"Command and teach" . Part of the duty of leaders is to command as well as teach. We can feel uneasy about this, and with good cause as there are too many examples of leaders using authority in a wrong way. However, the answer to this is to use authority in a Christlike way.
Paul tells Timothy not to let anyone look down on him. Earlier we had instructions that leaders should not be new Christians, but that does not mean leaders cannot be young. One of the devil's tactics will be to disparage leaders, we must not let this happen. We do this not by indulging in witch-hunts, but by having confidence in the position to which Christ calls us.
Timothy was to show that he was worthy of respect by living a godly life.
He was to devote himself to reading of Scripture, preaching and teaching. We are to speak the word. Timothy had been given gifts in this area, and was to make sure he did not neglect them. Even if the Holy Spirit gives us a gift, it is our responsibility to use and nurture the gift. Note that the prophecy was given in the company of the elders, so there was proper accountability.
Timothy is to be diligent and dedicated to the task given to him, and to watch his life and doctrine.
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