2 Timothy 2:1–7
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:
- The Effort at Finding Those to Entrust
- 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