Homilies on First Timothy — Argument

St. John Chrysostom

1. Chapter 1
2. Chapter 2
3. Chapter 3

Timothy too was one of the disciples of the Apostle Paul. To the extraordinary qualities of this youth testimony is borne by Luke, who informs us, that he was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. [[Acts 16.2]] He became at once a disciple and a teacher, and gave this singular instance of his prudence, that hearing Paul preach without insisting upon circumcision, and understanding that he had formerly withstood Peter upon that point, he chose not only not to preach against it, but to submit to that rite. For Paul, it is said, took and circumcised him [[Acts 16.3]], though he was of adult age, and so trusted him with his whole economy.

The affection of Paul for him is a sufficient evidence of his character. For he elsewhere says of him, You know the proof of him, that as a son with a father, he has served with me in the Gospel. [[Philippians 2.22]] And to the Corinthians again he writes: I have sent unto you Timothy, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord. [[1 Corinthians 4.17]] And again: Let no man despise him, for he works the work of the Lord, as I also do. [[1 Corinthians 16.10]]-11 And to the Hebrews he writes, Know that our brother Timothy is set at liberty. [[Hebrews 13.23]] Indeed his love for him is everywhere apparent, and the miracles that are now wrought still attest his claims.