1 Timothy 3:14

The importance of these directions based on the character of the Church and its Head

14. to come unto thee shortly The comparative adverb if retained will have the force given by Fairbairn -more speedily than I at one time thought or than would seem to call for more detailed communications," cf 2 Timothy 1:18, -very well," lit. -better than I need say." Westcott and Hort however with Lachmann follow mss. ACD in reading the substantive and preposition -with speed." As to the supposed inconsistency of this intention with Acts 20:25; Acts 20:38, St Paul certainly there bids the Elders of Ephesus farewell, saying that they will -see his face no more." But circumstances alter cases. The Spirit did not give him definite knowledge of what would befall him in every place; and it is sufficient to say that at the time he was expecting bonds and possible martyrdom and was impressed with the belief, a mistaken one, that he would not return.