Much advice had been written by the hand of Paul to Timothy about the structure and functions of the church. His words, thus far, included warning and guidance in how the church was to operate if it was going to effectively minister to people. Now, Paul turns his full attention to Timothy and gives him, what I believe, to be the most important instruction regarding his conduct in the ministry. Paul writes to the young pastor Timothy “let no one despise your youth” (4:12a). The society to which Timothy was ministering highly regarded the age of a person as evidence of maturity and a determination of respect. Since Timothy was young, many in the community probably did not give him the respect he deserved; after all, Timothy had been working directly with Paul from the time he was a teenager and had gained a wealth of experience. With this in mind, Paul did not want Timothy to be fearful because of his age nor did he want those who were under his leadership to look down on him. What could Timothy do to assure that people did not use his age against him? Timothy was to make sure his character was outstanding in these areas: in word (the way he talked), in conduct (the way he acted), in love (the way he served), in spirit (the way he was perceived), in faith (the way he was faithful), and in purity (the way he avoided immorality). In addition to these character issues, Paul wrote that Timothy must also “give attention to reading [the Scriptures], to exhortation [application of the Scriptures], to doctrine [teaching the Scriptures]” (4:13). Along with having godly character, Timothy should remember that God had given him the gift of leadership and preaching/teaching, which was also confirmed in him by the apostles (4:14). Keeping all these in mind, Timothy was to give himself “entirely to them, that your [his] progress may be evident to all” (4:15). Timothy was to give high priority to upholding the teachings of Scripture and support them through a holy life. Following these things would give indisputable evidence of his salvation (4:16). If you are a young leader, don’t allow your youth to stop you from following God’s will. Give yourself over to having character and a passion for doing what is good.
Dear God, help the youth of this world rise up and live the truth of Jesus Christ.
