“for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7”
2 Timothy 1:7
Summary
In 2 Timothy chapter 1, Paul opens his letter to Timothy by expressing gratitude to God, whom he serves with a clear conscience, and remembers Timothy in his prayers. He recalls Timothy's genuine faith, which first lived in his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice, and urges Timothy to fan into flame the gift of God. Paul highlights the importance of not being ashamed of the testimony about the Lord or of Paul himself, who is suffering for the gospel. Instead, he encourages Timothy to join in the suffering for the gospel by relying on the power of God. Paul emphasizes that God saved and called them to a holy calling, not because of works but because of His own purpose and grace now revealed through the appearing of Christ Jesus. Paul reflects on his own appointed roles as a preacher, apostle, and teacher, and notes that despite suffering, he is not ashamed because he knows in whom he has believed. Timothy is urged to hold to the pattern of sound teaching and guard the good deposit entrusted to him with the help of the Holy Spirit. Paul concludes by mentioning those who have turned away from him, including Phygelus and Hermogenes, contrasting them with Onesiphorus who often refreshed Paul and was not ashamed of his chains.