Page 107 - Advanced New Testament Survey Student Textbook

asked him to come soon (4:9,21). (2) Paul was concerned about the welfare of the churches during this
time of persecution under Nero, and he admonishes Timothy to guard the gospel (1:14), to persevere in
it (3:14), to keep on preaching it (4:2) and, if necessary, to suffer for it (1:8; 2:3). (3) Paul wanted to write
to the Ephesian church through his letter to Timothy.

Structure

This is another of Paul’s typical letter with a very standard structure which begins with a greeting (1:1–2)
and giving of thanks to God for Timothy’s spiritual heritage (1:3–5). Paul strait away charges Timothy to
be brave and unashamed of the gospel, just as his mentor, Paul (1:6–18). Paul encourages Timothy to be
a passionate preacher of the gospel (2:1–13). Paul then discusses the false teaching that Timothy is
encountering and the proper response (2:14–3:9). Paul urges Timothy to expect persecution, to
continue relying on the Scriptures, and to persevere in teaching (3:10–4:8). Toward the end of the letter,
Paul provides specifics about his situation and final instructions for Timothy (4:9–18). Paul Finally
concludes with greetings and a benediction (4:19–22). 152

Outline
• Greeting, thanksgiving, and encouragement (1:1–18)
• Aspects of effective ministry (2:1–13)
• Opposing false teaching (2:14–3:9)
• Paul’s charge to Timothy and closing remarks (3:10–4:22) 153

How does 2 Timothy Impact our lives?

2 Tim. 1:5 – this passage reminds us of the importance of being intentional about passing on the truth of
God’s word to the upcoming generation. How do you ensure that the next generation grows in the word
of God?

2 Tim. 2:2 – A little different from the one above, this passage teaches us to be intentional about
strategically looking out for a “faithful” person we can disciple, so that what we pass on could live on for
all generations. How do you identify a faithful person? How do you ensure that that person passes on
what you have passed on to them?

The test of good teaching is good practice (2 Tim 2:15–19). What kind of practical growth—and good
fruit—is evident in your life from Christian teaching you have recently heard?

Paul instructs Timothy to shun “youthful desires and pursue righteousness” (2 Tim 2:22). As you mature
in your Christian faith, what “youthful desires” do you still need to be freed from? How can you actively
and specifically pursue righteousness instead?
2 Tim. 3:12 - Here Paul prepares Timothy to expect persecution. The general tone from Paul’s statement
implies that he prepares every believer out here to expect persecution because of the gospel. Let’s not
get surprised when evil happens to us because of the gospel. How prepared are you for persecution?
How do you ensure that others are ready also for persecution?

152 Ibid
153 Ibid

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