1 Timothy 4:14-16 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shall both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
‘Gift’ [Greek: charisma] grace, favour. Translated “free gift” (Rom. 5:15-16) and “gift” (Rom. 1:11; 6:23; 11:29; 12:6; 1Cor. 1:7; 7:7; 12:4, 12:9, 28, 30, 31; 2Cor. 1:11; 1Tim. 4:14; 2Tim. 1:6; 1Pet. 4:10). This refers to the gifts and graces of God given to Timothy, enabling him to do the same works that Paul did (1Tim. 4:14; 2Tim. 1:6; 1Cor. 16:10). Such power was given by prophecy and the laying on of hands. The prophecy was some prediction that Timothy would be used by God (1:18; 4:14).
‘Continue in them: for in doing this thou shall both save thyself, and them that hear thee.’ Suppose one would refuse to continue in them, would he then save himself? Ten things to continue in: Well doing (Rom. 2:7). Following the Lord (1Sam. 12:14). The Word of God (John 8:31). Christ’s love (John 15:9; 1Tim. 2:15). The grace of God (Acts 13:43). The faith (Acts 14:22; Col. 1:23). God’s goodness (Rom. 11:22). Prayer (Col. 4:2). Sound doctrines (1Tim. 4:16; 2Tim. 3:14). The Son and the Father (1Jn. 2:24). If we do these things we are blessed and if not, then we are cursed. God cannot lay down the conditions upon which He will bless us, then ignore them and bless if the conditions are not met.
Living the Word 