2 Timothy 4:13 - Homilies By T. Croskery

The apostle's directions concerning his cloke.

It has been considered beneath the dignity of inspiration that there should be such a trivial record. But the criticism is singularly superficial.

I. THE APOSTLE 'S DIRECTIONS . "The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, bring when thou comest, and the books, especially the parchments."

1 . There is no evidence that the cloke was an ecclesiastical vestment ; for there is no evidence of vestments being worn at all in the primitive Church. It was a thick cloke or mantle which the apostle needed in view of the approaching winter. His death might be near at hand, but, as its day was uncertain, it was natural he should provide against the winter cold.

2 . It was a precious consignment that was left with Carpus, the Christian disciple, at Troas. It included, besides his cloke, books and parchments.

II. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE APOSTLE 'S DIRECTIONS .

1 . The request concerning his cloke implied that he was a poor man, as well as exposed to hardship and cold.

2 . It suggests that he was partially deserted by the Yeoman Christians. Why could they not give him or lend him a cloke? What had become of the Roman Christians who met him, so many years before, fifty miles from the city, and gave him such a hearty welcome?

3 . It proves his personal independence. He will not ask a cloke from any one.—T.C.