2 Timothy 4

David Lipscomb Commentary On 2nd Timothy 42 Timothy 4:1I charge thee in the sight of God, and of Christ Jesus,—Because of the all-sufficiency of the word of God to make the man of God perfect and to thoroughly furnish him for every good work, he gave him this solemn charge before God and the Lord Jesus Christ.who shall judge the living and the dead,—Paul reminds Timothy of this judgment to be executed by Jesus Christ to warn him of the fearful responsibility resting on him to preach the word of God, for he would be held accountable for fidelity in this at the last day.and by his appearing and his kingdom:—[This solemn charge was not because he suspected him of any unfaithful­ness, but to show his own extreme solicitude for the preserva­tion of the pure and unadulterated word of the Lord, and of the peace and prosperity of the church; and to leave in the divine record to proclaimers of the word in the succeeding ages a desire to be faithful and diligent in all their work.]2 Timothy 4:2preach the word;—He was to preach the word that would make the man of God perfect, and that would thoroughly fur­nish him unto every good work. He was to preach this word as all-sufficient. It is a fearful thing to add to it or take from it or in any way to mutilate or change that word.be urgent in season,—Be ready on every favorable occasion to teach, exhort, and admonish; be urgent generally in the whole work of his ministry.out of season;—Do not await favorable moments, but create them, to teach the word even under unfavorable circumstances. Eternal ruin is facing the world— await not for favorable cir­cumstances to warn them of the terrible danger. [This, how­ever, only touches a portion of the thought of Paul, who urges on God’ s faithful servants sleepless earnestness, which strug­gles on in the Lord’ s work regardless of bodily weakness and discouragement in face of dangers and bitterest opposition.]reprove,—For wrong teaching with the idea of bringing the fault home to the offender.rebuke,—For sins and wrongs persisted in. [A sharper and more severe word than reprove, generally with the idea of bringing the fault home to the offender.]exhort,—Kindly encourage to greater fidelity those who are weak, disheartened, and ready to give up.with all long-suffering and teaching.—Do this in a kind, for­bearing, long-suffering spirit, striving to instruct and lead into the right paths while applying the word to the different con­ditions.2 Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure the sound doctrine;—Paul urges that this be done the more ear­nestly while it may do good, for the time will come when these professed Christians will not endure the sound doctrine. Er­rors now just apparent, he must remember, would attain more formidable dimensions. The thirst for novelties in doctrine, the desire for a teaching which, while offering peace to a trou­bled conscience, yet allow the old self-indulgent life to go on, as before, would increase.

In full view of this develop­ment of vicious error, in sure expectation of a future full of anxious care, Timothy and his fellow laborers must indeed be watchful and earnest in their teachings and ministrations.but, having itching ears, will heap to themselves teachers after their own lusts;—They will serve teachers who will gratify their own desires by teaching the things that please their own fancy, that gratify the itching of their own ears. The prophet describes them in the following terse words: “ My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I also will forget thy children.

As they were multiplied, so they sinned against me: I will change their glory into shame. They feed on the sin of my people, and set their heart on their iniquity. And it shall be, like people, like priest; and I will punish them for their ways, and will requite them their doings. And they shall eat, and not have enough; they shall play the harlot, and shall not increase; because they have left off taking heed to Jehovah.” (Hosea 4:6-10.) That is, teachers can always be found who will teach what the people wish to be taught. As they are catered to, they grow more and more de­praved in appetite, and in hearing they will wax worse and worse. When we leave the truth of God, there is no stopping place. 2 Timothy 4:4and will turn away their ears from the truth,—They turn away their ears wholly from the truth, and will give up wholly to fables. A man begins to leave the plain and simple truth of God and to turn from it and ends in wholly rejecting it. Hence, the necessity of holding fast the form of sound words.and turn aside unto fables.—These fables were no doubt purely rabbinical. It was said in the Jewish schools that an oral law had been given on Mount Sinai, and that this law a succession of teachers, from the time of Moses, had handed down. This “ law that is upon the lip,” as it was termed, was further illustrated and enlarged by the sayings and comments of the more famous Jewish rabbis, and in the time of the Lord Jesus Christ constituted a supplement to the written law of Moses. For centuries this supplementary code was pre­served by memory or in sacred rolls and doubtless was con­stantly receiving additions.

It contained, along with many wild and improbable legendary histories, some wise teachings. This strange collection of tradition and comment was com­mitted to writing in the second century by Rabbi Jehuda under the general name of the Mishna or “ repetition of thelaw.” Round this compilation a complement of discussions—the Gemara— was gradually formed and was completed at Babylon somewhere about the end of the fifth century A.D.

These works— Mishna and the Gemara together with a second Gemara formed somewhat earlier in Palestine— are generally known to us as the Talmud. The influence of these traditions is alluded to by the Lord. (Matthew 15:3.)2 Timothy 4:5 But be thou sober in all things,—Those who are under the power and error of sin are mentally and spiritually living under the passions of drunkenness, while only such as are under the power of the truth and holiness are sober with clear vision and well-balanced mind. The word sums up all Paul’ s direc­tions from 2:14, in which he charged Timothy to abstain from striving about words to no profit, to the subverting of them that hear, and to confine himself to the simple word of truth, to avoid discussion which would lead to strife, and to be patient and gentle with all, and to keep steadily in the old paths in which the apostle had walked. He was to be ever watchful in all these things.suffer hardship,—Bear persecutions that come for fidelity to the truth, which must be preached at any risk, and is thor­oughly deserving of the greatest sacrifice.do the work of an evangelist,—This includes all the teaching needed to make the gospel effective in the salvation of men. There was originally a distinction in the meanings of the words preach, evangelize, and teach. But the same person was called to all to such an extent that the words greatly lost their distinction and are used almost indiscriminately to refer to all the preaching and teaching to save men.fulfil thy ministry.—This was to be done by devotion, zeal, and fidelity.

He was to do the work faithfully, zealously, and courageously. Thus he would show his efficiency as a min­ister of Christ by doing the full work to which he had been called.2 Timothy 4:6 For I am already being offered,—[In his first Roman im­prisonment he thought a martyr’ s death was probable.

At the time he now writes he says: “ I am already being offered,” which points to the drink offering of wine, which among the Jews accompanied the sacrifice. The allusion here is to Paul’ s bloody death. So certain was he that the time for his death was at hand that as he speaks he feels as though it was even then taking place. And he sees in his present suffering in the harsh treatment the beginning of that mar­tyrdom in which his blood would be poured out. But he would not allow Timothy or the many Christians who loved him to be dismayed by his sufferings or tragic death. He would show them by his calm, triumphant courage that to him death was no terror, but only the appointed passage out of the body into the presence of the Lord as he said: “ We are of good courage, I say, and are willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be at home with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8.) So he speaks of his lifeblood being shed under the well-known peaceful image of the wine poured out over the sacrifice, the drink offering, the sweet savor unto the Lord. (Numbers 15:1-10.)]and the time of my departure is come.—Paul’ s work was nearly over.

He was soon to die for the cause of the Lord. His trial was near or past and he realized that he must soon die, hence the appeal to Timothy.

As the old men fall out of the ranks, the young men must press forward to carry on the Lord’ s work and be watchful and faithful to the truth.2 Timothy 4:7I have fought the good fight,—It was for the good of man to save him from sin and its fearful consequences. It was for the glory and the honor of God. [The struggle had been bravely sustained in the past, and was now being equally bravely sustained to the end. His claim to the crown was established.]I have finished the course,—It was to do his duty as a con­scientious and noble hero of faith. He had fought it to a good end. [How had he finished the course? The question is answered in Paul’ s own words, in which he explains his own course with joy as the ministry which he had received of the Lord Jesus. He says: “ But I hold not my life of any account as dear unto myself, so that I may accomplish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. . . .

Where­fore I testify unto you this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I shrank not from declaring unto you the whole counsel of God.” (Acts 20:24-27.)]I have kept the faith:—He had been true to the faith through all the difficulties, conflicts, dangers, and temptations.

He had not shrunk from confessing it when death stared him in the face; he had not corrupted it to meet the views of Jews or Gentiles. With courage and resolution and perseverance he had kept it to the end. To be faithful to God to the end is to succeed. That is the only true success.2 Timothy 4:8henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteous­ness,—[Paul, after speaking calmly of death, the bitterness of which he was already tasting, looks on beyond death and speaks of the crown which awaited him.]which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing.—It is a crown that comes as a reward of the righteous life that he had lived. Such a crown was not only for Paul, but a similar one awaits all that have loved his ap­pearing. The appearing of Jesus Christ will be the destruc­tion of sin and the vindication of the righteous.

It will be the establishment of the rule of right, justice, and mercy. All who are faithful and will look for his coming will desire it, will love it.

For such the crown of righteousness is ready and waiting.2 Timothy 4:9 Give diligence to come shortly unto me:—Paul, having given this exhortation to Timothy, asks him to use all dili­gence to soon come to him. He wished to see his son in the gospel, with whom he had been so much in his labors and sufferings, once more before he left this world. It is natural to suppose that Timothy was equally desirous to see him once more in the flesh.2 Timothy 4:10for Demas forsook me, having loved this present world, and went to Thessalonica;—Demas was once a faithful worker with Paul in Rome during Paul’ s first imprisonment there, and united with Paul in sending salutations from Rome to the Colossians and to Philemon. (Colossians 4:14; Philemon 1:24.) He is here described as having forsaken Paul when he was awaiting his trial before Nero. How sadly Paul now says that he “ loved this present world, and went to Thessalonica.” This is a sad statement.Crescens to Galatia,—It is not likely that he had turned from following the Lord. He had possibly gone on a gospel mission.Titus to Dalmatia.—Dalmatia was a province of Roman Illyricum, lying along the Adriatic Sea. Nothing is known respecting this journey of Titus.

It was most likely with Paul’ s sanction, for we can hardly conceive of one who had been a trusted and honored companion of Paul and a Christian preacher as he had been had turned from following the Lord.2 Timothy 4:11 Only Luke is with me.—“Luke, the beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14), of all Paul’ s companions, seems to have been most closely associated with Paul. He was with him, we know, in his second missionary journey.

Among Biblical scholars it is generally agreed that Luke was the author of the third gospel and Acts, both of which were certainly written by the same hand. (Acts 1:1.) Accordingly we learn more of him in Acts in which he intimates his presence with Paul by the use of the pronouns “ we” and “ us.” From these passages it is certain that Luke joined Paul at Troas and accompanied him to Macedonia (Acts 16:10) and was with him in Philippi when Lydia and her household were baptized (Acts 16:11-17); joined him again at Troas (Acts 20:5); and thence accompanied him on his last journey to Jerusalem (Acts 20:13-14; Acts 21:1-17), and accompanied him to Rome (Acts 27:1 to Acts 28:16), and remained with him till he was released as is shown by references made to him by Paul written during that time (Colossians 4:14; Philemon 1:24). While these items seem relatively unimportant, they show that Luke’ s fidelity to Paul kept him at his side through the first imprisonment, and the verse before discloses him as with the apostle at the end of the second imprisonment.Take Mark, and bring him with thee;—Mark was the son of the sister of Barnabas, over whom Barnabas and Paul disagreed and separated. (Acts 15:36-41.) Paul then thought him unwilling to endure hardness and danger. [Since that time Mark had, by steady, earnest work, won back his place in Paul’ s heart. After some twelve years we find him during the first imprisonment with Paul at Rome. (Colossians 4:10; Philemon 1:24.)]for he is useful to me for ministering.—Paul seems now to appreciate him so highly that he is now summoned in his hour of supreme danger, and in circumstances from which other friends were ready to flee.2 Timothy 4:12 But Tychicus I sent to Ephesus.—Tychicus was with Paul in his journey through Macedonia. (Acts 20:4.) It is not known how he came to Rome when Paul was a prisoner. Paul sent him to report his condition to the churches and to comfort them. (Ephesians 6:21.) He carried the letters to the Ephesians (Ephesians 6:21) and to the Colossians (Colossians 4:7). [He is mentioned also in Acts (20:4) and Titus (3:12) so that he too was one of the few found faithful to the end.]2 Timothy 4:13 The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, bring when thou comest,—Paul in passing through Troas at some time, left a cloak with Carpus. Winter was now coming on and Paul in the cold damp prison, with few friends and scant resources, remembered and wished for his cloak. (4:21.)and the books, especially the parchments,—We know not what books he had. The parchments were probably some ofhis own writings.

The writing was then done on parchments—dressed skins.2 Timothy 4:14 Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil:—He may have been a professed Christian who was a Judaizing teacher turned against Paul and made shipwreck of his faith. [Three men named Alexander are mentioned in connection with Paul’ s work, and we cannot positively decide which one is here denounced. They are: (1) Alexander of Ephesus, who was brought “ out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward” (Acts 19:33) to defend them.

The purpose of this was most likely to save the Jews from being mixed up with the Christians in the vengeance of the people. He may or may not have been the same as Alexander the coppersmith. (2) Alexander the coppersmith, of whom it is said he did Paul “ much evil” (2 Timothy 4:14). (3) Alexander, an early Christian who “ made shipwreck concerning the faith” (1 Timothy 1:19-20), who did Paul “ much evil” (2 Timothy 4:14). Many attempts have been made to identify these men, but identification is simply a matter of conjecture.]the Lord will render to him according to his works:—Paul leaves him with God to reward him according to his deeds, refraining from personal judgment, leaves him to the certain and holy judgment of God, assured that it will be according to his works.2 Timothy 4:15of whom do thou also beware;—The opposition to the gospel which led him to withstand Paul would lead him also to oppose Timothy, and he gives this warning against him as a man not to be trusted. He was to be watched and avoided.for he greatly withstood our words.—He violently opposed the teaching of Paul. Evidently he was an enemy of the gospel, and yet seemingly one who was disguised, for Timothy is put upon his guard against him.2 Timothy 4:16 At my first defence no one took my part,—At this first reply to the charges made against him in his trial, none stood firmly by him. [Accustomed to refer to his high spiritual privileges, he speaks but little, and never in details of the outward incidents of his life. They did not belong to the world’ s passing show, to the things which were seen and rapidly passing away.

Two vivid touches alone reveal to us the nature of the occasion. One is the shameful fact that not a single friend had the courage to stand by his side.

He had to defend himself singlehanded. No advocate would plead his case or speak a word in his favor.]but all forsook me:—[The position of Paul, a well-known leader of the Christians in the year A.D. 66-67, was a critical one, and the friend who dared to stand by him would be in great danger. After the great fire in Rome (A.D. 64), the Christians were looked upon as the enemies of the state, and were charged as the authors of the terrible disaster. Nero, to avert suspicion from himself, accused the Christians of the awful deed. And as a consequence a very great multitude of Christians were subjected to terrible sufferings and death. It is possible that Paul was eventually accused and arrested as implicated in this crime and brought to Rome.

But Paul, conscious of his own great peril, knew well that to stand by him now, implicated as he was in this network of false accu­sations, would be a service of the greatest danger to the Christians.]may it not be laid to their account.—So he pleads for these weak, unnerved Christians, who, through no ill will to the cause of Christ, but solely from timidity, had deserted him, remembering, no doubt, the Lord Jesus, who, too, in his hour of deadly peril, had been forsaken, said: “ Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone.” (John 16:32.) But like the Master who proceeded to say, “ I am not alone, because the Father is with me,” so Paul said to Timothy.2 Timothy 4:17 But the Lord stood by me, and strengthened me;—Not­withstanding the fact that his friends and brethren had for­saken him, the Lord stood by him and enabled him, now old and feeble, to speak with clearness and force before the highest earthly tribunal in the capital city of the world filled with a power that lifted him above fear and clothed him with a divine energy which his enemies could not resist. The following words of the Lord Jesus supported him on this trying occa­sion: “ But when they deliver you up, be not anxious how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that hour what ye shall speak.

For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father that speaketh in you.” (Matthew 10:19-20.) And the great promise was fulfilled: “ Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” (Matthew 28:20.)that through me the message might be fully proclaimed,—The strength and courage which the felt presence of the Lord gave him enabled him on that momentous occasion, when alone, friendless, accused of an awful crime before the highest earthly court in the capital city of the world, to plead not only for himself, but for the cause for which his Lord and Master died on the cross. The great trial probably took place in the Forum and in the presence of a great concourse of people gathered from all parts of the empire.and that all the Gentiles might hear:—This was apparently the culminating point in Paul’ s life-work alluding primarily to the vast audience which had listened to him on this solemn occasion; but there is another and deeper reference to those unnumbered peoples in the isles of the Gentiles (Isaiah 11:11; Isaiah 24:15; Isaiah 51:5), who, by Paul’ s work and teachings, would come to the knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus and be saved.and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.—It was thought that the result of the trial would be that he would be cast to the lions in the amphitheatre. In all his trials in Jerusalem and Caesarea his defense was that the gospel is true. He preached that Jesus was raised from the dead as the vindication of his course. Many attended the trial of Paul, and by his defense on that occasion his preaching be­came fully known. All the Gentiles heard the truth and God delivered him from the lion’ s mouth.

The trial so resulted and his preaching so affected the people and the judges that he was not thrown to the lions. The customs of the country, the fate of the Christians condemned, and the surroundings seem to require this meaning.2 Timothy 4:18 The Lord will deliver me from every evil work,—The evil design of casting Paul to the lions had been thwarted and God would deliver him from all evil works.

This does not imply that God would save him from a violent death, but that he would be with him and not allow any evil attempt against him to succeed.and will save me unto his heavenly kingdom:—[The issue, so far as Paul was concerned, would be his entrance into Christ’ s everlasting kingdom. This would be granted unto him after and through death. The safe placing of Paul in Christ’ s eternal kingdom is meant on the one side (2 Peter 1:11) removal from the sphere of evil, and on the other side coming under the highest conditions of happiness in the en­joyment of Christ (Philippians 1:21-23; 2 Corinthians 5:8-9).]to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.—[Doxology is an accompaniment of the highest spiritual mood. It is offered here to the Son of God as elsewhere to the Father. For it was the Son’ s assistance that he had enjoyed and still expected and into whose kingdom in heaven he was by the same assistance to be safely brought.

It will take the ages of ages to declare all that Christ had been and was still to be to him.]2 Timothy 4:19 Salute Prisca and Aquila,—These were two of Paul’ s earliest friends after he had entered into his great work in the service of the Lord Jesus. They were originally of Pontus (Acts 18:2); they had taken up their abode in Rome, where Aquila exercised his trade as a tent-maker (Acts 18:2-3).

They were driven from Rome by the decree of Claudius, which banished the Jews from Rome; they came to Corinth, where Paul became acquainted with them; they evidently were Christians when Paul first met them; they were with Paul at Corinth, at Ephesus (1 Corinthians 16:19), and Paul sends greetings to them at Rome (Romans 16:3). They evidently were among the many active and zealous teachers in the early days of the church. That they were able and zealous is evident from the fact that it was they who taught the learned Apollos the way of God more accurately. (Acts 18:26.) In this place and in others Prisca is named before her husband. This seems to indicate that in this case the woman was the principal worker in the cause of the Lord Jesus.and the house of Onesiphorus.—Onesiphorus had been with Paul in Rome (1:17) and was now likely teaching or preach­ing, but whose family was at Ephesus. Paul evidently intends to compliment the family for its worth and holiness.2 Timothy 4:20 Erastus remained at Corinth:—Erastus had been a teach­ing companion of Paul and Timothy. He and Timothy were sent by Paul into Macedonia, while Paul remained in Asia. (Acts 19:22.) After teaching with Paul and Timothy for a time, he settled down at Corinth.

Paul tells this as interest­ing to Timothy.but Trophimus I left at Miletus sick.—Trophimus went with Paul to Jerusalem, was a Greek of Ephesus, and Paul was accused of leading him into the temple and profaning it, which brought on the tumult against him. He seems to have been sent as a messenger between the churches and Paul. [That he was left there in a state of sickness shows that Paul’ s gift of healing was not permitted by God to be employed for private needs, even for the purpose of securing to him the services of his closest friends, but was only to be used when there was some clear intimation of the Spirit that it was fitting.]2 Timothy 4:21 Give diligence to come before winter.—Paul’ s life was near to the end.

Sailing and traveling were dangerous and uncertain in winter. If he did not come before winter, he might be delayed another season. Eubulus saluteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.—Nothing is known of Eubulus and of the others whose names are mentioned here. They all send greetings to Timothy. He had been with them and this was a kindly remembrance. 2 Timothy 4:22 The Lord be with thy spirit. Grace be with you.—It is a peculiarity of the salutation that it is doubled— one to Timo­thy personally, the other to the church at Ephesus. [Thus closes our last authentic account of this great apostle. These are, perhaps, the last words of him who wrought a greater change in the condition of mankind by his writings and speech than any other man who ever lived. All honor to his blessed memory.

Verse 2 2 Timothy Chapter Four This immortal chapter is indelibly stamped upon the conscience of all mankind. It may be called the last will and testament of the great apostle to the Gentiles. In view of the apostasy, even at that time working in the church, an event Paul had frequently mentioned, and in view of his own forthcoming death, Paul penned his solemn charge to Timothy to “preach the word” (2 Timothy 4:1-8); then he called for Timothy to hasten to be at his side for the end, requesting that he bring Mark and a few personal belongings, including in this some very interesting material regarding his personal affairs and the circumstances that pertained to his final imprisonment (2 Timothy 4:10-18). The final four verses (2 Timothy 4:19-22) contain a few salutations and the final apostolic benediction. I charge thee in the sight of God and of Christ Jesus, who shall judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: (2 Timothy 4:1) Facing the immediate prospect of death, as were so many others of the faithful Christians, Paul declared his solemn charge to be “before,” that is, “in the sight of” God and of Christ Jesus; but it was also very appropriate that his charge with attendant warnings should contain this powerful reminder of the eternal judgment to be faced by all men. Who shall judge the living and the dead … The living are those who shall remain and still be upon the earth at the time of the Second Advent (2 Thessalonians 4:17; 1 Corinthians 15:51); the dead, of course, are the myriads who sleep in death until the coming of the Lord. And by his appearing and his kingdom … These are not added here as witnesses along with God and of Christ of Paul’s solemn charge, but merely for the “purpose of reminding Timothy of both."[1] The coming of Christ will be the occasion of the final judgment; and, as Lenski said, “There is no room for nor thought of a millennium”[2] in this passage. His kingdom … On Paul’s very first missionary journey, he had stressed that “Through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22); and, despite the fact that the false charges of his enemies who accused him of setting up a regime opposed to that of Caesar (Acts 17:7-8) had caused him to use other synonyms for the church of God, he never changed this basic concept of it as the kingdom of God.” Evil men shall not inherit the kingdom (1 Corinthians 6:9; Galatians 5:21); he wrote that both the Colossians and the Thessalonians had been called and translated into the kingdom (Colossians 1:13; 1 Thessalonians 2:12); Jesus is now reigning in his kingdom and will continue to do so until all enemies are put under foot (1 Corinthians 15:25). Despite the Pauline concept of the kingdom already being now and here, his teachings also recognized a higher and more exalted state of the kingdom to be realized in the future (2 Timothy 4:18), also speaking of this thus: “Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom” (1 Corinthians 15:50); “These only are fellow-workers unto the kingdom of God” (Colossians 4:11). All of this bears out fully Paul’s own declaration that “I went about preaching the kingdom” (Acts 20:25); “He expounded the matter, testifying the kingdom of God” (Acts 28:23); “He abode two whole years … preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus” (Acts 28:31). [1] R. C. H. Lenski, Exposition of the Epistles of Paul … 1Timothy (Minneapolis: Augsburg Press, 1964), p. 851. [2] Ibid. Verse 2 preach the word; be urgent in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.Preach the word … Something of what this means has been lost in the modern definition of preaching. The true meaning is “Herald the word of God in its completeness, not altering it in any way, nor adding anything of his own that is borrowed from another source."[3] It also includes the mandate to announce to men the total message as God gave it. Paul said, “I shrank not from declaring unto you the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). The brilliant little intellectual essays, just as suitable for the Kiwanis club as for any church of any name, which are the stock in trade of modern “preaching,” simply do not qualify as “preaching” in the New Testament frame of reference. Again from Lenski, “Many a preacher who should be a herald and is not … must stammer and blush when he faces Christ’s appearance and his kingdom."[4]Be urgent in season, out of season …

To state this negatively, it means that preaching should not be limited to convenient times or to those occasions purported to be propitious. As White said: Do not ask yourself if this is a suitable occasion for preaching? but ask rather why this should not be a suitable occasion. Have no limited season; let it always be thy season.[5]What God wants of his ministers was stated positively by Spence in these words: (He wants) a restless, sleepless earnestness, which struggles on with the Master’s work in spite of bodily weakness and discouragement, in face of dangers and the bitterest opposition.[6]Reprove … This means to censure, as for a fault, and to express disapproval of the actions of others, certain]y a lost art in modern preaching. Rebuke … This is even a stronger word that means “to reprove sharply, to reprimand with authority.” The preacher should never forget WHOSE word it is that he preaches. Exhort … The meaning here is “to urge by earnest appeal or argument,” but it also carries the idea of persuasion. With all longsuffering and teaching … The love and tenderness of the preacher are required by this. The true preacher should not be like Jonah who indeed heralded the message of God, inwardly hoping to see the awful sentence executed, who did not even invite his hearers to repent, who indeed hoped they would not heed the message, and who was disappointed and angry when they did! [3] Ibid., p. 852. [4] Ibid. [5] Newport J. D. White, Expositor’s Greek New Testament, Vol. IV (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1967). p. 176. [6] H. D. M. Spence, Ellicott’s Commentary on the Holy Bible, Vol. VIII (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan Publishing House. 1970), p. 239. Verse 3 For the time will come when they will not endure the sound doctrine; but, having itching ears, will heap to themselves teachers after their own lusts;For the time will come … The use of “for” here and in 2 Timothy 4:6 cites two reasons for Paul’s urgent charge, these being (1) apostasy so often foretold is present (potentially) even in Timothy’s time, and indeed at all times, and (2) the grand old warrior Paul will very soon have departed from this life. Thus there are the most urgent considerations requiring Timothy to exert himself to the utmost. This clause also has the effect of identifying the evil conditions foretold as supplementary prophecy regarding the great falling away. For a more extensive list of the New Testament teaching on this subject, see excursus at the end of 2 Thessalonians 2. When they will not endure the sound doctrine … The thought here is that, as the future unfolds, Christians will more and more despise and hate the doctrine taught by the apostles of Christ, preferring their own philosophies, systems and devices to those of the sacred Scriptures. “Timothy must keep in mind that things in the church of Christ on earth will not change for the better."[7]But, having itching ears … “This comes from a verb which in the active means to tickle; hence in the passive to be tickled, thus, to itch, or have an irritating desire."[8] The thought is that men in the church will strongly prefer to hear novelties, tantalizing theories, stimulating rhetoric and flowery phrases rather than the word which is able to make them wise unto salvation. And will heap to themselves teachers … “The desire for pleasure is insatiable, and is increased by indulgence; hence the heaping up of those who may minister to it."[9]After their own lusts … Here is the seat of the trouble. The lusts of men, which at all risks they are determined to satisfy, lead them to despise the truth which condemns them; and yet, desiring to keep some semblance of religion, they are beguiled by evil ministers who deceive them with soothing words, fantasies, speculations and philosophies of men. [7] Ibid. [8] William Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary, 2Timothy (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1957), p. 311. [9] Ibid. Verse 4 and will turn away their ears from the truth, and turn aside unto fables.What happens to people who despise and turn away from God’s truth is revealed here; they are duped by fables. When a child of God fails away from the truth, there are no longer any hoops on the barrel; there is absolutely nothing too ridiculous or preposterous for him to receive. It is always the most bizarre and extreme cults that are able to seduce and proselyte Christians. Verse 5 But be thou sober in all things, suffer hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill thy ministry.Be thou sober … This is not an injunction against drunkenness, a commandment Timothy did not need. Sober in this context means “that clarity of mind and sound judgment that is not blinded and carried away by follies, fables and morbid opinions."[10]Suffer hardship … a hardship which Paul himself was at that moment suffering, thus providing the great example for Timothy. Do the work of an evangelist … The New Testament does not make the distinction between this word and “preacher,” as in current usage. For comment on the work of preaching, see under 2 Timothy 4:2. Fulfill thy ministry … Spain observed that the word “fulfill” here means “the same as the word Paul used in2 Timothy 4:17 where Paul speaks of proclaiming the word FULLY."[11] To fulfill one’s ministry is to be faithful and loyal to all of its obligations, not to stint the service, nor abridge the message, nor to shrink from giving the full measure of fidelity and devotion. [10] R. C. H. Lenski, op. cit., p. 856. [11] Carl Spain, Commentary on 1,2Timothy and Titus (Austin, Texas: R. B. Sweet Company, 1970), p. 153. Verse 6 For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure is come.Commentators find a metaphor here, as of loosening the ropes of a tent when breaking camp, or a ship slipping off her moorings and heading for the open sea; but White declared that “There is no figure of speech here."[12] Paul used the same word again as a synonym for death (Philippians 1:21), also speaking of death as being “at home with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8), as gain (Philippians 1:21), as far better (Philippians 1:22), and as a falling asleep in Jesus (1 Thessalonians 4:14). I am already being offered … “This is comparable to the libation of wine that was poured out beside the altar (Numbers 15:1-10) in the Jewish sacrifices."[13] The meaning is that Paul considered his coming death as the final event that would embellish and complete the marvelous life of suffering for the gospel which he had already lived. The libation poured out in the Jewish sacrifices was the final, crowning ceremony involved in the offering of the sacrifice. The same comparison is in Philippians 2:17; see the comment in my Commentary on Galatians, p. 190. However, as Lightfoot effectively proved, Paul never consideredHIMSELF in any sense as a sacrifice to God, there being only one sacrifice involved in the redemption of men, namely, that of Jesus Christ our Lord. The evident meaning of this verse is that Paul recognized that his earthly race was run and that the issue of his present imprisonment was certain to be his execution, an event he regarded as already in progress, with the date of it, of course, unknown to himself. His calling, a moment later, for Timothy to join him does not indicate any doubt on his part, but merely an uncertainty as to the time of it. How inspiring, how noble, how unbelievably beautiful is the attitude of this grand apostle in the contemplation of death! As Lenski put it: Socrates’ attitude toward the cup of hemlock has been admired; it is the best that paganism can offer; but how pitifully empty it is when placed beside these few words of Christian triumph and Christian assurance which are looking up to the Lord … with all who love his epiphany and await their crowning. Lord give me a death like this![14][12] Newport J. D. White, op. cit., p. 178. [13] William Hendriksen, op. cit., p. 313. [14] R. C. H. Lenski, op. cit., p. 858. Verse 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith:It is wrong to see any touch of egotism in this. In the Greek, “I” does not begin each clause. Hendriksen rendered it: “The grand fight have I fought, the race I have finished, the faith I have kept."[15] Besides that, the mere reference to facts so overwhelmingly obvious, in such a context as this, could not possibly indicate any undue self-esteem on the part of the apostle. The grand fight I have fought … The imagery here is not that of a mere boxing match, or of any other particular contest such as marked the Olympian games, but rather to the entire course of life, which Paul surely regarded as “the grand fight,” the same being not a contest looking merely to the defeat of others but of triumphing over every obstacle that stood between him and the crown of life. That such a contest involved struggling against enemies, and even struggling with himself, is, of course, inherent. I have finished the course. Here again, under another figure, it is the race of life which is meant. Unlike the races which marked the Olympiads, wherein only one received the prize, the Christian race allows that all who run lawfully and diligently may receive the prize (2 Timothy 4:8), provided that, as in the example of the apostle, they FINISH the course. It will be remembered that in the Saviour’s parable, the payoff came in the evening (Matthew 20:8). I have kept the faith … Many scholars cannot resist the temptation to alter any passage in the New Testament that speaks of faith in the objective sense, even so reliable a writer as Hendriksen referring to the meaning here as “I have retained my personal trust in God."[16] How preposterous! Of course, it is true that Paul had kept alive and nourished his subjective faith in the Lord, but it is absolutely impossible that he used “faith” in any such sense here. His keeping the faith is exactly parallel to his having fought the grand fight and finished the course, meaning a body of duties discharged. It is delightful to find Lenski agreeing with this totally: “All three nouns are alike objective, and only thus are the three statements one."[17] To be sure, Lenski, who also holds to the doctrine of salvation by faith alone, likewise tempered the meaning here by making Paul’s keeping the faith to consist only of his “guarding it” and passing it on intact to others; but the total life of Paul indicates that his keeping the faith included the full discharge of his duties as a Christian. Without such fidelity, or the earnest effort to attain it, no person has any promise of eternal life. This is a basic fact of the Christian religion, nor does this truth, in any sense, make man his own Saviour, or require sinless perfection. [15] William Hendriksen, op. cit., p. 313. [16] Ibid., p. 316. [17] R. C. H. Lenski, op. cit., p. 861. Verse 8 henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing.Henceforth … means that the next thing in order is for Paul to receive the crown. Crown of righteousness … Hervey thought the crown of righteousness here means “that crown the possession of which marks the wearer as righteous before God”;[18] whereas White believed that “it is the crown which belongs to, or is the due reward of, righteousness”;[19] however, the view here is that it is most certainly BOTH. Without the righteousness of keeping the word and commandments of the Lord, none shall receive that crown; but all of the righteousness of a Christian cannot make him ultimately and truly righteous in the eyes of the Lord, THAT righteousness being the achievement of Jesus Christ alone. However, the crown of righteousness at the last day will endow all who are truly “in Christ” with the sum total of our Lord’s own righteousness. Analogous expressions are “the crown of glory” (1 Peter 5:4) and “the crown of life” (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10). Of course, all of these are used metaphorically, crowns being the earthly symbol of the glory, power and majesty of kings, they are also, by metaphor, fitting symbols of the rewards, honors and glory of Christians in the world to come. The Lord, the righteous judge … There is an unstated but obvious contrast here between the righteous Lord and the unjust judge before whom Paul had stood to be condemned. Shall give to me at that day … It should be noted that Paul said nothing of any who would be crowned in some “first resurrection.” He spoke of only one day, only one occasion, that of the Second Advent of our Lord, as being the occasion when all of the redeemed would receive the crown of life. To all who have loved his appearing … One cannot escape the overwhelming emphasis upon the doctrine of the Second Coming in a statement like this. Those who are finally to be saved are precisely those who love, and longingly await, the coming of Christ in judgment. How many professed Christians can meet this test? The great design of the Lord’s Supper was that it should be observed by the faithful “until he come”; and it is a loss of interest in Jesus’ Second Coming that contributes to the omission and forsaking of the Lord’s table by vast multitudes of the secular church of this age. Why should Christians love the appearing of Christ in judgment? It will mean that the glory of Jesus Christ will then be apparent to all men; the time of probation shall have ended; the reward of the righteous shall be received; and God shall rise in holy wrath and cast evil out of his universe. [18] A. C. Hervey, The Pulpit Commentary, Vol. 21,2Timothy (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1950), p. 59. [19] Newport J. D. White, op. cit., p. 178. Verse 9 Give diligence to come shortly unto me.As noted earlier, this cannot indicate any uncertainty on Paul’s part of the eventual outcome of his imprisonment, but rather an uncertainty of the date when the inevitable sentence would be carried out. Against the possibility that his imprisonment might drag on through the cold winter months, Paul wrote for Timothy to come as soon as possible. To be sure, he might need the cloak mentioned later; but, principally, he needed the loving and sympathetic companionship of one whom he loved and with whom he had already endured so many sufferings and hardships. Verse 10 for Demas forsook me, having loved this present world, and went to Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia.Demas … is mentioned only three times in the New Testament, the other references being Colossians 4:14 and Philemon 1:24. His having loved the present age stands in contrast with those who love the appearing of the Son of God; and any hope that some seem willing to express on his behalf seems very precarious at best. It is idle to speculate on what Demas did in Thessalonica, or on why he chose that destination instead of any other. With the persecution raging in Rome, his purpose might very well have been merely that of getting as far away as he could. Crescens to Galatia … The English Revised Version (1885) margin gives Gaul as an alternative reading here; and, if that is correct, Crescens’ going there may have indicated that Paul on the trip to Spain which he very probably made between the first and second imprisonments, might also have established congregations in Gaul (in France). Nothing is known of this man except what is written here. Titus to Dalmatia … The absence of these friends and co-workers from Paul’s side in Rome is mentioned as one of the reasons why he so needed the presence of Timothy. Significantly, only Demas was mentioned unfavorably; and thus it may be assumed that the others were all absent on legitimate business. Verse 11 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee; for he is useful to me for ministering.Luke … For comment on the beloved physician who so long was Paul’s companion, and even here is still by his side; see introduction to the Gospel of Luke in this series. Take Mark, and bring him with thee … The introduction to the Gospel of Mark (in this series of commentaries) has a rather full account of this young man, now older of course, who had once deserted Paul at Pamphylia (Acts 13:13), but who in this scene is fully restored to the apostle’s confidence. Verse 12 But Tychicus I sent to Ephesus:This is doubtless an epistolary aorist, having the meaning that “I am sending Tychicus to Ephesus”; and as most scholars believe, he was the bearer of this letter to Timothy. Supplemental comment on Tychicus may be found on page 419 of Vol. VIII (Galatians, Ephesians, etc.) in this series. Verse 13 The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, bring when thou comest, and the books, especially the parchments.The cloak … White declared that the word thus rendered is from the Latin paenula, “meaning a circular cape which fell down below the knees, with an opening for the head in the center."[20] Hendriksen also mentioned the same facts, adding that “It had no sleeves,” and that in Latin, “this is the usual, although not the only meaning of the word."[21] It would appear from this that it somewhat resembled the poncho, even today observed in south Texas and Mexico. The cold of Roman nights, even in summer, is well known; and Paul’s prospect of possibly spending the winter in a dungeon without heating or proper clothing was indeed a chilling one. Gould added the information that this poncho type of garment “is still worn in many parts of the world."[22]That I left at Troas with Carpus … Nothing more is known of Carpus; and, as to why Paul left the cloak at Troas, we simply do not know. Some have speculated that Paul was arrested there and transported to Rome without being given a chance to gather his personal things together; but Lenski denominated this theory as so highly improbable that it should be rejected. And the books, especially the parchments … It is impossible to identify these. Perhaps the most plausible is the view that Paul might have wanted copies of the Septuagint (LXX) to use in his plea regarding the legitimacy of the Christian religion, but such a thesis fails to be convincing. It is not even known if “the parchments” means materials that Paul would need in writing letters, or if valuable written documents already in existence are meant. There are so many questions which insist themselves upon the inquisitive mind as these poignant words are read, but only the silence of centuries answers us. [20] Ibid., p. 180. [21] William Hendriksen, op. cit., p. 322. [22] J. Glenn Gould, Beacon Bible Commentary, Vol. IX (Kansas City: Beacon Hill Press, 1969), p. 658. Verse 14 Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord will render to him according to his works: of whom do thou also beware; for he greatly withstood our words.Lockyer lists five characters bearing this name in the New Testament.[23] They are (1) the one here mentioned, (2) a prominent member of the high priestly family in Jerusalem (Acts 4:6), (3) the son of Simon who bore the cross of Jesus (Mark 15:21), (4) the man identified with the tumult at Ephesus (Acts 19:35), (5) a Christian who became an apostate (1 Timothy 1:20), possibly, though not certainly, the man in view here. The name was about as common in those days as Jones and Smith are today, and there can be no certainty with regard to identifying any of these Alexanders with any of the others listed. The Lord will render to him according to his works … One loses patience with commentators who tend to find Paul at fault in such a statement as this. Here was a man who was trying to hinder the gospel of Christ, doing a great deal of damage to the blessed apostle; and it was only natural that Paul should have been comforted in the assurance that God will judge and punish such evil-doers. He uttered no imprecations, expressed no bitterness and manifested no vindictiveness of any kind. The fact stated here should comfort all who truly love the Lord. Do thou also beware … If Alexander lived in Ephesus, where Timothy was located, or if he lived in Rome to which Paul summoned Timothy, Timothy would encounter him either way; hence the necessity of this warning. ENDNOTE: [23] Herbert Lockyer, All the Men of the Bible (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan Publishing House, 1958), p. 43. Verse 16 At my first defense no one took my part, but all forsook me: may it not be laid to their account.Those who forsook Paul, as mentioned here, were guilty of a grievous sin against him; but there was a difference in their sin and that of Alexander. These loved the apostle, and through fear, failed to stand by him; but Alexander was an enemy of the truth; therefore, Paul breathed a prayer for these, whereas he consigned Alexander to the judgment of God. His was a sin against the truth. At my first defense … Many learned opinions are in disagreement about the occasion of this first defense. It has been variously understood as meaning Paul’s appearance before the Sanhedrin (Acts 23:1-10), his appearance before Felix (Acts 24:1-23), his first appeal to Caesar (Acts 25:11-12), also as the defense which he made at his arraignment (preliminary trial) on the occasion of his last imprisonment, and which had taken place only shortly before the time of his letter to Timothy. The tenor of the passage seems to indicate that Paul spoke of something recent. Conybeare identified this with the preliminary trial of the final imprisonment, pointing out that it would have been held, “not before the emperor, but before the City Prefect, Urbi, which under Nero had superseded the older methods of Roman justice,"[24] and which was conducted in a biased and unfair manner. About the only difficulty that confronts this interpretation is the reference to Paul’s deliverance in 2 Timothy 4:17. ENDNOTE: [24] J. W. Conybeare, Life and Epistles of St. Paul (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1966), p. 767. Verse 17 But the Lord stood by me, and strengthened me; that through me the message might be fully proclaimed, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.The Lord stood by me … The great apostle was not alone, after all; the blessed Saviour who had protected and blessed him through so many fiery trials in the past was present then to encourage, bless, comfort and strengthen. Even in the extremity of this situation, Paul’s concern was that he might be empowered to preach the truth to the great Gentile multitude which (according to Conybeare) would most certainly have been present at a trial like Paul’s. This verse reveals Paul’s satisfaction and thanksgiving at having been enabled to proclaim an effective message to those who, in all probability, were screaming for his death. And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion … The easy first-blush meaning of this would appear to be that Paul’s life was spared; and, even though it was but briefly spared, Paul’s thanksgiving appears in a word like this. After all, even though Paul was sure that death was coming to him, as Spain said, “Paul always allowed for the possibility that God might intervene and change the future which Paul envisioned."[25]Scholars have long disputed about Paul’s meaning here, and we do not feel qualified to determine the matter. However, we do reject the notion that Paul was saying that God had delivered him from Satan, a deliverance that had taken place long before this time. ENDNOTE: [25] Carl Spain, op. cit., p. 159. Verse 18 The Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will save me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.The Lord will deliver me … Paul did not mean that the Lord would deliver his body, but deliver HIM. As Stibbs expressed it: “The deliverance Paul expected was from all evil, not from death, but through it."[26] Paul was here claiming the blessed promise of the Lord to the apostles that “They shall cause you to be put to death, and ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake. And not a hair of your head shall perish” (Luke 21:16-18). Paul knew that his body would be beheaded, and yet he triumphantly declared, “The Lord will deliver me.” His heavenly kingdom … See more on the kingdom under 2 Timothy 4:1. Note too, “that the Father’s kingdom is also the Son’s in Pauline doctrine."[27]Unto whom be the glory … “This doxology is unmistakably addressed to Christ,"[28] thus ascribing deity to our Lord. [26] A. M. Stibbs, New Bible Commentary, Revised (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1970), p. 1183. [27] Newport J. D. White, op. cit., p. 183. [28] Ibid. Verse 19 Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the house of Onesiphorus.Prisca and Aquila … This wonderful couple had saved Paul’s life, putting the whole world of Gentile churches in their debt; and both in this list and in Romans 16:3, Paul mentioned them above all others. For discussion of their relationship with Paul see my Commentary on Romans 511,512. The house of Onesiphorus … Comment on this Christian friend of Paul’s will be found above, under 2 Timothy 1:17. It is not known whether or not he had perished, or if he had been sent on some mission. There is no reason to suppose that Paul gave any complete account of all that was going on. If Onesiphorus was, like Paul, awaiting trial, it might have damaged his case if Paul had mentioned him. Verse 20 Erastus remained at Corinth: but Trophimus I left at Miletus sick.Erastus … This too was a common name; but despite this, White identified him as probably the Erastus mentioned in Acts 19:22. The Erastus who was chamberlain of Corinth is thought to be a different character. Trophimus I left at Miletus sick … No forger would have spared a miracle in this situation; but, as always, there is a remarkable economy of the divine power where miracles were concerned. They were never wrought for the private benefit of any persons, but were always for confirming the word, either of Christ or his blessed apostles. This Asiatic Christian was a friend and traveling companion of the apostle Paul, being mentioned three times in the New Testament, here, and in Acts 21:29, and in Acts 24:6. Some also think that he might have been the one Paul mentioned in 2 Corinthians 8:16-24, but without giving his name. He was one of the eight friends who accompanied Paul at the close of his third missionary journey. He was the innocent cause of the riot in the Jewish temple that almost cost Paul his life. The reference before us shows that even at this late date Trophimus was still a traveling companion of the apostle, having been with him only recently, and who no doubt would have been with him in Rome had not the sickness overtaken him which led to his being left behind in Miletus. “This was not far from Trophimus’ native city of Ephesus."[29]ENDNOTE: [29]; ISBE, Vol. V, p. 3023. Verse 21 Give diligence to come before winter. Eubulus saluteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.Before winter … Paul quite naturally dreaded the onset of cold weather, not having the cloak which he so much needed. Again, in this, he urged Timothy “to hurry.” Eubulus … Nothing is known of this man except what is written here. Pudens … This is all that Scripture reveals of him. Linus … His name appears nowhere else in Scripture; and, as for the tradition that he was “the first bishop of Rome,” it may be rejected out of hand. Not one line of authentic history supports such a claim. And Claudia … “In the Constitution of the Apostles, this woman is identified as the mother of Linus”;[30] but little dependence can be accredited to it. And all the brethren … Neither whom nor how many of these may be ascertained; but yet the words have a comforting ring. After all, in spite of the persecution, there was some considerable company of the redeemed in the ancient imperial capital who were still “brethren,” and who would carry forward the living faith after its most prominent leaders were slaughtered in the Neronian persecution. ENDNOTE: [30] Newport J. D. White, op. cit., p. 184. Verse 22 The Lord be with thy spirit. Grace be with you.“This is Paul’s own prayer-wish for Timothy; they are the great apostles’ last words that came down to us through history."[31] What sadness fills our hearts as we contemplate the termination of so fine and great a life! Did Timothy reach him in time to supply any comfort in his martyrdom? Did the execution take place immediately, or at some protracted time afterward? What did Paul do with the cloak? bequeath it to Timothy? and the parchments? and the books? How much we would like to know, but the silent centuries mock us.

However, not altogether; for the things are known. Paul sealed his marvelous witness of Christ and his resurrection with the blood of his martyrdom; the letters he launched from the end of his chain and from the final dungeon at last exploded the pagan empire with all of its diabolical institutions; and the historical church erected its cathedrals upon the ruins of it. If ever one died triumphantly, it was Paul; and his holy words still challenge men to believe and obey the gospel of Christ Jesus our Lord. ENDNOTE: [31] R. C. H. Lenski, op. cit., p. 884.

“THE SECOND EPISTLE TO TIMOTHY”

Chapter Four

IN THIS CHAPTER

1. To see the need for diligence in preaching the word of God

2. To note the satisfaction Paul had in looking back over his service to Christ, and the confidence he possessed as he looked forward to the Judgment Day and the heavenly kingdom

SUMMARY The final chapter begins with a charge for Timothy to preach the word at all times. The time was coming when people would not listen to sound doctrine, but instead follow teachers who would tell what they wanted to hear. Timothy was therefore to be watchful, to endure what afflictions might come his way, and to do the work as an evangelist as he fulfilled his ministry (2 Timothy 4:1-5).

Knowing that his own end was near, Paul expresses personal satisfaction that he has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. He is confident that there is laid up for him that crown of righteousness which the Lord will give to all who have loved His appearing (2 Timothy 4:6-8).

Timothy is then told to be diligent to come quickly. Only Luke is with Paul as he writes, for Demas has forsaken him and others have left to go to other places. Requests are made, one related to getting Mark and bringing him along, followed by a warning about Alexander the coppersmith. A reference is made concerning those who forsook Paul at his first defense, for whom Paul prays it might not be charged against them. During that time the Lord stood by Paul, and he is confident that the Lord would deliver him from every evil work and preserve him for the heavenly kingdom (2 Timothy 4:9-18). Timothy is then asked to relay greetings to Paul’s dear friends. Brief references are made to Erastus and Trophimus, followed by a plea for Timothy to come before winter. Finally, Paul sends greetings from various brethren and closes the letter with a prayer that the Lord will be with Timothy (2 Timothy 4:19-22). OUTLINE

I. TO PREACH THE WORD (2 Timothy 4:1-5)

A. A SOLEMN CHARGE (2 Timothy 4:1-2)

1. Before God and the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 4:1) a. Who will judge the living and the dead b. At His appearing and His kingdom2. To preach the word! (2 Timothy 4:2) a. Be ready in season and out of season b. Convince, rebuke, exhort c. With all longsuffering and teachingB. THE REASON FOR THIS CHARGE (2 Timothy 4:3-4)
2. The time is coming when people will not endure sound doctrine (2 Timothy 4:3) a. According to their own desires they will heap up for themselves teachers b. For they will have itching ears
3. They will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables (2 Timothy 4:4)C. RELATED (2 Timothy 4:5)
4. Be watchful in all things
5. Endure afflictions
6. Do the work of an evangelist 4. Fulfill your ministry II. TO COME QUICKLY (2 Timothy 4:6-18) A. HIS TIME IS COMING TO AN END (2 Timothy 4:6-8)
7. Already being poured out like a drink offering, his departure is at hand (2 Timothy 4:6)
8. Expressions of his faithfulness (2 Timothy 4:7) a. He has fought the good fight b. He has finished the race c. He has kept the faith
9. His confidence concerning the future (2 Timothy 4:8) a. A crown of righteousness is laid up for him b. Which will be given by the Lord, the righteous Judge

1. Given to him on that Day (of judgment)
2. Given to all who have loved His appearingB. A PLEA TO COME QUICKLY (2 Timothy 4:9-16)

1. For Demas has forsaken him, having loved this present world (2 Timothy 4:9-10 a)
2. Crescens and Titus have left, having gone to various places (2 Timothy 4:10 b)
3. Only Luke is with him (2 Timothy 4:11 a)
4. Bring Mark, for he is useful to Paul for ministry (2 Timothy 4:11 b)
5. Tychicus has been sent to Ephesus (2 Timothy 4:12)
6. Bring the cloak and the books, especially the parchments (2 Timothy 4:13)
7. A warning against Alexander the coppersmith (2 Timothy 4:14-15)
8. He was forsaken at his first defense, but prays it will not be charged against them (2 Timothy 4:16)C. THE OF THE LORD (2 Timothy 4:17-18)
9. The Lord stood with him and strengthened him (2 Timothy 4:17) a. So that the message was preached fully by him to the Gentiles b. And he was delivered out of the mouth of the lion
10. The Lord will deliver and preserve him (2 Timothy 4:18) a. Deliver him from every evil work b. Preserve him for His heavenly kingdom – For which glory belongs to the Lord! III. REMARKS (2 Timothy 4:19-22) A. AND FINAL (2 Timothy 4:19-21)
11. Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus (2 Timothy 4:19)
12. Erastus stayed in Corinth, Trophimus was left sick in Miletus (2 Timothy 4:20)
13. Timothy is to do his best to come before winter (2 Timothy 4:21 a)
14. Greetings from Eubulus, Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brethren (2 Timothy 4:21 b)B. (2 Timothy 4:22)
15. The Lord Jesus Christ be with his spirit
16. Grace be with him. Amen. REVIEW FOR THE CHAPTER

1. What are the main points of this chapter?

• Exhortation to preach the word (2 Timothy 4:1-5)
• Exhortation to come quickly (2 Timothy 4:6-18)
• Concluding remarks (2 Timothy 4:19-22)

2. When will Jesus judge the living and the dead? (2 Timothy 4:1)

• At His appearing and His kingdom

3. How was Timothy to carry out the charge to preach the word? (2 Timothy 4:2)

• Be ready at all times
• Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching

4. What would some people not endure? What will they do instead? (2 Timothy 4:3)

• Sound doctrine
• According to their own desires they will heap up for themselves teachers

5. What will they turn away from? What will they be turned aside to? (2 Timothy 4:4)

• The truth
• Fables

6. What four-fold exhortation is given to Timothy in view of such things to come? (2 Timothy 4:5)

• Be watchful in all things
• Endure afflictions
• Do the work of an evangelist
• Fulfill his ministry

7. What did Paul know was drawing near? (2 Timothy 4:6)

• The time of his departure

8. What three phrases does Paul use to describe his life as a Christian? (2 Timothy 4:7)

• I have fought the good fight
• I have finished the race
• I have kept the faith

9. What did Paul expect to receive from the Lord? Who else would receive it? (2 Timothy 4:8)

• The crown of righteousness
• All who have loved His appearing

10. What does Paul ask of Timothy? (2 Timothy 4:9)

• Come to him quickly

11. Who had forsaken Paul, and why? (2 Timothy 4:10)

• Demas, because he loved this present world

12. Who alone was with Paul when he wrote this epistle? (2 Timothy 4:11)

• Luke 13) Why did Paul want Timothy to get Mark and bring him with him? (2 Timothy 4:11)
• He was useful to Paul for service

14. What else did Paul want Timothy to bring? (2 Timothy 4:13)

• A cloak left at Troas, some books and parchments

15. Of whom did Paul warn Timothy to beware? (2 Timothy 4:14-15)

• Alexander the coppersmith

16. What did Paul desire for those who had forsook him at his first defense? (2 Timothy 4:16)

• That it not be charged against them

17. Who stood with Paul during his first defense and strengthened him? (2 Timothy 4:17)

• The Lord

18. What two things was Paul confident the Lord would do for him? (2 Timothy 4:18)

• Deliver him from every evil work
• Preserve him for His heavenly kingdom

19. Who did Paul want Timothy to greet for him? (2 Timothy 4:19)

• Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus

20. When did Paul want Timothy to come? (2 Timothy 4:21)

• Before winter

21. Who sent greetings to Timothy by way of Paul? (2 Timothy 4:21)

• Eubulus, Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brethren

22. What did Paul pray for in behalf of Timothy as he closed this letter? (2 Timothy 4:22)

• The Lord Jesus Christ be with his spirit
• Grace be with him Questions by E.M. Zerr For 2nd Timothy 41. In what name does Paul deliver his charge ?

2. Who is to be the judge?
3. What persona are meant by quick and dead?
4. Is this judging to be done in this life ?
5. State what Timothy must preach.
6. What word directs him to be ever ready ?
7. Under what circumstances must he do this?
8. Distinguish rebuke and exhort.
9. In what manner must he do all this?
10. What time was to come ?
11. Whom would they heap to themselves?
12. Tell who will have itching ears?
13. After whose lusts are these teachers?
14. How will these teachers affect the ears ?
15. What is meant by fables?
16. State the word of precaution to Timothy.
17. What the occasion for enduring afflictions?
18. Tell what work he is to do.
19. What to do as to his ministry.
20. For what event is Paul now ready?
21. State the three points of his career.
22. Why call it a good fight?
23. How does a Christian keep the faith ?
24. Was Paul then wearing his crown?
25. Who is to bestow this crown?
26. When?
27. Was this crown for Paul exclusively?
28. How can one love the appearing of Christ ?
29. Did Paul expect immediate execution?
30. Why had Demas forsaken Paul?
31. How many companions had remained with him?
32. Whom is he expecting to come ?
33. ’ What use does he have for him?
34. Had he always had this estimate of him ?
35. What had become of Tychicus?
36. Distinguish books and parchments.
37. Who had done Paul much evil ?
38. Who was expected to avenge him ?
39. What warning did Paul give Timothy ?
40. Show that Paul did not mean personal wrongs.
41. What is meant by “ answer” in 16th verse?
42. Who had been his helpers in this answer?
43. From where did he obtain help ?
44. For what purpose was this help extended ?
45. From what was Paul delivered?
46. If this is figurative, who is meant ?
47. State the assurance Paul entertained.
48. What do we know of Prisea and Aquila?
49. And of Onesiphorus?
50. In what season of year was this written?

2 Timothy 4:1

2 Timothy 4:1. To charge means to make an earnest plea to the evangelist; and to do so before God, etc., signifies that He is a witness to the charge, and that to Him the preacher will have to give an account. The name of Christ is connected with the charge because He is the one who will have direct handling of the judgment, at which all men will receive the final sentence that will announce their eternal state. The quick and the dead mean the living and dead when Jesus comes. At his appearing tells when the final judgment is to take place. This completely sets aside the notion that Christ is first to appear, and that the judgment will be a thousand years later.

And his kingdom. Not that the kingdom will then begin, for 1 Corinthians 15:24-26 shows that Christ is now reigning in his kingdom, but will cease to do so after the judgment. The phrase means that the authority of Christ as head of the kingdom will fully appear, when He is shown executing final judgment on the world.

2 Timothy 4:2

2 Timothy 4:2. Preach the word. This is consistent with the declarations in the closing verses of the preceding chapter. Since the word is inspired and complete, it is logical that it should be preached. Be instant means to be at hand and ready for the work when any opportunity occurs. In season, out of season.

There are times when the prospect is apparently more favorable than at others, but the true preacher of the word should not wait until he finds it more convenient (for himself) to press the claims of the Gospel. Reprove and rebuke are virtually the same in effect, and means to disapprove of the wrongs committed by professed disciples of Christ. Exhort means to insist on one’s doing what he has learned to be his duty, and in order that men may be ready for exhortation, the preacher must first deliver the doctrine (teaching) that is applicable in the case. He will need to be longsuffering or patient in all this work, because of the conditions to be described next.

2 Timothy 4:3

2 Timothy 4:3. Among the things predicted to get worse (chapter 3:13), was the growing dislike for the teaching of the word, especially that part of it that condenms a sinful life. When the term sound is used with reference to the physical body, it means to be in good health. When used of doctrine or teaching, it signifies the kind of in struction that will result in good moral and spiritual health. But evil men are not interested in that kind of health, hence they will not endure or put up with such teaching. They want the kind that will allow them to feel comfortable in the midst of their corrupt practices.

To do so, they seek to obtain men who will give them that kind of teaching. A faithful pro-claimer of the word will not try to tickle the itching ears of these lustful pretenders, hence they seek for the kind of teachers who are as bad as they–men whose lives are also fashioned after the lusts like those of the hearers with itching ears. This verse might seem clearer if the construction would be arranged as follows: “They will not endure sound doctrine; but, having itching ears, they will heap to themselves teachers who practice their own lusts.”

2 Timothy 4:4

2 Timothy 4:4. These teachers with lusts like the people who employed them, would naturally be disposed to furnish the kind of speeches that were acceptable. Hence they (the lustful teachers) will turn away their (the people with itching ears) ears from the truth. In place of the truth, they will entertain them with fables or fictions.

2 Timothy 4:5

2 Timothy 4:5. Watch thou is a kindly warning for Timothy to maintain his composure under all circumstances, for many tests of his perseverance were likely to come. Encouraged by the example of Paul, he should be equal to the occasion even when persecutions come. Do the work of an evangelist. We may learn two important items of information by this statement. One is that Timothy was an evangelist, which has sometimes been questioned.

Paul certainly would not tell anyone to do a work that did not belong to his position in life. The other is that an evangelist has a work to perform that is peculiar to his office. By consulting 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1, we will learn that an evangelist is the one to appoint elders and deacons, and in 2 Timothy 5 it is shown that an evangelist is the one to discipline an elder when charges are preferred against him. It is also taught in Titus 1:5 that an evangelist is to take charge of churches that have not been established, and hold that charge until matters are set in order and elders are appointed to take oversight of the congregation, at which time the evangelist is to go to other fields of labor. Make full proof of thy ministry is rendered “fully carry out thy service” by the Englishman’s Greek New Testament.

2 Timothy 4:6

2 Timothy 4:6. For I am now ready to be offered. The Englishman’s Greek New Testament renders this as follows: “For I already am being poured out,” and the Greek text justifies the translation. The word for offered is defined “poured out” by Thayer, and Paul used it because he knew he was actually to have his blood poured out of his body on the executioner’s block. Of course the execution was not actually started, and was not to start at once, for Paul still expected to do some writing (verse 13). But he was a captive in chains, condemned to die for the Gospel’s sake, and he regarded his sacrifice as having been started.

One item in the Mosiac system consisted of pouring blood out about the altar of sacrifice (Exodus 29:12; Leviticus 4:7), and Paul compares the pouring out of his blood, to those sacrifices. In other words, here is one instance where an act (pouring out) is used in both a literal and a spiritual sense, since his death was to be occasioned by his religious devotion to God. Departure is from , which Thayer defines, “An unloosing, a dissolving, departure.” The unloosing refers to the separation of the soul from the body, and departure pertains to the flight of the soul to the intermediate region after it leaves the body. At hand denotes it is comparatively near only, for the apostle expected still to do some more work for the Lord as the chapter will later show.

2 Timothy 4:7

2 Timothy 4:7. A good fight is one that is waged on behalf of a good cause and against a bad one. A course means one’s career or race of life, and finish means to complete or make full. Paul’s active work was over because of his chains, and in that sense his race was run. But the teaching of the scripture is that Christians must be faithful until death in order to gain the crown (James 1:12; 1 Peter 5:4; Revelation 2:10). That is true, but a man can be faithful even when prevented by unavoidable circumstances from further activity in the work.

Paul’s activities were stopped by the enemy, and in that sense his course was finished. Kept the faith. The law of God, which is the basis of the faith, will live until it has accomplished its divine purpose, hence it. is not left for man to “keep” the faith in the sense of pre serving its existence. So the phrase means that Paul had kept himself true to the law of divine faith, always advocating it whenever he had the opportunity.

2 Timothy 4:8

2 Timothy 4:8. Henceforth means “hereafter” or “from now on.” It is equivalent to the preceding thought that the prospect of a crown is held out only to those who complete a life of righteousness. The last word denotes that the crown is a “medal of honor” to be bestowed upon a person who has lived a righteous life. Lord, the righteous judge is significant, because in earthly contests the judges are sometimes influenced to decide with partiality, while He will decide strictly on the basis of faithfulness. That day refers to the day of judgment, and it is often referred to in such indefinite language because of its unequalled importance, for which reason it needs no other specification. Love his appearing.

The first word is defined by Thayer, “To welcome with desire, long for.” If a man has not been living a righteous life, he will dread to see the Lord come. But a faithful servant (Luke 12:41-46) will be glad to look forward to the coming of Christ (Revelation 22:20).

2 Timothy 4:9

2 Timothy 4:9. Though he was an apostle, Paul had the same craving for companionship that any Christian will have for another. He knew he was not to live much longer (how much longer is not stated), and he wished to have his son (in the Gospel) with him again before he left this world.

2 Timothy 4:10

2 Timothy 4:10. According to Colossians 4:14 and Philemon 1:24, Demas had been associated with Paul in his travels, and for a while even after the apostle was taken to Rome in chains. But he failed to stand the test when persecution threatened, being more interested in the pleasures of this world than in the cause of Christ. No unfavorable comment is made about the departure of Cresens and Titus, hence we may conclude they left with Paul’s consent. Such a conclusion is reasonable since verse 12 expressly says that the apostle sent another disciple away for some purpose (not stated).

2 Timothy 4:11

2 Timothy 4:11. Only Luke is with me means of the ones who had traveled with Paul, for verse 21 shows that several brethren were still associated with him in his trials and labors for the Lord. Mark is the disciple who deserted Paul, recorded in Acts 13:13 Acts 15:36-41. But he seems to have reclaimed himself in Paul’s confidence, for he calls for him that he might he of use in the ‘ministry or service.

2 Timothy 4:12

2 Timothy 4:12. This is referred to and commented upon at verse 10.

2 Timothy 4:13

2 Timothy 4:13. A cloke is a loose outer garment, especially needed in winter. Books means the documents already composed and the parchments are writing materials. His calling for all these articles indicates that while death was “at hand,” yet he expected to be able to do some more reading and writing, and as a faithful servant (even “unto death”), he determined to “die fighting.”

2 Timothy 4:14

2 Timothy 4:14. Alexander the coppersmith. The last word is given merely to identify the one Paul means, as there were several men with the same name. We have very little information about him except what is given here, that he did the apostle much harm. The last sentence denotes that Paul expects Alexander to receive punishment from God.

2 Timothy 4:15

2 Timothy 4:15. Alexander evidently was going about since Paul warns Timothy about him. This verse indicates that the “evil” he was doing against Paul was .to oppose his teaching; he was doubtless a Judaizer.

2 Timothy 4:16

2 Timothy 4:16. First answer means Paul’s first defense before Caesar’s court. It may be learned by history as well as by Acts 28:30, that when Paul arrived in Rome from Caesarea, he was turned over to the Roman authorities who placed him in chains, but permitted him to live in a house which he rented. After this two-year period he was released, and traveled out among the churches a short while, then came back to Rome and was again arrested and brought before the court and made his own defense (called his first answer in our verse), but was not further punished as yet. (See next verse.) He was still held in chains and was soon to be condemned to die. It was at this first answer that all his associates deserted him or failed to stand by him. He was unresentful over it, though, and prayed God not to hold it against them.

2 Timothy 4:17

2 Timothy 4:17. The Lord stood by Paul as he faced the Roman court, and for the time being prevented him from being slain. The purpose was that the apostle might round out his work of preaching to the Gentiles of that city, thus making fully known the Gospel for which cause he was there in chains. Christians were sometimes thrown to the lions, literally, to die for their faith. That fact is used figuratively of Nero, who threatened to have Paul executed immediately. But he was given a temporary respite, and in that sense he was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

2 Timothy 4:18

2 Timothy 4:18. Shall deliver inc. Not that he was to be prevented from being slain at last, but that his death would not keep him from enjoying the heavenly kingdom, which is the same as the “everlasting kingdom” of 2 Peter 1:11.

2 Timothy 4:19

2 Timothy 4:19. Prisca is another form for Priscilla. She and her husband Aquila had been faithful friends of Paul, and he is here “speaking a good word” for them. See chapter 1:16 for comments on the household of Onesiphorus.

2 Timothy 4:20

2 Timothy 4:20. Erastus had been with Paul (Acts 19:22), but later came to Corinth to reside (Romans 16:23). On his way back to Rome, Paul left Trophimus at Miletum because of his being sick. Not that the apostle was unable to heal him miraculously, but neither Christ nor his disciples were to perform miracles when there was no question of testimony at stake.

2 Timothy 4:21

2 Timothy 4:21. Come before winter. (See the comments at verse 9.) It might have been an additional reason for this instruction in the fact that sailing was difficult in the winter season. The other persons named were friends and disciples who joined with Paul in sending their greetings to the evangelist.

2 Timothy 4:22

2 Timothy 4:22. This verse is Paul’s affectionate benediction to his “son in the Gospel.”