2 Timothy Chapter 1 — Courage and Faithfulness
Paul writes to Timothy from prison, encouraging him to be bold in his faith and to remember the spiritual heritage passed down through his family.
1Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ*“Christ” means “Anointed One”. through the will of God, according to the promise of the life which is in Christ Jesus,
2to Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
3I thank God, whom I serve as my forefathers did, with a pure conscience. How unceasing is my memory of you in my petitions, night and day
4longing to see you, remembering your tears, that I may be filled with joy;
5having been reminded of the sincere faith that is in you, which lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, in you also.
6For this cause, I remind you that you should stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.
7For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.
8Therefore don’t be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner; but endure hardship for the Good News according to the power of God,
9who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before times eternal,
10but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who abolished death, and brought life and immortality to light through the Good News.
11For this I was appointed as a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
12For this cause I also suffer these things.
13Hold the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
14That good thing which was committed to you, guard through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.
15This you know, that all who are in Asia turned away from me, of whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes.
16May the Lord grant mercy to the house of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain,
17but when he was in Rome, he sought me diligently and found me
18(the Lord grant to him to find the Lord’s mercy in that day); and in how many things he served at Ephesus, you know very well.
WEB Translation
Notable Verses
2 Timothy 1:5
“having been reminded of the sincere faith that is in you, which lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, in you also.”
This verse highlights the importance of a multi-generational spiritual legacy within a family.
2 Timothy 1:7
“For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.”
This is a widely quoted verse offering encouragement and strength against intimidation or anxiety.
2 Timothy 1:12
“For this cause I also suffer these things. Yet I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that he is able to guard that which I have committed to him against that day.”
Paul expresses his unwavering confidence in God despite his personal hardships and imprisonment.
Chapter Summary
In the opening of his second letter to Timothy, Paul expresses deep affection and gratitude for Timothy’s sincere faith, noting the spiritual influence of his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice. Paul urges Timothy to 'stir up' the gift of God within him, reminding him that God provides a spirit of power, love, and self-control rather than fear. Paul encourages Timothy not to be ashamed of the testimony of Jesus or of Paul's imprisonment, but to join in suffering for the Good News according to God's power. The chapter highlights the mission of Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought immortality to light through the Gospel. Paul also reflects on his own suffering and the loyalty of followers like Onesiphorus, who sought Paul out in Rome and provided him with much-needed refreshment and support, contrasting him with those who had turned away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lois was Timothy's grandmother and Eunice was his mother. Paul credits them with having a sincere faith that was passed down to Timothy, demonstrating the impact of a godly family influence.
Paul uses this metaphor to encourage Timothy to actively use and rekindle the spiritual abilities given to him. It suggests that spiritual gifts require intentional effort and exercise to remain effective.
Paul was imprisoned for his work as an apostle and preacher of the gospel. He mentions his chains to encourage Timothy not to be ashamed of him or the message, but to see suffering as a part of his holy calling.
Onesiphorus was a loyal supporter who sought out Paul while he was in prison in Rome. Unlike others who turned away from Paul in Asia, he refreshed Paul and was not ashamed of Paul's imprisonment.
Study Note
The Greek word for 'self-control' in verse 7 (sōphronismos) implies a sound, disciplined, and sober mind.
Related Chapters
1 Timothy Chapter 1
The first letter to Timothy establishes the foundational instructions Paul gave to his young protege.
Acts Chapter 16
This chapter provides historical context for Timothy joining Paul on his missionary journeys.
Philippians Chapter 1
Another instance where Paul discusses the theme of not being ashamed of his imprisonment for Christ.
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