2 Timothy 4:9
Be diligent to come to me quickly…

Even strong Christians need long companions.

2 Timothy 4:10
For Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world, and has departed for Thessalonica—Crescens for Galatia, Titus for Dalmatia.

Even small names have big roles in God’s kingdom.

Loving the world leads us away from loving the Word.

2 Timothy 4:11-12
Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry. And Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus.

One ploughs, one plants, one pours, one picks, but the Lord gets all the praise!

2 Timothy 4:13
Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come—and the books, especially the parchments.

To love Christ, the Living Word, is to love the Bible, the written Word.

2 Timothy 4:14
Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. May the Lord repay him according to his works.

When others fight dirty, we fight differently—by trusting the One who judges justly.

2 Timothy 4:15
You also must beware of him, for he has greatly resisted our words.

Wisdom doesn’t just know what to do—it knows when to do: to warm, to warn, and to war.

Discussion Questions

1. What does Paul’s longing for Timothy’s presence near the end of his life teach us about Christian companionship and vulnerability in leadership? Follow-up: Who has strengthened your hand in the Lord like Jonathan did for David?
   

2. Demas forsook Paul because he “loved this present world.” How can we guard our hearts from drifting toward the world’s comforts instead of remaining faithful to Christ? Cross-reference: 1 John 2:15, James 4:4, Matthew 6:24
   

3. Paul found Mark to be “useful” again despite past failure. What does this tell us about God’s redemptive work in broken relationships? Follow-up: Can you think of someone in your life whom God is calling you to reconcile with or restore?
   

4. Tychicus, though lesser known, faithfully served behind the scenes. Why is it important to value and encourage those with unseen or “relief pitcher” roles in ministry? Sticky thought: One ploughs, one plants, one pours, one picks—but the Lord gets all the praise.
   

5. Alexander opposed Paul and “did much harm.” How should we respond when we are hurt or opposed by others within or outside the church? Cross-reference: Romans 12:19, Psalm 62:12 — How do we entrust justice to God without falling into bitterness?