This is the second letter to Timothy. It is also Paul’s last letter, and because of this, it reveals his heart and his priorities - sound doctrine, steadfast faith, confident endurance and enduring love.
Paul’s introduction is tender and his love for Timothy is evident. He reminds Timothy of his call and asks that he uses his gifts with boldness. Paul challenges Timothy to a life that holds to sound doctrine, to faithfulness, purity and to truth. He reminds Timothy of opposition and urges him to stay true to his calling.
Paul concludes with personal requests and items of information. In these final words, he reveals his loneliness and his strong love for his brothers and sisters in Christ.
To give final instructions and encouragement to Timothy.
Paul
Timothy, and all believers everywhere.
The date is believed to have been around AD 66 or 67 from prison in Rome. After a year or two of freedom, Paul was arrested again and executed under Emperor Nero.
Paul was virtually alone in prison; only Luke was with him. He wrote this letter to pass the torch to the new generation of church leaders. He also asked for visits from his friends and for his scrolls, especially the parchments - possibly parts of the Old Testament, the Gospels, and other biblical manuscripts.
Jesus in Timothy: Jesus was truly incarnate, appearing in bodily form, and he died for our sins and rose again.
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2:15)
“Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you - guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.” (1:14)
“Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with Him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him.” (2:11, 12)
What do young leaders bring to our churches?