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What the Fathers say
Eastern Fathers
John Chrysostom
In some cases it is necessary to command, in others to teach; if therefore you command in those cases where teaching is required, you will become ridiculous. Again, if you teach where you ought to command, you are exposed to the same reproach. For instance, it is not proper to teach a man not to be wicked, but to command; to forbid it with all authority. …
Theophylact of Ohrid
Some matters require teaching, while others require commanding. Thus, that one must not steal — this should not be taught gently, but commanded, that is, forbidden with particular force. But if he speaks of the distribution of possessions, or of virginity, or of how one ought to believe, then this must be taught. Therefore the apostle uses both expressions: "preach... and teach." And in another sense, when we do something knowing that it is evil, we need commanding; when we do so without knowing it, we need teaching.
Oecumenius
Command these things, and teach them. Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Concerning those who err in knowledge, it is necessary to command them with authority; but concerning those who err in ignorance, to simply teach them. The one who encourages toward good, teaches; but the one who hinders evil, commands. Let no one despise your youth. For the bishop must also speak more authoritatively. …
Western Saints
Thomas Aquinas
Above, the Apostle exhorted Timothy to godliness; here he gives him the formula for teaching godliness: first, he commands him to teach godliness; second, how he is fit to teach, at let no man; third, how he must teach different persons in different ways, at do not rebuke an ancient man. Now the doctrine of godliness is composed of two things: what is to be done and what is to be believed. …
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