1Ti 6:4, 2Ti 2:23-24 | JFB | e4.org | 4. He is proud —literally, "wrapt in smoke"; filled with the fumes of self-conceit ( ) while "knowing nothing," namely, of the doctrine which is according to godliness ( ), though arrogating pre-eminent knowledge ( ). doting about —literally, " sick about"; the opposite of " wholesome " ( ). Truth is not the center about which his investigations move, but mere word-strifes. questions —of controversy. strifes of words —rather than about realities ( ). These stand with them instead of "godliness" and "wholesome words" ( ). evil surmisings —as to those who are of a different party from themselves.

‏ 1 Timothy 6:4

4. He is proud—literally, "wrapt in smoke"; filled with the fumes of self-conceit (1Ti 3:6) while "knowing nothing," namely, of the doctrine which is according to godliness (1Ti 6:3), though arrogating pre-eminent knowledge (1Ti 1:7).

doting about—literally, "sick about"; the opposite of "wholesome" (1Ti 6:3). Truth is not the center about which his investigations move, but mere word-strifes.

questions—of controversy.

strifes of words—rather than about realities (2Ti 2:14). These stand with them instead of "godliness" and "wholesome words" (1Ti 6:3; 1Ti 1:4; Tit 3:9).

evil surmisings—as to those who are of a different party from themselves.

‏ 2 Timothy 2:23-24

23. (Tit 3:9.)

unlearned—Greek, "undisciplined"; not tending to promote the discipline of faith and morals (Pr 5:23). "Uninstructive"; in contrast with "instructing" (2Ti 2:25), and "wise unto salvation" (2Ti 3:15).

avoid—"decline."

24. not strive—"The servant of the Lord" must imitate his master in not striving contentiously, though uncompromising in earnestly contending for the faith (Jude 3; Mt 12:19).

gentle unto all men—"patient" (Greek, "patient in bearing wrongs") in respect to adversaries. He is to be gentle so that he may occasion no evils; patient so that he may endure evils.

apt to teach—implying not only solid teaching and ease in teaching, but patience and assiduity in it [BENGEL].