A.T. Robertson Commentary 1 Timothy 4:12

"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an ensample to them that believe, in word, in manner of life, in love, in faith, in purity." — 1 Timothy 4:12 (ASV)

Despise (καταφρονειτω). Imperative active third singular of καταφρονεω, old verb, to think down on, to despise (Romans 2:4).

Thy youth (σου της νεοτητος). Genitive case of old word (from νεος) as in Mr 10:20.

Be thou (γινου). Present middle imperative of γινομα. "Keep on becoming thou."

An ensample (τυπος). Old word from τυπτω, a type. Pauline use of the word (1 Thessalonians 1:7; 2 Thessalonians 3:9; Titus 2:7).

To them that believe (των πιστων). Objective genitive.

In word (εν λογω). In conversation as well as in public speech.

In manner of life (εν αναστροφη). "In bearing" (Galatians 1:13; Ephesians 4:22).

In purity (εν αγνεια). Old word from αγνευω (αγνος). Sinlessness of life. Used of a Nazirite (Numbers 6:2,21). Only here and 5:2 in N.T.