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Let no man despise your youth; but be an example to those who believe, in word, in your way of life, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity.
Verse Takeaways
1
Earn Respect Through Character
Commentators agree that Paul's instruction is not for Timothy to simply demand respect despite his youth. Instead, he is to proactively live in such a way that no one has a valid reason to look down on him. As one scholar puts it, he must "supply by gravity of demeanor what is lacking in his age." A leader's authority is earned through godly character, not commanded by title.
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Book Overview
1 Timothy
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8
18th Century
Presbyterian
Let no man despise thy youth. That is, do not act in such a manner that any will despise you on account of your youth. Act as befits a min…
Despise (καταφρονειτω). Imperative active third singular of καταφρονεω, old verb, to think down on, to despise ([Reference Romans …
19th Century
Anglican
Let no one despise your youth. If Timothy desired that his teaching should be listened to with respectful, earnest attent…
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Timothy must keep on commanding and teaching the things Paul has been writing about, exercising his authority as pastor. Moreover, he must conduct …
16th Century
Protestant
Let no man despise thy youth. He says this concerning both others and Timothy himself. Regarding others, he does not wish that Timothy's a…
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
Let no man despise your youth Timothy was now a young man; some think he was about three and twenty years of age; bu…
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Young people will not be despised if they keep from vanities and follies. Those who teach by their doctrine must also teach by their life. Their di…
13th Century
Catholic
Previously, the Apostle exhorted Timothy to godliness; here he gives him the formula for teaching it.
