Albert Barnes Commentary 2 Timothy 1:13

"Hold the pattern of sound words which thou hast heard from me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus." — 2 Timothy 1:13 (ASV)

Hold fast the form of sound words. See the notes on 1 Timothy 1:3.

On the Greek word rendered here as "form" (see the notes on 1 Timothy 1:16, where it is rendered pattern), the word means a form, sketch, or imperfect delineation—an outline. Grotius says that here it means "an exemplar, but an exemplar fixed in the mind—an idea." Calvin says that the command is that Timothy should adhere to the doctrine which he had learned, not only in its substance, but in its form. Archbishop Tilotson explains this as meaning the profession of faith which was made by Christians at baptism.

There seems to be an allusion to some summary or outline of truth which Paul had given to Timothy, though there is no evidence that it was written. Indeed, there is every presumption that, if it refers to such a summary, it was not committed to writing. If it had been, it would have been regarded as inspired and would have taken its place in the canon of Scripture. It may be presumed that almost none of the sacred writings would have been more sacredly preserved than such a condensed summary of Christian truth.

However, there is no improbability in supposing that Paul, either at Timothy's ordination or on some other occasion, may have stated the outlines of the Christian religion to him, so that he might have a clear and connected view of the subject. The passage, therefore, may be used as an argument for the propriety of some brief summary of doctrine as a matter of convenience, though not as having binding authority on the consciences of others.

Of sound words. Compare with the notes on 1 Timothy 6:3.

The Greek is the same in both places.

Which you have heard of me. This proves that he does not refer to a written creed, since what he refers to was something which he had heard.

In faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. Hold these truths with sincere faith in the Lord Jesus, and with that love which is the best evidence of attachment to him.