnard1.1K1:05:25JHN 14:21JHN 14:231CO 13:122CO 4:71TI 4:162TI 4:5HEB 10:25In this sermon, the preacher expresses his nervousness and shares his desire for the congregation to listen attentively. He emphasizes the importance of behaving and mentions that a good spanking is necessary at times. The preacher encourages the congregation to think like Jesus and to feel the love of Jesus, who sacrificed himself on the cross. He also discusses the role of evangelism and the need to share the message of salvation with others. The preacher expresses concern about the salvation of those who trust in their own actions rather than in God's grace.
Paul's First Missionary Journey
By Steve Gallagher65057:35ACT 13:47ACT 14:221CO 3:6GAL 6:9PHP 1:61TH 5:242TI 4:5This sermon reflects on Paul's missionary journey, highlighting the challenges faced, the response to the gospel message, and the importance of staying faithful to God's work despite opposition and discouragement. It emphasizes the reality that not everyone will respond positively to the gospel, but God will bring forth fruit in His timing and way, even if it may not be outwardly huge. The story of Timothy's conversion and the impact of the gospel message on different individuals are used as examples to encourage perseverance in ministry.
Every Believer Is Called to the Ministry
By Shane Idleman1152:02FaithfulnessMinistryMAT 25:40ACT 20:24ROM 12:11CO 12:12GAL 6:2EPH 4:12PHP 2:42TI 4:5JAS 1:221PE 4:10Shane Idleman emphasizes that every believer is called to ministry, highlighting the importance of fulfilling God's purpose in our lives to avoid feelings of dissatisfaction and discouragement. He encourages the congregation to recognize that ministry is not solely the pastor's responsibility but a calling for all Christians, regardless of the size or visibility of their efforts. Shane stresses that true ministry is measured by faithfulness rather than numbers, urging believers to serve those in need and to be open to God's leading in their lives. He reminds the audience that ministry often involves confronting uncomfortable truths and that God uses our weaknesses to help others. Ultimately, Shane calls for a commitment to serve and to share the love of Christ with those around us.
Evangelism and Apologetics
By Stephen C. Perks0JHN 12:32ACT 8:4EPH 4:112TI 4:51PE 3:15Stephen C. Perks delivers a sermon emphasizing the importance of understanding the roles of evangelists and preachers in the church. He explains that evangelists bring the good news to the unconverted, while preachers teach the Christian faith systematically to believers. Perks highlights the need for evangelists to be specifically called and ordained, as seen in the examples of Philip and Timothy in the New Testament. He also stresses the significance of defending the faith, explaining that all believers are called to be prepared to give a reasoned argument in defense of their faith, challenging the misconception that Christianity is solely a matter of the heart.
The Practicability of Something Being
By William Carey0ISA 60:9ACT 20:241CO 9:22COL 3:232TI 4:5William Carey preaches about the impediments in carrying the gospel among the heathen, addressing concerns such as distance, barbarous living conditions, danger, language barriers, and difficulty in procuring necessities. He emphasizes the importance of overcoming these obstacles through navigation, love for souls, and the spread of the gospel for the civilization and salvation of all people. Carey encourages missionaries to be devoted, courageous, patient, and willing to endure hardships, emphasizing the need for piety, orthodoxy, and a spirit of mission. He highlights the significance of learning languages, cultivating friendships, and relying on the Holy Spirit for success in spreading the gospel to unreached areas.
Finney as an Evangelist
By Frank Grenville Beardsley0PRO 11:30MAT 9:37ACT 8:5ROM 10:141CO 3:61TH 1:52TI 4:5JAS 5:16Frank Grenville Beardsley discusses the impact of evangelists like WHITEFIELD, the Wesleys, Dwight L. Moody, and B. Fay Mills in preparing the way for the modern evangelistic campaigns. He highlights the techniques and innovations introduced by these evangelists, such as union evangelistic campaigns, singing evangelists, and organized committees for effective revival planning. Beardsley contrasts the methods of Charles G. Finney, emphasizing Finney's focus on personal responsibility, the need for immediate repentance, and the effectiveness of preaching to convert souls. He explores Finney's teachings on human nature, sin, and the role of the Holy Spirit in bringing sinners to repentance.
The Message of 2 Timothy
By G. Campbell Morgan0Faithfulness in ServiceMinistry1CO 9:16EPH 4:111TI 4:142TI 1:62TI 1:122TI 2:152TI 3:162TI 4:5HEB 13:171PE 4:10G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the essential qualities of a true minister of Jesus Christ in his sermon on 2 Timothy, focusing on the importance of perfect equipment through gifts and grace, prevailing methods of construction and character, and the supreme work of knowing and preaching the Word. He highlights the urgent call to 'fulfill thy ministry' amidst the perils threatening the church, urging ministers to stir up their gifts and be strengthened in grace. Morgan stresses the significance of the ministry of the Word as a corrective to the challenges faced by the church and the necessity for the church to recognize and support those called to ministry.
Revival and Evangelism
By C. William Fisher02CH 7:14PSA 51:10JOL 2:28ACT 1:82TI 4:5C. William Fisher emphasizes the urgent need to redefine the terms 'revival' and 'evangelism' as they have been misused and confused in religious activities, leading to misunderstandings and disillusionment. Revival is described as the spiritual renewal experienced by the church, urging Christians to wake up and engage in God's work, while evangelism involves sharing the good news of the gospel with non-believers. The distinction between revival and evangelism is crucial, with revival being a new beginning of obedience to God and evangelism being the church's expression of its renewal through outreach and soul-winning efforts.
Personal Work
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0JHN 1:40ACT 8:26COL 4:52TI 4:51PE 3:15W.H. Griffith Thomas emphasizes the importance of individual and personal work in the Christian life, highlighting how evangelism in the New Testament was primarily through personal interactions and testimonies. The duty of personal witnessing is crucial for Christian workers, especially ministers, as it reflects loyalty to Christ and a desire to bring others to the Kingdom of God. The reality of one's relationship with God is essential for effective personal work, as seen in the story of Philip and the Eunuch, showcasing qualities like spirituality, faithfulness, tactfulness, and definiteness in leading souls to Christ.
Close of Paul's Third Missionary Journey Acts 21:1-17
By J.R. Miller0Courage in DutyFriendship in ChristPRO 3:5MAT 28:19LUK 9:62JHN 13:35ACT 21:4ROM 12:10PHP 2:41TH 5:112TI 4:51PE 4:10J.R. Miller reflects on the emotional parting of Paul and the Christians in Tyre, emphasizing the deep connections formed through love and service. He highlights the importance of not misinterpreting divine guidance, as the disciples warned Paul of danger, yet he remained committed to his mission. Miller illustrates that true friendship is built on genuine love and selflessness, as exemplified by Paul’s willingness to face suffering for the sake of the Gospel. He also notes the vital role of women in ministry, as seen in Philip's family, and concludes that knowing our future can hinder our faith, urging believers to remain steadfast in their duties despite challenges. Ultimately, Miller encourages Christians to prioritize their commitment to God over personal safety or comfort.
The Psychology of Impermanence
By A.W. Tozer0JHN 15:181CO 15:57EPH 6:112TI 1:82TI 4:5The preacher delves into the Greek word 'sugkakopatheo,' which means to suffer hardship together with another, emphasizing the command for believers to endure persecution, misfortune, and ill treatment for the sake of the gospel. Paul's urgent command to Timothy to join in suffering highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and opposition in the Christian life, stressing the need for believers to stand firm and be willing to endure hardships like good soldiers of Christ Jesus. The sermon underscores the importance of being prepared for the battles faced in the Christian journey, knowing that suffering for one's faith is an inevitable part of following Christ.
Preach It Boldly and Fearlessly Without Compromise
By Arthur Vess0ACT 4:20ACT 4:312TI 4:22TI 4:5Arthur Vess passionately preaches about the importance of boldly and fearlessly proclaiming the Word of God without compromise, condemning all that is unholy and defending all that is holy. He emphasizes the need for holy boldness, which sacrifices self for God and others, contrasting it with carnal boldness that sacrifices God and others for self. Vess warns against cowardice in the pulpit, as it leads to hypocrisy in the pew, urging preachers to speak the truth even when it is unpopular or challenging.
The Economic Squeeze
By A.W. Tozer0Faithfulness in MinistrySpiritual LeadershipPSA 37:25PRO 3:5MAT 6:242CO 9:8PHP 4:191TI 6:102TI 4:5HEB 13:17JAS 1:121PE 5:2A.W. Tozer addresses the challenges faced by pastors due to financial constraints, emphasizing that many ministers are underpaid and burdened by the needs of their families. He warns that the economic squeeze can lead to a reluctance to provide strong moral leadership, as pastors may fear financial repercussions from their congregations. Tozer highlights that withholding leadership can inadvertently lead the flock away from spiritual growth. He encourages pastors to remain faithful and courageous in their ministry despite these pressures, and he prays for God's provision and faithfulness in their lives.
The Seed of the Woman
By Henry Law01TH 5:62TI 4:51PE 1:131PE 4:71PE 5:8In this sermon on being sober, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believers remaining calm, collected, and circumspect in spirit, free from mental and spiritual 'intoxication'. While God's Spirit enables us to cast our anxieties on Him, believers are responsible to stay sober-minded and watchful, exercising self-control and dependence on the Spirit. The urgency of the command to be sober is highlighted, as believers are called to be alert and vigilant against the adversary, the devil. The concept of being sober extends to maintaining a sense of coolness, self-control, and readiness for any emergency, avoiding extremes and staying balanced in all circumstances.
His Call to Evangelistic Work
By Martin Knapp0MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 8:4ROM 10:141CO 9:221CO 12:28EPH 4:111TH 1:52TI 4:22TI 4:5Martin Knapp preaches about the importance and duties of an evangelist, highlighting the unique calling and responsibilities of spreading the gospel and leading revivals. The sermon delves into the scriptural authority for the office of evangelists, emphasizing their role in the early church and their position below apostles and prophets but above pastors and teachers. It discusses the challenges faced by evangelists, the need for proper recognition and utilization of their gifts, and the divine calling and significance of their work in the church.
Robert A. Brown
By Keith Malcomson0MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 20:241CO 9:162TI 4:5Keith Malcomson shares the inspiring story of Robert Alexander Brown, a man born in Northern Ireland who went from a life of worldly pleasures to a passionate preacher and missionary. Brown's journey of conversion, baptism in the Holy Ghost, and ministry in New York exemplifies his fierce dedication to preaching against sin and leading souls to Christ. His partnership with Marie Burgees, a healed TB survivor with a calling to missions, resulted in a powerful soul-winning team that impacted many lives. Brown's legacy of fervent evangelism, financial support for missions, and unwavering commitment to souls continues to inspire believers today.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But watch thou in all things - It is possible to be overtaken in a fault, to neglect one's duty, and to lose one's soul. Watching unto prayer prevents all these evils. Endure afflictions - Let no sufferings affright thee; nor let the dread of them either cause thee to abandon the truth, or relax in thy zeal for the salvation of men. Do the work of an evangelist - That is: Preach Christ crucified for the sins of the whole world; for this, and this alone, is doing the work of an evangelist, or preacher of the glad tidings of peace and salvation by Christ. An angel from God was first sent to do the work of an evangelist, and how did he do it? Behold, said he, I bring you good tidings of great joy; Ιδου γαρ, ευαγγελιζομαι ὑμιν χαραν μεγαλην, ἡτις εσται παντι τῳ λαῳ. Behold, I evangelize unto you great joy, which shall be to all people; to you is born a Savior. Those who do not proclaim Christ as having tasted death for every man, and who do not implicitly show that every human soul may be saved, do not perform the work of evangelists; they, God help them! limit the Holy One of Israel. Yet, as far as they preach the truth in sincerity, so far God acknowledges and blesses them and their labors; they do a part of the work, but not the whole. Make full proof of thy ministry - Push all thy principles to their utmost power of activity; carry them on to all their consequences; and try what God will do for thee, and by thee. Neglect no part of thy sacred function; perform faithfully all the duties of which it is composed; and do God's work in his own way and in his own spirit.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I am no longer here to withstand these things; be thou a worthy successor of me, no longer depending on me for counsel, but thine own master, and swimming without the corks [CALVIN]; follow my steps, inherit their result, and the honor of their end [ALFORD]. watch thou--literally, "with the wakefulness of one sober." in all things--on all occasions and under all circumstances (Tit 2:7). endure affliction--suffer hardships [ALFORD]. evangelist--a missionary bishop preacher, and teacher. make full proof of--fulfil in all its requirements, leaving nothing undone (Act 12:25; Rom 15:19; Col 4:17).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But watch thou in all things,.... Relating to himself, his doctrine, and conversation; and to others, to feed the flock of God under his care, to know the state of them, and care for them; to give the time of night, and notice of approaching danger, and see the laws of Christ put in execution; either in allusion to shepherds, who watch over their flocks night and day; or to watchmen that are upon the walls of cities, or go about them; or to the priests and Levites in the temple: endure afflictions; the Alexandrian copy adds, "as a good soldier of Jesus Christ", as in Ti2 2:3 meaning reproaches and persecutions for the sake of the Gospel, from without, and all trials and exercises from within, through the infirmities and ill conduct of the saints themselves; all which are to be endured patiently, cheerfully, and courageously; so as not to be moved by them to desist from the work of the ministry: do the work of an evangelist; which may design either an officer, then in the church, distinct from apostles and prophets on the one hand, and pastors and teachers on the other; and was below the former, and above the latter; and was aiding and assisting to the apostles, and such an one Timothy may be thought to be: or it may intend a preacher of the Gospel in common; and to do the work of such an one is not to read lectures of morality, or to preach up justification and salvation by the works of the law; or to mix law and Gospel together, and confound them both; but to preach peace, pardon, righteousness, life, and salvation alone by Jesus Christ, and through the free grace of God: make full proof of thy ministry: the work of the ministry, which lies in preaching the Gospel, and administering ordinances, and doing all the duties belonging to it, which is to fulfil it, or discharge it; and which gives full proof of a man's being a true and faithful minister of the word; particularly when he diligently and constantly attends to his work; seeks not his own things, but the things of Christ; cheerfully and patiently suffers for Christ and his Gospel, and lives an agreeable life and conversation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5-8 Paul effectively hands the mantle of leadership to Timothy (cp. Deut 31:7-8; 34:9; 2 Kgs 2:1-18). 4:5 This final charge summarizes what has been said before (1:6-14; 2:1-15, 24-26; 3:12).