3:1 So [Therefore] when we could stand it [to bear up under the strain of separation] no longer [communication was slow; Paul anxious to hear about the welfare of the Thessalonian believers], we thought it best [to determine] to be left by ourselves [alone; “He shows that he had a greater consideration for them than for himself by choosing to be left alone rather than that they should be deserted.” (Calvin)] in Athens [cf. Acts 17:16-34].

3:2 We [refers either to Paul or to Paul and Silas] sent [a tangible expression of Paul’s concern for the Thessalonian believers] Timothy [Paul’s “true son in the faith” (1 Tim. 1:2)], who is our brother [points to the spiritual companionship that existed between Paul and Timothy] and God’s fellow worker [co-worker for God; Gr. word “deacon” (used in broad sense of one who ministers in God’s service)] in spreading the gospel of Christ [Christ is author and content of the gospel], [threefold reason for sending Timothy] [1] to strengthen [support; establish (because their faith under attack)] and [2] encourage [Gr. parakaleo : to exhort, to comfort, to inspire] you in [for the furtherance of; on behalf of] your faith,

3:3 [3] so [the result of Timothy’s ministry] that no one would be unsettled [to shake or wag (like a dog’s tail)] by these trials [pressure; tribulations]. You know quite well that we [Paul, who had suffered numerous trials (cf. 2 Cor. 11:24-28), included himself with the Thessalonians] were destined [Jesus had predicted the suffering of His followers (Matt. 10:17-42; 24:9; Jn. 15:20)] for them [trials].

3:4 In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling [told on several occasions; Paul did not hide the cost of following Christ (cf. Acts 14:22)] you [therefore persecution should not have surprised the Thessalonians (cf. 1 Pet. 4:12)] that we would be persecuted [to put under pressure; cf. Jn. 15:20]. And it turned out [to happen] that way, as you well know.

3:5 For this reason, when I could stand it no longer [the suspense concerning the spiritual welfare of the Thessalonian believers], I sent [another purpose of Timothy’s visit] to find out about your faith [to discover if their faith was holding up to persecution]. I was afraid that in some way the tempter [Satan determined to spiritually defeat believers] might have tempted [to test, to try, to tempt; indicates Satan already at work] you and our efforts [toil; Paul labored to point of weariness] might have been useless [cf. Phil. 2:16].

3:6 But Timothy has just now [indicates that Paul wasted no time in writing to the Thessalonians after Timothy’s arrival in Corinth] come [after completing his assigned mission (3:2); cf. Acts 18:1-5] to us from you and has brought good news [Timothy’s report was a “gospel” to Paul’s anxious heart; the only time Paul used the term translated “good news” (Gr. euangelizomai) for anything other than preaching the gospel; Timothy’s report confirmed that Paul’s work in Thessalonica was not wasted (cf. 3:5)] about your faith [Paul’s principal concern (cf. 1 Thess. 3:5,7); their faith remained strong in the midst of persecution] and love [demonstrated toward one another]. He has told us that you always have pleasant memories [indicates that the Thessalonians did not view Paul as a troublemaker or charlatan preacher] of us [the founder of their church] and that you long to see us, just as we also long to see you.

3:7 Therefore, brothers, in all our distress [choking pressures] and [cf. Acts 18:5-6,12-13 re: what Paul was experiencing from Jewish community and local government in Corinth] persecution [overbearing tribulation] we were encouraged [had new energy to go on; cf. Rom. 1:12] about you because of your faith.

3:8 For now we really live [Paul’s life had “been on hold” until he received Timothy’s report], since [the basis for Paul’s encouragement] you are standing firm [faithfulness despite difficult circumstances] in the Lord [supplies the power to stand firm].

3:9 [a rhetorical question] How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?

3:10 Night and day [constantly (as in 2:9)] we pray most earnestly [cf. 2 Cor. 11:28 re: Paul’s “concern for all the churches”] that we may see you again [a return visit] and supply [“to put into the proper condition, to make complete;” reinforce, improve the quality of a person’s relationship with God] what is lacking [Paul had only been with them a short time, thus they needed further teaching that would lead them to maturity in Christ; cf. Eph. 4:12-13] in your faith [refers to Christian maturity not salvation experience].

3:11 Now may our God and Father himself [our lives are in His hands] and our Lord Jesus clear the way [to make a straight path (from Paul to the Thessalonians); to remove the obstacles which Satan had used to obstruct the path (cf. 2:18)] for us to come to you [no indication that Paul was able to return to Thessalonica; note that Aristarchus and Secundus (from Thessalonica) joined Paul on his third missionary journey (Acts 20:4-5)].

3:12 May the Lord make your love [agape kind of love: selfless desire for the welfare of others; essential for the survival and growth of a church] increase and overflow [love should be growing continually; cf. Rom. 13:8] for each other [cf. Jn. 13:34] and [additionally] for everyone else [those outside the church], just as ours does for you.

3:13 May he strengthen your hearts [inward purposes and desires] so that you will be blameless [spotless; without fault] and holy in the presence of our God and Father when [refers to second coming of Christ] our Lord Jesus comes with all [includes angels as per Matt. 13:41; 25:31; Mk. 8:38; 13:27; Lk. 9:26; 2 Thess. 1:7] his holy ones [believers as per 4:13-18; coming with departed saints for the living saints].

2:1 You know [by personal experience], brothers [those converted under Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica], that our visit [brief in duration but effective in its impact (Acts 17:1-10)] to you was not a failure [hollow, empty, vain, ineffective, worthless; refers to Paul’s preaching; visit might have appeared to be a failure because they had to secretly leave town at night (Acts 17:10); on the contrary Paul’s preaching was full of power; the Thessalonians’ response to the gospel was proof that Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica was not a failure].

2:2 We had previously suffered [cf. Acts 16:22-23] and been insulted [to abuse or to treat shamefully] in Philippi [cf. Acts 16:11-40], as you know, but with the help [“Divine work can only be accomplished in dependence upon Divine strength.” (Watchman Nee)] of our God [Paul relied on God’s help and strength] we dared to tell you [to speak freely with boldness and courage] his gospel [the same message that had triggered opposition in Philippi; see also 2:8,9] in spite of strong opposition [conflict; Paul willing to suffer for what he believed (evidence of his sincerity and genuine motives)].

2:3 [note three ways in which Paul and his companions were not preaching; these reflect the charges that had been made against Paul and his team by their enemies] For the appeal [exhortation, encouragement] we make [1] does not spring from error or [2] impure motives [such as ambition, greed, or pride], [3] nor are we trying to trick you.

2:4 On the contrary [Paul refuted the accusations of his enemies], we speak [and will continue to speak] as men approved [to approve after examination or testing; deemed fit; endorsed by God] by God to be [purpose or goal of the approval] entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men [characteristic of false teachers; cf. Gal. 1:10] but God, who tests our hearts [cf. Jer. 17:10].

2:5 You know we never used flattery [flattery for the sake of self-interest; flattery is the indispensable resource of those who try to please men; “It is deception by slick eloquence, the idea being to win over the hearts in order to exploit them.” (Lightfoot)], nor did we put on a mask [did not play a theatrical role before the Thessalonians] to cover up [cloak, pretense] greed [selfishness; desire to get more at the expense of others]—God is our witness.

2:6 We were not looking for praise [compliments about their preaching or their hard work] from men, not from you or anyone else [they sought approval from God alone]. As apostles [used in broader sense of “missionaries” or those commissioned and sent out by church (cf. Acts 13:4); Paul and Silas (and possibly Timothy)] of Christ we could have been a burden [Paul practiced his trade to not be a burden to the Thessalonians; see 2:9; (cf. 2 Thess. 3:7-10)] to you [by making demands and expecting monetary help],

2:7 but [note characteristic of Paul’s ministry] we were gentle among you, like a mother [willing to undertake any kind of duty and go to any trouble or effort] caring for [to nourish, to cherish] her little children.

2:8 We loved you [to long for someone] so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God [see also 2:2,9] but our lives as well [Paul and his companions held back nothing in their ministry; this involved sacrifice and personal involvement], because you had become so dear to us.

2:9 Surely you remember, brothers, our toil [arduous work; same word used for “labor” in 1:3] and hardship [indicates that there were external factors that made the labor more exhausting]; we worked night and day [refers to long hours] in order not to be a burden [to place a weight on someone; to make demands; Paul was a tentmaker (Acts 18:3); no one could accuse Paul of preaching for monetary profit; Paul’s labor set him apart from false teachers who were a financial burden to their hearers] to anyone while we preached the gospel of God [see also 2:2,8] to you.

2:10 You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy [describes our duty toward God; set apart for God’s service], righteous [uprightness in dealing with others] and blameless [without reproach] we were [Paul and Silas preached through their words and their lives; they set a consistent example] among you who believed.

2:11 For you know that we dealt with each [they had a personal relationship with each believer in Thessalonica] of you as a father [compare v. 7 where Paul and Silas were like a “mother”] deals with [in matters of teaching and raising children] his own children,

2:12 encouraging [Gr. paraklesis: to come alongside with helpful instruction and insight], comforting [Gr. paramytheomai: to come alongside with sympathy and concern] and urging [testifying; strong discipline] you to live lives worthy of God [to live consistently with God’s commands and character], who calls you into his kingdom [refers to the reign of God in the hearts of believers] and glory.

2:13 And we [Paul, Silas, and Timothy] also thank God continually [without ceasing; expressed ongoing nature of Paul’s gratitude] because [introduces reasons for Paul’s gratitude], when you received [Gr. (paralambano): “to receive alongside or to take to oneself;” denotes an act of objective, outward receiving] the word of God [the gospel message verbally proclaimed], which you heard from us [the messengers], [note how the Thessalonians received the message] you accepted [Gr. (dechomai): “to welcome with approval” (and to act on God’s word by receiving Christ by faith); denotes a subjective reception] it not as the word of men [the message was not merely human ideas; cf. Gal. 1:11-12], but as it actually [really] is, the word of God [divine origin of the gospel], which [the word of God] is at work [only God’s word has the power to transform, guide, and cleanse people’s lives; continues to work (an ongoing process); cf. 2 Tim. 3:15-17] in you who believe [emphasizes the continuing faith of the Thessalonians; cf. Lk. 8:11,15; Heb. 4:12].

2:14 For you, brothers, became [indicates what happened to them] imitators [in the way they faced persecution; Thessalonian believers did not abandon their faith when facing persecution] of God’s [gives theological identity to the word “churches”] churches [multiple congregations] in Judea [first churches to be founded outside Jerusalem; endured persecution faithfully; Thessalonians were not alone in enduring persecution], which are in Christ Jesus: You [Gentile believers at Thessalonica] suffered [cf. Jn. 15:18; 2 Tim. 3:12] from your own countrymen [unbelieving Jews and unconverted Gentiles in Thessalonica; cf. Acts 17:5; read Paul’s testimony in 2 Cor. 11:26] the same things [persecution] those [Jewish Christians of Judea] churches suffered from the Jews [Paul himself had once persecuted “those churches” (Acts 9:1)],

2:15 [note three charges against the (unbelieving) Jews] [1] who [specifically: unbelieving Jews, especially those engaged in the persecutions cited in 2:14; cf. Matt. 27:25] killed [even though Romans did the actual crucifying] the Lord [title denotes Jesus’ divine nature] Jesus [name denotes Jesus’ human nature] and [before killing Jesus] the prophets [cf. Acts 7:52; Matt. 23:29-37] and [2] also drove us [Paul, Silas, Timothy] out [cf. Acts 17:10,13; Paul often had to contend with Jewish opposition]. [3] They [those whom God intended to be a light to the nations (Isa. 49:6)] displease [continual or habitual attitude; they do not make it their aim to please God] God and are hostile to all men [all humanity]

2:16 in their effort to keep us from [to hinder, to prevent (continual action); indicates how “they displease God” (2:15)] speaking [the gospel] to the Gentiles so that [the goal of Paul’s preaching to the Gentiles] they may be saved [cf. Acts 22:21]. In this way they always [throughout their history the Jews had killed God’s prophets (cf. Matt. 23:29,31,34-35,37) and by so doing were filling up the cup of their sin; in killing Christ and driving out His apostles, they filled up the cup of their sin to the limit] heap up [to fill up] their sins [plural: indicated many separate acts of hostility to the gospel] to the limit [to the full]. The wrath [“As the cup of the sin had been gradually filling, so had the measures of the divine wrath.” (Ellicott)] of God has come upon them at last [fully or finally].

2:17 But, brothers [an affectionate expression of loving concern], when we were torn away [indicates situation (his departure) was forced (cf. Acts 17:4-9); to make an orphan by separation; “we are like children who lost their parents” (Lightfoot)] from you [the new believers] for a short time [not a permanent separation; indicates Paul and Thessalonians expected to reunite] (in person [face; separation was physical only], not in thought [heart: place of affections; out of sight but not out of mind]), out of our intense [strong, blazing] longing [desire; positive zeal] we made every effort [to make haste; eager] to see you.

2:18 For [because] we wanted [to desire] to come to you—certainly I, Paul [indicates personal concern], did, again and again [repeatedly; several times]—but Satan stopped [to cut in, to hinder, to block, to cut a trench; word originally used of breaking up a road to make it impassable; Paul did not indicate methods (perhaps opposition, illness, travel complications, direct attack by Satan) Satan used to prevent his return to Thessalonica; perhaps Paul did not give details perhaps because the Thessalonian believers knew what he was talking about or Timothy explained to the Thessalonian believers what Paul meant] us.

2:19 For what is our hope [points to Paul’s confidence in the Thessalonian believers], our joy [indicates what Paul would feel at seeing them presented to the Lord], or the crown [alludes to wreath of victory awarded to winners in the games (cf. 1 Cor. 9:25)] in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes [refers to Christ’s second coming]? Is it not you [rhetorical question; “It is certainly you, isn’t it?”]?

2:20 Indeed [yes], you [emphatic: you alone] are our glory and joy.

1:1 Paul, Silas [replaced Barnabas on the second missionary journey (Acts 15:40)] and Timothy, To the church [Gr. (ekklesia): assembly] of the Thessalonians [Paul, Silas, and Timothy first visited Thessalonica (capital and largest city of Roman province of Macedonia) on second missionary journey; they planted a church there but had to leave in a hurry because their lives were threatened; cf. Acts 17:1-10] in [points to true nature of a Christian church and identified what distinguished the Thessalonian church from other assemblies] God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace [receiving from God what we cannot earn and do not deserve] and peace [peace between believers and God made possible by Christ through His death on the cross; the result of grace] to you.

Paul and Silas spent enough time in Thessalonica to start a church there. As a result of their teaching, Jews and God-fearing Greeks and many of the leading women in the community came to faith in Christ. However, envious and angry Jewish leaders recruited some wicked men from the marketplace and incited a riot to protest the presence of Paul and Silas and their controversial message. As a result, Paul and Silas had to leave Thessalonica under cover of darkness. They traveled to Berea where they continued preaching the gospel of Christ.

Paul later wrote to the church in Thessalonica to answer questions about their new faith and to commend them for remaining faithful to Christ. Paul had faithfully demonstrated the love of Christ when he was among the Thessalonians. And, to their credit, the Thessalonians followed Paul’s example and became faithful witnesses to others in the area of the gospel and the love of God.

1:2 We [Paul, Silas, and Timothy] always thank God for all [Paul did not want to exclude any of the Thessalonian believers; every one of them had qualities worth thanking God for] of you [thanked God for progress of Thessalonian believers], mentioning you in [on the occasion of] our prayers [how Paul and his companions gave thanks].

Paul thanked God for the progress the Thessalonians had made in their new walk with Christ (1:2-3). Like Paul, we should continually be praying for others, especially new believers. We should never underestimate the importance of our prayers. Praying for others is one way in which we can demonstrate our love and concern for them.

Paul was thankful that the Thessalonians had remained faithful to Christ in spite of persecution and pressure to do otherwise. He also reminded the Thessalonian believers that they were chosen and loved by God (1:4). Knowing we are chosen and loved by God should motivate or energize us to obey, serve, and please Him — in other words, to live a life worthy of God’s choice and filled with gratitude for His love.

1:3 We continually [unceasingly] remember [describes the ground of the thanksgiving] before our God and Father your work [active work or results of work; perhaps refers to missionary work (1:8), acts of goodness toward others (4:9-10), or loyalty to Christ in persecution (1:6)] produced by faith, your labor [hard and wearying toil] prompted by love [(Gr. agape) second mile effort that sustains labor for the sake of others], and your endurance inspired by hope [fortitude in the face of difficulty; faith, love, and hope describe the motivation behind their work, labor, and endurance] in our Lord Jesus Christ [probably refers to second coming of Christ].

1:4 For we know, brothers [affectionate term; denotes spiritual relationship of those bound together in Christ; “brothers” and “brother” used nineteen times in this letter] loved by God [Greek perfect tense: signifying a love existing in the past and realized in the present], that he has chosen you,

1:5 because our [theirs by divine commission (cf. Rom. 1:1) and personal experience; they had been sent by God] gospel [emphasis on the message rather than bearers of the message] came [note four ways in which the gospel came to them] to you not simply [1] with words [not with hollow rhetoric], but also [2] with power [cf. Rom. 1:16 and 1 Cor. 2:4-5 re: “power of God;” words spoken in the power of the Holy Spirit produce positive results; the Holy Spirit makes the gospel meaningful to hearers (cf. Isa. 55:11)], [3] with the Holy Spirit [the source of power; cf. Acts 1:8] and [4] with deep [full] conviction [assurance, confidence in the power of Jesus Christ to change lives]. You know [indicates Thessalonian believers were aware] how [what sort of] we [Paul, Silas, Timothy] lived [lived what they preached] among you [in your midst] for your sake [Paul and his companions were aware of the power of their example].

When Paul was in Thessalonica, he had preached the gospel with more than just words. Paul was aware of the power of his example and made certain that his life was consistent with the gospel message. In 1 Corinthians 11:1 Paul wrote: “Be imitators of me, as I also am of Christ.” Paul wanted for others to follow his example only insofar as he followed the example of Christ.

Like Paul, we should live the kind of life that others would want to imitate (1:6). Paul had shared the gospel in dependence upon the power of the Holy Spirit. Witnessing is sharing and showing Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit and leaving the results to God. It is the Holy Spirit who convicts the world through the gospel message and the satisfactory lives of believers.

As “the salt of the earth” (Matt. 5:13) our lives should make people thirsty for the “living water” that Jesus alone offers (John 4:10). The love that had motivated Paul to take the gospel to Thessalonica made a difference in the lives of the people. The Thessalonian believers who embraced the gospel were also motivated by love to share the gospel with their neighbors. We must do no less.

1:6 You became imitators [Gr. mimetes (source for word mimic); one who follows the example or teaching of another; cf. Phil. 3:17] of us [manner of life] and of the Lord [cf. 1 Cor. 11:1]; in spite of severe suffering [cf. Acts 17:5; 1 Thess. 3:2-4], you welcomed [to receive] the message with the joy given by [inspired by] the Holy Spirit.

1:7 And so [because of their exemplary conduct in the face of persecution] you became a model [pattern; an exact reproduction; an example to be followed] to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia [two provinces that made up Greece].

1:8 The Lord’s message rang out [to sound forth; to sound out as a trumpet; a continuing process] from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere [hyperbole: meant everywhere the evangelistic Thessalonian Christians went or every place where a church had been established; the church had shared the gospel beyond the city limits and had a good reputation]. Therefore [because their faith was so well known] we do not need to say anything about it [the Thessalonians’ faith],

1:9 for they themselves [the people of Macedonia and Achaia] report [other people were talking about the Thessalonian church, their suffering, and how they had received Paul and his companions] what kind of reception you gave us [Paul, Silas, and Timothy]. They tell [note additional topics of conversation re: the Thessalonians] how you turned to God from [the decision to turn to God results in changes in every area of life; indicates the significance of their conversion] idols to serve [to serve as a slave] the living [in contrast to lifeless idols] and true [in contrast to unreal idols] God,

1:10 and to wait [occurs only here in NT; sustained expectation] for his Son from heaven [the second coming of Christ], whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath [refers to when God will destroy all evil (cf. 1 Thess. 5:9; 2 Thess. 1:6-10)].

6:1 All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered.

6:2 Those who have believing masters are not to show less respect for them because they are brothers. Instead, they are to serve them even better, because those who benefit from their service are believers, and dear to them. These are the things you are to teach and urge on them.

6:3 [Paul did not want false teachers to undermine the church he had planted in Ephesus] If anyone [cf. Matt. 7:15-16] teaches false doctrines [doctrines that contribute to spiritual illness in listeners; cause people to think and act in ways contrary to Christ’s teaching] and does not agree to the sound [a medical term from which we get our English word “hygiene” (thus healthy doctrine that is life-giving)] instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ [what Jesus taught and demonstrated] and to godly teaching [literally “healthy words;” likely includes teachings about Jesus as well as His teachings],

6:4 he is conceited [people whose opinion of themselves is excessively high; derived from a word meaning “to make smoke” and indicates people blinded by pride] and understands nothing [about God’s revealed truth]. He has an unhealthy interest [literally, are “diseased with”] in controversies and quarrels [a competitive attitude] about words [Gr. logomaxias or “word wars”] that result in envy [material gain was a key motive behind false teaching], strife [quarreling or selfish competition], malicious talk [slander; malicious verbal attacks], evil suspicions

6:5 and constant friction [disagreement] between men of corrupt [debased or tainted] mind, who have been robbed of the truth [the truth was completely absent from their minds] and [note false teachers’ motives…] who think that godliness is a means to financial gain [their goal was to get rich].

6:6 But godliness [in itself; truth displayed in right living] with contentment [sufficiency in Christ] is great gain [spiritual rather than material].

6:7 For we brought nothing into the world [cf. Job 1:21], and we can take nothing out of it [cf. Ecc. 5:15; Lk. 12:20-21; we should not spend our lives pursuing what we cannot keep].

Note: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” Jim Elliot (martyred in Ecuador 1/8/56)

6:8 But if we have food and clothing [life’s basic needs], we will be content [requires discipline and dependence on God] with that.

6:9 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap [cf. 1 Tim. 3:7; 2 Tim. 2:26] and into many foolish [desires that reasonable people would reject] and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction [includes both material and spiritual disaster].

6:10 For the love [craving money above all else] of money [money itself is neither good nor evil] is a [one among many] root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

6:11 But you [Timothy], man of God, flee from all this [included the heresy, envy, quarreling, greed that characterized false teachers (cf. 6:3-5)], and pursue [1] righteousness [morally upright and virtuous living; dealing rightly with others], [2] godliness [includes moral purity and behavior that is in line with God’s character], [3] faith, [4] love, [5] endurance [patience in difficult circumstances] and [6] gentleness [patience with difficult people].

6:12 Fight the good fight [suggests continuous struggle with the false teachers] of the faith [unlike false teachers who expended energy for wrong purposes]. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses [refers to Timothy’s public profession of faith at his baptism].

6:13 In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you

6:14 to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ,

6:15 which God will bring about in his own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords,

6:16 who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen.

6:17 Command those who are rich [word here refers to someone extremely wealthy] in this present world [or present age; refers to one of the two divisions of history in Jewish thought — the present evil age and the age to come] not to be arrogant [Gr. hupsilophroneo means to think too highly of oneself] nor to put their hope [here implies a confident assurance of what will be] in [or upon] wealth [wealth is unreliable], which is so uncertain [something that can be lost as easily as it was gained; cf. Matt. 6:19], but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

6:18 Command them [1] to do good [to do works that are beneficial and helpful to others; works that leave others in better shape than before the good was performed], [2] to be rich in good deeds, and [3] to be generous [includes willingness to share with those in need; thrilled at the opportunity to share with those in need] and [4] willing [as opposed to begrudgingly] to share [as opposed to selfishness].

6:19 In this way they will lay up [to store away treasure in a place where it cannot be stolen or ruined] treasure [cf. Matt. 6:19-21; Lk. 12:33; 18:22] for themselves as a firm [sound] foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life [cf. Jn. 10:10].

6:20 Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge,

6:21 which some have professed and in so doing have wandered from the faith. Grace be with you.

5:1 Do not rebuke [refers to severe verbal censure or scolding] an older man harshly, but exhort [to encourage or to implore; term carries idea of correcting in a gentle manner] him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers,

5:2 older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity [pastors must be above all suspicion sexually and relationally with those under their care].

5:3 Give proper recognition [to support; prize; revere; honor] to those widows [cf. Ex. 22:22; Deut. 24:19-22; Ps. 68:5; Jas. 1:27] who are really in need [Paul defined what he meant by “really in need” in the verses that follow].

5:4 But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these [note three reasons why families should minister to widows in their own families…] should learn first of all [1] to put their religion into practice by [2] caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, [3] for this is pleasing to God.

5:5 The widow who is really in need [with no source of income] and left all alone [with no relatives to support her] puts her hope in God [depends on God to provide for her needs] and continues night and day [consistently] to pray and to ask God for help.

5:6 But the widow who lives for pleasure [a self-indulgent widow; one who lives for herself rather than for God] is dead [spiritually dead] even while she lives [physically alive].

5:7 Give the people [entire congregation and widows] these instructions [about ministering to widows], too, so that no one may be open to blame [possibly means that the church would not be blamed for caring for some widows and not others].

5:8 If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family [this expanded the responsibility beyond widows to include any family members truly in need], he has denied the faith and is worse [because his act of negligence is done with knowledge of what God requires] than an unbeliever.

5:9 No widow may be put on the list [an official support list; note three qualifications…] of widows unless [1] she is over sixty [employment and remarriage unlikely at this age], [2] has been faithful to her husband,

5:10 [3] and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality [opening her home to strangers and the needy; willing to make sacrifices to meet needs of others], washing the feet of the saints [indicates a willingness to humbly serve], helping those in trouble [anyone with a problem such as hunger, bereavement, sickness, persecution] and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.

5:11 As for younger widows, do not put them on such a list. For when their sensual desires overcome their dedication to Christ, they want to marry.

5:12 Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge.

5:13 Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to.

5:14 So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander.

5:15 Some have in fact already turned away to follow Satan.

5:16 If any woman who is a believer has widows in her family, she should help them and not let the church be burdened with them, so that the church can help those widows who are really in need.

5:17 The elders [individuals who served the church as leaders; term in this verse likely synonymous with pastor or overseer] who direct the affairs of the church well [who demonstrate good leadership and capable management of the church] are worthy of double honor [an ample honorarium; expression includes idea of appreciation and financial remuneration], especially those whose work is preaching and teaching [these words stress the importance of the ministry of the Word].

5:18 For the Scripture says [cf. Deut. 25:4], “Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,” and [cf. Matt. 10:10b; Lk. 10:7] “The worker deserves his wages.”

5:19 Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses [cf. Deut. 17:6; 19:15].

5:20 Those [church leaders] who sin [suggests a repeated practice rather than an isolated occurrence] are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others [other elders or the church as a whole] may take warning [or be afraid].

5:21 I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect [designation apparently is in contrast to fallen angels (cf. Jude 6)] angels, to keep these instructions without partiality [or prejudice], and to do nothing out of favoritism.

5:22 Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.

5:23 Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.

5:24 The sins of some men are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them.

5:25 In the same way, good deeds are obvious [cf. Prov. 3:3-4 re: “a good name” or reputation before God and man; cf. Matt. 5:16], and even those that are not cannot be hidden.

4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times [the time between Christ’s ascension and return] some will abandon [depart from; cf. Matt. 24:11; Acts 20:29-30] the faith and follow [pay attention to; devote oneself to] deceiving [Satan is the father of lies and deceptions; cf. Jn. 8:44] spirits and things taught by demons.

4:2 Such teachings come through [origin of teachings was demonic (4:1) but spread by people] hypocritical [those spreading error appeared to be devoted to Christ] liars, whose consciences have been seared [and therefore unable to distinguish truth from error] as with a hot iron.

4:3 They [note two prohibitions] [1] forbid people to marry [Paul never prohibited marriage] [2] and order them to abstain from certain foods [a prohibition which had no spiritual value or spiritual foundation; cf. Mk. 7:19], which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth.

4:4 For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,

4:5 because it is consecrated [“sanctified” or set apart] by the word of God [either God’s declaration that all is good (Gen. 1:31), the OT in general, or the Christian gospel message] and prayer [the table blessing offered in thanksgiving to God for His provision].

4:6 If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister [a servant leader] of Christ Jesus, brought up in [1] the truths of the faith and [2] of the good teaching [the biblical basis of his behavior] that you have followed.

4:7 Have nothing to do with godless [religiously bankrupt] myths [frivolous and not worthy of serious attention (Lea)] and old wives’ tales [inappropriate conversations; silly and empty talk]; rather, train [by means of spiritual disciplines; with the intensity, determination, and discipline of an athlete] yourself to be godly [we owe God both reverence and godly living].

4:8 For physical training [Gr. gumnaze from which we get our word gymnasium] is of some [but not as much as] value [see 1 Cor. 6:19-20 regarding stewardship of our bodies], but [by comparison; even more important than physical fitness; acknowledges that physical fitness should not be ignored] godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life [even as we continue to age and physically deteriorate; see 2 Cor. 4:16] and the life to come [see 2 Cor. 5:1].

4:9 This is a trustworthy saying [the content of verse 8] that deserves full acceptance

4:10 (and for this we labor [strenuous toil] and strive [like an athlete; these words are a reminder that spiritual maturity is a pursuit]), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men [does not mean that God automatically saves all people], and especially of those who believe [who respond to Him in faith].

4:11 Command [charge authoritatively] and teach [Christian doctrine] these things [see vv. 6-10].

4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young [perhaps 30-35 years old; spiritual maturity, not physical maturity, is key to effective ministry; cf. Ps. 119:100], but set an example for the believers in speech, in life [daily behavior should be consistent with speech], in love [self-giving kind of love], in faith [or faithfulness] and in purity [maintain high moral standards].

4:13 Until I come, devote yourself to [ways to refute false teachings include…] [1] the public reading [because people did not have personal copies of the Scripture] of Scripture [i.e., the OT], to [2] preaching [exhortation; warn, advise, urge, and help listeners apply Scripture to daily lives] and to [3] teaching [formal instruction in Christian doctrine].

4:14 Do not neglect [don’t get into the habit of neglecting] your gift [probably exhortation and teaching], which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands [symbolic acknowledgment, affirmation and recognition of the gift the Holy Spirit had given Timothy] on you.

4:15 Be diligent [keep on keeping on; bury yourself in] in these matters [doctrine and personal holiness]; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see [recognize and be stimulated to personal growth] your progress [through speech, lifestyle, faith, and purity as per v. 12].

4:16 Watch [be spiritually alert and attentive] your life [holy living] and [sound] doctrine closely. Persevere [continue; stick to them] in them, because if you do [our beliefs and behavior matter], you will save [as opposed to “shipwrecked” in 1 Tim. 1:19] both yourself and your hearers [cf. Ps. 69:6].

1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus,

1:2 To Timothy, my dear son [Timothy converted on Paul’s first missionary journey (Acts 14:8-23)]: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

1:3 I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers.

1:4 Recalling your [Timothy’s] tears [possibly refers to tears shed at their last meeting prior to the writing of 1 Timothy (cf. 1 Tim. 1:3) or to tears shed at Paul’s visit recorded in Acts 20:17-38], I [Paul] long to see you [an intense longing for a reunion with Timothy], so that I may be filled with joy.

1:5 I have been reminded of your sincere [genuine] faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice [cf. 2 Tim. 3:15] and, I am persuaded [convinced], now lives in you also.

Note: The word “sincere” means “without wax” or “sine cera.” It was a word used to designate pottery or porcelain that was perfect. Cracked porcelain frequently was patched with wax and unsuspecting buyers would not discover the flaw in their purchase until the sunlight melted the wax. Thus some have defined the term “sincere” as meaning “judged in the sunlight.” Honest merchants were always careful to label their wares “sine cera.”

1:6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame [to stir up coals already burning] the gift [spiritual gift; in this case, Timothy’s God-given ability to preach and teach] of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands [this act acknowledged (publicly and officially) that Timothy had received God’s gift but was not the means of bestowing that gift; cf. 1 Tim. 4:14].

1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity [fearfulness, cowardice, hesitancy], but a spirit [refers to the spiritual traits God produces in believers] of power [God provides divine strength for the accomplishment of His divine work], of love and of self-discipline [self-control or sound judgment].

1:8 So do not be ashamed [these words are a warning, not an accusation; stand firm against any temptation to cowardice] to testify about our Lord [refers to the gospel message], or ashamed of me his prisoner [Paul was a prisoner of Jesus Christ, the One who had captured his heart]. But join with me [Christian ministry is a team effort] in suffering [cf. Matt. 5:11-12; Mk. 8:34-38; 1 Thess. 3:4] for the gospel, by [by relying on…] the power of God [not human strength alone],

1:9 who has saved us and called us to [salvation should result in holy living] a holy life [to live a life patterned after Jesus (cf. Rom. 8:28-30)]—not because of anything we have done [works] but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us [to all who place their faith in Christ alone for salvation] in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,

1:10 but it [what God had planned from the beginning] has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed [abolished or made ineffective (for those who place their faith in Him; cf. Rom. 6:23)] death [ultimately death will be destroyed (1 Cor. 15:26)] and has brought life and immortality [eternal life] to light through the gospel.

1:11 [cf. 1 Tim. 2:7] And of this gospel I [Paul] was appointed [indicates that Paul did not choose these roles…] a herald [one sent to announce some news to the public] and an apostle [one commissioned or sent to do a special task; cf. Acts 9:1-6] and a teacher [Paul instructed people about Christ].

1:12 That is why I am suffering [cf. 2 Cor. 11:22-27] as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know [means more than knowing facts; indicates personal relationship with Christ] whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted [himself, his salvation] to him for that day.

1:13 What you heard from me, keep as the pattern [this term is translated “example” in 1 Tim. 1:6; could designate an outline] of sound [healthy (as opposed to false doctrine)] teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus.

1:14 Guard the good deposit [the truth of the gospel] that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit [convicts us when we stray from the truth] who lives in us.

1:15 You know that everyone in the province of Asia [included Ephesus, where Timothy ministered] has deserted me [because of his arrest and the influence of the false teachers], including Phygelus and Hermogenes [identity of these two is uncertain; possibly held leadership positions in the church].

1:16 May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because [1] he often refreshed [through his companionship and/or by providing for Paul’s practical needs (food, clothing, supplies)] me and [2] was not ashamed of my chains [he did not desert Paul because of his imprisonment].

1:17 On the contrary, when he was in Rome, he searched hard [made a great effort] for me until he found me.

1:18 May the Lord grant that he will find mercy from the Lord on that day! You know very well in how many ways he helped me in Ephesus.

2:1 You then, my son, be strong in [rely upon the Lord’s strength] the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

2:2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses [various groups of people] entrust [place or deposit in the care of] to reliable [faithful] men who will also be qualified to teach [disciple] others.

2:3 Endure hardship [opposition and obstacles] with us [all who serve Christ must “endure hardship”] like [Paul used three images to illustrate Christian faithfulness and endurance…] [1] a good soldier [represented a disciplined and faithful individual] of Christ Jesus.

2:4 No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs [soldiers do not allow the concerns of everyday life to distract them from their main purpose]—he wants to please his commanding officer [or the one who enlisted him].

2:5 Similarly, if anyone competes as [2] an athlete, he does not receive the victor’s crown [an evergreen wreath] unless he competes according to the rules.

2:6 The [3] hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops [as a faithful Christian worker will receive rewards in heaven].

2:7 Reflect on [consider] what I am saying [the images of the soldier (2:3-4), athlete (2:5), and farmer (2:6)], for the Lord will give you insight [understanding to make right judgments or to comprehend correctly] into all this.

2:8 Remember Jesus Christ [our model of endurance; He completed the work He came to do], raised from the dead [death and resurrection of Jesus comprise the essence of the gospel], descended from David [cf. Matt. 1:1; Rom. 1:3; Jesus fulfilled God’s promise to David that his descendant would forever be on the throne (2 Sam. 7:12-16; Lk. 1:31-33)]. This is my gospel,

2:9 for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal [this word is also used to refer to the thieves who hung on the crosses beside Jesus (Lk. 23:32)]. But God’s word is not chained [God’s truth can never be chained or imprisoned].

2:10 Therefore I endure [cf. 2 Cor. 6:3-10; 11:23-33] everything [note the reason for Paul’s diligent perseverance and willingness to endure suffering…] for the sake of the elect [all who respond to God’s call to salvation; cf. terminology in Deut. 7:6], that they too may obtain the salvation [so that others might have the opportunity to hear the gospel] that is in Christ Jesus [the source of salvation], with eternal glory [a benefit of salvation].

2:11 Here is a trustworthy saying [the following could have been part of a Christian confession of faith used at baptism or part of a Christian hymn]: If we died [either the death symbolized by baptism (dying to sin) or martyrdom; cf. Rom. 6:1-11; Col. 2:20; 3:1] with him, we will also live with him;

2:12 if we endure [endure persecution, hatred, rejection; Paul believed that those genuinely saved would endure; cf. Matt. 24:13], we will also reign with him. If we [those who are not saved] disown [deny; the kind of denial rooted in unbelief] him, he will also disown us [cf. Matt. 10:33];

2:13 if we [Christians] are faithless [at times], he [God] will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself.

2:14 Keep reminding [reminding people of the truth is one way to combat error] them [the entire church; the faithful teachers of 2:2; false teachers] of these things [likely refers to the “trustworthy saying” in 2:11-13]. Warn them before God [emphasizes that we all are accountable to God for our actions] against quarreling about words; it is of no value [not profitable; such useless quarreling causes division], and only ruins those who listen.

2:15 Do your best [“be diligent” (NKJV) or be zealous] to present yourself to God as one approved [one who has stood the test; term commonly used for metals which had been tested by fire and proved to be genuine], a workman [a laborer for God] who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles [Gr. “orthotomounta” means “to cut straight” (as in accurately cutting a stone to fit into a wall or cutting a piece of cloth with straight edges)] the word of truth [another designation for the gospel].

2:16 Avoid [because the threat of heresy was constant, Timothy was to remain continually alert] godless chatter [cf. 1 Tim. 6:20; 2 Tim. 2:14; false doctrine], because those [the chatterers (or false teachers)] who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly [will advance in ungodliness].

2:17 Their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are [note two of the false teachers in Ephesus…] Hymenaeus [cf. 1 Tim. 1:20] and Philetus,

2:18 [note three things about these men…] [1] who have wandered away from the truth. [2] They say that the resurrection has already taken place, and [3] they destroy the faith of some [the disastrous impact of their false teaching on others].

2:19 Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his [cf. Num. 16:5],” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away [from Gr. verb meaning “to apostatize” which means to depart, withdraw, or stand aloof from someone or something] from wickedness [cf. Num. 16:26].”

2:20 In a large house [implies a degree of wealth] there are articles [implements and vessels such as jars, dishes, pots] not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some [the gold and silver articles] are for noble [as in the case of entertaining guests] purposes and some [the wood and clay articles] for ignoble [as in everyday use].

2:21 If a man cleanses himself from the latter [from false teachings and the godlessness associated with them], he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy [set apart], useful [of practical help] to the Master and prepared to do any good work.

2:22 Flee [cf. 1 Tim. 6:11] the evil desires [sexual lusts and other expressions youthful immaturity] of youth, and [Paul followed negative warning with positive alternative] pursue righteousness [morally upright behavior], faith [confidence in God; cf. 1 Cor. 13:13], love [affection for others; cf. 1 Cor. 13:13] and peace [living in harmony with others], along with those [we need one another] who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

2:23 Don’t have anything to do [don’t get drawn into…] with foolish and stupid arguments [“silly and ill informed” (Phillips); the kind of false teachings that divide the church], because you know they produce quarrels [verbal battles].

2:24 And the Lord’s servant [Gr. doulon = slave; Timothy] must not quarrel [cf. 1 Tim. 3:3]; instead [note four positive traits…], he must [1] be kind to everyone, [2] able to teach [cf. 1 Tim. 3:2], [3] not resentful [toward those who oppose you or treat you wrong].

2:25 Those who oppose him [4] he must gently instruct [correct wrong ideas], in the hope that [note two outcomes…] [1] God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth [that they would understand he gospel and turn to faith in Christ],

2:26 and [2] that they will come to their senses [become sober in their thinking] and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive [cf. “capture” in Lk. 5:10] to do his will.

3:1 But mark this: There will be terrible [term can mean fierce, dangerous, hard to handle or bear, troublesome] times in the last days [the period between Christ’s ascension and His second coming].

3:2 [Paul listed 19 different traits that would characterize people in the last days] People will be [1] lovers of themselves [more interested in pleasing self than in pleasing God; other sinful attitudes grow when we set our eyes on ourselves rather than God], [2] lovers of money [materialistic; cf. Matt. 6:24], [3] boastful [a way to draw attention to oneself], [4] proud [tend to look down on others], [5] abusive [attack others with abusive speech], [6] disobedient to their parents [and to others in positions of authority], [7] ungrateful [demonstrate a lack of appreciation to God and others who make efforts on their behalf], [8] unholy [regard nothing as sacred],

3:3 [9] without love [unwilling to show natural human affection (particularly toward family)], [10] unforgiving [remember wrongs and hold grudges], [11] slanderous [from the same word used for Devil in the NT; term means “accuser”], [12] without self-control [lack of self-discipline], [13] brutal [word means “fierce” and implies an inability to be tamed], [14] not lovers of the good [laugh at morality; scorn virtue],

3:4 [15] treacherous [traitors who are loyal only to themselves; willing to betray the trust of others], [16] rash [reckless], [17] conceited [hold an inflated opinion of themselves], [18] lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—

3:5 [19] having a form of godliness [know the talk and go through the motions but do not give evidence of a transformed life; their Christianity is for show, not for real] but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them [those who profess Christ but are not changed by Him].

3:6 They [false teachers] are the kind who worm [implies that they get in under false pretenses; manipulative] their way [false teachers used underhanded methods to try to win converts] into homes and gain control over [capture the imagination, interest, and allegiance of] weak-willed [gullible; little; silly] women [particular women in the Ephesian church, not women in general], who are loaded down with sins [an indication that their lack of spiritual insight made them susceptible to temptation] and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires,

3:7 always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth.

3:8 Just as Jannes and Jambres [the names of these individuals do not appear in the OT but are mentioned in Jewish, pagan, and Christian sources as two of Pharaoh’s magicians who opposed God’s authority through Moses (cf. Ex. 7:11; 9:11)] opposed Moses, so [like Jannes and Jambres] also these men [the false teachers] oppose the truth—men of depraved [corrupted] minds, who, as far as the faith is concerned, are rejected [worthless or of no spiritual usefulness; same Gr. word translated “disqualified” in 1 Cor. 9:27].

3:9 But they will not get very far because, as in the case of those men, their folly will [in the due course of time] be clear to everyone.

3:10 You, however, know all about [note 9 items that demonstrated the purity of Paul’s motives in preaching the gospel] [1] my teaching [the gospel message Paul proclaimed], [2] my way of life [Paul’s conduct was characterized by obedience to God], [3] my purpose [cf. Acts 20:24], [4] faith, [5] patience, [6] love [the kind of love that acts in the best interests of others], [7] endurance [Paul stayed faithful to His God-given purpose regardless of opposition, trouble, persecution, or pressure to do otherwise],

3:11 [8] persecutions, [9] sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in [note three Galatian cities Paul visited on his first missionary journey…] Antioch, Iconium and Lystra [Timothy’s hometown; Paul was stoned and left for dead there (cf. Acts 14:19-20)], the persecutions I endured [Paul shared the gospel at great risk to his own life; cf. 2 Cor. 11:22-33]. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them.

3:12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted [word suggests being hunted like a wild animal; cf. Jn. 15:18-21],

3:13 while evil men and impostors [term literally means sorcerers or wizards (perhaps alludes to earlier reference to Jannes and Jambres)] will go [note downward progress…] from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.

3:14 But as for you, continue [“hold to” or “remain”; indicates a permanent life-style; constantly learn more of God’s Word] in what you have learned [OT teachings; the gospel; the basics never change] and have become convinced of [or “have firmly believed”], because you know those [included Timothy’s grandmother Lois, his mother Eunice (1:5), Paul, and perhaps others] from whom you learned it,

3:15 and how from infancy [infant; partially grown; perhaps from age of five years; cf. 2 Tim. 1:5 re: influence of Timothy’s grandmother (Lois) and mother (Eunice)] you have known the holy Scriptures [sacred writings], which are able to make you wise [cf. Gal. 3:24; Scriptures supplies information for decision] for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus [cf. Acts 4:12].

3:16 All [every] Scripture [OT writings; today refers to OT and NT; see 2 Pet. 5:7 re: Peter’s affirmation of Paul’s letters] is God-breathed [Gr. theopneustos; divinely-inspired; cf. 2 Pet. 1:20-21] and is useful [practical value] for teaching [teaches us which path to walk; instruction in divine truth], rebuking [shows where we get off the path; exposing/refuting doctrinal error and personal wrongs], correcting [shows us how to get back on the path; setting people straight by pointing them in the right direction] and training in righteousness [shows us how to stay on the path; right attitudes/actions],

3:17 so that the man [every believer] of God may be thoroughly [properly] equipped [fitted out; specially adapted] for every good work.

4:1 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing [Christ’s return] and his kingdom, I give you this charge:

4:2 Preach [to proclaim or deliver a message on behalf of a king or high official] the Word; be prepared in season and out of season [“whether convenient or not” (HCSB)]; correct, rebuke [one of the functions of God’s Word (2 Tim. 3:16); confronting sin and identifying it for what it is] and encourage [related to noun rendered “Counselor” in Jn. 14:16]—with great patience and careful instruction.

4:3 For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine [the kind of doctrine that leads to spiritual health]. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers [false and deceptive teachers] to say what their itching ears want [rather than what they need] to hear.

4:4 They will turn their ears away [or “turn aside”, a medical term that described a limb pulled out of joint] from the truth and turn aside to myths [something untrue or not valid historically; cf. 1 Tim. 1:4].

4:5 But you, [1] keep your head in all situations [literally, the verb means “keep sober” (in this case to stay spiritually alert to recognize heretical teaching)], [2] endure hardship [such endurance demonstrates faithfulness; hardship is inevitable for a Christian who stays true to the faith], [3] do the work of an evangelist [this noun appears also in Acts 21:8 and Eph. 4:11; to announce or preach the good news], [4] discharge all the duties of your ministry [a general reference to work done in Christ’s name; finish the job God called you to do].

4:6 [Paul used two images to describe his approaching death…] [1] For I am already being poured out like a drink offering [reflects OT practice of pouring out wine in association with specified sacrificial offerings; cf. Num. 15:1-10; 28:7], [2] and the time has come for my departure [or “loosing,” a word that paints a picture of a ship unloosed and ready to sail to another location or of soldiers breaking camp; Paul was being released from this life in order to head to a new destination].

4:7 [Paul made 3 statements to summarize his ministry] [1] I have fought the good fight [Paul compared his service to an athletic contest or military campaign], [2] I have finished the race [Paul had been faithful to the course that God had planned for him; he had not dropped out when he was tired and exhausted], [3] I have kept the faith [this phrase is from the business world and meant to keep the conditions of a contract; Paul demonstrated loyalty to God throughout his ministry].

4:8 Now there is in store for me [the promise of a future reward had motivated Paul to faithfully serve Christ] the crown of righteousness [cf. 1 Cor. 9:25; the rewards God grants believers for their righteous living and serving (cf. Phil. 1:21)], which the Lord, the righteous Judge [cf. Rev. 22:12], will award to me on that day [when He returned as Judge]—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing [refers to Jesus’ second coming].

4:9 Do your best to come to me quickly,

4:10 for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.

4:11 Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.

4:12 I sent Tychicus to Ephesus.

4:13 When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments.

4:14 Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done.

4:15 You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.

4:16 At my first defense [possibly at an earlier trial or at an initial stage of his current trial (similar to a hearing before a grand jury in our justice system)], no one came to my support, but everyone [possibly because of fear or weakness of character] deserted me. May it not be held against them [Paul did not harbor bitterness against those who had deserted him; cf. Jesus’ words in Lk. 23:34 and Stephen’s words in Acts 7:60].

4:17 But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth [signifies deliverance from a deadly danger; cf. David’s language in Ps. 22:21].

4:18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and [death would usher Paul into heaven] will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

4:19 Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus.

4:20 Erastus stayed in Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick in Miletus.

4:21 Do your best to get here before winter. Eubulus greets you, and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia and all the brothers.

4:22 The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.