William Burkitt's Expository Notes

1 Timothy 4:13

St. Paul, being uncertain when he should see this young labourer again, adds farther instructions to those already given him.

And here, 1. He requires him to give attendance to reading, that is, be diligent in private reading the holy scriptures, to enable him to teach, instruct, and exhort others, what they ought to believe and know, and what they ought to practise and do.

Where note, That the illuminations and teachings of the Holy Spirit must not take off any ministers from reading and studying the holy scriptures, but we must fit ourselves the better thereby to exhort, direct, and instruct others.

2. He stirs up and exhorts Timothy not to neglect, but to excite, to use, and diligently improve, those eminent gifts which were given him by prophecy, that is, according to the foregoing prophecies concerning him, and by laying on of the hands of the presbytery, when he was ordained.

Where note, That the ceremony of laying on of hands in ordination, is very ancient and apostolical; not accidental or indifferint, but. very necessary rite in the performance of that service; neglect not the gift which was given thee, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

Note, 2. That persons ordained ought, with great care and diligence, to stir up the gifts of God's Holy Spirit conferred upon them; for negligence quenches the Spirit of God in them.

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William Burkitt's Expository Notes

1 Timothy 4:13

Old Testament

New Testament