2 Timothy 1:13-2:13

1:13-14 | The gospel should be guarded as a treasure. Its words are sound – right, healthy, and whole – and therefore not to be tampered with. Lest anyone think he or she can adequately watch over such a precious gift, Paul reminds Timothy of the need to rely on the Holy Spirit’s help (Eph. 1:13-14).

1:15-18 | In his care for Paul, Onesiphorus passed the three tests of genuine friendship: he was committed, consistent (ministering to Paul often and in many ways), and courageously loyal despite great personal risk. His zealous search for Paul in Rome, and his ministry to the apostle even as a forgotten prisoner, sharply contrasted with Paul’s former supporters who deserted him (Matt. 25:34-40).

2:1 | Christian ministry demands maturity and boldness. Now that Timothy has been saved by grace, he should serve in grace (John 1:16).

2:2 | Disciples are made when new believers are taught the Word, led by example, and then trained to transfer the faith to others. While pastors are specifically called to produce disciples of Christ, every Christian’s legacy should include an enduring testimony and a commitment to discipleship.

2:3-6 | Paul uses three metaphors for the Christian life (soldier, athlete, farmer) – all requiring hard work and difficult assignments. A war is underway, and God’s people are meant to be involved as participants, not spectators (Eph. 6:10; 1 Tim. 1:18).

2:4 | A soldier must leave behind the comforts of home and his personal affairs to fully devote himself to his duty. Anything less puts the mission in jeopardy.

2:5 | An athlete submits to the rules in order to win. The Christian often has to sacrifice certain liberties to gain victory. This means discipline and training – activities that do not come naturally (1 Cor. 9:25).

2:6 | The farmer diligently works his crops because he knows that one day his labor will reap a harvest. The fruit of a Christian’s labor is seen in the lives of others.

2:9-10 | Suffering is often God’s springboard for accomplishing what could not be done otherwise through a person’s life. God used Paul’s imprisonment and chains to evangelize the Roman Empire, proving that His word is not – and cannot ever be – chained (Isa. 40:8; 55:11).

2:11-13 | Quoting an early Christian hymn, Paul reminded Timothy that God is faithful to fulfill His promises: He will never deny life to those who die in His name (Rom. 8:17; 2 Cor. 4:17), but those who deny Him will be denied before the Father (Matt. 10:33).