1 I charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away [their] ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith:
8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
9 Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me:
10 For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.
11 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.
12 And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.
13 The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring [with thee], and the books, [but] especially the parchments.
14 Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:
15 Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.
16 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all [men] forsook me: [I pray God] that it may not be laid to their charge.
17 Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
18 And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve [me] unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen.
19 Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.
20 Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick.
21 Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.
22 The Lord Jesus Christ [be] with thy spirit. Grace [be] with you. Amen.
Overview of 2 Timothy Chapter 4
2 Timothy 4 is the final chapter of Paul’s second letter to Timothy, where Paul offers a poignant mix of exhortation, personal reflection, and a sense of urgency regarding his impending death. This chapter serves as a powerful conclusion to the themes of perseverance, faithfulness, and the importance of sound doctrine that permeate the entire letter.
Exhortation to Preach the Word
Paul begins the chapter with a strong charge to Timothy:
- Preach the Word: Paul emphasizes the necessity of preaching the Gospel with urgency, regardless of the circumstances.
- Be Prepared: Timothy is encouraged to be ready to preach in all situations, whether favorable or unfavorable.
- Correct, Rebuke, and Encourage: Paul instructs Timothy to use Scripture to guide, correct, and uplift those in his care.
Warnings Against False Teachings
Paul forewarns Timothy about the challenges he will face in his ministry:
- People’s Itching Ears: He notes that many will turn away from sound doctrine, seeking teachings that satisfy their desires.
- Myths and Fables: Paul warns against the allure of false teachings and encourages Timothy to remain steadfast in truth.
Personal Reflections and Final Instructions
As Paul reflects on his life and ministry, he shares personal insights:
- His Imminent Death: Paul acknowledges that he is nearing the end of his life, describing it as a “drink offering” being poured out.
- Faithfulness: He expresses confidence in having fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.
- Crown of Righteousness: Paul speaks of the reward awaiting him, emphasizing the hope of eternal life for all who long for Christ’s appearing.
Personal Requests and Relationships
Paul makes several personal requests, highlighting the importance of relationships in ministry:
- Come Quickly: He asks Timothy to come to him soon, indicating a sense of urgency and need for companionship.
- Mark and Demas: Paul mentions individuals who have either supported him or deserted him, illustrating the varied responses to his ministry.
- Bring Items: He requests specific items, such as a cloak and books, emphasizing his human needs and the importance of continued study.
Final Encouragement and Blessing
The chapter concludes with a heartfelt blessing and encouragement:
- Grace: Paul ends with a reminder of the grace of the Lord, underscoring its sufficiency in times of trial.
- Presence of the Lord: He emphasizes the importance of the Lord’s presence, which strengthens and sustains believers.
Thematic Significance
Chapter 4 encapsulates several key themes:
- Perseverance in Ministry: The call to remain steadfast in preaching the Gospel amidst challenges is central.
- Importance of Sound Doctrine: The warning against false teachings serves as a reminder of the need for discernment.
- Personal Relationships: Paul’s emphasis on companionship and support illustrates the communal aspect of faith.
- Hope and Reward: The promise of eternal life and the crown of righteousness serves as motivation for believers to endure.
Conclusion
2 Timothy Chapter 4 is a rich and multifaceted conclusion to Paul’s letter, combining personal reflection with profound theological insights. It serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of faithfulness, the dangers of false teachings, and the hope found in Christ.
