John Calvin Commentary 2 Timothy 3:10

"But thou didst follow my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, patience," — 2 Timothy 3:10 (ASV)

But thou hast followed To urge Timothy, he also uses this argument: that he is not an ignorant and untaught soldier, because Paul carried him through a long course of training. Nor does he speak of doctrine only; for those things which he also enumerates add much weight. In this sentence, he gives us a very vivid picture of a good teacher: one who does not train and instruct his disciples by words only, but, so to speak, opens his very heart to them, so that they may know that whatever he teaches, he teaches sincerely.

This is what is implied in the word purpose. He also adds other proofs of sincere and genuine affection, such as faith, mildness, love, patience. Such were the early instructions that had been imparted to Timothy in Paul's school. Yet he does not merely recall what he had learned from him, but testifies to his former life, so that in this way he may urge him to perseverance. For he praises him as an imitator of his own virtues, as if he had said, “You have long been accustomed to follow my instructions; I ask nothing more than that you should go on as you have begun.” It is his wish, however, that the example of his “faith, love, and patience” should be constantly before Timothy's eyes. For that reason, he dwells chiefly on his persecutions, which were best known to him.