2 Timothy 4:9-22
Q.1. Why did Paul want to see Timothy? What made this time in his life difficult for Paul? How was his pain multiplied? – (2 Tim.4:9-16)
Paul was in jail and had been left with only Luke as his companion. He had dispatched a number of his disciples to support the churches of Asia Minor (2 Tim.4:9-12). Demas had completely turned away from the faith. This would have wounded Paul. Even worse, he was aware that Alexander the coppersmith had opposed his teachings and had done the cause of Christ much harm (2 Tim.4:10 & 14-15). Timothy was Paul’s precious son in the faith. Paul longed to renew fellowship, and gain comfort from him. He also needed his cloak, books, and parchments to be brought to him for further study (2 Tim.4:13). John Mark, who had abandoned them on a previous journey, had changed. Paul now wanted his support (2 Tim.4:11). Paul was always working on some project, even when in jail.
Q.2. What was Paul’s goal amid the problems? What inspired his confidence to persevere? – (2 Tim.4:16-18)
Amid his trials Paul maintained his passion to reach the Gentiles with the faith. He may have been abandoned by some of his former associates, but he was not altogether forsaken, because – the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was rescued out of the lion’s mouth (2 Tim.4:17). God’s presence amid these severe conflicts reinforced his conviction that – The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever (2 Tim.4:18). God’s grace will always be sufficient for each trial (c.f. 2 Cor.12:9).
Q.3. What did Paul communicate in his final greeting to Timothy? – (2 Tim.4:19-22)
Paul wanted Timothy to relay his greetings, and ongoing confidence in God, to his many co-workers (2 Tim.4:19-21). They were ever in his thoughts and prayers. God had endowed Paul with ‘signs, wonders and miraculous miracles’, in order to advance the Gospel (c.f. 2 Cor.12:11-12 c.f. Acts 19:11-12; 28:8-9). However, Paul was powerless to heal Trophimus at Miletus (2 Tim.4:20). He then closed with an encouraging benediction –The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you (2 Tim.4:22c.f. 1:2). We can be confident that the same grace with which we started our journey, will prove sufficient for each day, until beyond our last (c.f. Phil.1:6).