The Timing of Reproof and Instruction

Instead of the phrase 'that when the Son of Man comes, I may have a defense that I said these things,' he says these things to give him courage in preaching the wordis command he intends that at all times the teacher should stand near the disciples, revealing the reminder after sin at an opportune time; for then it seems how it is opportune to reprove the one who has sinned.

Since this was established as a preventive help, he says that the teacher, correcting the word, should wait for the man to sin first, and then reprove him and turn him toward repentance, not only at an opportune time but also at an inopportunous time, so that the inopportunous time might bring into action that which was before the sin. For it is considered superfluous and not in season for the many to engage in dialogue with those who do not even protest. But to distinguish this superfluous and inopportunous action is very necessary and opportune for those who know. For the one acting with prudence should discourse about sexual immorality, so that he may not be caught by the slackness of the passion.