Timothy Guess

February 2006

II Timothy

Introduction

This letter was written by Paul to Timothy, probably in the late 60s A.D. Paul had been released from prison between the writings of I and II Timothy. He was now imprisoned in Rome until his death. This is the last letter of Paul that we have on record. From his language in 4:6-8, we see that Paul recognizes that the end of his life is imminent. This second letter to Timothy is more personal than the first one. It is packed with emotion and challenges to Timothy.

In this letter, Paul addresses frequently the issue of false doctrine and the necessity of being faithful to truth. Here at the end of his life, Paul had been faithful to hold fast to the truth. But, he had seen many turn away from it. Paul, inspired of the Holy Spirit, saw the necessity for others to take the lead in this stand. To this end, he charges Timothy. There are a multitude of references in both letters to Timothy regarding false teachers and false doctrine, and those who have departed the faith (I Tim. 1:3-11; 4:1-3; 5:12; 6:3-5 and II Tim.1:15; 2:16-19; 3:1-9; 4:3,4). The same is true of verses relating to the gospel, truth, the Christian faith (I Tim. 1:11; 1:19; 4:16; 6:20 and II Tim. 1:8; 1:11-14; 2:2; 2:9,10; 2:14,15; 3:14; 4:1-5).

Chapter-by-Chapter

Chapter 1-Paul lovingly greeted his ministerial son, Timothy. He remembered Timothy’s tears (probably at their last parting). Paul encouraged him to stir up the gift that he had been given and not to be fearful or ashamed of the gospel, but to endure the suffering that comes with professing it. Paul reminded Timothy of the suffering he was currently experiencing for the gospel’s sake. He charged Timothy to hold fast to the truth. Sadly, Paul remarked that all in Asia had turned away from him.

Chapter 2-Paul told Timothy to be strong in the grace of Christ, enduring the gospel’s hardships. Paul told him that he endured all his afflictions that the elect might receive the good news. Paul was comforted with the assurance that if he suffered with Christ, he would also reign and live with Him. Paul’s example to Timothy was loving self-sacrifice for the good of others, mindful of the promise of future blessings in Christ.

Paul told Timothy to study the word of God faithfully, to overcome false doctrine and shun false teaching. The doctrine of some of these men ate like a gangrene, Paul said. False doctrine does great damage. Timothy was exhorted to flee youthful lusts, but to pursue godliness. He was also to be patient, gentle and meek in teaching the word to those who were in error. How valuable is this instruction! Teachers teaching even true doctrine have done great harm when patience, gentleness and meekness were not employed.

Chapter 3-Paul warned that the last days would be perilous times. Wickedness would abound. People would be marked by being covetous, proud, blasphemers, unholy, and many other wicked descriptions. Even with all this, they would have a form of religion, but not a true faith. Many today are religious, but lack this true faith planted in the heart. Paul again encouraged the young preacher to continue in truth. He also reminded him that all of Scripture is inspired by God and useful for God’s people.

Chapter 4-Paul gave Timothy one last charge with great passion and emotion: Preach the word! Timothy, and all preachers, are to reprove, rebuke and exhort with a spirit of longsuffering. Again, Timothy is told to endure afflictions, also, to do the work of an evangelist. Paul remarked that he was ready to be offered to God in death. In his last hours, he was comforted that he had been faithful to Christ, fighting the good fight, without giving up. He was assured of the crown of righteousness awaiting him in heaven. Paul was mostly alone at this time and begged Timothy to come soon to visit him. He recalled that a particular trial, his friends forsook him and he stood alone. But, Christ stood by him and strengthened him, enabling Paul to continue to preach the gospel. Paul rejoiced that he would ultimately be delivered from every trial and be preserved to heaven. Though Paul faced wave after wave of persecution, opposition, hardship, controversy, disappointment, and desertion of friends, he was dying with victory. He was ready to go, knowing his triumph in Christ!