II TIMOTHY

The following comments are from Navigator's and Quiet Time Diary journals. One verse will be entered, then the comment, then the date.

1:3, 4    I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience the way my forefathers did, as I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day, ⁴longing to see you [Timothy], even as I recall your tears, so that I may be filled with joy. 

    Most of the first seven verses are an introduction, so these two verses clearly express Paul's love for his friend, Timothy, who was like a son to him. While God didn't give me a wife, I'm glad to have a friend that I feel I can call on. Still, while lonely, I know there's the closest of all Friend's available, and His name is Jesus. (DRM 8/5/07)

    [re: 1:4]    I continue to long for a Christian to share my life with. Obviously Timothy had struggles that caused tears, but Paul still considered them tears of joy. Maybe this month I will also have a friend like Timothy to share with. (DRM 9/1/02)

1:5    For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois, and your mother Eunice, and I am sure it is in you as well.

    Clearly Timothy was brought up a Christian by his mother Eunice. At least he saw the example of what living a life dependent on Christ looked like - and I think that directs children a lot towards their eventual path. 
    Since I wasn't brought up to trust totally on Him, it seems more difficult now to even associate with people who have so much of a "headstart" from their youth. (DRM 8/8/04)

1:6    For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

    "Kindle afresh" could be like renewing our faith. God=Jesus doesn't want us to backslide, but to keep growing in faith. This would entail reading the Bible more and trusting more in His provision.
    Since Timothy became a Christian through his mother and grandmother (v. 5), Timothy's growth could have been motivated by Paul and his "laying on of my hands." (DRM 8/8/10)

1:7    For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.

    After so many years of timidity, it's hard to be bold for the Lord! One of the first steps is 'love for the lost', which I have recently received. I also need the discipline to stick with the goal - as it is easy to get diverted! (DRM 9/2/02)

1:8    So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God . . .

    As a new Christian, I have been afraid of what others might say if I witness to them. As the word is slowly becoming a part of everything I think and do, it is also becoming easier to express my beliefs and feelings to others.
    It is my hope that I will no longer be ashamed to tell others of how the Lord has worked in my life. (DRM 11/18/86)

    Jesus wants us to be laborers for Him. Not to be afraid of the work that He has given us. We must be dependent on His provisions and whatever suffering is involved will be offset in heaven. (DRM 9/3/02)

1:9    . . .who has saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity.

    Jesus has called me to do something - evangelism - and I have been working on it - but think I should do more. This verse assures me that He is giving me the desire to serve Him. (DRM 9/4/02)

    Sometimes I get confused and think that I made the decision to follow Christ. Here I am reminded that God called us. His Holy Spirit was the instigator, and I merely accepted His calling. He knew my potential that day, and my job is to fulfill it. He knew when I would be born, what my life would be like - and how my earthly life will end. (DRM 8/9/04)

1:10, 11    . . . but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, ¹¹for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher.

    This is the second half of a four verse sentence. God saved us. He knew who would come to trust in Him=Jesus as their Savior. God sent Jesus to earth to abolish spiritual death so long as we trust in Him.
    Paul (v. 11) as the writer, was a preacher, apostle and teacher. A church leader today can be a preacher and teacher, but usually only one of these three titles. (DRM 8/9/10)

1:12    For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. 

    Not all people love Christ. There will be some who will disagree (or worse) with what I say. This verse is an encouragement to know that He will protect us during those trials. (DRM 9/5/02)

    Paul had a one-track mind on who he was going to trust in. This is even more important considering he wrote this while in prison for his faith. Paul's faith was unwavering during his final, ultimate trial. How would my faith stand in a similar trial? God, give me the ability to be bold and courageous - until my final day on earth. (DRM 8/6/07)

1:13    Retain the standard of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 

    While I have tried to avoid swear words in my vocabulary, some of my other words ARE taken the wrong way. If I try to speak and act as Jesus did, I will have a great example and not get in any trouble. (DRM 9/6/02)

1:14    Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you. 

    God, through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, has given us each different spiritual and mental and physical gifts. He wants us to use our gifts to bring Him glory. We are not to ignore His gifts - but to treasure and use them. The only question is "what are my gifts?" I think mine are analytical and organizational abilities. (DRM 8/10/04)

1:15    You are aware of the fact that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes.

    In Paul's time, Asia was a section of Turkey - which is seen on the maps of his missionary journeys at the back of some Bibles. While Paul was referring to a small part of Turkey, perhaps he was prophetic of the history of the large Asia of today. Historically they went to become Moslems, Buddhists, Hindus. . . and billions need to know Jesus. What are we doing to show them the Lord Jesus? (DRM 8/7/07)

1:16    The Lord grant mercy to the house of Onesiphorus for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chains. 

    What does "refreshed" mean? I think of it as hospitality - where the family took Paul in and fed and clothed and encouraged him to stay on track. They had to be believers because they agreed with Paul's message more than his chains that were given to him by unbelievers. (DRM 9/7/02)

1:17, 18    but when he [Onesiphorus] was in Rome, he eagerly searched for me and found me - ¹⁸the Lord grant to him to find mercy from the Lord on that day - and you know very well what services he rendered at Ephesus.

    Friends are important. Good friends are hard to come by. Paul refers here to the "house of Onesiphorus" which could refer to the whole family. Apparently they provided for some of Paul's needs, and will receive eternal rewards for their service.
    How am I doing at helping others' in need? I need a LOT of improvement! (DRM 8/10/10)

2:1    You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

    Paul is telling Timothy to "be strong" in grace in this verse. God=Jesus gives us all His grace - how can we 'be strong' or have more grace to give?
    Probably Paul is saying that Timothy, and we, should emphasize God's grace to others more than some other things.
    The following verse (v. 2) gives us the example that Timothy should do this because the men he would be teaching would later be teaching others the same thing.
    Jesus=God gives us grace and we, in turn, should do the same for others. (DRM 2/3/15)

2:2    And the things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, these entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. 

    What good is learning about Jesus and the Gospel if you don't share the knowledge with others? This verse suggests telling other faithful men (a church?). It could be considered a call to preach to others. (DRM 9/8/02)

2:3    Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

    The title of this section [2:1-7] is "Be Strong," and Paul wants Timothy to be strong in his faith. There are different types of hardships, trials and disappointments. Certainly God puts them in our path for us [me] to grow stronger in my faith. As a soldier in Christ's army, the enemy will try any angle to keep us from growing in our faith. (DRM 8/11/04)

2:4    No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. 

    Jesus has enlisted me in His army. Battles have to be fought that I don't know of yet. Our Leader doesn't want our mind to be on the world or its treasures, but to depend on His leadership. Praise God, we know Who will win the battles! (DRM 9/9/02)

    The song "Onward Christian Soldiers" probably came from this verse. As Christian soldiers, we have a mission to serve our Leader and to do His will, not getting entrapped in what is happening elsewhere, but to have a single-minded determination to serve in the one capacity (talent) that we are given. Who was our enlisting officer? While God used a willing presenter of His gospel, it was/is the Holy Spirit who enlisted us in His army. (DRM 8/8/07)

2:5    Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules.

    These first verses of chapter two seem to me like Proverbs that are all true and related to following the Lord's will.
    I can think of recent athletes that have won a prize, but later had it taken away as later it was discovered the rules were broken. Some people will do "anything" to win, rather than accepting God's limitations = rules. (DRM 8/11/10)

2:6    The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops.

    Paul seems to be telling Timothy to "stick-to-it" in relation to his faith and the grace of Jesus.
    After the statement (v. 1-3), Paul gives three examples of "occupations" that require stick-to-it determination to succeed; the soldier, the athlete and the farmer.
    We all have to follow the Lord Jesus with determination to endure and reign with Him in the future (v. 12) (DRM 3/13/13)

2:7    Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.

    Paul was writing to young Timothy, at least younger than Paul, even though we don't know Timothy's age at the time.
    Paul was in prison and lonely, and didn't want the gospel to cease being spread. Timothy represented the next generation that had to be reached with the truth. Paul knew what he was about to write was the truth and the Lord Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, would give him (Timothy) understanding for his ministry.
    Daily, before reading the Bible, we are also to pray for understanding what is written. (DRM 8/12/14)

2:8, 9    Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descendant of David, according to my gospel, ⁹for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned.

    There is a lot in this sentence from  Paul to Timothy. The primary message of gospel ministry is the teachings of Jesus and His death and resurrection. While Jesus was the Son of God, He was also the son of Mary, who was a descendant of David.
    Paul suffered a LOT for his passion of sharing the gospel of Christ. When he wrote this letter to Timothy, he was in prison yet again, anticipating death.
    Still, Paul could write while in prison and could share the gospel by his writing, thus the gospel could continue to be given through Timothy and now us. (DRM 7/20/15)

2:10    For this reason [prison] I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory. 

    Paul went through many horrible trials while trying to tell others about Jesus. He had a one-track mind to tell others. When trials come my way, I should remember Jesus and Paul and others who went through far more trials than me. (DRM 9/10/02)

    Jesus was willing to die on the cross so we could obtain salvation. Paul was willing to be in prison - as stated in this verse - that others may obtain salvation - but what are we (I) doing to lead others to salvation? While the Holy Spirit is the convictor, others have to be told the Truth before they can even consider what decision to make. It seems that most people want someone else to do it. (DRM 8/9/07)

2:11    It is a trustworthy statement; For if we died with Him, we shall also live with Him; 

    I praise God for the day that my eyes an heart were opened to His love on the cross. Since He gave His everything for me, how can I ever thank Him enough? I pray that many others will come and trust in Him. (DRM 9/11/02)

    How do we get to Heaven? We must yield ourselves from our own desires and follow Christ, and Christ alone. That means to give up the pleasures of the worldly life and be a servant to Jesus Christ. My problem isn't that I don't want to serve Christ, but that I need someone to pay the bills of living in a home. How I would like to work for Christ FULL-TIME instead of 1-2 hours a day! (DRM 8/12/04)

2:12    If we endure, we will also reign with Him;
           If we deny Him, He also will deny us;

    At some point, every believer will be tried to test his/her faith. That is the time that the devil want us to give up and deny God=Jesus. Unbelievers unknowingly take the devils side, and say to take the easy way out.
    The second line is God=Jesus' answer to what we should do. (DRM 8/12/10)

2:13    If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.

    Faithless = no faith = unbelievers in the Lord.
    People who are faithless don't care about Jesus or God. What He does has no effect on their lives.
    Jesus=God is the same yesterday, today and forever. He remains faithful to those that believe in Him. He will not change. It's the unbelievers that have to turn to Him for Him to help them in times of trouble — that's faith. (DRM 6/7/13)

2:14    Remind them of these things, and solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is useless and leads to the ruin of the hearers.

    This verse refers to both the previous verses and later verses, so is hard to explain by itself.
    In the three previous verses we are reminded of some of Jesus' attributes (e. g. If we deny Him, He also will deny us.) and how we are to live in relation to the facts.
    These statements should impact how we live our lives. While we are not to wrangle over words that mean the same thing, we also don't want to hear false doctrine.
    Our ultimate responsibility is to Jesus. We want to understand the Bible accurately and not be deceived. (DRM 8/2/16)

2:15    Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth. 

    Why am I ashamed of the Gospel? Why am I on the earth? To tell others about Jesus! I can sit in a church for decades to learn about the Lord, but I think action is needed to use what I have learned. When? When? (DRM 9/12/02)

2:16    But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness,

    No matter how I take this, and investigate the cross references, I am guilty of talking to people about the weather and other "empty chatter."
    The challenge for me STILL is how to direct a conversation to the Lord and a person's need to trust in Him. (DRM 8/13/10)

2:17, 18    . . . and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, ¹⁸men who have gone astray from the truth saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and they upset the faith of some.

    Paul told Timothy not to wrangle about words (v. 14), but seems to do that in v. 17-18 above.
    We are to avoid empty chatter (v. 16) and to try to lead people to Christ in some way.
    At this point in time, Jesus had already risen from the grave (resurrected) but not the church. Apparently Hymenaeus and Philetus were saying the church had also risen which had/has not occurred yet. This is the difference between Jesus' resurrection and "the" (church) resurrection. (DRM 1/7/13)

2:19    Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, "The Lord knows those who are His," and "Let everyone who names the name of the Lord abstain from wickedness."

    As Christians, we [I] have a high standard to follow. We have the firm foundation to stand on, and we should know that the Lord is watching over us, thus we [I] must be careful to represent our Lord Jesus in an honorable way at all times. Before making decisions, I need to pray for direction - as I want to represent Him - TODAY. (DRM 8/13/04)

    It seems to me that nearly everyone I know knows the name Jesus - but do they know Jesus? Most don't know Jesus as their Savior and Lord. God knows those who are His - and I don't, however I also believe the words that come out indicate the condition of the soul within - and this nation need a lot more people to trust in Jesus IN THEIR HEART! (DRM 8/10/07)

2:20,21    Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor. ²¹Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.

    Paul is comparing good things to common things. The good things are the vessels that people used for good occasions, whereas the common things are for everyday use.
    The comparison continues to be used for believer and unbeliever. As believers we are to stop being a common person, but to be special, as we are working for the King. We are to cleanse ourselves from sinful things and become a vessel of honor.
    When our King Jesus calls in some way to do something for Him, we are to drop doing common things and do our very best for Him. (DRM 3/17/17)

    [Re: 2:20]    This is another of Paul's illustrations.
    I can think of this like a large church with different members. The gold and silver members do most of the work and the wood and earthenware members most likely attend and do little else.
    I have been both types of member at various churches due to various reasons.
    Clearly, the Lord wants us to share our faith in some form - and the church represents the weekly gathering of believers to share with each other. (DRM 5/6/13)

2:22    Now flee from youthful lusts, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 

    Since I was a teenager, I wanted to have my own business and kept trying different types through my 40's. Now I feel that the Lord wants me to work for Him and with His people. It is EXTREMELY hard not to want to start another business. (DRM 9/13/02)

    When I became a Christian my spiritual life changed. My old desires in life faded, but didn't go away, they changed to a different form. e.g. I still wanted a business, but as a way to tell and show others Christ's love. I wanted to earn lots of money before - and now want to be able to pay my expenses. My life is different - but I have a long way to go! (DRM 8/14/04)

2:23    But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels.

    A person can speculate on various things, like the future of the economy or when Jesus will return. It seems that everyone has a different opinion on these two topics.
    Rather than getting into a quarrel=fight about our differences, the best thing to do is not to discuss the topic - and let the Lord do things His way - which will be the final outcome anyway. (DRM 8/14/10)

2:24    And the Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, 

    As I desire to be a bond-servant of the Lord, doing His will, I have learned not to quarrel with others and love others [kindness] but haven't taught others and need more help on patience. Lord, make me a better servant to You. (DRM 9/14/02)

    We are all to be bond-servants to the Lord, so I know this applies to me. Throughout my life, I've tried not to be quarrelsome, even though tempted to do so on occasions when I have been wronged or misinterpreted. I hope I've been kind and always wanted to teach, but haven't been given the opportunity yet. All of these items require other people - but I don't know many. (DRM 8/11/07)

2:25    . . . with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, . . .

    This is the middle of a three verse sentence (v. 24-26) telling believers how to act.
    In this verse we are told to be gentle in correcting non-believers, or those in opposition. Loud disagreements on faith are NOT productive and usually makes the unbeliever even more stubborn.
    Show everyone the love of Christ and eventually they will want the same in their lives also. (DRM 5/27/12)

2:26    . . . and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.

    This is the final part of a three verse sentence describing the Lord's bond-servant.
    After a person becomes a born-again Christian, he/she come to their senses' in comparison to what they did before that day.
    Even though we don't know it, the devil has us under his control until we follow Jesus. After conversion we learn more about how he (Satan) works and are directed by the Holy Spirit to avoid falling back into Satan's trap. We have to hear and follow the Holy Spirit only. (DRM 10/16/12)

3:1, 2    But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. ²For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,    

    This is the beginning of a longer list of what to expect in the last days. Even in my lifetime, I have seen some of these sins or vices grow more prevalent in the world. Just to think how much money is spent on beauty or self-improvement or exercise is an example of the first item listed here. Sometimes it's difficult not to be pulled into one of these things, as the world (Satan's power) is strong and I want to serve the Lord. I must continue to be IN the world and not of it. (DRM 8/12/07)

3:3    . . . unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, . . .

    "In the last days" (v. 1) people will have these personalities. This is just about a third of a long list (v. 2-5).
    I'm sure that there were people like this all of the past 2,000 years, but there will be even more of them in the last days. It seems that those days are here!
    We are to avoid these people (v. 5) and spend more (not all) time with others that have the same Christian faith as ourselves. The Lord also wants us to evangelize to the lost some of the time. (DRM 4/22/12)

3:4    . . . treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, . . .

    This is part of a list of what people will be like "in the last days." Obviously we have people in all these categories today.
    The last one in this verse makes me think of the whole tourism industry and our general desire to do as little work as possible. The key is to enjoy your (my) work, and have it bring glory to God in some way. (DRM 8/16/10)

3:5    . . . holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; and avoid such men as these. 

    All of the first four verses are a list of what to expect from people in the "last days." Certainly all of these items apply now. I agree with v. 5 and not to be taught by people who deny God's power, but I still talk to them and want them to trust in Jesus Christ. (DRM 9/15/02)

3:6    For among them are those who enter into households and captivate weak women weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses, . . .

    This verse follows a long list of deeds that worldly men do. They are not "lovers of God" (v. 4) and to be avoided (v. 5).
    Here, the man does one act that is not pleasing to the Lord God. In these few words are both the sin and the cause. Like all the others (vv 2-5), this is to be avoided.
    People who aren't Christians criticize all the rules that are in the Bible, but someone who has faith in the Lord Jesus and what He did for us has a different attitude: they want to please and serve Him while they are still on earth. (DRM 1/1/15)

3:7    . . . always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 

    This continues the description of unbelievers in the last days. I totally agree with v. 7 - it seems that the more educated a person is, the less likely they will yield their souls to Jesus Christ for direction. They think they know better. (DRM 9/16/02)

    These seven verses [3:1-7] are generally a list of qualities that mankind will have in the last days. In this verse it shows how learning has become emphasized. Education gets more and more funding. New schools are constantly established, but, at least in USA, because of separation of "church and state," students never learn the truth about our Lord Jesus Christ. (DRM 8/15/04) 

3:8    And just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men of depraved mind, rejected as regards the faith. 

    The two men in this example opposed Moses. Certainly they must have seen how God spoke to, and worked through Moses! As the men rejected Moses, God rejected them. I should learn from this example to imitate godly people like Moses. (DRM 9/17/02)

3:9    But they will not make further progress; for their folly will be obvious to all, just as Jannes's and Jambres's folly was also.

    To somewhat understand this verse, go back to verses seven and eight.
    These people will study in the educational world and probably get degrees - maybe even in theology - and still not receive the Holy Spirit in their lives. Christians will see these people as intellectual with attitudes and actions that don't reflect Jesus' heart. They seem so close to understanding - but don't.
    The end of verse five tells us to avoid these people. The Holy Spirit tells us who are truly members of the family of God. (DRM 8/7/13)

3:10    Now you followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance,

    Remember this was written from Paul to Timothy. Paul suggested here that Timothy follow his example on these things. It would be best for each of us to have an earthly example - mentor - to teach us the faith (like Paul and Timothy) but it seems our society is "too busy" to have this relationship for all who desire it. Jesus is our ultimate example. (DRM 8/16/10)

3:11    persecutions, and sufferings, such as happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium and at Lystra; what persecutions I endured, and out of them all the Lord delivered me!

    Thankfully, the persecutions that I have had have been very small. It seems that a lot of people won't talk to me because of my beliefs. Without doubt, the Lord has watched over me and my dependence on Him has grown over time. (DRM 9/18/02)

3:12, 13     Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. ¹³But evil men and imposters will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.  

    [re: 3:12] As I grow spiritually I should expect people to disagree with my beliefs - a.k.a. persecuted. I pray that these will not cause physical illness and that I will be able to stand up under each trial as it arrives. (DRM 9/19/02)

    [re: 3:12] Persecution can take many forms. The first thought may be physical, but I can think of imprisonment, torture, verbal bickering, destruction of property, and the one I seem to get most often — silence. If you don't agree with a person, quite often you just stop talking. 
    As a follower of Jesus, I am realizing that others are going to implement one of these persecutions - as directed by Satan. (DRM 8/16/04)

    [re: 3:12] I have heard the laughing in the background, expecting that I'm being talked about. I've been told that I am "different." Probably I haven't been considered for jobs because my resume' shows I have and continue to work for Christian organizations. God knows all of this, and I should expect it as a part of being in His family. (DRM 8/14/07)

    [re: 3:13] "Evil men and imposters" certainly aren't believers in Jesus. They will try anything to keep us from faith in Jesus. In today's world I think of monetary bribes and activities that keep us too busy to have time to serve and worship the Lord Jesus. (DRM 8/17/10)

3:14    You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them;

    God is the ultimate teacher. He uses the Holy Spirit to give me insight directly or through the Bible as I read it. I pray that I won't lose my desire to understand God and His ways every day of my life. (DRM 9/20/02)

3:15    and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

    While this was written from Paul to Timothy, it seems that it was written directly to me. From childhood my parents took me to church, but in today's world, I wonder how many children have never heard a Bible story, or the basis of the Bible. Children need a basic Bible education - how? (DRM 8/17/04)

    While this whole letter is addressed from Paul to Timothy, it applies to all of us in one way or another.
    Most people are exposed to the Bible (sacred writings) at some time during childhood. Statistically that's when most people put their initial trust in Jesus. Even if you (like me) put your faith in Jesus later in life - we started out as a spiritual child.
    Studying and learning the contents of the Bible is a life-long journey. There's always more to learn. . .  (DRM 11/4/11)

3:16, 17    All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; ¹⁷that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

    A phrase that I've heard is, "The Bible doesn't contain the word of God, it IS the word of God." All of the Bible is the word of God - He put it there for a reason. Yes, even Leviticus! Another emphasis here - that I need right now - is that our source of knowledge is the Bible, and I (we) should spend more time reading this Book for direction than other new books and commentaries. (DRM 8/14/07)

    [re: 3:16]    The Bible is not an ordinary book. Every time I read it, I get additional insights from the Holy Spirit. The Book leads different people to teaching etc. as in this verse. I must always remember that God wrote the Book, through men. (DRM 9/21/02)

4:1    I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His Kingdom:

    This verse just makes me want to read the next verse. What does God want me to do? Paul was writing this to Timothy, but really God is telling us His will through His book, the Bible.
    As Christians, we are "charged" to do certain things. When I know what I should be doing, then don't do them, I am convicted by the Holy Spirit that I am sinning. It shows my constant fallen state. I have to ask for forgiveness and try to do all these things.
    I don't have to do works for salvation, but do these works as a result of my salvation and desire for others to come to Christ. (DRM 7/3/15)

4:2    preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. 

    This originally was a directive from Paul to Timothy, but really isn't it a directive to ALL Christians in some way? Lord, help me to be able to do these things too! (DRM 9/22/02)

    EVERY Christian, including me, should be ready to preach the gospel. Maybe it's not to be a leader of a church, but by telling others of my faith, by way of life experiences, my testimony of belief in Christ, or even my silent actions that are observed. I must be ready at all times to tell others of my faith in Christ. My downfall is confidence, but Jesus can change that with prayer. (DRM 8/18/04)

4:3    For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires;

    All three of today's verses (4:3-5) go together. They seem to describe today's events. We need someone to open the eyes of the lost! How can the Lord use me? So long as I am willing and listening I hope He will direct me. (DRM 9/23/02)

    This prophecy has already come true, as I have attended some churches that are more like "common interest groups." There is little or no Biblical teaching and they hope their service will get them to Heaven. The question in my mind is how to show them that they are going down the wrong path? Only the Holy Spirit can open their eyes and hearts to desire the truth of Jesus' Word. (DRM 8/15/07)

4:4    . . . and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.

    This is the second part of a long sentence that started in verse three. Certainly I have seen this prophecy fulfilled as some churches in the past few decades have ceased, or watered down, the preaching of the gospel and have begun preaching "myths" or more worldly views. I think of these as telling a worldly experience, then attaching a Bible verse at the end, so it can sound like a Christian sermon. (DRM 8/18/10)

4:5    But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

    While this was written to Timothy, it applies to all believers who want to know God's will.
    If I only put my name where the word "you" is here, I know that the Lord Jesus wants me to be sober, endure trials, share my faith with others and those things will fulfill my ministry to others. (DRM 8/19/10)

4:6    For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come.

    This is the end of Paul's final letter to anyone - before his earthly death. This verse reflects that Paul knew his time had nearly come.
    His reference to drink offering tells us that he gave all of his effort to the furtherance of the gospel. He was offering his life to the Lord Jesus. There was nothing else to give.
    Will I/we be able to say something like that at the end of our earthly life? No one knows when that day will come. Use every day to further God's Kingdom in some way. . . (DRM 5/11/14)

4:7    I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith;

    Paul must have felt his life was nearly over and was summarizing his life. While I doubt that I will ever be totally satisfied with what I have done for the Lord in appreciation for His gifts, I pray that He will be glorified. (DRM 9/24/02)

    I wonder if I will ever be able to summarize my life like that. After all that Paul went through, he certainly qualified for these words - but what about me? Have I put all of my available time on telling others of Christ's love for them? Have I consistently kept the faith every day? I have a LONG way to go yet! (DRM 8/19/04)

    Paul is writing his final letter before his death, and is now being reflective on his life. When my life is over, I hope that I can say or write similar words. Lord, help me to be a more effective witness to Your love. (DRM 8/16/07)

4:8    in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

    This is just one of the crowns that are given to believers when they get to Heaven. But Who deserves these crowns? The Provider of the blessings! They should be placed at His feet. To love and serve Him is reward enough for His gift of Heaven. (DRM 9/25/02)

4:9, 10    Make every effort to come to me soon; ¹⁰for Demas, having loved this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia.

    Paul was in prison when he wrote this. Some of his friends were deserting him because they "loved this present world."
    As Christians, we are to work and be a witness in this present world. The hard part is setting priorities on our time. What I (we) think is necessary to make a living, others could perceive as loving this present world. I (we) must determine how much time to give to God each day/week. (DRM 8/20/10)

4:11    Only Luke is with me. Pick up Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service.

    I have wanted to serve the Lord in various duties for years now. Paul was a great servant of the Lord, but he had people like "Luke is with me." It's important to go out and serve the Lord in twos or threes, but being single it's easy to get diverted from the purpose.
    I often wonder why no one (99%) else "has time" to serve the Lord when I've suggested they join me. It's hard to be a single Christian! (DRM 9/4/11)

4:12    But Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus.

    It seems that Paul's way of spreading the gospel included sending disciples to churches he had been to in the past, or were growing and could use assistance. Some went on their own (v. 10) for various reasons, and others, like Tychicus, he sent out.
    Paul seemed to do everything right, in that he both wrote about his faith, and proclaimed it to others verbally. He seemingly was never alone - so could disciple others - probably younger men and women - so they could continue the growth of the Christian church. (DRM 1/5/16)

4:13    When you come bring the cloak which I left at Troas with Carpus, and the books, especially the parchments. 

    From this verse, I can see that Paul was always trying to gain more knowledge - and share it. If books were rare in the 1700's, how rare they must have been in c.50! I think of parchments as writing paper - where he could write his thoughts. (DRM 9/26/02)

4:14    Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. 

    There will always be critics of people who proclaim the Word of God. The more outspoken we become, the more opposition Satan will send, either by critics or temptations.
    The best thing to do is to ignore them. My job is to tell others of Christ and His ultimate love. It's His job to deal with the critics - either by events in their lives or their final destruction. We don't know if they will change their ways and remember what we proclaimed. (DRM 8/20/04)

    It's a part of life for people to disagree with my/our views. When they are confrontational, it's more difficult. Paul had a problem with Alexander and did the right thing. . . he let the Lord take the appropriate action with the opposition, in His time. I need to apply this more in my life — instead of giving my own response. (DRM 8/17/07)

4:15    Be on guard against him [Alexander the coppersmith] yourself, for he vigorously opposed our teaching.

    This verse makes no sense without reading the previous verse, so I added the name in brackets here.
    Paul had opposition from Alexander the coppersmith. As we try to tell others about Jesus, we will also encounter opposition. I can easily think of one "friend" that came in my store and didn't even like the word "God" - as he felt God doesn't exist.
    As mentioned in this verse, we aren't to stop witnessing, but rather be prepared for opposition.
    At least we should try to tell people, if they oppose Jesus, at least we tried and they will be responsible in the end. (DRM 6/14/15)

4:16-17a    At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be counted against them. ¹⁷But the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me, in order that through me. . . 

    Many times I have wanted to quit my job and serve the Lord. It seems that Paul is referring to that here. No one supported him in his proclaiming the Gospel. - But the Lord stood with him and helped him. I must learn to trust more in His provisions! (DRM 9/27/02)

    I feel a lot like Paul felt when he wrote this. People go against me, and I have no one to support me. Christian friends desert me at times, but through it all the Lord still is with me. On depressing days, I need to remember not to depend on earthly encouragement [temporary], but rather Jesus' encouragement through the Holy Spirit. (DRM 8/22/04)

    [re: 4:16]    I think this refers to Paul's trial in Rome. He had to defend himself in court and had no support from other believers - apparently they feared for their own lives. Paul seemed to understand this situation. While Jesus said in Matt. 18:20, "where two or three have gathered together in My name, there I am in their midst," it seems that Paul had to stand alone. In that case the other (second) person is Jesus. (DRM 8/18/07)

4:18    The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

    When in doubt, I just have to remember that the Lord is ALWAYS with me. I have been slightly attacked about my new faith and know that more will be coming for sure, but the Lord will help me make it through it all. (DRM 1/28/87)

    When I am dealing with temptation, this would be a good verse to remember. I always need His assurance of salvation! It's a great conclusion to a great book of the Bible. (DRM 9/28/02)

4:21    Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, also Pudens and Linus and Claudia and all the brethren.

    In verse 13, Paul asked for his cloak (jacket) to keep warm in his prison cell. Here, in this verse, he reminds Timothy in different words that it's getting colder in his cell. Apparently he still had some friends that were visiting him in prison who also knew Timothy. This makes me appreciate the heat I have in my apartment in winter. (DRM 8/21/10)

4:22    The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.