Second Timothy is the apostle Paul’s follow-up letter to Timothy, his beloved son in the faith. In it, Paul gave a clear indication that he knew his time of final departure was at hand, so he wanted to offer encouragement to his young protégé. He knew that Timothy was dealing with a lack of self-confidence due to health challenges and the tendency of some older believers to write him off because of his youth. That’s why this letter has such a personal tone.
Paul gave a clear indication that he knew his time of final departure was at hand, so he wanted to offer encouragement to his young protégé.
Paul wanted to encourage Timothy to step up to the plate, take his ministry seriously and embrace it as a long-term commitment. In the face of all the stresses and strains of ministry, all its demands and disappointments, Paul encouraged Timothy by pointing to his own testimony. He had fought the good fight and finished the race (4:7), and he didn’t throw in the towel when things got tough. He chose the right battles to fight, and he found victory in them. He wanted Timothy to do the same.
Paul’s words to Timothy are a great challenge and encouragement to you and me.
In 2 Timothy Paul wanted to see Timothy persuaded by God’s power, persevering in his ministry, prepared for the perilous times ahead and always preaching the Word of God. These things should be the goal for every believer, so Paul’s words to Timothy are a great challenge and encouragement to you and me.
Here’s a short video that highlights five key themes in the book of 2 Timothy. May you be blessed by it!
