Paul’s instructions here contrast Phygellus and Hermogenes.  Instead, Paul is encouraging Timothy to be like Onesiphorus (and Paul 1:12).  The phrase, “YOU, therefore” is emphatic.

This passage contains 4 imperatives, with the last one in vs. 7 (“Consider”) being reflective of everything that has been said to that point.

Accompanying the remaining 3 commands are 3 illustrations.

The Commands: be strong; commit; endure

The Illustrations: a soldier (3–4), an athlete (5), and a farmer (6)

2 Tim. 2:1 might well follow 1:7.  There, he reminded Timothy that God has given him power.  Now, because we have power , God has given us the ability to stand strong

• There are 4 generations reflected in 2:2 (Paul – Timothy – Disciple – others)
  • Though multiple previous generations are inferred reflecting those who first influenced Paul.

Here, the economy of the Gospel is depicted.  We see:

1. The Effort at Finding Those to Entrust
2. The Responsibility TO those who have been Entrusted

Therefore, Paul’s instructions are to “Endure!”  Timothy is being admonished, like Paul (1:12) to endure whatever hardships may come.

• Paul used this word “hardship” or “suffering” before in 1:8

Note the specific ATTRIBUTES that Paul extolled

• Soldier – Doesn’t get distracted (2:3–4)
• Athlete – Follows the rules (2:5)
• Farmer – Hard-working (2:6)

Next, note the MOTIVATION of those Paul extolled

• The motivation of the Soldier is to please the One who enlisted him
• The motivation of the Athlete is to win the prize
• The motivation of the Farmer is to receive the crops

You might title this sermon: Be Strong!

• Be Strong in Your Master’s Grace
• Be Careful with Your Master’s Word
• Be Faithful to Your Master’s Calling