During the course of Paul’s ministry throughout the Roman Empire, he wrote a total of 13 letters addressed to specific churches (like Corinth) or regions (like Galatia), and to specific individuals (like Timothy). These letters are usually referred to as “The “Pauline Epistles.” His second letter to Timothy happens to be Paul’s last letter which was written during his second imprisonment in Rome.

A lot had happened after Paul was released from his first imprisonment in Rome. Many speculate that he actually traveled to Spain preaching the Gospel, and upon his return, discovered that after setting fire to Rome, Nero decided to use the Christian community in Rome as his scapegoat for the conflagration, unleashing an empire-wide persecution against the Church. It is almost certain that shortly after Paul returned from Spain, he was immediately arrested, and because of the ongoing persecution, found little support from many whom he had trusted to step forward in his defense. And so, sensing that the end may be near, Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy, and in fact, it was his last letter to anyone. Shortly after this letter was sent from his prison cell in Rome by one of his trusted curriers, Paul was executed.

In spite of Paul’s circumstances, and in spite of the fact that he knew that his journey on earth was about to end, this happens to be one of his most encouraging letters. He begins by assuring Timothy of his continuing love and prayers, reminding him of his spiritual heritage and responsibilities. He reminded Timothy that only the one who perseveres under trial, whether as a soldier, athlete, farmer, or minister of the Gospel, will reap the rewards. Paul continued to warn Timothy that his ministry will face opposition, but Timothy has Paul as a wise mentor as well as God’s Word to fortify his faith as he faced growing opposition to the truth.

In this letter, Paul encouraged Timothy to carry on the work of ministry after his “departure,” enduring the hardships that he was facing, both from within as well as from outside the church. As Timothy’s spiritual father, Paul urged him to overcome his natural timidity and to boldly proclaim the gospel, knowing that his stand for the truth would bear lasting spiritual fruit. Paul writes,

“Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 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” ( 2 Tim. 2:3-4).

In spite of suffering “hardship” along with Paul, Timothy was exhorted to,
“…continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them; 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” (2 Tim. 3:14-15).

And then Paul wrapped up this exhortation with words that form a foundation for much of our Christian theology regarding the authority of the Word of God,
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

All Scripture is inspired by God, that is, it is “God breathed.” In other words, the Holy Spirit moved in the hearts of those who wrote the Scriptures in their own language and style, keeping them from error, without dictating word for word what to write. In other words, we can trust the words that we have in our Bibles, which is “profitable for teaching” (in areas of doctrine and practical living); for “reproof” (convicting us of error); for “correction” (restoring us to the right path); and for “training in righteousness” (providing the necessary guidelines for living a godly life).

Personally, as a church leader and pastor, I love this exhortation given to Timothy,
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15).

But there is more as we look at some of Paul’s final touching words in his letter to Timothy,
“I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award me on that day; and not to me only, but to all who have loved His appearing” (2 Tim. 4:6-8).
As the letter draws to a close, Paul provided some fitting words for everyone who feels that they are facing the temptations and trials of life alone,

“At my first defense, no one supported me, but all deserted me…But the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me, in order that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was delivered out of the lion’s mouth. The Lord will deliver me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom” (2 Tim. 4:16-18).

In spite of being abandoned by others who could have supported him, Paul felt God’s strength empowering him to provide a good defense of the Gospel, knowing that this defense would likely lead to his final day on earth. And yet, his reward would be granted to him “on that day” when he meets the Lord. May each of us stand firm and confident during those tough times when we feel alone. God is with us, and will bring us safely to His heavenly shore. Let’s trust Him and commit our lives to Him.

May the Lord bless each of you. Peggy and I send our love to you!