John Chrysostom : "But watch thou in all things, endure affliction." It was for this therefore, that he foretold these things; as Christ also toward the end predicted that there should be "false Christs and false prophets"; so he too, when he was about to depart, spoke of these things. "But watch thou in all things, endure affliction"; that is, labor, preoccupy their minds before this pestilence assails them; secure the safety of the sheep before the wolves enter in, everywhere endure hardship. "Do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry." Thus it was the work of an evangelist that he should endure hardship, both in himself, and from those without; "make full proof of" that is, fulfill "thy ministry." — Homily on 2 Timothy 9 Oecumenius : But you be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. But you be sober in all things. Therefore, because of being sober and having been awakened, he said these things. endure hardship. Strive, Paul says, labor, anticipate the teachings of the disciples in good and true doctrines before that distress comes upon you. fulfill your ministry. For even Timothy also served in preaching. Indeed, he preached. Therefore, complete what you have begun with confidence, and spread the message while they are still receptive. Concerning his own impending departure, into eternal glory. — COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY