2 Timothy
Audience
Paul writes to Timothy from a setting of suffering and approaching death, urging him to preserve and teach the received message. The personal charge repeatedly joins sound doctrine with endurance and conduct.
Key References
Explore the Structure
Explore the structure of each book.
| Section | Focus | Connection to the whole |
|---|---|---|
| The entrusted testimony 2 Timothy 1:1–18 Interpretation | Courage and faithful keeping | Paul recalls Timothy's faith and gift, urging him not to be ashamed and to guard the trust through the Holy Ghost. |
| The faithful worker 2 Timothy 2:1–26 Interpretation | Transmission, endurance, and gentle correction | Images of disciplined service lead into directions for teaching, personal holiness, and patient treatment of opponents. |
| Difficult times and the Scriptures 2 Timothy 3:1–17 Interpretation | Discernment and continued learning | Paul warns about corrupt conduct and deception, then directs Timothy to continue in what he has learned through the holy Scriptures. |
| The final charge and farewell 2 Timothy 4:1–22 Interpretation | Preaching and finishing the course | The command to preach is set beside Paul's approaching death and personal instructions concerning fellow workers and needs. |
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.