Verse 15
As Timothy concentrated on (i.e., attended to, cared for, practiced) these responsibilities (1 Timothy 4:6-16), his personal progress in godliness would become evident to his fellow saints in Ephesus. There is a play on words at the beginning of 1 Timothy 4:14-15. "Do not neglect" (Gr. amelei) contrasts with "Take pains" (meleta).
"No one who really wants to count for God can afford to play at Christianity. He must make it the one great business of his life." [Note: Ironside, p. 109.]
"While I do not want to sound critical, I must confess that I am disturbed by the fact that too many pastors and Christian workers divide their time and interest between the church and some sideline. It may be real estate, trips to the Holy Land, politics, civic duties, even denominational service. Their own spiritual lives suffer, and their churches suffer, because these men are not devoting themselves wholly to their ministry." [Note: Wiersbe, 2:228. Cf. Philippians 3:13; James 1:8.]
"It is inspiring to see a young preacher grow for then the church will grow with him." [Note: Robertson, 4:582.]
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