1 Timothy 4:13 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

Till I come - when Timothy's commission would be superseded by the presence of the apostle (1 Timothy 1:3; 1 Timothy 3:14).

Reading, х anagnoosei (G320)] - especially in the public congregation. The reading of Scripture was transferred from the Jewish synagogue to the Christian church (Luke 4:16-20; Acts 13:15; Acts 15:21; 2 Corinthians 3:14). The gospels and letters being recognized as inspired by those who had the gift of discerning spirits, were from the first, according as they were written, read with the Old Testament in the church (1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 Thessalonians 5:27; Colossians 4:16) (Justin Martyr, 'Apology,' 1: 67). Probably the Spirit intended also to teach that the pastor's Scripture reading in general should be the fountain of all "exhortation" and "doctrine."

Exhortation - addressed to the feelings and will, with a view to the conduct.

Doctrine - (ministerial) 'teaching.' The three answer respectively to expository, experimental, and doctrinal preaching. Addressed to the understanding, to impart knowledge (1 Timothy 6:2; Romans 12:7-8). Whether in public or private, exhortation and instruction should be based on Scripture.

1 Timothy 4:13

13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.