2 Timothy

Paul encourages Timothy to fan into flame his God-given gift, reminds him that God grants power, love, and self-discipline, and urges him not to be ashamed of the gospel or Paul’s chains but to share in suffering. The gospel—promised before ages—has been revealed through Christ who abolished death and brought life, and Paul is convinced God will guard what he has entrusted. Timothy is exhorted to hold the pattern of sound teaching and guard the good deposit by the Holy Spirit, even as many in Asia (e.g., Phygelus and Hermogenes) have turned away, contrasting with Onesiphorus who refreshed Paul without shame.

Timothy must be strengthened by grace, entrust the apostolic message to faithful people, and endure hardship like a soldier, athlete, and farmer who seek approval and reward. Paul endures chains as a criminal so the elect may obtain salvation, citing a trustworthy saying about dying and living with Christ, warning that disowning Him brings denial. Timothy is to remind believers to avoid quarrels about words, present himself as an approved worker rightly handling truth, and shun profane chatter (e.g., Hymenaeus and Philetus who say the resurrection has passed). God’s firm foundation stands; Timothy should cleanse himself from dishonorable practices, flee youthful passions, and gently correct opponents so that God may grant them repentance.

In the last days perilous times will come with people loving self, money, and pleasure while opposing truth like Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses; their folly will become evident. Timothy has followed Paul’s teaching, conduct, persecutions, and knows that all who desire godly life will suffer while impostors worsen. Timothy must continue in the Scriptures he has known since childhood—God-breathed and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness—so that God’s servant may be fully equipped.

Paul solemnly charges Timothy before God and Christ’s appearing to preach the word, be ready in season and out, correct, rebuke, encourage, for a time will come when people prefer myths to sound doctrine. Timothy must keep sober, endure hardship, do evangelistic work, fulfill his ministry. Paul, already being poured out like a drink offering, has fought the good fight, finished the race, kept the faith, and awaits the crown of righteousness. He asks Timothy to come quickly, as Demas deserted for love of the world; only Luke is with him, and Mark is useful. Paul recounts being deserted at his first defense, yet the Lord stood by him and will deliver him safely to His heavenly kingdom. Final greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, the household of Onesiphorus, and others; the Lord be with Timothy’s spirit and grace be with all.