Berean Study Bible Preach the WordPaul places Timothy’s ministry under the searching witness of the Father and the Son. The charge is not merely apostolic advice but a solemn obligation before the God who knows every heart and holds His servants accountable. Similar appeals underscore the gravity of faithful leadership in the church (Deuteronomy 31:28; 1 Timothy 5:21). 1Ti 5:21 I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus… who will judge the living and the dead, Christ has been appointed as the final Judge of all people, including those alive at His return and those raised from death (Acts 10:42; Revelation 20:12–13). His judgment will reveal the truth of every life and vindicate God’s perfect righteousness. Timothy’s calling to preach faithfully carries eternal significance because every person will stand before Christ. Act 10:42 And He commanded us to preach to the people… and in view of His appearing and His kingdom: Christ’s visible return will bring the full revelation of His royal authority and the consummation of His kingdom (Titus 2:13; Revelation 11:15). Believers already belong to His kingdom, yet they await the day when He will rule openly over all creation. The certainty of His appearing gives urgency to gospel ministry and steadiness in suffering. Mat 25:31-34 When the Son of Man comes in His glory,… Preach the word; Timothy was charged to proclaim God’s revealed truth centered in Jesus Christ, not personal opinion or cultural preference. Peter’s sermon at Pentecost shows how apostolic preaching explained Scripture, declared Christ’s death and resurrection, called for repentance, and summoned hearers to faith (Acts 2:14–41). The church advances through the faithful announcement of the gospel, for faith comes by hearing the word of Christ (Romans 10:17). Mrk 16:15 And He said to them, “Go into all the world… be prepared in season and out of season; Ministry requires steadfast readiness whether the message is welcomed or resisted. Timothy was not to wait for favorable circumstances, public approval, or convenient opportunities. Like believers called to be ready to give a reason for their hope (1 Peter 3:15), he was to remain spiritually alert and available for every opening God provided. 1Pe 3:15 But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord.… reprove, rebuke, and encourage The Word exposes error, confronts sin, and strengthens those who seek to obey the Lord. Reproof brings wrongdoing into the light; rebuke addresses rebellion that persists; encouragement restores courage and directs believers toward faithful endurance. Jesus modeled both holy confrontation and compassionate care, speaking severe warnings to hardened religious leaders while tenderly restoring the weak and repentant. Tit 2:15 Speak these things as you encourage and rebuke… with every form of patient instruction. Correction must not become harshness or impatience. Spiritual growth often requires repeated teaching, faithful example, and long-suffering love. Timothy was to guard sound doctrine while dealing gently with people, trusting God to use His Word to mature the church and preserve it from destructive error. 2Ti 2:24-25 And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome… For the time will come Paul warns Timothy of a coming and recurring danger within the visible church. Jesus likewise foretold that many would fall away, false prophets would arise, and lawlessness would grow (Matthew 24:10–12). The threat was already near in Timothy’s ministry, and it continues wherever believers neglect vigilance and truth. 1Ti 4:1 Now the Spirit expressly states that in later times… when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, Sound doctrine is the wholesome, apostolic teaching centered on Christ, His saving work, and the authority of God’s Word. The first believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching (Acts 2:42), while Paul condemned every departure from the gospel once delivered (Galatians 1:6–9). Rejection of truth often begins when God’s commands confront cherished sins or worldly assumptions. Tit 1:9 He must hold firmly to the faithful word as it was taught… but with itching ears Hearers may desire messages that flatter, entertain, or excuse them rather than words that expose sin and call for repentance. Athens illustrated the appetite for novelty, where people continually sought the latest idea (Acts 17:21). Spiritual maturity receives God’s truth even when it corrects, rebukes, and demands change. Jer 5:31 The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule… they will gather around themselves teachers People who refuse faithful teaching often seek leaders willing to validate their preferences. Corinth had already suffered divisions as believers attached themselves to favored human leaders rather than remaining united in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:12–13). Such selection reverses the proper order: God appoints teachers to serve His Word, not to shape doctrine according to popular demand. Act 20:30 Even from your own number, men will rise up… to suit their own desires. Self-will replaces submission to God when personal desire becomes the measure of truth. Humanity’s exchange of God’s truth for a lie reveals the same rebellion (Romans 1:25). Christ calls His disciples to deny themselves, take up the cross, and follow Him (Luke 9:23), receiving truth not because it pleases the flesh but because it comes from the Lord. 2Pe 3:3 Most importantly, you must understand that in the last days… So they will turn their ears away from the truth A willful rejection of the gospel follows the refusal to endure sound doctrine. Paul warns that people may deliberately close themselves to the apostolic message of Christ crucified, risen, and reigning. Such rejection is not merely intellectual; it reflects a heart unwilling to submit to God’s authority. The truth sets sinners free through Christ (John 8:32), yet those who prefer sin or self-made religion may exchange God’s truth for a lie (Romans 1:25). 2Th 2:10-12 and with every wicked deception directed against those… and turn aside to myths. Having rejected the truth, people do not remain spiritually neutral. They seek teachings that satisfy their desires, whether religious speculation, human tradition, or doctrines that promise acceptance without repentance. False teachers in the early church promoted inventions and distortions contrary to the faith delivered by the apostles (1 Timothy 1:4; Titus 1:14). Timothy was therefore to remain steadfast in Scripture and proclaim the true gospel, even when many preferred messages that were easier to hear. Tit 1:14 will pay no attention to Jewish myths or to the commands… But you, be sober in all things, Timothy was to remain clear-minded, watchful, and self-controlled while others abandoned sound doctrine for teaching that pleased their desires. Spiritual alertness was essential because false teaching, persecution, and personal discouragement could weaken a minister’s judgment. Peter likewise commanded believers to be sober and vigilant in view of the devil’s opposition (1 Peter 5:8). 1Pe 5:8 Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil… endure hardship, Faithful gospel ministry would bring suffering rather than ease. Paul wrote from imprisonment in Rome as he faced death, yet he regarded suffering for Christ as part of his calling. Timothy was not to retreat when ministry became costly, for Christ Himself taught that those who follow Him must take up their cross (Matthew 16:24). 2Ti 1:8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord,… do the work of an evangelist, The gospel of Jesus Christ was to be openly proclaimed to those who had not believed and carefully taught among the churches. Timothy’s work included guarding the message from distortion, calling sinners to repentance and faith, and strengthening believers in the truth. The risen Christ had entrusted His church with making disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19–20). Act 21:8 Leaving the next day, we went on to Caesarea… fulfill your ministry. God had entrusted Timothy with a definite stewardship in Ephesus: teaching sound doctrine, confronting error, shepherding believers, and preparing others to serve. Paul’s charge calls for perseverance until the work is completed, not merely enthusiasm at its beginning. Every servant of Christ will give account for what has been entrusted to him. Col 4:17 “See to it that you complete the ministry”… For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, Paul writes as a prisoner in Rome, facing the likelihood of execution under Nero. Drink offerings accompanied the sacrifices prescribed in the law, as wine was poured out before the Lord in worship and complete consecration (Numbers 15:1–10). Paul regards his approaching death as the final offering of a life already devoted to Christ. He had expressed the same willingness in Philippians 2:17, rejoicing to be poured out in service for the faith of God’s people. His martyrdom would not atone for sin, for Christ alone offered the sufficient sacrifice for sinners, but it would bear witness to the Savior who poured out His life for many. Php 2:17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering… and the time of my departure is at hand. Death stands before Paul as a departure into the presence of the Lord rather than the end of his hope. He had long desired to depart and be with Christ, which he knew was far better (Philippians 1:23). Paul’s confidence rests in the resurrection promised through Jesus Christ, who has conquered death and will raise all who belong to Him (1 Corinthians 15:51–57). The nearness of death does not produce despair but solemn readiness, because his life and future are secure in the hands of God. Php 1:23 I am torn between the two. I desire to depart… I have fought the good fight, Paul’s ministry had been marked by conflict against sin, Satan, persecution, and the corruption of the gospel. He had endured imprisonment, beatings, rejection, and opposition from false teachers, yet he had not withdrawn from the calling Christ gave him. The battle was “good” because it was waged for the truth of the gospel and the salvation of those entrusted to his care. Paul had urged Timothy to “fight the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12), and he could now testify that he had done so faithfully. 1Ti 6:12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life… I have finished the race, Paul viewed his apostolic service as a course appointed by God. Near the end of his life, imprisoned in Rome and expecting death, he knew that his earthly ministry was complete. Like an athlete who reaches the finish after disciplined endurance, Paul had carried the gospel from city to city, established churches, strengthened believers, and testified before rulers. His words echo Christ’s declaration that He had finished the work the Father gave Him to do (John 17:4). 1Co 9:24-27 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run… I have kept the faith. Paul had guarded the gospel entrusted to him and had remained loyal to Christ despite suffering and pressure to compromise. He had defended sound doctrine against legalism, pagan immorality, and teachings that denied essential truths about Christ and the resurrection. His confidence did not rest in a sinless life or personal achievement, but in steadfast faithfulness to the Lord who had called and sustained him. 1Ti 1:19 holding on to faith and a good conscience… From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, Paul faces death with settled confidence because Christ has preserved an eternal reward for him. The crown recalls the wreath awarded to victorious athletes, yet this reward neither fades nor depends on human merit. Righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ, and the crown belongs to those whose lives have been shaped by that faith. James 1:12 and Revelation 2:10 likewise connect the crown with enduring faith, victory, and eternal life. Col 1:5 the faith and love proceeding from the hope stored up… which the Lord, the righteous Judge, Jesus Christ will judge with perfect holiness, knowledge, and justice. Earthly courts could be swayed by power, wealth, or partiality, but the risen Lord judges every person without corruption or error. God has appointed Him to judge the world in righteousness (Acts 17:31). Psa 7:11 God is a righteous judge and a God who feels indignation… will award to me on that day— The award awaits the day of Christ’s appearing, when He will complete His righteous judgment and openly vindicate His faithful servants. Paul’s confidence rests in God’s promise and in the finished work of Christ, not in any uncertainty about his own standing before God. 2Co 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ,… and not only to me, The hope of eternal reward is not reserved for apostles, pastors, or prominent servants of the church. Every believer united to Christ shares in the promise of His salvation and will receive the gracious reward He gives to faithful service. Rom 8:17 And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God… but to all who crave His appearing. Love for Christ includes a sincere longing for His return. Believers await His appearing as the blessed hope, when sin, suffering, and death will be finally overcome and they will be with the Lord forever. Tit 2:13 as we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance…
Personal ConcernsPaul urges Timothy to treat the journey as a pressing responsibility. Near the end of his earthly ministry, Paul knew that opportunities for fellowship and final instruction were limited. Faithful service includes responding promptly when love, duty, and the needs of Christ’s servants call for action. Eph 4:3 and with diligence to preserve the unity… to come to me Paul writes from imprisonment in Rome, facing the likelihood of execution. Though sustained by the Lord, he deeply desired the presence of Timothy, his trusted fellow worker and spiritual son. The request reveals that Christian endurance is not meant to exclude human fellowship; God often strengthens His people through the faithful companionship of other believers. Tit 3:12 As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you,… quickly, Paul’s remaining time was short, and winter travel would soon become difficult. He longed to see Timothy again, to encourage him in ministry, and to leave him with final personal counsel. The urgency calls believers to act faithfully in the present, since life and opportunities for service are brief. Php 2:24 And I trust in the Lord that I myself will come soon. because Demas, in his love of this world, Demas had once served alongside Paul and was named among his fellow workers in Colossians 4:14 and Philemon 1:24. Yet devotion to the present age drew him away when association with Paul meant danger, suffering, and possible death. Love for the world conflicts with steadfast devotion to Christ, for the world and its desires are passing away (1 John 2:15–17). 1Jn 2:15-17 Do not love the world or anything in the world.… has deserted me Demas abandoned Paul during his final imprisonment in Rome, when the apostle especially needed the encouragement and practical help of trusted companions. His departure added personal sorrow to Paul’s suffering and recalls the disciples’ flight when Jesus was arrested (Mark 14:50). Faithfulness is tested when service to Christ becomes costly. 2Ti 1:15 You know that everyone in the Province of Asia… and gone to Thessalonica. Thessalonica was a prominent Macedonian city where Paul had planted a church amid persecution (Acts 17:1–9). Demas may have returned to a place familiar to him, leaving the hardship and danger surrounding Paul in Rome. Act 17:1-4 When they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia,… Crescens has gone to Galatia, Crescens is otherwise unknown in Scripture, but Paul’s wording does not carry the rebuke given to Demas. His journey to Galatia likely involved ministry among churches established through Paul’s earlier work. Even as Paul’s own life neared its end, the gospel continued moving through faithful servants. Act 18:23 After Paul had spent some time in Antioch,… and Titus to Dalmatia. Titus was a proven coworker whom Paul had entrusted with difficult responsibilities in Corinth and Crete (2 Corinthians 7:6–7; Titus 1:5). Dalmatia lay along the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea, north of Macedonia. Titus’s mission demonstrates the continuing spread of the gospel into regions beyond the churches first reached by Paul. Tit 3:12 As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you,… Only Luke is with me. Luke remained beside Paul during his final imprisonment in Rome when many others had departed. The beloved physician brought both personal care and faithful fellowship to the aging apostle, whose circumstances were marked by hardship and approaching death. As the author of Luke and Acts, Luke also preserved the account of the gospel’s advance from Jerusalem to Rome. His loyalty demonstrates the quiet strength of those who sustain gospel ministry through steadfast presence, practical service, and endurance in adversity. Col 4:14 Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas send you greetings. Get Mark and bring him with you, John Mark had once withdrawn from Paul and Barnabas during their first missionary journey, leading to a painful division between Paul and Barnabas. Yet Mark’s earlier failure did not define his future. Over time he was restored to fellowship and proved himself faithful. Paul’s request reveals reconciliation accomplished through grace and shows that believers can be renewed for fruitful service after weakness or disappointment. Mark later became associated with Peter and is recognized as the author of the Gospel of Mark. Col 4:10 My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you greetings… because he is useful to me in the ministry. Mark had become a trusted servant whose gifts could strengthen Paul during his imprisonment and assist the continuing work of the gospel. His restoration testifies that God prepares and uses imperfect servants who grow in faithfulness. Ministry depends not only on prominent leaders but also on faithful companions whose service advances Christ’s work in practical and enduring ways. 2Ti 2:21 So if anyone cleanses himself of what is unfit,… Tychicus, Tychicus had proven himself a faithful servant of Christ and a dependable representative of Paul, having carried news and letters to churches in Asia Minor. Act 20:4 Paul was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea,… however, The transition moves from Paul’s account of those who had departed or were serving elsewhere to a trusted coworker assigned to meet a specific need. Act 20:24 But I consider my life of no value to me… I have sent Paul’s action reveals purposeful pastoral oversight. Tychicus’s assignment likely provided support for the Ephesian believers and may have enabled Timothy to leave Ephesus and come quickly to Paul in Rome. Tit 3:12 As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you,… to Ephesus. Ephesus remained a vital center of Christian witness in Asia, where Paul had labored extensively and where Timothy was serving amid doctrinal and pastoral challenges. Act 20:17 From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders… When you come, Paul asks Timothy to make the journey to Rome without delay. Near the end of his life, the apostle longs for the presence of his faithful coworker and spiritual son. Tit 3:12 As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you,… bring the cloak Paul’s imprisonment did not remove ordinary physical needs. A heavy outer garment would be vital during the cold season, especially in a Roman prison. Mrk 10:50 Throwing off his cloak, Bartimaeus jumped up… that I left with Carpus Carpus, apparently a trusted believer in Troas, had safeguarded Paul’s belongings. The request reflects the hospitality, trust, and practical support that bound the early churches together. 2Ti 1:12 For I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced… at Troas, Troas was an important port city on the northwest coast of Asia Minor. Paul had ministered there, received the Macedonian vision there, and later raised Eutychus after his fall from an upper-room gathering. 2Co 2:12 Now when I went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ… and my scrolls, Even while awaiting execution, Paul remained devoted to reading, study, and the ministry of God’s Word. The scrolls may have included portions of the Old Testament Scriptures and other writings useful for instruction. Jer 36:2 Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken… especially the parchments. Paul considered these documents especially valuable, perhaps because they contained sacred writings, correspondence, or material prepared for teaching. His final requests show that faithful service to Christ includes endurance in suffering, dependence on fellow believers, and continued attention to God’s truth. 2Jn 1:12 I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not… Alexander the coppersmith Alexander is mentioned in the New Testament as a coppersmith, indicating his trade in metalwork, which was a common and respected profession in the ancient world. The name Alexander was common, making it difficult to identify him with certainty, but he may be the same individual mentioned in Acts 19:33, who was involved in the uproar in Ephesus. The trade of coppersmiths was significant in Ephesus, a city known for its commerce and idolatry, particularly the worship of Artemis. This connection suggests that Alexander might have had a vested interest in opposing Paul, whose teachings threatened the local economy tied to idol-making. 1Ti 1:19-20 holding on to faith and a good conscience… did great harm to me. Alexander’s opposition may have involved public accusation, legal pressure, disruption of Paul’s ministry, or active resistance to apostolic teaching. Paul warns Timothy because Alexander remained a danger to the church and its faithful proclamation of the gospel. 2Co 11:24-27 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes… The Lord will repay him This statement reflects a deep trust in divine justice. Paul does not seek personal vengeance but leaves judgment to God, aligning with teachings found in Romans 12:19, where believers are instructed to leave room for God’s wrath. This perspective is consistent with the broader biblical theme of God as the ultimate judge who will right all wrongs. It underscores the Christian principle of forgiveness and reliance on God’s justice rather than personal retribution. Rom 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved; leave room… according to his deeds. God sees every act of hostility against His servants and every rejection of His truth. Alexander’s actions carried real moral accountability, and the Lord’s judgment would be perfectly just. Rom 2:6 God “will repay each one according to his deeds.” You too should beware of him, Paul charges Timothy to remain watchful against Alexander the coppersmith, whose conduct had already harmed the apostolic ministry. Timothy’s service in Ephesus required discernment because those who resist the gospel can also endanger believers and distort the church’s witness. Christian love does not require careless trust toward a determined opponent of the truth. Paul had entrusted Alexander’s judgment to the Lord, yet he also instructed Timothy to recognize the danger and act wisely. 1Ti 1:20 Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander.… for he has vigorously opposed our message. Alexander’s hostility was directed against the gospel proclaimed by Paul and his fellow workers, not merely against Paul personally. Opposition to Christ’s message often takes concrete forms through slander, public resistance, false teaching, or efforts to hinder faithful ministry. Timothy was to guard the doctrine entrusted to him and continue preaching the word without surrendering to fear or compromise. The Lord sees such resistance and will judge righteously, while His servants are called to remain steadfast in truth. Act 18:6 But when they opposed and insulted him,…
The Lord Remains FaithfulPaul refers to an initial hearing during his final imprisonment in Rome, likely under Nero. He stood before Roman authorities to answer charges arising from his ministry and testimony to Christ. Act 24:10 Knowing that you have been a judge over this nation… no one stood with me, No fellow believer appeared publicly to support him in court. Fear of persecution and association with a condemned prisoner likely kept many away. 2Ti 1:15 You know that everyone in the Province of Asia… but everyone deserted me. Paul felt the pain of abandonment, yet he did not allow it to become bitterness. Like Jesus, who was forsaken by His disciples in the hour of His arrest, Paul bore suffering for the sake of the gospel. Mat 26:56 But this has all happened so that the writings… May it not be charged against them. Paul asks God not to hold their failure against them. His prayer reflects the mercy of Christ, who prayed for those who abandoned, denied, and crucified Him, and it reveals a heart governed by grace rather than revenge. Act 7:60 Falling on his knees, he cried out in a loud voice,… But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, Abandoned by human companions at his first defense, Paul was not abandoned by Christ. The risen Lord had stood near him before in times of danger (Acts 23:11), and He supplied the courage and endurance needed to remain faithful. God’s servants may face isolation, accusation, and suffering, yet the Lord’s presence sustains them for the work He gives them. Act 23:11 The following night the Lord stood near Paul… so that through me the message would be fully proclaimed, Paul’s preservation served the advance of the gospel. His calling as Christ’s chosen witness included bearing His name before Gentiles, kings, and Israel (Acts 9:15). Even a Roman trial became an opportunity for the full proclamation of salvation through the crucified and risen Christ. Col 1:25 I became its servant by the commission God gave me… and all the Gentiles would hear it. Paul’s public defense likely brought the gospel before Roman officials and others gathered in the imperial setting. The message entrusted to Israel was being announced among the nations, fulfilling God’s purpose that His salvation would reach the ends of the earth (Isaiah 49:6). In Christ, Gentiles are welcomed into God’s people through faith, apart from ethnic distinction or human merit. Act 28:28 Be advised, therefore, that God’s salvation has been sent… So I was delivered from the mouth of the lion. Paul was rescued from immediate destruction and enabled to continue his testimony. The lion portrays deadly danger, whether represented by hostile authorities, persecutors, or the spiritual opposition behind them. Like Daniel’s deliverance from the lions, Paul’s rescue displayed God’s power to preserve His servant until the appointed work was complete. Dan 6:22 My God sent His angel and shut the mouths of the lions.… And the Lord will rescue me from every evil action Paul writes as he faces the prospect of death (2 Timothy 4:6). The Lord’s rescue does not mean that Paul expects release from execution; rather, no evil work of men, Satan, or persecution will overturn God’s purpose or draw him away from faithful obedience. The Lord had stood by Paul during his defense when others deserted him (2 Timothy 4:16–17), and He would preserve him from spiritual defeat until the end. 2Ti 3:11 my persecutions, and the sufferings that came upon me… and bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom. Paul looks beyond earthly survival to the certain completion of salvation. His death would not be a loss to evil powers but an entrance into God’s eternal reign. The heavenly kingdom is the final inheritance of those redeemed by Christ, where suffering, opposition, and death no longer remain. Such confidence rests in the Lord who keeps His people and raises them to everlasting life. 2Pe 1:11 and you will receive a lavish reception… To Him be the glory forever and ever. Deliverance, perseverance, salvation, and the coming kingdom belong wholly to God. Paul directs all honor to the Lord whose faithfulness sustained him through ministry, imprisonment, abandonment, and approaching death. God’s glory will endure beyond every earthly kingdom and every generation. Gal 1:5 to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. Amen. Paul affirms with settled confidence that God will accomplish all He has promised. Neh 8:6 Then Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God…
Final GreetingsPrisca and Aquila were trusted coworkers of Paul who first met him in Corinth after Claudius expelled many Jews from Rome. Sharing Paul’s tentmaking trade, they provided practical fellowship and joined him in gospel labor. They later helped instruct Apollos more accurately in the way of God at Ephesus and hosted churches in their home. Their repeated movement between Corinth, Ephesus, and Rome shows their enduring service wherever the Lord opened opportunities. Paul’s greeting places them among the faithful believers supporting Timothy’s ministry in Ephesus. Rom 16:3 Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, as well as the household of Onesiphorus. Onesiphorus had refreshed Paul during his Roman imprisonment and was not ashamed to seek him out despite the danger associated with Paul’s chains. Paul had previously prayed that the Lord would show mercy to Onesiphorus and his household, and he remembered the many ways Onesiphorus served in Ephesus. Greeting his household rather than Onesiphorus himself indicates that he was absent, and may suggest that he had died. His family remained connected to the church and bore witness to the lasting fruit of his faithful service. 2Ti 1:16 May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus,… Erastus has remained at Corinth, Erastus was known in Corinth as the city treasurer (Romans 16:23), a position of public trust in one of Achaia’s leading commercial centers. He had also served alongside Timothy in ministry (Acts 19:22). His continued presence in Corinth reflects the church’s need for faithful men in established congregations and shows that the gospel had reached people of social influence as well as those of humble station. Rom 16:23 Gaius, who has hosted me and all the church,… and Trophimus I left sick in Miletus. Trophimus, a Gentile believer from Ephesus, had traveled with Paul and was present in Jerusalem when hostile Jews falsely accused Paul of bringing him into the temple (Acts 20:4; 21:29). Miletus lay near Ephesus and had earlier been the place where Paul addressed the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:15–38). Trophimus’s illness shows that devoted servants of Christ were not spared physical weakness and that apostolic miracles were exercised according to God’s will, not human control. Paul’s brief report also reveals his continuing concern for fellow laborers amid his own imprisonment and approaching death. Act 20:4 Paul was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea,… Make every effort to come to me before winter. Paul’s imprisonment in Rome had entered its final and most difficult stage, and he longed for Timothy’s presence before winter made travel hazardous or impossible. Mediterranean navigation commonly ceased during the stormy season, leaving Paul isolated and without needed help. The appeal reveals both Paul’s confidence in the Lord and his honest need for the fellowship of a trusted fellow worker. Having testified that his departure was near, Paul desired Timothy’s companionship as he awaited the completion of his earthly course. Tit 3:12 As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you,… Eubulus sends you greetings, Eubulus belonged to the Roman believers who stood near Paul during his confinement. Though Scripture gives no further account of him, his greeting shows that faithful Christians in Rome remained concerned for Timothy and united with Paul in the work of the gospel. 1Pe 5:13 The church in Babylon, chosen together with you, … as do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, Pudens, Linus, and Claudia were known to Timothy and formed part of the Christian community in Rome. Early church tradition identifies Linus as an early leader of the Roman church after the apostles, though the biblical text simply presents him as a brother sending greeting. Their names testify that the church included believers from differing households and backgrounds, joined in allegiance to Christ amid a hostile imperial city. Rom 16:3-5 Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus,… and all the brothers. The wider body of believers in Rome joined in sending encouragement to Timothy. Christians were bound together as members of God’s household, sharing in one another’s burdens, dangers, service, and hope. Their united greeting strengthened the bond between Paul’s Roman companions and Timothy’s ministry elsewhere. 1Co 16:20 All the brothers here send you greetings.… The Lord be with your spirit. Paul commits Timothy’s inner life to the presence and sustaining power of the Lord Jesus Christ. Writing from imprisonment near the end of his life, Paul knew that Timothy needed divine strength to continue guarding the gospel, enduring opposition, and fulfilling his ministry. Christ’s presence supplies courage and steadfastness where human support fails. Phm 1:25 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Grace be with you all. Although addressed personally to Timothy, the letter was intended to strengthen the believers gathered with him. God’s grace grants salvation and continues to sustain His people in faithful service, suffering, and perseverance. Paul’s final blessing leaves Timothy and the church under the sufficient favor of God. 2Th 3:18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you. This is a draft of the Berean Study Bible. Please send all comments and recommendations to bereanstudybible@aol.com. Bible Hub |
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