When Paul went to Macedonia, he left Timothy with some work to do in Ephesus. Different heresies were threatening the churches in Asia. Timothy was told to “charge” them that they teach no other doctrine. Doctrine is an important facet of the church. By it the church is edified. By it people are saved (cf. 4:16). The church cannot benefit from false doctrine.

They were not to give heed to “fables and endless genealogies.” Both were impossible to prove and “cause[d] disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith.” This is further proof that whatever we do it should be for the “edification of the church” (1 Corinthians 14:12).

The purpose for this charge, and for any commandment from God, “is love.” Love is only possible “from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith.” Some have strayed from this and turned aside to “idle talk.” This talk was vain and did not edify the church. There were some who desired to be teachers. This was not a desire that came from love. This desire was purely self-serving. These individuals enjoyed the attention teachers received. They boldly affirmed their teachings even though they didn’t understand the law themselves.