1 Corinthians 16:10

In this passage,

I. He recommends Timothy to them, in several particulars. As, 1. He bids them take care that he should be among them without feat, Co1 16:10. Timothy was sent by the apostle to correct the abuses which had crept in among them; and not only to direct, but to blame, and censure, and reprove, those who were culpable. They were all in factions, and no doubt the mutual strife and hatred ran very high among them. There were some very rich, as it is probable; and many very proud, upon account both of their outward wealth and spiritual gifts. Proud spirits cannot easily bear reproof. It was reasonable therefore to think young Timothy might be roughly used; hence the apostle warns them against using him ill. Not but that he was prepared for the worst; but, whatever his firmness and prudence might be, it was their duty to behave themselves well towards him, and not discourage and dishearten him in his Lord's work. They should not fly out into resentment at his reproof. Note, Christians should bear faithful reproofs from their ministers, and not terrify and discourage them from doing their duty. 2. He warns them against despising him, Co1 16:11. He was but a young man, and alone, as Ecumenius observes. He had no one to back him, and his own youthful face and years commanded but little reverence; and therefore the great pretenders to wisdom among them might be apt to entertain contemptuous thoughts of him. "Now," says the apostle, "guard against this." Not that he distrusted Timothy; he knew that Timothy would do nothing to bring contempt on his character, nothing to make his youth despicable. But pride was a reigning sin among the Corinthians, and such a caution was but too necessary. Note, Christians should be very careful not to pour contempt on any, but especially on ministers, the faithful ministers of Christ. These, whether young or old, are to be had in high esteem for their works sake. 3. He tells them they should give him all due encouragement, use him well while he was with them; and, as an evidence of this, they should send him away in friendship, and well prepared for his journey back again to Paul. This, as I have before observed, is the meaning of bringing him on his journey in peace, Co1 16:11. Note, Faithful ministers are not only to be well received by a people among whom they may for a season minister, but are to be sent away with due respect.

II. He assigns the reasons why they should behave thus towards Timothy. 1. Because he was employed in the same work as Paul, and acted in it by the same authority, Co1 16:10. He did not come on Paul's errand among them, nor to do his work, but the work of the Lord. Though he was not an apostle, he was assistant to one, and was sent upon this very business by a divine commission. And therefore to vex his spirit would be to grieve the Holy Spirit; to despise him would be to despise him that sent him, not Paul, but Paul's Lord and theirs. Note, Those who work the work of the Lord should be neither terrified nor despised, but treated with all tenderness and respect. Such are all the faithful ministers of the word, though not all in the same rank and degree. Pastors and teachers, as well as apostles and evangelists, while they are doing their duty, are to be treated with honour and respect. 2. Another reason is implied; as they were to esteem him for his work's sake, so also for Paul's sake, who had sent him to Corinth; not of his own errand indeed, but to work the work of the Lord: Conduct him forth in peace, that he may come to me, for I look for him with the brethren (Co1 16:11); or I with the brethren look for him (the original will bear either), ekdechomai gar auton meta tōn adelphōn - "I am expecting his return, and his report concerning you; and shall judge by your conduct towards him what your regard and respect for me will be. Look to it that you send him back with no evil report." Paul might expect from the Corinthians, that a messenger from him, upon such an errand, should be regarded, and well treated. His services and success among them, his authority with them as an apostle, would challenge this at their hands. They would hardly dare to send back Timothy with a report that would grieve or provoke the apostle. "I and the brethren expect his return, wait for the report he is to make; and therefore do not use him ill, but respect him, regard his message, and let him return in peace."

III. He informs them of Apollos's purpose to see them. 1. He himself had greatly desired him to come to them, Co1 16:12. Though one party among them had declared for Apollos against Paul (if that passage is to be understood literally, vide Co1 4:6), yet Paul did not hinder Apollos from going to Corinth in his own absence, nay, he pressed him to go thither. He had no suspicions of Apollos, as if he would lessen Paul's interest and respect among them, to the advancement of his own. Note, Faithful ministers are not apt to entertain jealousies of each other, nor suspect of such selfish designs. True charity and brotherly love think no evil. And where should these reign, if not in the breasts of the ministers of Christ? 2. Apollos could not be prevailed on for the present to come, but would at a more convenient season. Perhaps their feuds and factions might render the present season improper. He would not go to be set at the head of a party and countenance the dividing and contentious humour. When this had subsided, through Paul's epistle to them and Timothy's ministry among them, he might conclude a visit would be more proper. Apostles did not vie with each other, but consulted each other's comfort and usefulness. Paul intimates his great regard to the church of Corinth, when they had used him ill, by entreating Apollos to go to them; and Apollos shows his respect to Paul, and his concern to keep up his character and authority, by declining the journey till the Corinthians were in better temper. Note, It is very becoming the ministers of the gospel to have and manifest a concern for each other's reputation and usefulness.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible (1708–1710) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.

1Co_16:10-16

Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear.

Pauls affectionate recommendation of Timothy teaches us that young ministers

1. Often need encouragement.

2. Should be respected for their works sake.

3. Ought not to be despised.

4. Must be treated with tenderness and consideration.

5. Have a claim on the affectionate sympathy of their elder brethren. (J. Lyth, D.D.)

Ministerial solicitude

We are reminded--

I. That human plans and purposes are fraught with contingency. If Timotheus come. Uncertainty is an important factor in human calculations.

1. Even Paul could not project his plans into the future positively.

(1) The Macedonian cry of some more needy Church might be heard; new doors constantly opening, fresh emergencies might arise.

(2) Fiery persecutions were rife, the murderers hand might smite, bonds and imprisonment might hold.

(3) Escaping all these, death was still on his track--accident or disease might prevent. Paul was wise in saying, If he come.

2. So you are expecting your Timotheus, my successor. Do not forget the extent and variety of the interests to be looked after, or the contingencies that may arise in adjusting the many claims. The cause you are interested in is Gods, so are the men. Let not your over-anxiety fence Him off from having a hand in selecting your pastor.

II. Of the state of mind essential to ministerial success. With you without fear. Paul wanted this young man to start off well on his new charge. He who is not without fear is in bad company. He lets rooms, or, rather, helplessly admits an enemy who ties him hand and foot, and robs him of happiness and success. Every man who is a shepherd, and not an hireling, will have a natural fear or timidity in taking charge of an important Church. You have the power to confirm or remove this feeling. It is with our people to swing us out into the tropics, or create a winter about us, and--oh, how cold it feels!

III. Of the duty of the Church in this important matter. See that he, etc., etc., make it your business. Take pains to let him know that he is appreciated, and has your goodwill and co-operation. Banish the insulting suspicion that you might make him proud if you told him you like his sermons. If such be the case, have the honesty to let him know it. If he be a man of God it will make him a better preacher and more humble. Now if Timotheus come, see that--

1. You do not, by needlessly eulogising your former pastor, produce in his mind the fear that he will never be able to fill the aching void.

2. You do not, by needlessly unkind criticism, and fault-finding references to your former pastors, produce in him the fear that he is among an unkind, fault-finding people; and that, possibly in a few mouths, they may be equally bitter against himself. Do not be in too great a hurry to weigh Timotheus, if he come; give him a chance. When you do weigh him, put him on a decent scale, and not one that weighs everything on a sharp hook. See that he is without fear when you put him on the scales; if fear go on with him, he will not register half his weight or worth.

IV. That Gods faithful ministers are all men of one work. He worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do. He in his way, I in mine. Sanctified individuality is the great want of the times. Every man has his own mission, and, sanctified to God and duty, he can do a work which no other being on earth can do as well. Better wield the simple sling of David than the cumbersome armour of Saul. (T. Kelly.)

Wholesome teaching for the older ministers

I. Show a tender regard for the interests of young ministers. Timothy was young in years and in the faith; a man, too, perhaps of delicate frame and nervous temperament, and probably not distinguished by any great gift. In Corinth there were philosophers and orators in whose presence he would perhaps feel somewhat abashed. Hence Paul asks the Corinthians to treat him kindly, not to despise him, nor in any way to dispirit him. Alas! it is not an uncommon thing for elder ministers to disparage the younger ones, and often treat them with disrespect, and even rudeness.

II. Rise superior to all ministerial jealousies. If Paul had been capable of jealousy it would have been towards Apollos. He was a man of distinguished ability, and perhaps more popular even than Paul himself. Had he been jealous, Paul would have kept him out of Corinth as long as he could, instead of which he says (1Co_16:12). Jealousy amongst ministers, though most anti-Christian, is not an uncommon thing; and shows itself often in detracting innuendoes and symbolic looks and shrugs.

III. Be not displeased if inferior brethren acquiesce not in your desires. Both the Christian experience and ministerial ability of Apollos were inferior to that of Paul. Notwithstanding this he did not comply with Pauls request; nor did Paul seem displeased (1Co_16:12). If Paul did not enforce his wishes on his brethren, how arrogant it seems for any uninspired minister to attempt it! The only authority which one genuine minister has over another is the authority of superior intelligence, experience, and moral force. (D. Thomas, D.D.)

Personal notices

Note--

1. That with St. Paul personal considerations were not lost in general philanthropy. It is common enough to profess great zeal for humanity, whilst there is indifference about individual men. But St. Pauls love was to the Church generally, and besides to Aquila, Priscilla, etc. And is not this too the nature of Gods love, who provides for the universe, and yet spends an infinity of care on the fibre of a leaf?

2. The value of the courtesies of life. There are many minds which are indifferent to such things, and fancy themselves above them. Prescott observes that liberty is dependent upon forms. Did not the slow, solemn change in the English constitution, and our freedom from violent subversions, arise from the way in which precedent has been consulted in the manner of every change? But more love is dependent upon forms--courtesy of etiquette guards and protects courtesy of heart. There are three persons chiefly mentioned here.

I. Timothy (1Co_16:10). Paul bespeaks for him official respect and personal consideration. Consider the circumstances in which young Timothy was placed in coming to a city where gifts were unduly reverenced, and where even the authority of St. Paul was treated lightly. Think how Timothys own modesty would have silenced him, and how his young enthusiasm might have been withered by ridicule or asperity!

1. St. Pauls pleading is an encouragement of goodness while yet in its tender bud. There is a danger of our paralysing young enthusiasm by coldness or by sneers. There are few periods in life more critical than that in which sensibilities and strong feeling begin to develop themselves. The question is about to be decided whether what is at present merely romantic feeling is to become generous devotion, and to end by maturing into self-denial; or whether it is to remain only a sickly sentiment, and by reaction degenerate into a bitter and a sneering tone.

2. Nowhere is feeling met with so little sympathy, or enthusiasm so kept down as here; nowhere do young persons learn so soon the fashionable tone of strongly admiring nothing, reverencing nothing. And this was a danger which Paul knew well, and could not overlook. In earlier days Apollos himself ran the same risk. He set out preaching all the truth that he knew enthusiastically. It was lamentably incomplete. Had the Christians met him--this young upstart does not preach the gospel--there had been either a great teacher blighted, or else a strong mind embittered into defiance and heresy. But from this he was delivered by the love and prudence of Aquila and Priscilla, who expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

II. Apollos (1Co_16:12). Note--

1. The perfect absence of all mean jealousy in St. Pauls mind. Compare this passage with his earnest rebuke of the party of Apollos in the first chapter. On reading that it might appear natural to say, Oh, he cannot bear a rival! But behold, it was zeal for Christ, and not jealousy of Apollos. These are some of the fine touches by which we learn what that sublime apostle was, and what the grace of God had made him.

2. The apostles earnest desire to make Apollos stand well with the Corinthians. A meaner spirit would either have left his conduct unexplained, or would have caught at the suspicion resting on him; why did he stay away? But St. Paul would leave no misunderstanding to smoulder. He simply stated that Apollos had reasons for not coming; but he will come. This is magnanimity and true delicacy of heart.

III. The house of stephanas (1Co_16:15-16).

1. See what Christianity is--equality, but not levelling. Gods universe is built on subordination; so is Gods Church. The spirit of the worlds liberty says, Let no man lord it over you; but the spirit of the gospel liberty says, Submit yourselves one to another.

2. They had addicted themselves to the ministry. Who had called them to it? No one, except God by an inward fitness. There are certain things to be done in this world which require peculiar instruments and qualifications. A call from God to do such a work is often shown by a willingness to do it; a readiness to stand forward and take the lead. When this is the case, and such men try to do good, they are often met with innumerable hindrances, as in the cases of Howard and Mrs. Fry. Now St. Paul says, This is wrong; you ought rather to help such. Let them take the lead--follow in their wake, and do not mar the work by any petty jealousy. Observe, then, it is as much an apostolic duty to obey persons who have addicted themselves from inward fitness, as it is to respect an outward constitutional authority. (F. W. Robertson, M. A.)

As touching our brother Apollos.--

Etiquette amongst ministers

I. Is founded in their brotherly relation.

1. As children of one Father.

2. As co-workers in one cause.

II. Excludes all undue assumption of authority--all right of dictation.

III. Prompts them to think and speak kindly of each other. (J. Lyth, D. D.)

The Biblical Illustrator, edited by Joseph S. Exell (c. 1880s–1900s) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

1Co 16:10-12. Now if — In the mean time; Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear — Of any one’s despising him for his youth. Encourage him in his labours; for he worketh the work of the Lord — The true ground of reverence and love to pastors: those who do so, none ought to despise or discourage; but conduct him forth — Bring him forward on his journey; in peace — And do all that you can to make it commodious and agreeable to him; that he may come unto me — At Ephesus, as soon as possible; for I look for him with the brethren — Namely, Erastus, who had been sent with Timothy to Corinth, (Act 19:22,) and Titus, who carried this letter, and another brother, whose name is not mentioned; (see 2Co 12:17-18;) perhaps also some of the Corinthian brethren, whom the apostle had desired Titus to bring with him to Ephesus, having need of their assistance. As touching Apollos — For whom many of you have so high a regard; I greatly desired him to come to you with Timothy and the other brethren — Having an entire confidence in his friendship, prudence, and fidelity, and hoping that his presence among you might have been particularly useful at this crisis; but his will was not to come at this time — Perhaps lest his coming should increase the divisions among them; but he will come when he shall have convenient time — Jerome says, Apollos actually went to Corinth, after the disturbances had ceased. But whether in this, Jerome delivered his own opinion only, or some ancient tradition, is uncertain.

Joseph Benson's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1811–1818) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

b. The visits of Timothy and Apollos, 1Co_16:10-12.

10. If Timotheus come—As Paul had informed them (1Co_4:16) that he had sent him, and of the object of his coming. As Luke informs us, (Act_19:22,) just before writing this present epistle, St. Paul, intending to go to Macedonia and Corinth, sent forward Timothy and Erastus as his pioneers. As the epistle would take the cross route, and Timothy might progress slowly by reason of duties on the way, Paul anticipates his arrival in Corinth, and bespeaks a kindly reception. Yet such might be Timothy’s engagements that he might not go so far as Corinth, and hence the apostle’s if.

Without fear—Literally, see that he may be fearlessly among you. As a young man sent to represent Paul in a great and factious Church, Timothy might have justly felt an intimidation. He may have possessed that personal diffidence which is often found compatible with much strength of character.

As I—A repetition of his commendation in 1Co_14:17.

Daniel D. Whedon (gen. ed.), Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1874–1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

16:10 When Timothy comes: See 4:17. Timothy was Paul’s child in the faith and co-worker (see 1 Tim 1:2). • don’t intimidate him: Timothy may have been shy (2 Tim 1:6-8).

Tyndale Open Study Notes — © Tyndale Open Resources, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Text via the HelloAO Bible API.

1Co 16:10. Δἑ, now) An antithesis between Paul himself and his substitute, Timothy.[158]—ἀφύβως, without fear) This will be the case, if no man shall have despised him. If some despised Paul, how much more readily would they depise the youthful native of Lystra.—Κυρίου, of the Lord) Christ.—ἐρλάζεται, worketh) It is right that this work should be performed without fear. This constitutes the foundation of true respect to the ministers of the gospel.

[158] Τιμόθεος, Timothy) was the bearer of this epistle.—V. g.

Bengel's Gnomon of the New Testament — English translation (T&T Clark, Edinburgh, 1860) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

1Co_16:10-11. Recommendation of Timothy (1Co_4:17) to be well received and escorted back. He is not the bearer of our Epistle (Bleek), but journeyed through Macedonia (Act_19:22), and must arrive in Corinth later than the Epistl.

ἐὰν δὲ ἔλθῃ] if, indeed, he shall have come. Rückert holds that ὅταν would have been more correct. Either one or other was correct, just according to the conception of the writer. He conceives of the arrival of Timothy as conditioned by the circumstances, and therefore places it under the hypothetical, not under the temporal (ὅταν), point of vie.

ἵνα κ.τ.λ.] design of the βλέπετε: be careful, in order that he, etc. Paul might also have written negatively: βλέπετε, μὴ ἐν φόβῳ (1Co_2:3), or ἵνα μὴ ἐ. φ. (2Jn_1:8), etc. The positive expression, however, demands more; his going out and in among the readers is to be free from fear. Comp. on γίνεσθαι with the adverb of the mode of the going out and in, Herod. i. 8, ix. 109; Plut. Alex. 69, Demetr. 11, Mor. p. 127 A; also Plato, Prot. 325 B; Tob_7:9; Tob_7:11; 1Ma_8:29. They are so to conduct themselves towards him that he shall not be intimidated among them. This peculiar ἀφόβως, as well as the reason assigned which follows τὸ γὰρ ἔργον κ.τ.λ., and the conclusion again drawn from it: μή τις οὖν αὐτ. ἐξουθενήσῃ, make it probable that Paul has in view not the ill-will of his own opponents, which his friend might encounter. (Osiander, Neander), with which the τὸ γὰρ … ὡς καὶ ἐγώ does not well agree, but the youth of Timothy (1Ti_4:12), on account of which, in a church to some extent of a high-minded tendency, he might easily be not held in full respect, slighted and intimidated. So already Chrysostom and the majority of interpreters. The conjecture that Timothy was of a timid nature (de Wette) is without a trace of historical support, and is superfluous. Regarding τὸ ἔργ. τοῦ κυρ., see on 1Co_15:58.

ἐν εἰρήνῃ] is not to be explained from the formula: πορεύεσθαι ἐν εἰρήνῃ (so Calvin: salvum ab omni noxa, comp. Beza, Flatt, Maier), since, on the contrary, the context would lead us to think, in accordance with ἀφόβως and μή τις ἐξουθ., of a peaceful escort, a προπέμπειν in peace and concord, χωρὶς μάχης κ. φιλονεικίας (Chrysostom, Theophylact). Flatt and Hofmann refer ἐν εἰρ. to what follows (that he may come to me safely and without danger). But the subsequent reason assigned contains nothing referable to ἐν εἰρήνῃ, which must have been the case, had it been so emphatically put first. Besides, the escort to be given was not for protection, but in testimony of love and reverenc.

ἵνα ἔλθῃ πρός με] There is implied, namely, in προπέμψατε κ.τ.λ., with its aim as here defined: in order that he may come (back) to me, the admonition not to detain him too long in Corinthfor Paul is expecting hi.

μετὰ τῶν ἀδελφῶν] Several others, therefore, besides Erastus (Act_19:22), had journeyed with Timothy.[107]

[107] To refer it to ἐκδέχ.: I with the brethren who are here (Bengel and de Wette undecidedly, older interpreters in Calovius, and again Hofmann), has the analogy of ver. 12 against it. It was usual that several should be sent together on such missions.

Meyer — Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament — English translation by Peter Christie, edited by Frederick Crombie (T&T Clark, 1880) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

1Co 16:10-11 . ἐὰν (not ὅταν ) δὲ ἔλθῃ Τιμόθεος : “But if Timothy come” his coming is not certain . He and Erastus have been before this sent to Macedonia (Act 19:21 f.) in advance of P., with instructions to go forward to Cor [2647] (1Co 4:17 above); he might be expected to arrive about the same time as this letter. But local circumstances, or even the report of the unfriendly attitude of the Cor [2648] (Ed [2649] ), might detain him in Mac. He is found in Mac. with P. when some months later 2 Cor. is written: there is no explicit ref [2650] in that Ep. to Timothy’s presence at Cor [2651] in the interval; but Titus’ visit and report are largely in evidence. Ed [2652] says, “In point of fact he (Tim.) did not come “( cf. Lt [2653] , Journal of Sac. and Cl [2654] Philology , ii., 198 ff.; also El [2655] ). But this assertion is too positive. In 1Co 4:17 above P. announced Tim.’s coming definitely and laid stress upon it. Tim. shares in the Address of 2 Cor., and the fact that he is associated by the Ap. with himself in the significant “we” of 1Co 7:2 ff. ( cf. 1Co 2:5-11 ) points to his being involved in some way in the “grief” which P. had suffered from Cor [2656] subsequently to the writing of 1 Cor. Very possibly Timothy was the ἀδικηθεὶς of 2Co 7:12 , in whose person, seeking as he did to carry out the directions of 1Co 4:17 , Paul had been insulted by some prominent Cor [2657] Christian ( ὁ ἀδικήσας ). If this actually happened, the apprehensions expressed here about the treatment Tim. might receive, proved only too well-founded: “see (to it) that without fear he may be with you” (or hold converse with you : γένηται πρὸς ὑμᾶς , see 1Co 2:3 , and parls.) … “let no one then set him at naught”. These words point to Timothy’s diffidence, as well as to his comparative youth: see 1Ti 4:12 , and the vein of exhortation in 2Ti 2:1-13 and 2Ti 3:10 to 2Ti 4:18 . Tim. was P.’s complement, as Melanchthon was Luther’s gentle, affectionate, studious, but not of robust or masculine character. The temper of the Cor [2658] Church would be peculiarly trying and discouraging to him. Paul hopes that regard for him will have some restraining effect upon the Cor [2659] τὸ γὰρ ἔργον Κυρίου ( cf. 1Co 15:58 ) κ . τ . λ . identifies Timothy in the strongest way with P. himself: cf. 1Co 4:17 , Phi 2:20 ; similarly respecting Titus, in 2Co 8:23 . For ἐξουθενέω , see parls. “But send him forward in peace ” for if Tim. attempts the task indicated in 1Co 4:17 , a rupture is very possible, such as, we gather from 2Co 2:7 , actually ensued. From the following words, “that he may come to me, for I am awaiting him,” it appears that P. expects Tim’s return before he leaves Eph.: cf. , for the vb [2660] , 1Co 11:33 . It is doubtful whether μετὰ τῶν ἀδελφῶν qualifies the subject “I with the brethren” those of 1Co 16:12-18 , the Cor [2661] brethren now in Eph. and interested in Tim’s success at Cor [2662] , who are delaying their return until he brings his report (so Hf [2663] , Gd [2664] ); or the object “I await him with (= and) the brethren,” i.e. those, including possibly Erastus, whom P. expects to arrive at Eph. from Cor [2665] along with Tim. (so most interpreters). The relevancy of the words on the latter construction is not obvious. On the former view, “the brethren” of 1Co 16:11-12 are the same, being the deputies who had brought over the Cor [2666] Church Letter to P., and who are now awaiting Tim’s return before they themselves return home. This hints an additional reason why the Cor [2667] should with all speed send Timothy back to Paul “in peace”.

[2647] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2648] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2649] T. C. Edwards’ Commentary on the First Ep. to the Corinthians .

[2650] reference.

[2651] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2652] T. C. Edwards’ Commentary on the First Ep. to the Corinthians .

[2653] J. B. Lightfoot’s (posthumous) Notes on Epp. of St. Paul (1895).

[2654] classical.

[2655] C. J. Ellicott’s St. Paul’s First Epistle to the Corinthians .

[2656] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2657] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2658] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2659] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2660] verb

[2661] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2662] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2663] J. C. K. von Hofmann’s Die heilige Schrift N.T. untersucht , ii. 2 (2te Auflage, 1874).

[2664] F. Godet’s Commentaire sur la prem. Ép. aux Corinthiens (Eng. Trans.).

[2665] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2666] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

[2667] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.

The Expositor's Greek Testament, edited by W. Robertson Nicoll (1897–1910) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

Timothy’s visit to Corinth.

Apollos. 1Co 16:10-12

The thought of his approaching stay at Corinth leads him to speak of that of Timothy, which is to precede and prepare for his own, comp. 1Co 4:17; then from this fellow-labourer he passes to another, Apollos, who is at the moment with him at Ephesus.

Vv. 10, 11. “If Timothy come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also. 11. Let no man therefore despise him; and conduct him forth in peace, that he may return unto me; for I look for him with the brethren.”

These lines betray a certain uneasiness in regard to Timothy’s stay at Corinth. This young servant of Christ was timid (2Ti 1:6-7), and probably not highly cultivated; and he might easily feel himself ill at ease among those Corinthians, some of whom did not respect Paul himself. We know from Act 19:22 that Paul had sent him with Erastus from Ephesus into Macedonia, and that he was to go thence to Corinth. But as his time was limited (1Co 16:11), Paul was not sure whether he could reach the city. Hence the expression: If he come, which is not equivalent to: “When (ὅταν) he comes to you.” As to the eulogium on Timothy comp. Php 2:19-21, and as to the recommendation not to despise him, 1Ti 4:12. His youth also, compared with the gravity of his task, might bring on him disrespectful demonstrations from certain Corinthians. The regimen in peace might be connected with the verb come: “That he may come back with the pleasant feeling of a mission happily accomplished.” But the inversion is somewhat harsh, and the regimen better suits the verb προπέμψατε: “Send him forward in such a way that he shall depart in peace with you all.” The following words seem thus to become somewhat redundant. But they are explained by the sequel: I look for him, which gives them this meaning: “That he may be able to return to me without delay, after concluding his mission.” The words: with the brethren, are frequently taken as referring to Timothy’s travelling companions, Erastus for example, who had started with him from Ephesus (Act 19:22); so Meyer, Reuss, Holsten. But why this utterly insignificant detail? Edwards understands by them the brethren who carried our Epistle from Ephesus to Corinth. That would be more intelligible. But, as the regimen with the brethren bears on the verb ἐκδέχομαι, I look for, is it not more natural to refer it to the three deputies from Corinth, who were at that time with Paul at Ephesus (1Co 16:15-18), and who with him were awaiting Timothy’s return before setting out for Corinth? The report which he brought might give occasion for new instructions or even for a new letter from the apostle; hence the propriety of those three brethren awaiting his arrival.

Vv. 12. “As touching the brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall find the time convenient.”

The form περὶ δέ, as touching, might lead us to suppose that the matter here referred to had already been spoken of; that a request even had already been forwarded from Corinth on this subject. In consequence of the situation of parties in this Church, the apostle felt bound to make it clearly understood that it was not he who put any obstacle in the way of Apollos’ return to Corinth. The πάντως, absolutely, signifies: “notwithstanding all I could say and do.” Meyer and others think that the refusal of Apollos was simply occasioned by his present evangelistic engagements, and they explain the εὐκαιρεῖν in the sense of: “when he shall have time,” or, as Oltramare translates: “as soon as he can.” But it seems to me that the expression used by the apostle is too emphatic to admit of so weakened a signification. The words: “But his will was absolutely not...,” prove that there was, not an inability, but a determined will on the subject. Evidently Apollos was disgusted at the part which he had been made to fill at Corinth, as the rival of St. Paul. Hence it is obvious how innocent he himself was of those dissensions which had formed the subject of the first four chapters.

The words: with the brethren, refer again to the three deputies from Corinth (1Co 16:17); Apollos would have required to join them on their return to Greece. If so, they were not, as has been thought, the bearers of our letter (see the subscription in the T. R.). For it was intended to reach Corinth before Timothy’s arrival (1Co 16:10-11 and 1Co 4:17 seq.), and the deputies were not to leave Ephesus until after Timothy’s return to Paul.

There follow some general and particular exhortations.

Frédéric Louis Godet — Commentaries on Luke, John, Romans, and 1 Corinthians — English translation (T&T Clark, Edinburgh, 1870s–1890s) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

1Co_16:10

Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also (do.)

In Act_19:22, we read that Paul sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season. Timothy, therefore, at this time, was traveling through Macedonia, and expected to reach Corinth, whither the apostle had sent him; see 1Co_4:17. Besides this mission of Timothy, there was another some time later, consisting of Titus and other brethren, who were sent to learn the effect produced by this letter; and whose return the apostle so anxiously awaited, 2Co_2:12, 2Co_2:13. Paul requests the Corinthians so to receive Timothy that he might be there without fear. It was not fear of personal violence, but the fear of not being regarded with respect and confidence. The reason by which he enforces his request shows the nature of the evil which he apprehended, for he worketh the work of the Lord. If they would recognize this, Timothy would be satisfied. The work of the Lord, as in 1Co_15:58, may mean either that work in which the Lord himself is engaged; or that which he has prescribed. As I also do. A comprehensive commendation. Timothy preached the same gospel that Paul preached; and with like assiduity and fidelity.

Charles Hodge — Commentary on Romans (1835), First Corinthians (1857), and Ephesians (1856) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

Without any just occasion of fear.

Geneva Bible (1599) marginal notes — public domain. Text via Bolls.life.

Now--rather, "But." Therefore Timothy was not the bearer of the Epistle; for it would not then be said, "IF Timothy come." He must therefore have been sent by Paul from Ephesus before this Epistle was written, to accord with Co1 4:17-19; and yet the passage here implies that Paul did not expect him to arrive at Corinth till after the letter was received. He tells them how to treat him "if" he should arrive. Act 19:21-22 clears up the difficulty: Timothy, when sent from Ephesus, where this Epistle was written, did not proceed direct to Corinth, but went first to Macedonia; thus though sent before the letter, he might not reach Corinth till after it was received in that city. The undesigned coincidence between the Epistle and the history, and the clearing up of the meaning of the former (which does not mention the journey to Macedonia at all) by the latter, is a sure mark of genuineness [PALEY, Horæ Paulinæ]. It is not certain that Timothy actually reached Corinth; for in Act 19:22 only Macedonia is mentioned; but it does not follow that though Macedonia was the immediate object of his mission, Corinth was not the ultimate object. The "IF Timothy come," implies uncertainty. Co2 1:1 represents him with Paul in Macedonia; and Co2 12:18, speaking of Titus and others sent to Corinth, does not mention Timothy, which it would have probably done, had one so closely connected with the apostle as Timothy was, stayed as his delegate at Corinth. The mission of Titus then took place, when it became uncertain whether Timothy could go forward from Macedonia to Corinth, Paul being anxious for immediate tidings of the state of the Corinthian Church. ALFORD argues that if so, Paul's adversaries would have charged him with fickleness in this case also (Co2 1:17), as in the case of his own change of purpose. But Titus was sent directly to Corinth, so as to arrive there before Timothy could by the route through Macedonia. Titus' presence would thus make amends for the disappointment as to the intended visit of Timothy and would disarm adversaries of a charge in this respect (Co2 7:6-7).

without fear--Referring perhaps to a nervous timidity in Timothy's character (Ti1 3:15; Ti1 5:22, Ti1 5:24). His youth would add to this feeling, as well as his country, Lystra, likely to be despised in refined Corinth.

Jamieson, Fausset & Brown — Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.

Verse 10. Now, if Timotheus come] Of Timothy we have heard before, 1Co 4:17. And we learn, from Ac 19:22, that Paul sent him with Erastus from Ephesus to Macedonia. It is evident, therefore, in opposition to the very exceptionable subscription at the end of this epistle, that the epistle itself was not sent by Timothy, as there stated.

That he may be with you without fear] That he may be treated well, and not perplexed and harassed with your divisions and jealousies; for he worketh the work of the Lord-he is Divinely appointed, as I also am.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible (1810–1826) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.

(10) Now if Timotheus come . . .—Timothy and Erastus had been sent (see 1Co_4:17) by St. Paul to remind the Corinthians of his former teaching, and to rebuke and check those evils of which rumours had reached the ears of the Apostle. As, however, they would travel through Macedonia, delaying en route at the various churches to prepare them for the visit which St. Paul, according to his then intention, purposed paying them after he had been to Corinth, they possibly might not reach Corinth until after this Epistle, which would be carried thither by a more direct route. The Apostle was evidently anxious to know how Timothy would be received by the Corinthians. He was young in years. He was young also in the faith. He had probably a constitutionally weak and timid nature (see 1Ti_3:15; 2Ti_1:4), and he was of course officially very subordinate to St. Paul. In a Church, therefore, some of whose members had gone so far as to question, if not actually to repudiate the authority even of the Apostle himself, and to depreciate him as compared with the elder Apostles, there was considerable danger for one like Timothy. By reminding the Corinthians of the work in which Timothy is engaged, and of its identity with his own work, the Apostle anticipates and protests against any insult being offered to Timothy, because of what a great English statesman once called, in reference to himself, “the atrocious crime of being a young man.”

A Bible Commentary for English Readers, edited by Charles John Ellicott (1878–1897) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

10. Now if Timotheus come] See note on 1Co_4:17. The question whether Timothy arrived at Corinth before the Apostle, or whether he was detained in Macedonia until St Paul came thither, is one which admits of no certain decision. Dean Alford thinks Timothy arrived there first, and supports his view by the considerations, (1) that his mission is announced in terms too precise to be lightly given up, and (2) that its abandonment would have exposed the Apostle to an additional charge of inconsistency of which we never hear. But, on the other hand, it is remarkable that while we hear a good deal in the second Epistle of Titus’ mission and the report he brought back (ch. 2Co_2:13, 2Co_7:6; 2Co_7:13, 2Co_8:6; 2Co_8:16-18, 2Co_12:18), there is not a word said about Timothy’s arrival at Corinth, or of his return to St Paul, although (ch. 1Co_1:1) he was with St Paul when that Epistle was written.

see that he may be with you without fear] Paley and the late Professor Blunt have remarked on the remarkable agreement of this passage with what we elsewhere learn of the character of Timothy. For (1) he was young (1Ti_4:12), and (2) he seems to have been deficient in courage (1Ti_5:21-23, 2Ti_1:6-8; 2Ti_2:1; 2Ti_2:3; 2Ti_2:15; 2Ti_4:1-2). If this be the case, there would be special need for this injunction, in the condition in which the Corinthian Church then was. And Timothy must then have been very young indeed. After ten years had passed away, the Apostle could still say, ‘Let no man despise thy youth.

The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges (gen. ed. J. J. S. Perowne; Cambridge University Press, 1878–1918) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

Let no man therefore despise him,.... On account of his youth; see Ti1 4:12, or neglect to take care of him, which would be to despise him, since he was employed in such an honourable work, equally as the apostle himself: hence it is manifest, that as the lives of Gospel ministers ought to be defended and secured by those to whom they minister, their persons ought to be treated with esteem and respect.

But conduct him forth in peace; when he takes his leave, wish him all happiness and prosperity, accompany him some part of the way in his journey, and provide things necessary for him; all which used to be done to such who laboured in the word and doctrine, and were counted worthy of double honour; and such an one Timothy was judged by the apostle to be:

that he may come unto me; at Ephesus, where he now was, in peace and safety, and relate to him the state and condition of the church; their steadfastness in the faith, their care of him, and the respect they had shown him; all which would be grateful to the apostle:

for I look for him with the brethren; that is, either the brethren that were with the apostle were in earnest expectation of him, together with himself; and so the Ethiopic version reads, "for our brethren with me have expected him"; or else that he looked for him along with the brethren, that either went with him, or should come with him from Corinth, being sent by the church.

John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible (1746–1763) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.

10 Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do.

Ver. 10. For he worketh, &c.] So doth every faithful minister, though of meaner parts: the vine is the weakest of trees, but full of fruit. A little hand may thread a needle. A little boat may do best in a low river. Philadelphia had but a little strength, Rev 3:8, and yet it served turn, and did the deed.

John Trapp, A Commentary or Exposition upon All the Books of the Old and New Testament (1647–1656) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

Now if Timotheus come - Paul had sent Timothy to them (see the note at 1Co 4:17-18), but as he had many churches to visit, it was not absolutely certain that he would go to Corinth.

May be with you without fear - Let him be received kindly and affectionately. Timothy was then a young man; Act 16:1-3; 1Ti 4:12. There might be some danger that he might feel himself embarrassed among the rich, the frivilous, and the great. Paul, therefore, asks them to encourage him, to receive him kindly, and not to embarrass him. Perhaps, also, there may be some reference to the false teachers whom Timothy might be called on to oppose. They were powerful, and they might endeavor to intimidate and alarm him. Paul, therefore, asks the church to sustain him in his efforts to defend the truth.

For he worketh the work of the Lord - He is engaged in the service of the Lord; and he is worthy of your confidence, and worthy to be sustained by you.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible (1834–1885) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.

He had told them, 1Co 4:17, that he had sent Timothy unto them, whom he there calleth his beloved son, and faithful in the Lord. Here he bespeaketh his welcome and security. It is probable he had it in commission from Paul to visit divers other churches in his journey to them, and therefore he speaketh of his coming as uncertain, but chargeth them, that if he did come, they would take care of him, that he might not be exposed to danger or trouble from any party amongst them.

For he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do; for (saith he) he is a minister of the gospel, and engaged in the same work of the Lord that I am.

Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible (1683–1685) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.

Now if Timotheus come. St. Paul bad already sent on Timothy, (2Co_4:17) with Erastus, (Act_19:22) to go to Corinth by way of Macedonia, and prepare for his visit. But possibly he had countermanded these directions when he postponed his own visit. In the uncertainties of ancient travelling, be could not be certain whether his counter order would reach Timothy or not. It appears to have done so, for nothing is said of any visit of Timothy to Corinth, and St. Paul sent Titus. Without fear. Timothy must at this time have been very young. (1Ti_4:12) As a mere substitute for St. Paul"s personal visit, he would be unacceptable. In every allusion to him we find traces of a somewhat timid and sensitive disposition (1Ti_5:21-23; 2Ti_1:6-8, etc.) He may well, therefore, have shrunk from the thought of meeting the haughty sophisters and disputatious partisans of Corinth. As I also do. "As a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel". (Php_2:22) St. Paul felt for Timothy a deeper personal tenderness than for any of his other friends, and the companionship of this gentle and devoted youth was one of the chief comforts of his missionary labour.

Vers. 10-12.

Wholesome teaching for the older ministers.

if Timotheus come, see that he maybe with you," etc. Taking these verses as the foundation for an address to the senior ministers of the gospel, we say to them

1. SHOW A TENDER REGARD FOR THE INTERESTS OF YOUNG MINISTERS. "Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do." Timothy was young in years and in the faith as well; a man, too, perhaps of delicate frame and nervous temperament, and probably not distinguished by any great gift, natural or attained. In Corinth there were men of philosophic fame, brilliant genius, and oratoric force. He would perhaps feel somewhat abashed in the presence of such; hence the considerate counsel which Paul addresses to the Corinthians to treat him kindly, not to "despise him," nor in any way to dispirit him. Alas! it is not an uncommon thing for elder ministers to disparage the younger ones, and often treat them with disrespect, and even rudeness.

II RISE SUPERIOR TO ALL MINISTERIAL JEALOUSIES. If Paul had been capable of feeling jealousy towards any brother minister, it would have been towards Apollos. He seems to have been a man of distinguished ability and splendid eloquence. Moreover, he was very popular in Corinth, greatly admired and extolled by not a few, perhaps more popular even than Paul himself, the head of one of the factions of.the Church against which Paul had been contending. Had he been jealous, Paul would have kept him out of Corinth as long as he could, and have treated him as a rival, instead of which he says, "As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren." Jealousy amongst ministers of the gospel, though a most antichristian sentiment, is not a very uncommon thing; nay, it is rife, and shows itself often in detracting innuendoes and symbolic looks and shrugs.

III BE NOT DISPLEASED IF INFERIOR BRETHREN ACQUIESCE NOT IS YOUR DESIRES. Both the Christian experience and ministerial ability of Apollos were inferior to that of Paul. Notwithstanding this, he did not comply with Paul"s request: nor did Paul seem displeased. "His will was not at all to come at this time: but he will come when he shall have convenient time." If Paul had no authority to enforce his wishes on his brethren, how arrogant it seems for any uninspired minister to attempt it! The only authority which one genuine minister has over another is the authority of superior intelligence, experience, and moral force.

The Pulpit Commentary (1880–1919), ed. H.D.M. Spence-Jones & Joseph S. Exell — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

Without fear - Of any one's despising him for his youth. For he worketh the work of the Lord - The true ground of reverence to pastors. Those who do so, none ought to despise.

John Wesley, Explanatory Notes Upon the Whole Bible (1754–1765) — public domain. Text via the GEBible commentary corpus.

Observe here, 1. Though Timothy was a young minister, and St. Paul an aged apostle, yet doth he bespeak the church to pay respect unto him as to himself, he being a minister of the gospel as well as himself, though far inferior to him in years and abilities. None of the faithful ministers of Christ are ambitious to engross any respect from the people to themselves, but content, yea desirous, that all their fellow-brethren should share with them therein; for all men pretend to a share in reputation, and do not love to see it monopolized by a single person, and every wise and good man rejoices when that respect is given to others which is justly due and payable to their worth and merit.

Observe, 2. How affectionately this aged apostle recommends Timothy to the church’s tender care, as well as to their deserved respect: See that he may be without fear; that is, without fear of disturbance from the factions that were amongst them at Corinth: see that he be not exposed to any trouble or danger from any party whatsoever.

Let no man despise him; either because of his youth, or his bodily weakness and infirmities, or for any other cause whatsoever.

But conduct him forth in peace; bring him on his way towards me, and provide for the necessities of his journey.

O! how happy is it when the ministers of Christ are thus careful of, and solicitous for, the welfare of each other, as St. Paul here was for Timothy!

William Burkitt's Expository Notes on the New Testament (1700–1703) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

10, 11. While in Ephesus Paul sent Timothy, his favorite preacher, over to Corinth to preach to them, that they might by the grace of God receive the beautiful curriculum of doctrines and the terrible disciplinary strictures in this wonderful letter.

William B. Godbey, Commentary on the New Testament (1896–1900) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

Now if Timothy come, see that he be with you without fear; for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do [ 1Co_14:17 ]:

J. W. McGarvey (with Philip Y. Pendleton), Commentaries on the New Testament (The Fourfold Gospel, 1914; Acts; and the epistles) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.

10–12. Now if Timothy come, etc. We learn (Acts 19:22) that Timothy and Erastus had been sent to Macedonia, and Timothy (1 Cor. 4:17) was instructed to stop at Corinth on the way. Paul asks that he be kindly received.

B. W. Johnson's The People's New Testament with Notes (1889–1891) — public domain. Electronic text from the Christian Classics Ethereal Library (CCEL) ThML edition.

see that he is with you unafraid

"see that he has no cause to fear being with you"

Let no one despise him

Because Timothy was much younger than Paul, sometimes he was not shown the respect he deserved as a minister of the gospel.

our brother Apollos

Here the word "our" refers to Paul and his readers, so it is inclusive. (See: Inclusive "We")

translationWords

Timothy

fear

works

lord

peace

brother

Apollos

courage

unfoldingWord translationNotes — © Distant Shores Media and the Door43 World Missions Community, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Source: git.door43.org/Door43/en_tn.

10. ἐὰν δέ. As in A.V. Now if.

ἕλθῃ Τιμόθεος. See note on 1Co 4:17. The question whether Timothy arrived at Corinth before the Apostle, or whether he was detained in Macedonia until St Paul came thither, is one which admits of no certain decision. Dean Alford thinks Timothy arrived there first, and supports his view by the considerations, (1) that his mission is announced in terms too precise to be lightly given up, and (2) that its abandonment would have exposed the Apostle to an additional charge of inconsistency of which we never hear. But, on the other hand, it is remarkable that while we hear a good deal in the second Epistle of Titus’ mission and the report he brought back (ch. 2Co 2:13, 2Co 7:6; 2Co 7:13, 2Co 8:6; 2Co 8:16-18, 2Co 12:18), there is not a word said about Timothy’s arrival at Corinth, or of his return to St Paul, although (ch. 1Co 1:1) he was with St Paul when that Epistle was written. It may be added that we learn from Act 19:22 that Timothy was sent, at least as far as Macedonia. And the uncertainty here expressed (ἐάν, not ὅταν) gives at least some ground for the supposition that he did not get so far as Corinth, and this without any possible imputation upon the consistency of the Apostle. See Paley, Horae Paulinae, in loc.

βλέπετε ἵνα ἀφόβως γένηται. Paley and Professor Blunt remark here on the singular yet undesigned agreement between the various notices of the character of Timothy. For (1) we find that he was young (1Ti 4:12) and (2) deficient, apparently, in courage or energy, or both (1Ti 5:21-23; 2Ti 1:6-8; 2Ti 2:1; 2Ti 2:3; 2Ti 2:15; 2Ti 4:1-2). It has been thought from some of these expressions that he was even culpably timid. If this were the case, how much more must the injunction in the text have been needed (1) when Timothy was about ten years younger than when he received St Paul’s Epistles, and (2) in the then state of the Corinthian Church?

πρὸς ὑμᾶς. When he comes to you. See note on 1Co 16:6.

Cambridge Greek Testament for Schools and Colleges (Cambridge University Press, 1896; 21 vols, various authors incl. Carr, Maclear, Plummer, Farrar, Lumby, Moule, M. R. James, Simcox) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

10. βλ. ἵνα ἀφόβ. γ.] There must have been some special reason for this caution respecting Timothy, besides that assigned by Meyer, al., that he would naturally be depreciated as only a subordinate of Paul, whom so many of them opposed. His youth occurs to us, mentioned 1Ti 4:12: but even that is not enough, and would hardly be intended here, without some reference to it. De Wette’s conjecture may not be without foundation, that he was perhaps of a timid disposition. Meyer objects that we have no historical trace of this: but I think some are to be found in 1 Tim.:—e.g. 3:15; 5:22, 23.

τὸ ἔργον κυρ.] see ref., note.

Henry Alford, The Greek Testament (1849–1861) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.

10-12. His intended stay at Corinth reminds him of the visit which Timothy is to pay in preparation for his (4:17); and the thought of the helper who has already started reminds him of another helper, Apollos, who refuses to start at present.

10. Ἐὰν δὲ ἔλθῃ Τ. Timothy had been sent with Erastus from Ephesus to Corinth; but as he had to go through Macedonia (Act 19:22), and as his time was limited (v. 11), St Paul did not feel sure that he would reach Corinth; and he possibly did not do so. In 2 Cor. we read a good deal about the visit of Titus to Corinth, but nothing is said about Timothy’s visit. On the other hand, while the Apostle explains and defends his own changes of plan about visiting Corinth, he says nothing about Timothy’s having failed to visit them. If Timothy is the ἀδικηθεις of 2Co 7:12, he must have reached Corinth and have been grossly insulted by some one; but more probably the ἀδικηθείς is St Paul himself. Timothy was in Macedonia when 2 Cor. was written (1:1), and perhaps had never been further.*

βλέπετε ἵνα ἀφόΒως γένηται πρὸς ὑμᾶς. ‘See that he comes to feel at home with you without fear’: comp. Col 4:17; 2Jn 1:8; but βλέπετε μή (8:9; 10:12; Gal 5:15; Col 2:8, etc.) is more common than βλέπετε ἵνα. They are to take care that there is no painful awkwardness in Timothy’s intercourse with them. Was Timothy timid? There are passages which agree with such a supposition, although they do not necessarily imply it (1Ti 5:21-23; 2Ti 1:6-8, 2Ti 1:2:1, 2Ti 1:3, 2Ti 1:15, 2Ti 1:4:1, 2Ti 1:2). See Hastings, DB. 4. p. 768). He was certainly young, for some eight years later St Paul still speaks of his νεότης (1Ti 4:12); and the Corinthians could certainly be rude, even to the Apostle himself (2Co 10:10).

‘For he is working the work of the Lord (15:58), as I also am.’ Therefore, if they put difficulties in Timothy’s way, they will be hindering the work which God has given to the Apostle to do: 4:17. 2:19-21.

κἀγώ (א A C K L P), καὶ ἐγώ (D E F G), ἐγώ (B M 67). WH. adopt the last, on the same evidence as καταμενῶ (v. 6). In Luk 2:48, Luk 16:9, and Act 10:26, καὶ ἐγώ seems to be right; almost everywhere else κἀγώ is the better reading, but the evidence is frequently divided. In the three exceptions the ἐγώ is rather pointedly co-ordinated with some one else. See Gregory, Prolegomena, p. 96.

International Critical Commentary — older volumes (1896–1929), various authors — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.