Question 1

Who is Timothy in this passage and what is his role?

Accepted Answer

Timothy is a young church leader who has been set apart for ministry through prayer and the laying on of hands by a group of elders. Paul treats him like a trusted coworker and spiritual son. In this passage, Timothy’s role is to be a “good minister of Jesus Christ.” That means reminding the believers of sound teaching, rejecting false ideas, teaching the truth with authority, and being a living example of faith, love, and purity. He is also called to use the spiritual gift God has given him for the good of the church.

Question 2

What does it mean to be a "good minister of Jesus Christ" here?

Accepted Answer

Being a good minister in this passage is not about status or talent, but about faithfulness. Paul says Timothy should keep reminding the church of the truth, stay fed by the words of faith and sound teaching, and turn away from foolish stories. A good minister trains himself in godliness, works hard even when it brings reproach, trusts the living God, and teaches with both words and example. It means guarding his own life and doctrine so that his service truly helps others know and follow Christ.

Question 3

What does "bodily exercise profiteth little" mean in this passage?

Accepted Answer

When Paul says “bodily exercise profiteth little,” he is not saying the body is useless. He is pointing out that physical training has only limited value and lasts only for this life. In contrast, training in godliness benefits every part of life, here and in eternity. The point is about priorities. Exercise, work, and discipline in daily life have some use, but they cannot compare with knowing God, obeying him, and growing in holiness. Godliness has a promise for this life and the life to come, so it deserves our main effort.

Question 4

What does "Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe" mean?

Accepted Answer

This line has been read in more than one way, but the main thought is clear: Paul is pointing to the living God as the only true Savior. In a general sense, God preserves and cares for all people, giving life, kindness, and time to repent. In a fuller way, salvation belongs especially to those who believe, because they receive the benefits of Christ’s saving work. So Paul and his coworkers are willing to work hard and suffer, because they trust this living God who offers salvation and truly saves those who put their faith in him.

Question 5

Why does Paul tell Timothy, "Let no man despise thy youth"?

Accepted Answer

Timothy was younger than many he led, and some might have looked down on him because of his age. Paul tells him not to let that happen by arguing, but by his example. Timothy is to show what a believer should look like in speech, behavior, love, spirit, faith, and purity. When his life matches his message, people have less reason to dismiss him. This encourages younger believers that spiritual maturity is not about age alone, but about a godly life shaped by the truth of Christ.

Question 6

What is the gift Timothy is told not to neglect?

Accepted Answer

Paul mentions a gift that Timothy received when elders laid hands on him and spoke a prophetic word. The passage does not spell out exactly what the gift was, but it is tied to his ministry of teaching and leading. The point is that Timothy must not ignore or let this gift sit unused. He is to give himself fully to reading Scripture publicly, encouraging others, and teaching sound doctrine. By using the gift God has given, he will grow, the church will see his progress, and many will be helped spiritually.

Question 7

What does it mean to "take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine"?

Accepted Answer

“Take heed” here means “pay close attention.” Paul tells Timothy to watch both his own life and the teaching he gives. He is not to assume he can coast spiritually. He must keep checking his character, motives, and conduct, and also keep testing his teaching by the truth of the gospel. Paul adds that if Timothy continues in this careful way, it will result in salvation for himself and for those who hear him. In other words, faithful living and sound teaching go together and lead people toward true life in Christ.

Question 8

Why does Paul stress reading, exhortation, and doctrine until he comes?

Accepted Answer

Paul tells Timothy to devote himself to three things: reading, exhortation, and doctrine. This likely includes the public reading of Scripture in the church gathering, urging people to respond to what they hear, and carefully teaching the truth. Until Paul can come in person, these practices will keep the church grounded and growing. It shows that God’s people are shaped not by clever ideas, but by steady exposure to God’s Word, clear encouragement to obey it, and sound instruction that guards them from error and points them to godliness.

Question 9

How can this passage about Timothy apply to believers today?

Accepted Answer

While this passage speaks first to a church leader, its principles help all believers. It reminds us to turn away from empty talk and stories that pull us from Christ, and to value godliness over outward success. It calls us to be examples in our words, conduct, love, faith, and purity. It also shows the importance of staying close to Scripture, listening to faithful teaching, and using whatever gifts God has given us to serve others. Watching both our lives and what we believe helps us and those around us stay on the path of salvation.

1 Timothy 4:6

If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

A Good Servant of Jesus Christ

Cross References

1 Timothy 4:6

If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

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A Good Servant of Jesus Christ

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