John Calvin Commentary 2 Timothy 4:1

"I charge [thee] in the sight of God, and of Christ Jesus, who shall judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom:" — 2 Timothy 4:1 (ASV)

I charge thee, therefore, before God and the Lord Jesus Christ. It is proper to observe carefully the word therefore, by means of which he appropriately connects Scripture with preaching. This also refutes certain fanatics, who haughtily boast that they no longer need the aid of teachers, because the reading of scripture is abundantly sufficient.

But Paul, after speaking of the usefulness of Scripture, infers not only that all ought to read it, but also that teachers ought to administer it, which is the duty enjoined on them.

Accordingly, as all our wisdom is contained in the Scriptures, and neither should we learn, nor teachers draw their instructions, from any other source, so the one who, neglecting the assistance of the living voice, satisfies himself with the silent Scripture, will find how grievous an evil it is to disregard that way of learning which has been enjoined by God and Christ.

Let us remember, I say, that the reading of Scripture is recommended to us in such a manner as not to hinder, in the smallest degree, the ministry of pastors. Therefore, let believers endeavor to profit both in reading and in hearing, for not in vain has God ordained both of them.

Here, as in a very weighty matter, Paul adds a solemn charge, presenting to Timothy God as the avenger and Christ as the judge, if he should cease to discharge his office of teaching. And indeed, just as God showed by an inestimable pledge—when he did not spare his only-begotten Son—how great is the care which he has for the Church, so he will not allow the negligence of pastors, through whom souls, which he has redeemed at so costly a price, perish or are exposed as prey, to remain unpunished.

Who shall judge the living and the dead. Especially, the Apostle fixes attention on the judgment of Christ, because, as we are his representatives, so he will demand a stricter account of evil administration. By “the living and the dead” are meant those whom he will find still alive at his coming, and also those who will have died. Therefore, there will be none who escape his judgment.

The appearance of Christ and his kingdom mean the same thing. For although he now reigns in heaven and earth, yet until now his reign is not clearly manifested but, on the contrary, is obscurely hidden under the cross and is violently assailed by enemies. His kingdom will therefore be established at that time when, having vanquished his enemies and either removed or reduced to nothing every opposing power, he will display his majesty.