The Book of 2 Timothy

This is Paul's last letter. At the time of writing, the Emperor, Nero was attempting to stop the spread of the Christian faith in Rome by strongly persecuting all Christian believers. By this time, Paul knew that his labor for the Lord was almost over and that his death was near (4?6-8). Therefore, he passes on to this faithful young minister all that a spiritual father would desire for a servant of Jesus Christ. And now, as Paul faces the prospect  of execution, he twice requests Timothy to join him again in Rome.

Paul knew that Timothy needed encouragement as he faced the many difficulties of ministering to his congregation. There were still issues with false teachers from within the church and the strong possibility of increasing severe persecution from outside the church. For these reasons, Paul challenges Timothy to guard the truth, preach the Word, endure hardship and fulfill his God-given purpose in ministry.

Five major features characterize this letter. It contains Paul's last recorded words before his execution by the Emperor Nero in Rome almost 35 years after his supernatural encounter with Jesus on the Damascus road. It contains one of the clearest statements in the Bible about the divine inspiration and purpose of Scripture. Paul emphasizes that God's Word must be accurately interpreted by those devoted to serving God, and he urges leaders to teach and entrust the ministry of the Word to reliable men who will then teach it to others. Brief but bold challenges are given throughout the letter, such as "fan into flame the gift of God", "do not be ashamed," "suffer for the gospel", "be strong in the grace", "diligently and correctly handle God's Word", "avoid godless chatter." The recurring themes are encouragements to remain faithful and loyal to Jesus Christ and His original message of truth and life; to guard the message from distortion; and to preach it with passion and perseverance. Paul's farewell testimony is a moving example of courage and hope in the face of certain death that would come because of his steadfast faith.