CHAPTER II.
ANALYSIS OF THE CHAPTER.
THIS chapter is made up of various exhortations and encouragements to
duty. The apostle exhorts Timothy to be strong in the Christian graces,
2 Timothy 2:1; to commit the great trust which he had received to faithful
men, 2 Timothy 2:2; to endure hardships like a good soldier,
2 Timothy 2:3-7, and refers him
(a.) to the case of one who goes to war, whose great business it is to
please him in whose service he is 2 Timothy 2:4;
(b.) to the case of one who strives for a crown at the games,
2 Timothy 2:5; and
(c.) to the husbandman who looks onward for the reward of his labour,
2 Timothy 2:6. He then, in order to encourage to be patient in enduring
the trials to which he would be exposed, refers him
(a.) to the certainty of the truth of that religion in whose cause he
would suffer, 2 Timothy 2:8;
(b.) to his own case, reminding him how much he had endured in that
cause, 2 Timothy 2:9,10;
(c.) to the fact that our sufferings here will be crowned with
certain glory hereafter, 2 Timothy 2:11,12; and
(d.) to the assurance that the Lord Jesus will be faithful to all his
promises to his people, 2 Timothy 2:13. These things the apostle then
exhorts him to press upon the hearts of others, that they might not waste
their time in unprofitable pursuits, but might engage in the same great
and arduous struggle for securing the reward, 2 Timothy 2:14. He then
exhorts Timothy to study to perform his duties in such a way that
he Would not be ashamed, and to avoid the unimportant strifes
which were then raging; and to enforce this, he refers to a real
case with which Timothy was acquainted--that of Hymeneus and
Philetus, who, by unprofitable speculations, had been led to deny
a fundamental doctrine of religion, 2 Timothy 2:15-18. Yet, Paul says,
he should not be discouraged because some had been led into dangerous
errors. The foundation of God remained firm. Those that were truly his
were known, and would not apostatize, 2 Timothy 2:19. In illustration of
this, and to show that it was to be expected that all would not honour
religion, the apostle refers to a house in which there were all sorts of
vessels, some to honour and some to dishonour, and says that, if any one
would endeavour to free himself from all that was base and impure, he
would be a vessel meet for the use of the Master, 2 Timothy 2:20,21. To
accomplish this, he gives Timothy various directions respecting his
conduct. He was to flee from youthful lusts; he was to follow
righteousness, faith, charity, and peace; he was to avoid foolish
questions; he was to be example of gentleness and meekness, and he was
patiently to instruct those that were of a different character,
2 Timothy 2:22-26.
Verse 1. Thou therefore. In view of the fact stated in the previous
chapter, that many had turned away from the apostle, and had forsaken the
paths of truth.
Be strong in the grace which is in Christ Jesus. Comp.
See Barnes "Ephesians 6:10". The meaning is, Be strong, relying on the
grace which the Lord Jesus only can impart.
{a} "be strong" Joshua 1:7; Ephesians 6:10
Verse 2. And the things which thou hast heard of me among many
witnesses, Marg. by. Before, or in the presence of, many
witnesses. Perhaps he refers to a solemn charge which he gave him, in the
presence of the church, when he was ordained. It is by no means
improbable that such a charge was given then to a newly-ordained
minister, as it is now. On such an occasion, the apostle would be
likely to state a summary of Christian doctrine,--
See Barnes "2 Timothy 1:13", --and to exhort Timothy to a faithful
adherence to it.
The same commit thou to faithful men. In the same way as those
things have been committed to you. The reference is undoubtedly
to ordination to the ministerial office. Timothy was to see that
those only were admitted to the ministry who were qualified to
understand the truths of religion, and to communicate them to
others. This is a clear warrant for ministers to set apart others
to the same sacred office. It does not prove that the people are
not at liberty to choose their own pastor, but only that those in
the ministry are to set apart others to the same office with themselves.
There is, doubtless, to be a succession of ministers in the church; but
the true line of the succession is to be found in good men who are
qualified to teach, and who have the Spirit of Christ, and not merely in
those who have been ordained.
Who shall be able to teach others also. On the qualifications of
ministers, See Barnes "1 Timothy 3:2", also 1 Timothy 3:3-7.
{1} "among many witnesses" "by"
{b} "thou to faithful" 1 Timothy 1:18
{c} "able to teach" Titus 1:9
Verse 3. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus
Christ. Such hardships as a soldier is called to endure. The apostle
supposes that a minister of the gospel might be called to endure
hardships, and that it is reasonable that he should be as ready to do it
as a soldier is. On the hardships which he endured himself,
See Barnes "2 Corinthians 11:23-29". Soldiers often endure great privations.
Taken from their homes and friends; exposed to cold, or heat, or
storms, or fatiguing marches; sustained on coarse fare, or almost
destitute of food, they are often compelled to endure as much as
the human frame can bear, and often, indeed, sink under their
burdens and die. If, for reward or their country's sake, they are
willing to do this, the soldier of the cross should be willing to do
it for his Saviour's sake, and for the good of the human race.
Hence, let no man seek the office of the ministry as a place of ease.
Let no one' come into it merely to enjoy himself. Let no one enter
it who is not prepared to lead a soldier's life, and to welcome hard,
ship and trial as his portion. He would make a bad soldier, who,
at his enlistment, should make it a condition that he should be
permitted to sleep on a bed of down, and always be well clothed
and fed, and never exposed to peril, or compelled to pursue a
wearisome march. Yet do not some men enter the ministry, making these
the conditions? And would they enter the ministry on any other terms?
{d} "hardness" 1 Timothy 1:18
Verse 4. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of
this life. Having alluded to the soldier, and stated one thing in
which the Christian minister is to resemble him, another point of
resemblance is suggested to the mind of the apostle. Neither the
minister nor the soldier is to be encumbered with the affairs of this
life, and the one should not be more than the other. This is always a
condition in becoming a soldier. He gives up his own business during
the time for which he is enlisted, and devotes himself to the service
of his country. The farmer leaves his plough, and the mechanic his
shop, and the merchant his store, and the student his books, and the
lawyer his brief; and neither of them expect to pursue these things
while engaged in the service of their country. It would be wholly
impracticable to carry on the plans of a campaign, if each one of these
classes should undertake to prosecute his private business. See this
fully illustrated from the Rules of War among the Romans, by Grotius,
in loc. Roman soldiers were not allowed to marry, or to engage in any
husbandry or trade; and they were forbidden to act as tutors to any
person, or curators to any man's estate, or proctors in the cause of
other men. The general principle was, that they were excluded from
those relations, agencies, and engagements, which it was thought
would divert their minds from that which was to be the sole object of
pursuit. So with the ministers of the gospel. It is equally improper
for them to 'entangle' themselves with the business of a farm or
plantation; with plans of speculation and gain, and with any purpose of
worldly aggrandizement. The minister of the gospel accomplishes the
design of his appointment only when he can say in sincerity, that he
"is not entangled with the affairs of this life." Comp.
See Barnes "1 Corinthians 9:25-27".
That he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. That is,
him who has enlisted him, or in whose employ he is. His great object is,
to approve himself to him. It is not to pursue his own plans, or to have
his own will, or to accumulate property or fame for himself. His will is
absorbed in the will of his commander, and his purpose is accomplished
if he meet with his approbation. Nowhere else is it so true that the will
of one becomes lost in that of another, as in the case of the soldier.
In an army it is contemplated that there shall be but one mind, one
heart, one purpose, that of the commander; and that the whole army
shall be as obedient to that as the members of the human body are to the
one will that controls all. The application of this is obvious. The grand
purpose of the minister of the gospel is to please Christ. He is to
pursue no separate plans, and to have no separate will, of his own; and
it is contemplated that the whole corps of Christian ministers and
members of the churches shall be as entirely subordinate to the will of
Christ, as an army is to the orders of its chief.
{e} "warreth" 1 Corinthians 9:25,26
Verse 5. And if a man also strive for masteries. As in the Grecian
games. See this favourite illustration of Paul explained
See Barnes "1 Corinthians 9:24", seq.
Yet is he not crowned except he strives lawfully. In conformity with
the rules of the games. See Grotius, in loc. NO one could obtain the
prize unless he had complied with all the laws of the games, and had thus
given to those with whom he contended, a fair opportunity to succeed.
"In those contests, he who transgressed the rules in the least matter,
not only failed of the prize, even though the apparent victor, but was
sometimes disgraced and punished," Pict. Bib. So the apostle here
represents the Christian minister as engaged in a struggle or conflict
for the crown. He says, that he could not hope to win it unless he should
comply with all the laws by which it is conferred; unless he should
subdue every improper propensity; and make an effort like that evinced
by the combatants at the Olympic games. Comp. See Barnes "1 Corinthians 9:26",
See Barnes "1 Corinthians 9:27".
Verse 6. The husbandman that laboureth. The margin is,
"labouring first, must be partaker." The idea, according to the
translation in the text, is, that there is a fitness or propriety
(\~dei\~) that the man who cultivates the earth, should enjoy the
fruits of his labour. See the same image explained
See Barnes "1 Corinthians 9:10". But if this be the meaning here, it is not
easy to see why the apostle introduces it. According to the marginal
reading, the word 'first' is introduced in connexion with the word
labour--" labouring first, must be partaker." That is, it is a great
law that the husbandman must work before he receives a harvest. This
sense will accord with the purpose of the apostle. It was to remind
Timothy that labour must precede reward; that if a man would reap, he
must sow; that he could hope for no fruits, unless he toiled for them.
The point was not that the husbandman would be the first one
who would partake of the fruits; but that he must first labour before he
obtained the reward. Thus understood, this would be an encouragement to
Timothy to persevere in his toils, looking onward to the reward. The
Greek will bear this construction, though it is not the most obvious one.
{2} "that laboureth" "labouring first must be partaker"
Verse 7. Consider what I say. See Barnes "1 Timothy 4:15". The
sense is, "Think of the condition of the soldier, and the principles
on which he is enlisted; think of the aspirant for the crown in the
Grecian games; think of the farmer, patiently toiling in the prospect of
the distant harvest; and then go to your work with a similar spirit."
These things are worth attention. When the minister of the gospel thinks
of his hardships, of his struggles against an evil world, and of his
arduous and constant discouraging toil, let him think of the soldier, of
the man who struggles for this world's honours, and of the patient farmer
--and be content. How patiently do they bear all, and yet for what
inferior rewards! And the Lord give thee understanding in all things.
Enable you to see the force of these considerations, and to apply them to
your own case. Such are often the discouragements of the ministry;
so prone is the mind to despondency, that we need the help of the Lord
to enable us to apply the most obvious considerations, and to derive
support from the most plain and simple truths and promises.
{b} "the Lord" Proverbs 2:6
Verse 8. Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was
raised from the dead. Or rather, perhaps, "Remember Jesus Christ;
who was raised from the dead." The idea seems not to be, as our
translators supposed, that he was to reflect on the fact that
he was raised from the dead; but rather that he was to think of
the Saviour himself. "Think of the Saviour, now raised up from the dead
after all the sorrows of this life, and let this encourage you to bear
your trials." There is nothing better fitted to enable Us to endure the
labours and trials of this life, than to think of the Saviour. On the
phrase, 'seed of David,' See Barnes "Romans 1:3".
According to my gospel. The gospel which I preach.
See Barnes "2 Thessalonians 2:14".
{c} "Jesus Christ" Romans 1:3,4
Verse 9. Wherein I suffer trouble as an evil-doer. As if I were a
violator of the laws. That is, I am treated as if I were a criminal.
Even unto bonds. As if I were one of the worst kind of malefactors,
See Barnes "Ephesians 6:20". During the apostle's first imprisonment at
Rome, he was permitted to "dwell in his own hired house," though guarded
by a soldier, and probably chained to him. See Barnes "Acts 28:16,30".
What was his condition in his second imprisonment, during which this
epistle was written, we have no means of knowing with certainty. It is
probable, however, that he was subjected to much more rigid treatment
than he had been in the first instance. The tradition is, that he and
Peter were together in the Mamertine prison at Rome; and the place is
still shown in which it is said that they were confined. The Mamertine
prisons are of great antiquity. According to Livy, they were constructed
by Ancus Marrtius, and enlarged by Servius Tullius. The lower prison is
supposed to have been once a quarry, and to have been at one time
occupied as a granary. These prisons are on the descent of the Capitoline
Mount, towards the Forum. They consist of two apartments, one over the
other, built with large, uncemented stones. There is no entrance to
either, except by a small aperture in the roof, and by a small hole in
the upper floor, leading to the cell below, without any staircase to
either. The upper prison is twenty-seven feet long, by twenty wide; the
lower one is elliptical, and measures twenty feet by ten. In the
lower one is a small spring, which is said at Rome to have arisen
at the command of Peter, to enable him to baptize his keepers,
Processus and Martianus, with forty-seven companions, whom he
converted. No certain reliance can be placed on any part of this
tradition, though in itself there is no improbability in supposing
that these prisons may have been used for confining Christians,
and the apostle Paul among others. Dr. Burton says, that a more
horrible place for the confinement of a human being can scarcely
be conceived.
But the word of God is not bound. This is one of Paul's happy turns
of thought. Comp. Acts 26:29. The meaning is plain. The gospel was
prospered. That could not be lettered hand imprisoned. It circulated
with freedom, even when he who was appointed to preach it was in chains.
See Philippians 1:13,14. As this was the great matter, his own imprisonment
was of comparatively little consequence. What may befall us is of
secondary importance. The grand thing is, the triumph of truth on the
earth; and well may we bear privations and sorrows, if the gospel
moves on in triumph.
{d} "unto bonds" Ephesians 6:20
Verse 10. Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes.
See Barnes "2 Corinthians 1:6". The sense is, What I suffer is in the cause of
the church, spoken of here, as it is often, as chosen, or elected.
See Barnes "Ephesians 1:4".
That they may also obtain the salvation, etc. Their salvation,
though they were elected, could not be secured without proper efforts.
The meaning of the apostle here is, that he was willing to suffer if he
might save others; and any one ought to be willing to suffer in order
to secure the salvation of the elect--for it was an object for which the
Redeemer was willing to lay down his life.
{e} "elect's sake" 2 Corinthians 1:6
Verse 11. It is a faithful saying. Or, rather, that which he was
about to say was worthy of entire credence and profound attention.
See Barnes "1 Timothy 1:15". The object is, to encourage Timothy to
bear trials by the hope of salvation.
For if we be dead with him. See Barnes "Romans 6:8".
We shall also live with him. This was a sort of maxim, or a settled
point, which is often referred to in the Bible. See Barnes "Romans 6:3".
See Barnes "Romans 6:4", See Barnes "Romans 6:5";
See Barnes "John 11:25"; See Barnes "1 Thessalonians 4:14".
{f} "if we be dead" Romans 6:5,8
Verse 12. If we suffer, we shall also reign with him. The meaning is,
that the members will be treated as the Head is. We become united with
him by faith; and, if we share his treatment on earth we shall share his
triumphs in heaven. See Barnes "Romans 8:17".
If we deny him, he also will deny us. See Barnes "Matthew 10:32",
See Barnes "Matthew 10:33".
{g} "deny him" Matthew 10:33
Verse 13. If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful. This cannot
mean that, if we live in sin, he will certainly save us, as if he had
made any promise to the elect, or formed any purpose that he would
save them, whatever might be their conduct; for
(1.) he had just said, that if we deny him he will deny us; and
(2.) there is no such promise in the Bible, and no such purpose has
been formed. The promise is, that he that is a believer shall be saved,
and there is no purpose to save any but such as lead holy lives. The
meaning must be, that if we are unbelieving and unfaithful, Christ
will remain true to his word, and we cannot hope to be saved. The
object of the apostle evidently is, to excite Timothy to fidelity in
the performance of duty, and to encourage him to bear trials, by the
assurance that we cannot hope to escape if we are not faithful to the
cause of the Saviour. This interpretation accords with the design which
he had in view.
He cannot deny himself. Implying that it would be a denial of his
very nature to save those who are unfaithful. He is holy; and how can he
save one who is unholy? His very nature is purity; and how can he save
one who has no purity? Let no one, then, suppose that, because he is
elected, he is safe, if he lives in sin. The electing purpose of God,
indeed, makes salvation sure; but it is only for those who lead righteous
lives. Nothing would be more dishonourable for God than to resolve to
save a man that lived habitually in sin; and if that were the doctrine
of election, it would deserve all the opprobrium that has ever been
heaped upon it.
{h} "If we believe not" Romans 3:3
{i} "he cannot" Numbers 23:19
Verse 14. Of these things put them in remembrance. These great
principles in regard to the kingdom of Christ. They would be as useful
to others as they were for Timothy, to whom they were specially
addressed.
Charging them before the Lord. In the presence of the Lord, implying
that it was a very important matter. See Barnes "1 Timothy 1:18".
That they strive not about words to no profit.
See Barnes "1 Timothy 1:6"; See Barnes "1 Timothy 6:4".
But to the subverting of the hearers. Turning them away from the
simplicity of faith. It is rare, indeed, that a religious controversy
does not produce this effect, and this is commonly the case, where, as
often happens, the matter in dispute is of little importance.
{k} "put them" 2 Peter 1:13
{l} "strive not" Titus 3:9,10
Verse 15. Study to show thyself approved unto God. Give diligence,
2 Peter 1:10, or make an effort so to discharge-the duties of the
ministerial office as to meet the Divine approbation. The object of
the ministry is not to please men. Such doctrines should be preached,
and such plans formed, and such a manner of life pursued, as God will
approve. To do this demands study or care--for there are many
temptations to the opposite course; there are many things the tendency
of which is to lead a minister to seek popular favour rather than the
Divine approval. If any man please God, it will be as the result of
deliberate intention and a careful life.
A workman that needeth not to be ashamed. A man faithfully
performing his duty, so that when he looks over what he has done,
he may not blush.
Rightly dividing the word of truth. The word here rendered
"rightly dividing," occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. It means,
properly, to cut straight, to divide right; and the allusion here may
be to a steward who makes a proper distribution to each one under his care
of such things as his office and their necessities require. Comp.
See Barnes "Matthew 13:52". Some have supposed that there is an allusion
here to the Jewish priest cutting or dividing the sacrifice into proper
parts; others, that the allusion is to the Scribes dividing the law into
sections; others, to a carver distributing food to the guests at a feast.
Robinson (Lex.) renders it, "rightly proceeding as to the word of
truth;" that is, rightfully and skilfully teaching the word of truth.
The idea seems to be, that the minister of the gospel is to make a proper
distribution of that word, adapting his instructions to the circumstances
and wants of his hearers, and giving to each that which will be fitted
to nourish the soul for heaven.
{a} "Study" 2 Peter 1:10
{b} "rightly dividing" Matthew 13:52
Verse 16. But shun profane and vain babblings.
See Barnes "1 Timothy 6:20".
For they will increase unto more ungodliness. Their tendency is to
alienate the soul from God, and to lead to impiety. Such kinds of
disputation are not merely a waste of time, they are productive of
positive mischief. A man fond of contention in religious things is
seldom one who has much love for the practical duties of piety, or any
very deep sense of the distinction between right and wrong. You will
not usually look for him in the place of prayer, nor can you expect his
aid in the conversion of sinners, nor will you find that he has any
very strict views of religious obligation.
Verse 17. And their word. The word, or the discourses of those who
love vain and idle disputations.
Will eat as doth a canker. Marg. gangrene. This word--
\~gaggraina\~ occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. It is derived from
\~graiw, grainw\~, graio or graino--to devour, corrode, and means
gangrene or mortifications the death of a part, spreading, unless
arrested, by degrees over the whole body. The words rendered "will eat,"
mean will have nutriment; that is, will spread over and consumes the
healthful parts. It will not merely destroy the parts immediately
affected, bat will extend into the surrounding healthy parts and destroy
them also. So it is with erroneous doctrines. They will not merely eat
out the truth in the particular matter to which they refer, but they will
also spread over and corrupt other truths. The doctrines of religion are
closely connected, and are dependent on each other--like the different
parts of the human body. One cannot be corrupted without affecting those
adjacent to it, and unless checked, the corruption will soon spread over
the whole.
Of whom is Hymeneus and Philetus. In regard to Hymeneus,
See Barnes "1 Timothy 1:20". Of Philetus nothing more is known. They
have gained an undesirable immortality, destined to be known to the end
of time only as the advocates of error.
{1} "canker" "gangrene"
Verse 18. Who concerning the truth have erred. To what extent they
had erred is unknown. Paul mentions only one point--that pertaining
to the resurrection; but says that this was like a gangrene.
It would certainly, unless checked, destroy all the other doctrines
of religion. No man can safely hold a single error, any more than
he can safely have one part of his body in a state of mortification.
Saying, that the resurrection is past already. It is not known in
what form they held this opinion. It may have been, as Augustine
supposes, that they taught that there was no resurrection but that
which occurs in the soul when it is recovered from the death of
sin, and made to live anew. Or it may be that they held that those who
had died had experienced all the resurrection which they ever would,
by passing into another state, and receiving at death a spiritual body
fitted to their mode of being in the heavenly world. Whatever was the
form of the opinion, the apostle regarded it: as a most dangerous error,
for just views of the resurrection undoubtedly lie at the foundation of
correct apprehensions of the Christian system. Comp.
See Barnes "1 Corinthians 15:12", seq.
And overthrow the faith of some. That is, on this point, and as would
appear on all the correlative subjects of Christian belief. Comp.
1 Timothy 1:19,20.
{c} "have erred" 1 Timothy 6:21
{d} "saying" 1 Corinthians 15:12
Verse 19. Nevertheless the foundation of God is sure. Marg.
steady. The meaning is, that though some had been turned away by
the arts of these errorists, yet the foundation of the church which God
had laid remained firm. Comp. Ephesians 2:20, "And are built upon the
foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the
chief corner-stone." As long as this foundation remained farm, there was
no reason to be troubled from the few-instances of apostasy which had
occurred. Comp. Psalms 11:3. It is not uncommon to compare the church
to a building erected on a solid foundation. Ephesians 2:20,21
1 Corinthians 3:9,10; Matthew 16:18.
Having this seal. Or rather a seal with this inscription. The word
seal is sometimes used to denote the instrument by which an
impression is made, and sometimes the impression or inscription
itself. A seal is used for security Matthew 27:66, or as a mark
of genuineness, Revelation 9:4. The seal here is one that was affixed
to the foundation, and seems to refer to some inscription on the
foundation-stone which always remained there, and which denoted
the character and design of the edifice. The allusion is to the
custom, in rearing an edifice, of inscribing the name of the builder
and the design of the edifice on the corner-stone. See Rosenmuller,
Alte u. neue Morgenland, No. 405. So the church of Christ is a
budding reared by the hands of God. Its foundation has been
firmly and securely laid, and on that foundation there is an
inscription always remaining, which determines the character of the
edifice.
The Lord knoweth them that are his. This is one of the
inscriptions on the foundation-stone of the church, which seems
to mark the character of the building. It always stands there, no
matter who apostatizes. It is, at the same time, a fearful inscription
--showing that no one can deceive God; that he is intimately
acquainted with all who enter that building; and that in the
multitudes which enter there, the friends and the foes of God are
intimately known. He can separate his own friends from all others,
and his constant care will be extended to all who are truly his own,
to keep them from failing. This has the appearance of being a
quotation, but no such passage is found in the Old Testament in
so many words. In Nahum 1:7, the following words are found:
"And he knoweth them that trust in him;" and it is possible
that Paul may have had that in his eye; but it is not necessary to
suppose that he designed it as a quotation. A phrase somewhat
similar to this is found in Numbers 16:5, "The Lord will show who
are his," rendered in the Septuagint, "God knoweth who are his;"
and Whitby supposes that this is the passage referred to. But
whether Paul had these passages in view or not, it is clear that he
meant to say that it was one of the fundamental things in religion,
that God knew who were his own people, and that he would preserve them
from the danger of making shipwreck of their faith.
And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from
iniquity. This is the other seal or inscription which is made on the
foundation which God has laid. The foundation has two inscriptions-the
first implying that God knows all who are his own people; the other,
that all who are his professed people should depart from evil. This is
not found in so many words in the Old Testament, and, like the former,
it is not to be regarded as a quotation. The meaning is, that it is an
elementary principle in the true church, that all who become members of
it should lead holy lives. It was also true that they would lead holy
lives, and amidst all the defections of errorists, and all their attempts
to draw away others from the true faith, those might be known to be the
true people of God who did avoid evil.
{e} "foundation" Proverbs 10:25
{f} "Lord" Nahum 1:7; John 10:14,27
{g} "Let every one" Psalms 97:10
Verse 20. But in a great house. Still keeping up the comparison of the
church with a building. The idea is, that the church is a large
edifice, and that in such a building we are not to expect entire
uniformity in all the articles which it contains.
There are not only vessels of gold and of silver, etc. You are not
to expect to find all the articles of furniture alike, or all made of
the same material. Variety in the form, and use, and material, is
necessary in furnishing such a house.
And some to honour, and some to dishonour. Some to most honourable
uses--as drinking-vessels, and vessels to contain costly viands, and
some for the less honourable purposes connected with cooking, etc. The
same thing is to be expected in the church. See this idea illustrated at
greater length under another figure: See Barnes "1 Corinthians 12:14",
also 1 Corinthians 12:15-26. Comp. See Barnes "Romans 9:21". The
application here seems to be, that in the church it is to be presumed
that there will be a great variety of gifts and attainments, and that we
are no more to expect that all will be alike than we are that all the
vessels in a large house will be made of gold.
{a} "vessels" Romans 9:21
Verse 21. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be
a vessel of honour. If a man cleanse or purify himself. Comp.
See Barnes "John 15:2". The word "these" refers, here, to the persons
represented by the vessels of wood and of earth--the vessels made to
dishonour, as mentioned in the previous verse. The idea is, that
if one would preserve himself from the corrupting influence of such
men, he would be fitted to be a vessel of honour, or to be employed in
the most useful and honourable service in the cause of his Master. On
the word vessel, See Barnes "Acts 9:16".
And meet for the Master's use. Fit to be employed by the Lord Jesus
in promoting his work on earth.
{b} "If a man" Jeremiah 15:19
{c} "prepared" 2 Timothy 3:17
Verse 22. Flee also youthful lusts. Such passions as youth are o. On
subject to. the word flee, and the pertinency of its use in such
a connection, See Barnes "1 Corinthians 6:18". Paul felt that Timothy,
then a young man, was subject to the same passions as other young men;
and hence his repeated cautions to him to avoid all those things arising
from his youth, which might be the occasion of scandal. Comp.
See Barnes "1 Timothy 4:12" . See Barnes "1 Timothy :". It is to be
remembered that this epistle is applicable to other ministers, as well
as to Timothy; and, to a young man in the ministry no counsel could be
more appropriate than to "Flee from youthful lusts;" not to indulge for
a moment in those corrupt passions to which youth are subject, but to
cultivate the pure and sober virtues which become the
ministerial office.
But follow righteousness, etc. Comp. See Barnes "Hebrews 12:14".
The general meaning here is, that he was to practise all that is good
and virtuous. He was to practise righteousness, or justice and equity,
in all his dealings with men; faith, or fidelity in his duties; charity,
or love to all men, See Barnes "1 Corinthians 13:1", seq. peace, or
harmony and concord with all others. What virtues could be more
appropriate for a minister of the gospel?
With them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. That is, with
all Christians, who are often characterized as those who call on the
Lord, 1 Corinthians 1:2. Comp. Acts 9:11. In all his intercourse with
them, Timothy was to manifest the virtues above recommended. But not with
them alone. It would be incumbent on him to exhibit the same virtues in
his intercourse with all.
{d} "Flee" Ecclesiastes 11:9,10
{e} "follow" Hebrews 12:14
{f} "call on the Lord" 1 Corinthians 1:2
Verse 23. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid.
See Barnes "1 Timothy 1:4"; See Barnes "1 Timothy 1:6";
See Barnes "1 Timothy 4:7". The word unlearned, here, means
trifling; that which does not tend to edification; stupid.
The Greeks and the Hebrews were greatly given to controversies
of various kinds; and many of the questions discussed pertained
to points which could not be settled, or which, if settled, were of
no importance. Such has been the character of no small part of
the disputes which have agitated the world. Paul correctly says
that the only effect of such disputes is to engender harsh contention.
Points of real importance can be discussed with no injury to the
temper; but men cannot safely dispute about trifles.
{g} "questions" 2 Timothy 2:16
Verse 24. And the servant of the Lord. Referring here primarily to the
Christian minister, but applicable to all Christians; for all profess
to be the servants of the Lord.
Must not strive. He may calmly inquire after truth; he may discuss
points of morals, or theology, if he will do it with a proper spirit; he
may "contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints,"
(Jude 1:3;) but he may not do that which is here mentioned as strife.
The Greek word-- \~macesyai\~ --commonly denotes, to fight to make war,
to contend. In John 6:52; Acts 7:26; 2 Timothy 2:24, it is rendered
strove, and strive; in James 4:2, fight. It is not
elsewhere used in the New Testament. The meaning is, that the servant of
Christ should be a man of peace. He should not indulge in the feelings
which commonly give rise to contention, and which commonly characterize
it. He should not struggle for mere victory, even when endeavouring to
maintain truth; but should do this, in all cases, with a kind spirit, and
a mild temper; with entire candour; with nothing designed to provoke and
irritate an adversary; and so that, whatever may be the result of the
discussion, "the bond of peace" may, if possible, be preserved. Comp.
See Barnes "Romans 12:18".
But be gentle unto all men. See Barnes "1 Thessalonians 2:7". The word
rendered gentle, does not occur elsewhere in the New Testament. It
means that the Christian minister is to be meek and mild towards all,
not disputatious and quarrelsome.
Apt to teach. Notes, 1 Timothy 3:2.
Patient. Marg., forbearing. The Greek word here used does not
elsewhere occur in the New Testament. It means, patient under evils and
injuries. Robinson, Lex. Comp. See Barnes "Ephesians 4:2";
See Barnes "Colossians 3:13"
{1} "patient" "forbearing"
iv. 2; Col. iii. 13.
Verse 25. In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves. That
is, those who embrace error, and array themselves against the truth.
We are not to become angry with such persons, and denounce them
at once as heretics. We are not to hold them up to public reproach
and scorn; but we are to set about the business of patiently
instructing them. Their grand difficulty, it is supposed in this
direction, is, that they are ignorant of the truth. Our business with
them is, calmly to show them what the truth is. If they are angry,
we are not to be. If they oppose the truth, we are still calmly to
state it to them. If they are slow to see it, we are not to become
weary or impatient, Nor, if they do not embrace it at all, are we to
become angry with them, and denounce them. We may pity them,
but we need not use hard words. This is the apostolic precept about
the way of treating those who are in error; and can any one fail to
see its beauty and propriety? Let it be remembered, also, that
this is not only beautiful and proper in itself; it is the wisest course,
if we would bring others over to our opinions. You are not likely
to convince a man that you are right, and that he is wrong, if you
first make him angry; nor are you very likely to do it, if you enter
into harsh contention. You then put him on his guard; you make
him a party; and, from self-respect, or pride, or anger, he will
endeavour to defend his own opinions, and will not yield to yours.
Meekness and gentleness are the very best things, if you wish to
convince another that he is wrong. Win his heart first, and then
modestly and kindly show him what the truth is, in as few words,
and with as unassuming a spirit, as possible, and you have him.
If God peradventure will give them repentance, etc. Give them
such a view of the error which they have embraced, and such regret
for having embraced it, that they shall be willing to admit the
truth. After all our care in teaching others the truth, our only
dependence is on God for its success. We cannot be absolutely
certain that they will see their error; we cannot rely certainly on
any power which argument will have; we can only hope that God
may show them their error, and enable them to see and embrace
the truth. Compare Acts 11:18. The word rendered peradventure,
here \~mhpote\~--means, usually, not even, never; and then, that never,
lest ever--the same as lest perhaps. It is translated lest at any
time, Matthew 4:6; 5:26; 13:15; Mark 4:12; Luke 21:34 lest,
Matthew 7:6; 13:29; 15:32, et al.; lest haply, Luke 14:12;
Acts 5:39. It does not imply that there was any chance about what
is said, but rather that there was uncertainty in the mind of the speaker,
and that there was need of caution lest something should occur;
or, that anything was done, or should be done, to prevent something from
happening. It is not used elsewhere in the New Testament in the sense
which our translators, and all the critics, so far as I have examined,
give to it here--as implying a hope that God would give them repentance,
etc. But I may be permitted to suggest another interpretation, which will
accord with the uniform meaning of the word in the New Testament, and
which will refer the matter to those who had embraced the error, and not
to God. It is this: "In meekness instructing those that oppose
themselves--(\~antidiatiyemenouv\~) lest --\~mhpote\~ --God should
give them repentance, and they should recover themselves out of the snare
of the devil," etc. That is, they put themselves in this posture of opposition
so that they shall not be brought to repentance, and recover themselves. They
do it with a precautionary view that they may not be thus brought to
repentance, and be recovered to God. They take this position of opposition
to the truth, intending not to be converted; and this is the reason why
they are not converted.
{h} "meekness" Galatians 6:1
{i} "peradventure" Acts 8:22
{k} "acknowledge" Titus 1:1
Verse 26. And that they may recover themselves. Marg., awake.
The word which is rendered recover in the text and awake in the
margin \~ananhqwsin\~ occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. It
properly means, to become sober again, as from inebriation; to
awake from a deep sleep; and then, to come to a right mind, as
one does who is aroused from a state of inebriety, or from sleep.
The representation in this part of the verse implies that while under
the influence of error, they were like a man intoxicated, or like one
in deep slumber. From this state they were to be roused, as one
is from sleep, or as a man is recovered from the stupor and dullness
of intoxication.
Out of the snare of the devil. The snare which the devil has spread
for them, and in which they have become entangled. There is a little
confusion of metaphor here, since in the first part of the verse, they
are represented as asleep, or intoxicated; and, here, as taken in a snare.
Yet the general idea is clear. In one part of the verse, the influence
of error is represented as producing sleep, or stupor; in the other,
as being taken in a snare or net; and, in both, the idea is, that an
effort was to be made that they might be rescued from this perilous
condition.
Who are taken captive by him at his will. Marg., alive. The Greek
word means, properly, to take alive; and then to take captive, to win
over, Luke 5:10; and then to ensnare, or seduce. Here it means
that they had been ensnared by the arts oh Satan unto (\~eiv\~)
his will; that is, they were so influenced by him, that they complied
with his will. Another interpretation of this passage should be
mentioned here, by which it is proposed to avoid the incongruousness
of the metaphor of awaking one from a snare. It is adopted
by Doddridge, and is suggested also by Burder, as quoted by
Rosenmuller, A.u.n. Morgenland. According to this, the reference
is to an artifice of fowlers, to scatter seeds impregnated with some
intoxicating drugs, intended to lay birds asleep, that they may draw
the snare over them more securely. There can be no doubt that such
arts were practised, and it is possible that Paul may have alluded to
it. Whatever is the allusion, the general idea is clear. It is an
affecting representation of those who have fallen into error. They
are in a deep slumber. They are as if under the fatal influence of
some stupefying potion. They are like birds taken alive in this state,
and at the mercy of the fowler. They will remain in this condition,
unless they shall be roused by the mercy of God; and it is the
business of the ministers of religion to carry to them that gospel
call, which God is accustomed to bless in showing them their danger.
That message should be continually sounded in the ears of the
sinner, with the prayer and the hope that God will make it the
means of arousing him to seek his salvation.
{1} "recover" "awake"
{a} "snare" 1 Timothy 3:7
{2} "captive" "alive"
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