Faith & Reason Nexus

AUTHOR: Paul

TIME WRITTEN: During the fall of A.D. 67 from Rome

POSITION IN THE BIBLE:

• 55th Book in the Bible
• 16th Book in the New Testament
• 11th of 21 Epistle Books (Romans – Jude)
• 13th of Paul’s 13 books
• 11 Books to follow it

CHAPTERS: 4

VERSES: 83

WORDS: 1,703

OBSERVATIONS ABOUT 2 TIMOTHY:

• Final Epistle: 2 Timothy is considered Paul’s final epistle and was written from his prison cell in Rome. It reflects his impending execution and his final instructions to Timothy.
• Paul’s Final Instructions:
• Requests: Paul asks Timothy to bring his books, especially the parchments, and his cloak before winter (4:13).
• Encouragement: Paul urges Timothy to be a “good soldier of Jesus Christ” (2:3) and provides various instructions on perseverance and faithfulness:
  • “Stir up” your gifts (1:6)
  • “Do not be ashamed” (1:8, 12-13)
  • “Share with me in the sufferings” (1:8)
  • “Hold fast… sound words” (1:13)
  • “Be strong” (2:1)
  • “Endure hardship” (2:3)
  • “Be diligent to present yourself approved” (2:15)
  • “Flee… pursue” (2:22)
  • “Avoid” foolish and ignorant disputes (2:23)
  • “Beware” of those who oppose the truth (4:15)
• Paul’s Reflections:
• Paul reflects on his life’s work and impending death in 2 Timothy 4:6-8:
  • “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.”
• Timothy’s Role:
• Timothy is frequently mentioned in Paul’s letters, indicating his significant role in the early church. His name appears in salutations in several of Paul’s epistles.
• Historical Context:
• Paul’s arrest and imprisonment in Rome are mentioned, with indications that his belongings were left behind in Troas, suggesting a hurried departure.

2 Timothy serves as a poignant reminder of Paul’s dedication and final instructions to his beloved disciple, Timothy, and the early Christian community.