2 Timothy 4:5

Watch thou. Or, “be self-possessed.” Paul here challenges Timothy to seek first that calmness and poise that will prepare him to cope with any difficulty that may arise. As one of the responsible leaders in the Christian church Timothy is to manifest a decided contrast with the preceding teachers (vs. 3, 4). A correct teaching of “truth” (v. 4) requires a calm, sober attitude.

Endure afflictions. Gr. kakopathedo, “to suffer hardships” (see on ch. 2:9).

Evangelist. One who preaches the gospel is here contrasted with those who teach “Fables” (v. 4). The evangelist’s message consists of the Word of God; he stands in God’s stead and delivers His message. He preaches “sound doctrine,” not sensational theories to attract attention, or fanciful suppositions to gratify idle curiosity.

Make full proof. Gr. plerophoreo, “to fill out,” “to fulfill.”

Ministry. Gr. diakonia, “service” (see on Romans 12:7), that is, the “service” to others. Nothing is to be lacking in Timothy’s efforts to satisfy the various needs of men and women, both in and out of the church.