Introduction to 2 Timothy

2 Timothy is the final inspired writing by the Apostle Paul before he was martyred around AD 67. He had already written one letter to Timothy, who was his son in the faith, and instructed him about matters of the church. Since Timothy was a young pastor, Paul wanted him to conduct himself with integrity so that the church could be effective in spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. In his second letter to Timothy, Paul wrote from a Roman prison knowing his time was short but he wanted to be certain Timothy would faithfully continue in the ministry. Paul’s themes in this letter include not quitting (chapter 1), following the right examples (chapter 2), avoiding false teachings (chapter 3), and preaching faithfully (chapter 4). Paul may have been concerned that Timothy was compromising his faith due to the carnality of the church and the persecution he was experiencing from the world. Paul did not want Timothy to weaken under this pressure but faithfully carry out the work which God had called him to do. I believe every Christian can relate with the experience of Timothy as we can become frustrated with the apathy of the church and the pressure from the outside world. Instead of fighting apathy and temptation, sometimes we give in and compromise our faith; however, we must remember that God has called us to be faithful.