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What the Fathers say
Eastern Fathers
John Chrysostom
"Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord, that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers." It is an overawing thing to call God to witness what we say, for if no one would dare to set at nought the testimony of man when appealed to, much less when the appeal is to God. If any one, for instance, entering into a contract, or making his will, chooses to call witnesses worthy of credit, would any transfer the things to those who are not included? Surely not. …
Theophylact of Ohrid
Lest anyone think that Timothy himself needed such instructions, the apostle says: remind others. Since this has a certain appeal and the human soul is always inclined toward contention and disputes about words, you, says the apostle, charge them before God not to engage in disputes about words, that is: teach them, call God as witness, so that they may know that if they disregard you, He will condemn them. Disputing about words not only brings no benefit or advantage, but on the contrary, causes great harm. …
Oecumenius
These things he reminds you of, sincerely charging you before the Lord not to quarrel about words to no profit, which leads to the ruin of the hearers. Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. These things he reminds you of. So that no one might think these things are unnecessary; concerning these words to Timothy, Paul says, "These things he reminds you of," testifying before the Lord, and it is a fearful thing to speak before God as a witness. …
Western Saints
Augustine of Hippo
A good teacher chooses a good life in such a way that he does not also neglect good repute but provides "what may be good not only before God but also before men" insofar as he is able by fearing God and caring for men. In his speech itself he should prefer to please more with the meanings expressed than with the words used to speak them. Nor should he think that anything may be said better than that which is said truthfully. Nor should the teacher serve the words but the words the teacher.
Thomas Aquinas
Of these things put them in mind: I admonish you and the others always to have it in your heart, charging them before God, i.e., adducing him as the witness before whom I speak. Contend not in words: But contention is a battle with words. Therefore, it can have two meanings: for a person is harmed in two ways, when he speaks sharply: in one way, if this inclines him to favor falsity; as when a person, trusting in clamors and shouts, attacks the truth. …
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