Charles Ellicott Commentary 1 Timothy 4:11

"These things command and teach." — 1 Timothy 4:11 (ASV)

These things command and teach.—“These things”—i.e., the real meaning of “godliness,” that practical everyday piety which, in contrast to the severe and strained asceticism of a limited and narrow section of society, should enter into all homes and influence all lives without distinction of class or race, age or sex. “These things” in the Church of Ephesus must form a part of the public commands and charges to the congregations, must likewise enter into private Christian teaching.