2 Timothy 2:24

24 That the slave of the Lord should not be contentious, but be meek unto everyone, apt to teach, patient,

2 Timothy 2:24 Meaning and Commentary

2 Timothy 2:24

And the servant of the Lord must not strive
By "the servant of the Lord" is not meant any believer in common, but a minister of the word, as Timothy was; such an one ought not to strive about words to no profit, about mere words, and in a litigious, quarrelsome manner, and for mastery and not truth; though he may, and ought to strive for the faith of the Gospel; this is praiseworthy in him:

but be gentle unto all men;
not only to troubled minds, and wounded consciences, by supplying them with the precious promises and truths of the Gospel; and to backsliders, by restoring them in a spirit of meekness; but even to those who contradict the truth, and themselves, by mild and kind instructions.

Apt to teach,
showing a willingness to instruct the ignorant and obstinate, and making use of abilities given for that purpose, notwithstanding all discouragements; for it follows,

patient,
or "bearing evil"; not only the infirmities of weak brethren in the church, and the reproaches and persecutions of profane men in the world; but also the contradictions and oppositions of the adversaries of truth, so as not to be irritated and provoked, or to be discouraged, and desist from the defence of the Gospel.

2 Timothy 2:24 In-Context

22 Flee also youthful lusts, but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with those that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

23 But foolish and unwise questions refuse, knowing that they do beget contentions.

24 That the slave of the Lord should not be contentious, but be meek unto everyone, apt to teach, patient,

25 that with meekness they might teach those that resist, if God peradventure will grant unto them that they might repent and know the truth,

26 and that they may become converted out of the snare of the devil, in which they are captive to do his will.