ESV Global Study Bible :: Footnotes for 2 Timothy 1

2 Tim. 1:1–2 Opening. Paul begins this letter in his standard way. As he awaits death, he reminds Timothy that the purpose of his work as an apostle has been to proclaim the gospel, the promise of the life that is in Christ Jesus.

2 Tim. 1:3–2:13 Enduring for the Gospel. Paul’s thanksgiving (1:3–5) leads to encouraging Timothy (1:6–14; 2:1–13). In between, he provides positive and negative examples of faithfulness in gospel service (1:15–18). Facing his own death, Paul urges Timothy to continue in faithfulness in spite of hardship.

2 Tim. 1:3–5 Paul thanks God for Timothy. Paul notes that both he (my ancestors) and Timothy (your grandmother . . . your mother) have a heritage of faith.

2 Tim. 1:6–14 Paul challenges Timothy to continue following in his footsteps (compare 3:10–11).

2 Tim. 1:6 fan into flame the gift of God. Paul does not explain what this gift is (see note on 1 Tim. 4:14), but Timothy is to grow and strengthen it. The laying on of my hands may refer to Timothy’s ordination. Paul was probably part of “the council of elders” mentioned in 1 Tim. 4:14.

2 Tim. 1:7 spirit. Probably the Holy Spirit.

2 Tim. 1:8–10 These verses summarize the gospel for which God’s servants suffer. Paul clearly believes that such a glorious message is worthy of their suffering. God, who saved us . . . our Savior Christ Jesus. Paul often describes both God the Father and God the Son as Saviors of their people (compare 1 Tim. 1:1; Titus 1:3–4; 2:13 [and note]).

2 Tim. 1:12 Paul suffers because of his current imprisonment and approaching death. what has been entrusted to me. Either the gospel, which God entrusted to Paul, or Paul’s life (“what I have entrusted to him,” see esv footnote). Either way, this confidence in God prevents Paul from being ashamed. See note on v. 14. until that day. See v. 18; 4:8; Heb. 10:25; and notes on Amos 5:18–20; 1 Thess. 5:2–3.

2 Tim. 1:13 sound words. Jesus’ teaching and work direct Paul’s understanding and application of the gospel.

2 Tim. 1:14 the good deposit entrusted to you. The gospel in the fullest sense, that is, the entire content of the Christian faith.

2 Tim. 1:15 Asia was the Roman province in which Ephesus, Timothy’s current place of service, was located. all . . . turned away from me. Key people who could have supported Paul failed to do so. It seemed as if “all” had deserted him (compare 4:16). There is no further information about Phygelus and Hermogenes. These details of Paul’s situation help explain why Timothy, the faithful one, was such a source of joy for Paul (see 1:3–5).

2 Tim. 1:18 that day. See note on v. 12.