Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren.
Despise. This charge is not given concerning any other of the messengers whom Paul sent (cf. Psalms 119:1-176; Psalms 141:1-10.) He was young, younger probably than those usually sent forth (1 Timothy 4:12); whence Paul, apprehending lest he should be exposed to contempt, cautions him, "Let no man despise thy youth."
Conduct - set him on his way with all respect, and with whatever he needs (Titus 3:13).
In peace (Acts 15:33; Hebrews 11:31). "Peace" is the salutation of respect in the East, and so stands for every blessing. Perhaps there is, too, a contrast between "peace" and the "contentions" at Corinth (1 Corinthians 1:11).
I look for him. He and Titus were to meet Paul in Troas, where the apostle purposed proceeding from Ephesus (2 Corinthians 2:12-13). Paul thus claims their respect for Timothy as one whom he felt so necessary to himself as to "look for" him.
With the brethren. Others besides Erastus accompanied Timothy to Macedonia (cf. 1 Corinthians 16:12; Acts 19:22).