Pauline Epistles · New Testament
2 Timothy
c. AD 66–67
- Section
- Pauline Epistles · New Testament
- Events span
- c. AD 66–67
- Written
- c. AD 67, from Roman imprisonment critical view: Disputed; possibly c. late 1st century
- Author
- Paul the Apostle critical view: Anonymous (pseudonymous), c. late 1st century
Paul's final letter, written from a Roman prison as he awaits execution, is a moving charge to Timothy to be faithful. He urges him to guard the gospel, endure suffering, preach the word in season and out, and hold to Scripture — declaring, “I have fought a good fight… I have kept the faith.”
Key themes
- Faithful endurance
- Guard the gospel
- The inspiration of Scripture
- Preach the word
- Finishing well
The letter's charge
- Paul urges Timothy to fan into flame his gift and not be ashamed of the gospel
- Endure hardship as a good soldier, athlete, and hardworking farmer of Christ
- In the last days perilous times will come; all Scripture is given by inspiration of God
- "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season"
- "I have fought a good fight… I have kept the faith" — Paul nears the end
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:”