
2 Timothy 1
2 Timothy 1 offers a deep dive into the relationship between Paul and Timothy, emphasizing themes of faith, heritage, and the challenges of ministry. Paul begins by affirming his bond with Timothy, acknowledging their shared faith and the rich spiritual heritage passed down from Timothy’s grandmother and mother. He encourages Timothy to remain courageous in his ministry, reminding him of the sound teachings and the power of God to overcome fear. Paul also reflects on his own experiences of suffering for the gospel and the assurance of God’s preservation.
2 Timothy 1:1-2 (NKJV)
1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,
2 To Timothy, a beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Paul identifies himself as an apostle chosen by God’s will, connected to the promise of eternal life offered through Christ. Addressing Timothy as his beloved son, he extends a triad of blessings—grace, mercy, and peace—emphasizing their spiritual relationship and Timothy’s importance in Paul's ministry and life.
2 Timothy 1:3-5 (NKJV)
3 I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience, as my forefathers did, as without ceasing I remember you in my prayers night and day,
4 greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears, that I may be filled with joy,
5 when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.
Paul expresses continual thankfulness for Timothy, mentioning his constant prayers for him. He recalls Timothy's sincere faith, a legacy passed down from his grandmother and mother, highlighting the importance of familial influence in faith. Paul’s longing to see Timothy again is tied to these emotional and spiritual bonds.
2 Timothy 1:6-7 (NKJV)
6 Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.
7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Paul encourages Timothy to rekindle and actively use the spiritual gift God had imparted to him, likely affirmed through the laying on of Paul’s hands during a special commissioning. Paul reminds Timothy that fear does not come from God; rather, God equips believers with a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. The "power" refers to the divine strength and enabling presence of the Holy Spirit, empowering believers to boldly proclaim the gospel, persevere through trials, and overcome fear. The "love" speaks of selfless, Christlike compassion that motivates service and unity. The "sound mind" reflects self-discipline, clear thinking, and spiritual stability, enabling believers to remain calm, focused, and grounded in truth amidst challenges. This balance of divine power, love, and mental clarity reassures Timothy—and all believers—that God’s Spirit provides everything necessary to face trials courageously and fulfill their calling with confidence.
2 Timothy 1:8-10 (NKJV)
8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God,
9 who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began,
10 but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,
Paul challenges Timothy not to be ashamed of the gospel or Paul’s imprisonment, but to join him in suffering for the sake of Christ. He emphasizes that salvation and a holy calling are based on God’s purpose and grace, not human deeds. This grace was planned before time and manifested through Christ’s work, who conquered death and illuminated the way to eternal life.
2 Timothy 1:11-12 (NKJV)
11 to which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
12 For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.
Paul explains his role as a preacher, apostle, and teacher, which involves suffering. His steadfast faith in God’s power reassures him that his efforts and the gospel are securely guarded until the end of time.
2 Timothy 1:13-14 (NKJV)
13 Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.
14 That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.
He instructs Timothy to adhere to the teachings he received, emphasizing faith and love in Christ as essential elements. Paul also advises safeguarding the gospel message entrusted to Timothy, through the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit residing within believers.
2 Timothy 1:15-18 (NKJV)
15 This you know, that all those in Asia have turned away from me, among whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.
16 The Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chain;
17 but when he was in Rome, he sought me out very zealously and found me.
18 The Lord grant him that he may find mercy from the Lord in that Day—and you know very well how many ways he ministered to me at Ephesus.
Paul contrasts the disloyalty of some in Asia, who abandoned him, with the faithful actions of Onesiphorus, who supported and diligently sought Paul during his imprisonment. He praises Onesiphorus’s courage and kindness, praying for mercy on him in the final judgment, highlighting the significance of steadfastness and support among believers.