John Calvin Commentary 2 Timothy 2:25

"in meekness correcting them that oppose themselves; if peradventure God may give them repentance unto the knowledge of the truth," — 2 Timothy 2:25 (ASV)

If sometime God grant to them repentance—this expression, “If sometime,” or “If perhaps,” points out the difficulty of the case, as being nearly desperate or beyond hope. Paul therefore means that even toward the most unworthy we must exercise meekness; and although at first there is no appearance of having gained any advantage, still we must make the attempt.

For the same reason, he mentions that “God will grant it.” Since the conversion of a person is in the hand of God, who knows whether those who today appear unteachable might be suddenly changed by God’s power into new people? Thus, whoever considers that repentance is the gift and work of God will cherish more earnest hope and, encouraged by this confidence, will apply more toil and exertion to instruct rebels.

We should view it this way: our duty is to be engaged in sowing and watering, and while we do this, we must look to God for the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6). Our labors and exertions are therefore of no advantage in themselves; yet, through the grace of God, they are not fruitless.

To the knowledge of the truth—from this we may learn what constitutes the actual repentance of those who for a time were disobedient to God. For Paul declares that it begins with “the knowledge of the truth.” By this he means that human understanding is blinded as long as it fiercely opposes God and his doctrine.