Learn what you have to teach.
Writing to the cleric Nepotian, St. Jerome urges constant reading of Scripture and learning what he intends to teach. The original audience is important: this is counsel for a cleric’s ministry. It connects readiness to speak with prior attention to the word being explained. Authority is to be received faithfully before it is used to instruct someone else. Jerome, Letter 52, section 7
Jerome also warns that deeds must not contradict words. In the minister’s life, speech, intention and action should belong together. Studying the passage is therefore one responsibility, and living under its command is another. The person teaching cannot place himself outside the instruction being offered. Jerome, Letter 52, section 7
Paul tells Timothy to continue in what he has learned and knows, remembering from whom he received it. He then speaks of Scripture’s purpose in salvation through faith in Christ and preparation for good works. The passage joins received teaching, faithful continuance and conduct equipped by the word. 2 Timothy 3:14-17
An ordinary application is to read a passage in its setting before explaining it to a child or friend. Name its source accurately, distinguish what the author says from your illustration and admit what you have not checked. These practices serve the responsibility Jerome names; they are not new sayings attributed to him. Jerome, Letter 52, section 7
Before giving an explanation, ask whether you understand the text and whether your conduct remains willing to answer it. The task may require more reading or a correction to something already said. Jerome calls for learning and consistency; Paul directs the learner toward faithful reception. A careful word can grow from those responsibilities. Jerome, Letter 52, section 7
For prayer, use the Lord’s Prayer given by Christ in Matthew 6:9–13.
Sources and edition notes
- Jerome, Letter 52. Source. Translated by W.H. Fremantle, G. Lewis and W.G. Martley. From Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Second Series, Vol. 6. Edited by Philip Schaff and Henry Wace. (Buffalo, NY: Christian Literature Publishing Co., 1893.) Revised and edited for New Advent by Kevin Knight. https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/3001052.htm.
Scripture references link to these comparison editions: NKJV. Biblical passages are paraphrased. Biblical language within a patristic quotation follows the identified historical English translation.