The Book of 2 Timothy

 

The Second Epistle to Timothy is one of the three Pastoral Epistles, traditionally attributed to Paul, and is part of the canonical New Testament. In his letter, Paul urges Timothy to not have a "spirit of timidity" and to "not be ashamed to testify about our Lord." (1:7-8). He also entreats Timothy to come to him before winter, and to bring Mark with him. (Philippians 2:22). He was anticipating that "the time of his departure was at hand" (4:6), and he exhorts his "son Timothy" to all diligence and steadfastness in the face of false teachings. Paul gives Timothy advice about combating "false teachings" with reference to the teachings of the past, and to "patience under persecution" (1:6–15), and to a faithful discharge of all the duties of his office (4:1–5), with all the solemnity of one who was about to appear before the Judge of the quick and the dead.

2 Timothy 1

 1Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus. Paul was called to service by the will of God. "You will know when your calling comes if you are meant to serve in the ministry."

 2To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. His Christian son; Paul loved Timothy as if he was his own son, but Timothy was raised by his mother and grandmother. Grace, mercy, and peace from the Heavenly Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. "The only way to salvation and peace of mind is through Christ."

 3I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day. Paul was struck down and called on that road to Damascus (all sins forgiven); then went on to serve God with a clear conscience. Paul was always praying for Timothy.

 4Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy. Paul remembers Timothy's tears as they parted; Timothy really missed Paul because he was like a father to him.

 5When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. Unfeigned faith in the Greek would mean; Sincere (without hypocrisy). "Genuine faith." Timothy had the same faith that his mother and grandmother had. (A true Christian family).

 6Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. Paul ordained Timothy and encouraged him to use the gift God has given him. To stir up the spirit (fan the flames), and put it to good use.

 7For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. No spirit of fear here, but a spirit of power. Sound mind is one who uses common sense. (If it doesn't make sense, then its not true).

 8Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God. Never apologize or be ashamed for teaching truth, or be ashamed of me (Paul), because I am in prison for teaching Gods Word. With the strength God gives you, be ready to suffer for the sake of the Good News. "When you teach the truth, many will scoff at you, and you may suffer for the Good News." Don't worry... God will always see you through.

 9Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began. God calls not according to the works of one, or because we deserve it; but because that was part of His plan before the world began to show us His grace through Jesus Christ. "You were chosen by God for His purpose and works."

 10But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. God made His plan plain to us through Christ who here on earth stirred up the Spirit and the Word, defeating death and the one who held the power of death, which is the devil. (Hebrews 2:14).

 11Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. Paul's calling to a three fold ministry. To preach to the Kings & Queens, Israel, and the Gentiles. (Acts 9:15-16). "Paul was one of the greatest teachers in the bible." After all, He did write most of the new testament.

 12For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. Paul never swayed from the truth or the faith, that is why he ended up in prison. "When you stick to the truth, it may cause you trouble at times, but in the end, "the truth will set you free."

 13Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. Hold to Gods Word; not traditions of men and false teachings.

 14That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. Let the spirit give you discernment. "The Holy Spirit will lead you to all wisdom."

 15This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. They deserted Paul, didn't care about his teachings and were ashamed of Paul because he was in prison.

 16The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain. He visited and encouraged Paul and was never ashamed because he was in prison.

 17But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. Always looked Paul up when he was in Rome. "They were good friends."

 18The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well. May the Lord give him a special blessing at His return, because he helped Paul out in Ephesus also. "They were more than good friends; they were good friends in Christ."

II Timothy 2

 1Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Be strong in the Word of God.

 2And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will pass on theses truths. We are to learn the truth and teach the truth to others who have "eyes to see and ears to hear."

 3Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ. "When you stand for Christ, you are going to have a little suffering.

 4No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. Do not get caught up in worldly things and affairs of this world. Stay focused on the Word and will of God.

 5And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. You must obey the laws of God as well as our civil laws.

 6The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits. The first fruits. (A double portion). God will let you enjoy the fruits of your labor if you do it His way.

 7Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things. Meditate on this and hear what I say. "The Lord will help you in all things; God wants you to have knowledge of the word as well as a good life in Christ."

 8Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: A descendant of King David. "The Good News is that Christ was raised from the dead."

 9Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound. The world treats me as an evil doer even though I do good. They bind me, but they cannot bind the Word of God, "It goes on forever."

 10Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. Willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those who God has chosen before the foundation of the world. (Ephesians 1:4-5).

 11It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we die with Him, we live with Him. "Let the old self die and take on the new you through Christ." (That is what baptism is all about).

 12If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we endure hardship we will reign with Christ, but if we deny Him, He will deny us. Its called the unpardonable sin; that hour of temptation when the elect are delivered up before antichrist. (Luke 12:8-12).

 13If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. One may be unfaithful, but Christ remains faithful.

 14Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. Remind everyone of these things and stop fighting over useless things and traditions of men. Stick with the truth of God's Word and forget church doctrine and rituals. (You are a free agent in Christ Jesus, start acting like one and get yourself out of bondage).

 15Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Study God's Word and you will avoid deception. Be good workers; one who does not need to be ashamed and who "correctly" explains the Word of God. (Follow the subject and object when you dissect and teach the Word of God). Study to show thy self approved and all knowledge will come to you.

 16But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. Avoid worthless and foolish talk and teachings that only lead to godless behavior. "Do not be deceived by man or Satan."

 17And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus. This kind of talk spreads like cancer. "Silly wives tales, false teachings, church doctrine, and traditions of men."

 18Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. How many priests, pastors, and teachers left their true path, and the chronological order of events that are spoken of in God's Word. "They will tell you anything to make you feel comfortable and get into your pockets."

 19Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. God's truth stands firm, and only God's truth. God knows who are His and who teaches the truth. All who belong to God must turn away from these evil teachings and tradition of men.

 20But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. In a house of God you are going to find some people that do not belong there. They will start evil teaching, gossip, and trouble for the ministry.

 21If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. Separate yourself from these people and teachings so you can continue in good works. You don't need to dislike everyone in your life who does not believe as you do, but you do not need to follow their ways either.

 22Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Run from anything that stimulates youthful lust and use self control within yourself. "Strive for the good things in life and forget the worldly trash that is promoted by the media, television, radio, and the internet."

 23But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. Don't get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only starts fights. (Worldly trash and arguments that have nothing to do with God's Word).

 24And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient. A servant of God must not quarrel, but be kind to everyone; you must also be able to endure evil and difficult people. Its not all a picnic when you work for God, you are going to have difficult times and decisions to make in your life. (Trust in our Lord to see you through all tough times).

 25In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those peoples heart for the better.

 26And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. Then they may come to their senses and escape from the devils trap and bondage. (They have be held captive by him to do what he wants). "You will be easy prey to receive the beast mark." Do Not Be Deceived!

II Timothy 3

 1This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. It will be very difficult in the end times; we are entering into the great apostasy, as we are living in the pre-tribulation now. "Things are just getting started, its only going to get worse."

 2For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. "Look around and see how are youth are growing up and the values they are being raised up on." Nice job parents!

 3Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. "If its true and good no one wants it; if its disgusting and deplorable they seem to love it."

 4Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God. They will betray their friends, be reckless, puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. "They don't care what God thinks as long as everyone else accepts their immoral ways of living." 

 5Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. Your priests and pastors act holy, or claim to be a preacher of God, but reject the power that could make them Godly. "Never teaching the truth of the Word, but cling to traditions of men."

 6For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts. They work their way right into the homes and prey on weak minded women, leading them with silly ideas and traditions, and they fall for it. "Wake up ladies; priests and pastors love to prey on women because they are their biggest financial supporters."

 7Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Always following lies and false teachings, but they are never able to understand the truth. "Do not be deceived."

 8Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. These kind of teachers oppose the truth just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses. They have depraved minds and a counterfeit faith.

 9But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as their's also was. But they won’t get away with this for long. Someday everyone will recognize what fools they are, just as with Jannes and Jambres. "All these false teachers will be put in their place when Christ returns."

 10But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience. You know what I teach, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You know my faith, my patience, my love, and my endurance. "Paul laid it all out on the line."

 11Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. You know how much persecution and suffering I have endured. You know all about how I was persecuted in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra, but the Lord rescued me from all of it. God didn't desert Paul during his suffering, "He rescued him." God will never give you anything that you cannot handle when you are working for him. Just keep trying and do your best.

 12Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. You will suffer a little for the bigger picture in the end, but God will see you through it.

 13But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But evil people and impostors will flourish. They will deceive others and will themselves be deceived. They tell so many lies, that they also start to believe them.

 14But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them. You must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. "If you had a good teacher of truth." Paul was an excellent scholar and teacher of the word and Timothy knew it.

 15And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus.

 16All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true. The truth will make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

 17That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. Be ready and able to do our Heavenly Fathers work.

II Timothy 4

 1I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom. Warn others, but don't judge, "God will judge everyone at His return."

 2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. Preach God's Word, and encourage others with these good teachings. "Don't waste your time on false doctrine and traditions of men."

 3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. The time is here now when people won't listen to sound truth. They follow priests, pastors, and Rabbis, that teach traditions of men, denominational church doctrine, and feed them whatever they want to hear to make them feel comfortable in the church.

 4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. They will reject the truth and chase after myths, wives tales, and traditions. How is your church doing?

 5But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. Keep focused on the Word and keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid to suffer for the Lord and fully carry out your ministry. "It's not all a joy ride."

 6For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. Paul's life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of his death was near.

 7I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Paul remained faithful and fought the good fight. He stayed strong in the Word and never swayed from the truth.

 8Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. The crown of righteousness is for those who look forward to the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at the second advent. Many may fear the return of Christ, but it is rewards and blessings for the workers in the army of Christ.

 9Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me. Paul wanted Timothy to come visit him. Paul really missed Timothy.

 10For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. Demas new that Paul was in jail and he split. He was involved with the things of the world, and considered that more important than looking up Paul. "When you teach the truth of Gods Word, many will desert you in the end times."

 11Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry. Luke was with Paul and is the one who helped write Paul's letter to Timothy. Paul asked Timothy to bring Mark with him because he would be helpful in the ministry.

 12And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus. 

 13The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. Paul wanted Timothy to pick up his coat, books, and papers and bring them to him.

 14Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works. Alexander's did much harm against Paul, he was a bad man. (A Kenite that dealt in metals). God will take care of him, God always takes care of his own and handles anyone who gets in the way of the righteous.

 15Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words. Paul warned Timothy that Alexander was against everything they taught and fought against them. "Again, Alexander was a very bad man."

 16At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Everyone abandoned Paul, but Paul forgave them and understood why they fled.

 17Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. The Lord and the Holy Spirit stood with Paul and freed him from death and his first captivity.

 18And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. God will deliver me from every evil attack and bring me to safety into His Heavenly Kingdom. "Paul always trusted in the Lord."

 19Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila. They were a married Christian couple that followed Paul in his ministry. (Paul really loved Priscilla because she was well rounded in God's Word).

 20Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick. God may have wanted Trophimus to remain where he was to preach the Word. God is always in control and has a reason for everything.

 21Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren. Do your best to get hear and send my greetings to the brethren.

 22The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen. May the Lord be with you in spirit and His grace be with you all.

Keep The Faith,
Barton