Verse
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1 Timothy 4:13
ESV Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching.
NIV Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.
NASB Until I come, give your attention to the public reading, to exhortation, and teaching.
CSB Until I come, give your attention to public reading, exhortation, and teaching.
NLT Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them.
KJV Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
NKJV Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

What does 1 Timothy 4:13 mean?

Paul's reference to a later visit suggests he planned to return to Ephesus from Macedonia. Based on what we read in his later letters, Titus and 2 Timothy, it appears likely Paul returned to Ephesus. Historically, we are not sure whether or not Paul was able to make his planned trip to Spain (Romans 15:24–28), or to Colossae at Philemon's home (Philemon 1:22). However, he seems to have successfully arrived at Ephesus (1 Timothy 1:3), Macedonia (1 Timothy 1:3), and Nicopolis (Titus 3:12), where he planned to spend the winter. We then find him imprisoned in Rome (2 Timothy) where he expected soon to die.

Paul told Timothy to "devote" himself to three areas. First, Timothy is to be committed to the public reading of Scripture, which at that time specifically meant the Old Testament. Second, he is to be faithful to exhortation, meaning preaching. Third, he is to teach others. All three aspects are important in the life of a preacher or pastor. He must be able to publically read Scripture well—an often forgotten practice in many modern churches—as well as proclaim it, and instruct others accurately.
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Context Summary
First Timothy 4:11–16 focuses on Timothy's own personal conduct as the leader of a Christian church. Paul emphasizes ideas such as persistence, confidence, and diligence. Of particular importance is that Timothy live out an example for other believers. Among the most powerful counters to false teaching are the positive results spiritual truth can bring. Along with teaching the truth, Timothy must live it. By devoting himself to these principles, Paul reassures Timothy that he can be a powerful positive influence for Christ.
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Chapter Context
First Timothy 4 provides an important perspective in advance of Paul's upcoming instructions. After giving Timothy details on how to choose church leaders, and the proper conduct of church members, this chapter is mostly focused on Timothy's own personal spiritual choices. In particular, Paul instructs him to be diligent, faithful, and prepared. The stakes are high—both for Timothy and those he is called to lead. This chapter emphasizes the importance of good spiritual practice, which is key when considering Paul's advice in the passages both before and after these words.
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