A Study of 2 Timothy

We begin to explore the instructions given to Timothy and Titus concerning ministry, church order, and personal spiritual growth. These final words of the great apostle Paul are not only critical to Timothy’s ministry, but also, for all those who claim the name of Christ.

This section begins with “therefore,” reinforcing what Paul penned in 1:3-18. Rather than following a
logical progression of concepts, Paul will utilizes examples and repetition of themes to instruct Timothy.

In this passage, Paul instructs Timothy on the following: (1) how to oppose the false teachers, (2) how to
interact with those individuals who have been persuaded by the false teachers, and (3) how to
understand the responsibilities and high stakes involved in relationship to this false teaching.

Paul continues contrasting his own ministry with that of the false teachers in order to encourage
Timothy to persevere in the truth and in godliness. Once again the Pauline model serves as a call to
endure, even in the midst of suffering.

The urgency and seriousness of this letter is reiterated in this final chapter. In his closing remarks to Timothy, Paul invokes the name of the Lord, utilizes eschatological language, and employs a series of commands.