After commanding Timothy to “hold fast the pattern of sound words” (1:13), and mentioning those who have failed to do so, Paul continued to encourage Timothy to endure. To do so, he would need strength. Such is found “in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” The knowledge of God’s gracious gifts bestowed on man in Christ Jesus is a powerful force for obedient faith. For this reason, those things spoken to Timothy by Paul needed to be committed to “faithful men” for the carrying on of the teaching to others.

Timothy was a soldier in the Lord’s army, and soldiers must “endure hardship.” To equip him with such endurance, Paul offered Timothy a few metaphors.

• (v. 4) – Soldiers wish to please their commanders. They can only do so by being focused on the job at hand. They do not become distracted with “the affairs of this life.” Timothy needed to focus on the spiritual battle at hand.
• (v. 5) – Athletes who break the rules are disqualified. To be qualified to win the prize, the rules must be followed. Timothy could not endure to the end if he was not faithful to the gospel.
• (v. 6) – The farmer puts in hard work, and is the first to enjoy the fruits of his labor. Timothy needed to give himself to diligent study and teaching. In doing so, he would be the first to benefit from his efforts (cf. 1 Timothy 4:16).

Lastly, the apostle exhorted Timothy to “consider,” or dwell upon in serious thought, the things of which he had spoken. It was “the Lord” who could give Timothy such understanding needed to endure hardship.