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By suggesting these things to the brothers1 you will be a good servant2 of Christ Jesus, nourished with the words of the Faith3 and the Good Teaching which you have followed.4
| 1 | By suggesting these things to the brothers: The Greek for “suggesting” is HYPO-TITHEMENOS [Strong’s Concordance #5294, to place underneath, to hazard, put in remembrance]. Or, pointing out, setting forth, lay these things before, instructing, explain, advices. It seems fair to conclude that Paul means what he has written up to this point. |
| 2 | You will be a good servant: Or, minister. A good minister in the Church is one characterized by teaching the contents of 1 Timothy. |
| 3 | Nourished with the words of the Faith: Or, nurturing on the messages, feeding your own soul, bred on the precepts, trained, living on. The “words of the Faith” would surely include the teachings of the Nazarene in the Gospels as well as Paul’s own inspired words. [Titus 2:1] |
| 4 | The Good Teaching which you have followed: Or, good doctrine, noble teaching, fine teaching, sound instruction, right teaching, excellent teaching. Compare notes on 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:14. Certainly part of this “Good Teaching” is found in Paul’s letters to Timothy. |
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose 1 Timothy 4:6 as the theme verse of chapter four – How To Be a Good Minister. Paul warns of the coming Apostasy in the Christian Church. [1-5] The Nazarene Sayings and Christian Truths will be replaced by demonic doctrines that find their sources outside of the Bible. Those who preach these doctrines have seared consciences. They forbid marriage and the eating of certain foods.
Paul tells Timothy that if he continues giving these “reminders” to the fellowship he will be a “good minister.” [6-10] While sharing such “good teaching” [or, doctrine] Timothy must continue to train himself spiritual with all the vigor of a gymnast. By such teaching and example Timothy will save himself and those who listen to him. [11-16] He should remain a role model in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity. He should apply himself to reading, the giving of encouragement and teaching, and never neglect the gift giving to him. He should pay strict attention to himself and his teaching.
Modern Timothys do well to follow Paul’s counsel and give their hearts to Bible reading and the teaching of good doctrine.
Abba our Father bless such youthful men devoted to Christ.
[31 July 2002]
