The Book of 2 Timothy
Paul's last words — a stirring charge to keep the faith and hold fast to Scripture.
Overview
Second Timothy is likely Paul's final letter, written from prison as he faced death. Its tone is tender and urgent — a spiritual father's parting charge to his beloved Timothy: guard the gospel, endure hardship, and preach the word.
It contains the Bible's clearest statement on the inspiration of Scripture, and Paul's moving testimony that he has fought the good fight and finished his course.
Key themes
Guard the gospel
Hold fast to sound teaching and pass it faithfully to others.
Endure hardship
Suffering is part of faithful service; endure it as a good soldier of Christ.
The power of Scripture
All Scripture is God-breathed and equips us for every good work.
Key verses from 2 Timothy
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
The Bible's clearest word on its own inspiration.
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
How to read 2 Timothy
Read it knowing these are Paul's last recorded words.
Let chapter 3's word on Scripture deepen your trust in the Bible.
Hear the charge to 'keep the faith' as spoken to you.