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Bible - II Timothy
Author: Paul
Date: 66/67 A.D.
Theme: Dedication to the ministry
Key Words: Struggle, charge, Instruct
Background: From what we know, Paul left the Roman imprisonment shortly before the Book of Acts was written and launched new missionary journeys that took him to Spain. During the era of persecutions initiated by Nero, in the year 64 A.C., Paul was once again arrested, probably in Troas (4:13), and led to Rome. The circumstances of this second incarceration were very different than those of the first. Before, he had been sequestered in a place that he himself had rented and could receive visitors freely, but now he was confined in a jail cell and his friends could only see him under great difficulties. Before, he had expected to be freed, but now he awaited death (4:6-8). Only Luke was with him when he wrote this letter (4:11). For various reasons, all the others had left him.
Occasion and Date: The letter was motivated by Paul's concern about Timothy's needs as well as for his own. He reminded Timothy of his responsibilities and admonished him to give himself to the work wholeheartedly. Paul also needed some personal effects (4:13) and in his loneliness desired to see Timothy and Mark (4:9-11). It's very possible that Paul had written this letter shortly before his death. Due to the fact that he was probably executed before the disappearance of Nero in the year 68 A.D., the letter should be dated between the years 66 and 67 A.D.
Purpose: Paul's immediate purpose in the letter was an affectionate calling for Timothy to come visit him (4:9,11,13,21). But as his principal interest was the wellbeing of the church, he instructed Timothy so that he could perfect his organization and safeguard the Gospel. Seeing that his death was imminent, and that Timothy and that Timothy wouldn't have time for a final encounter, Paul introduced solemn admonitory words in his letter. His preoccupation was the Gospel, and he manifested his concern that Timothy stay firm in the face of difficulties, desertions and errors.
Characteristics: Although Paul expresses himself impartially and comes to the point, he shows affection, warmth and love. In II Timothy his emotions are revealed more than his intellect, because he speaks with the heart. Consequently, it isn't a literary product that follows an ordered plan, but a personal note that contains the apostle's testament.
Theological Significance: (HBH) Second Timothy teaches us about the importance of our theological heritage (1:14). Paul had much to say about what GOD has done in Christ, our Savior. Jesus Christ has been revealed, destroyed death, and given us life and immortality (1:8-10). The foundation of the Christian life is what GOD has already done for us in Christ. We should live boldly, for we have received "a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline" (1:7). These truths about the gospel and Christian living are available to us in GOD's inspired Scripture (3:15-17). Now we, like Timothy, should pass on these truths to faithful men and women who can teach others also (2:2).
Personal Application: This epistle is a manual for young ministers. The Church needs more dedicated Timothys to defend the gospel as a sacred deposit that has been entrusted to them, faithful in proclaiming it, ready to suffer for it and pass it on to faithful followers.
Christ Revealed: For Paul, the gospel is more than a collection of declarations and propositions; it is Christ himself (see 1:8). Spiritual blessings (grace, mercy, peace and life itself) reside in he LORD and derive from Him (1:1,2,9,10,13,16,18; 2:1).Jesus came to the world as man (2:8) to be our Savior (1:10; 2:10; 3:15), died and was raised (2:8). He is faithful to all those who follow him (1:12; 2:11,12; 4:17,18,22) and consistent in His purpose (2:12,13). He also offers spiritual understanding (2:7). In his Second Coming he will come as righteous judge (4:1,8; see, furthermore, 1:18; 4:14,16).
The Holy Spirit in Action: The Holy Spirit has given Timothy a gift, and Paul exhorts him to use it actively (1:6). Moreover, the Spirit gives power, love and a sound mind (1:7). His presence in us enables us to be faithful to the gospel and to safeguard its purity (1:13,14).
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