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Introduction to 2 Timothy

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of 2 Timothy

  1. Paul greets Timothy and encourages him to endure hardship as he serves God (1:1-2:13).
  2. Paul gives general instructions to Timothy (2:1426).
  3. Paul warns Timothy about future events and instructs him about how to carry out his service to God (3:1-4:8).
  4. Paul makes personal remarks (4:9-24).

Who wrote the Book of 2 Timothy?

Paul wrote 2 Timothy. He was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

This book is the second letter Paul wrote Timothy. Timothy was his disciple and close friend. Paul wrote this letter while in prison in Rome. Paul would die soon after writing this letter.

What is the Book of 2 Timothy about?

Paul had left Timothy in the city of Ephesus to help the believers there. Paul wrote this letter to instruct Timothy about various matter. The topics he addressed include warnings about false teachers and enduring difficult situations. This letter also shows how Paul was training Timothy to be a leader among the churches.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “2 Timothy” or “Second Timothy.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Pauls Second Letter to Timothy” or “The Second Letter to Timothy.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What is the soldier imagery in 2 Timothy?

As Paul waited in prison, knowing he would die soon, he often spoke of himself as a soldier of Jesus Christ. Soldiers answer to their leaders. In the same way, Christians answer to Jesus. As “soldiers” of Christ, believers are to obey his commands, even if they die as a result.

What does it mean that God inspired Scripture?

God is the true author of Scripture. He inspired the human authors who wrote the books. That means God in some way caused the people to write what they wrote. This is why it is also referred to as Gods word. This implies several things about the Bible. First, the Bible is free from error and can be trusted. Second, we can rely on God to protect the scripture from those who want to distort it or destroy it. Third, Gods word should be translated into all the worlds languages.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Singular and plural “you”

In this book, the word “I” refers to Paul. Here the word “you” is almost always singular and refers to Timothy. The exception to this is 4:22. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

What did Paul mean by the expression “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” etc.?

Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.

What are the major textual issues in the text of the Book of 2 Timothy?

For the following verses, modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.

  • “Because of this, I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher” (1:11). Some older versions read, “Because of this, I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher to the Gentiles.”
  • “Warn them before God” (2:14). Some older versions read, “Warn them before the Lord.”

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

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2 Timothy 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Paul formally introduces this letter in verses 1-2. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.

Special concepts in this chapter

Spiritual children

Paul discipled Timothy as a Christian and a church leader. Paul may also have led him to believe in Christ. Therefore, Paul calls Timothy “beloved child.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/disciple]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Persecution

Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter. Paul encourages Timothy to be willing to suffer for the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

42TI11dcr3figs-inclusive0General Information:

In this book, unless otherwise noted, the word “our” refers to Paul (the writer of this letter) and Timothy (the one to whom this letter is written), as well as to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])

52TI11ha4lΠαῦλος1Paul

Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter. Also, immediately after introducing the author, you may need to tell to whom the letter is written, as in the UST.

62TI11vl2gδιὰ θελήματος Θεοῦ1through the will of God

“because of Gods will” or “because God wanted it to be so.” Paul became an apostle because God wanted him to be an apostle and not because a human being chose him.

72TI11e1lgκατ’1according to

Possible meanings are (1) “for the purpose of.” This means that God appointed Paul to tell others about Gods promise of life in Jesus or (2) “in keeping with.” This means that just as God promises that Jesus gives life, by that same will God has made Paul an apostle.

82TI11m9kvfigs-metaphorζωῆς τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1of life that is in Christ Jesus

Paul speaks of “life” as if it were an object inside of Jesus. This refers to the life people receive as a result of belonging to Christ Jesus. Alternate translation: “of the life that we receive as a result of belonging to Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

92TI12rp5uΤιμοθέῳ1to Timothy

Your language may have a particular way of introducing the person who receives a letter. Also, immediately after introducing the author, you may need to tell to whom the letter is written, as in the UST.

102TI12ey7gfigs-metaphorἀγαπητῷ τέκνῳ1beloved child

“dear child” or “child whom I love. Here “child” is a term of great love and approval. It is also likely that Paul introduced Christ to Timothy, and so this is why Paul considered him like his own child. Alternate translation: “who is like my beloved child” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

112TI12w43qχάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη, ἀπὸ1Grace, mercy, and peace from

“May you experience kindness, mercy, and peace within you from” or “I pray that you will have grace, mercy, and peace from”

122TI12ub7cguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΘεοῦ Πατρὸς καὶ1God the Father and

“God, who is the Father, and.” This is an important title for God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) Paul could be referring to God here as (1) the Father of Christ, or (2) the Father of believers.

132TI12yp2qΧριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν1Christ Jesus our Lord

“Christ Jesus, who is our Lord”

142TI13tvb7ᾧ λατρεύω ἀπὸ προγόνων1whom I serve from my forefathers

“whom I serve as my ancestors did”

152TI13ha9dfigs-metaphorἐν καθαρᾷ συνειδήσει1with a clean conscience

Paul speaks of his conscience as if it could be physically clean. A person with a “clean conscience” does not feel guilty because he has always tried to do what was right. Alternate translation: “knowing I have tried my hardest to do what is right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

162TI13rz7sὡς ἀδιάλειπτον ἔχω τὴν περὶ σοῦ μνείαν1as I constantly remember you

Here “remember” is used to mean “mention” or “talk about.” Alternate translation: “when I mention you continually” or “while I talk about you all the time”

172TI13pa6qfigs-merismνυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας1night and day

Here “night and day” are used together to mean “always.” Alternate translation: “always” or “at all times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

182TI14kk82figs-metonymyμεμνημένος σου τῶν δακρύων1I remember your tears

Here “tears” represents crying. Alternate translation: “I remember how you cried for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

192TI14zc8sἐπιποθῶν σε ἰδεῖν1I long to see you

“I want very much to see you”

202TI14gu8cfigs-metaphorχαρᾶς πληρωθῶ1I may be filled with joy

Paul speaks of himself as if he were a container that someone could fill. Also, this can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I may be joyful” or “I may have complete joy” or “I may rejoice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

212TI15rhs7figs-activepassiveὑπόμνησιν λαβὼν τῆς ἐν σοὶ1I have been reminded of your

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I also remember your” or “I also recall your” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

222TI15buc3τῆς ἐν σοὶ ἀνυποκρίτου πίστεως1your genuine faith

“your faith that is real” or “your faith that is sincere”

232TI15vgz2figs-metaphorπίστεως, ἥτις ἐνῴκησεν πρῶτον ἐν τῇ μάμμῃ σου, Λωΐδι, καὶ τῇ μητρί σου, Εὐνίκῃ; πέπεισμαι δὲ ὅτι καὶ ἐν σοί1faith, which lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am convinced that it lives in you also

Paul is speaking of their faith as if it were something that was alive and lived in them. Paul means they have the same sort of faith. This can be stated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “faith. Lois, your grandmother, and then Eunice, your mother, had this genuine faith in God, and now I am confident that you have this same genuine faith as well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

242TI15l8wctranslate-namesΛωΐδι…Εὐνίκῃ1Lois…Eunice

These are names of women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

252TI16ngi30Connecting Statement:

Paul encourages Timothy to live in power, love, and discipline and not to be ashamed because of Pauls suffering in prison because of his (Pauls) faith in Christ.

262TI16j58kδι’ ἣν αἰτίαν1This is the reason

“For this reason” or “Because of your sincere faith in Jesus”

272TI16h6eqfigs-metaphorἀναζωπυρεῖν τὸ χάρισμα1to rekindle the gift

Paul speaks about Timothys need to start using his gift again as if he were restarting a fire. Alternate translation: “to start using again the gift” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

282TI16i977τὸ χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἐν σοὶ διὰ τῆς ἐπιθέσεως τῶν χειρῶν μου1the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands

“the gift of God that you received when I laid my hands on you.” This refers to a time when Paul placed his hands on Timothy and prayed that God would give him power from Gods Spirit to enable him to do the work that God had called him to do.

292TI17h1z3οὐ…ἔδωκεν ἡμῖν ὁ Θεὸς πνεῦμα δειλίας, ἀλλὰ δυνάμεως, καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ σωφρονισμοῦ1God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and discipline

Possible meanings are (1) “spirit” refers to the “Holy Spirit.” Alternate translation: “Gods Holy Spirit does not cause us to be afraid. He causes us to have power and love and discipline” or (2) “spirit” refers to the character of a human being. Alternate translation: “God does not cause us to be afraid but to have power and love and discipline”

302TI17k6g7σωφρονισμοῦ1discipline

Possible meanings are (1) the power to control ourselves or (2) the power to correct other people who are doing wrong.

312TI18fk9zτὸ μαρτύριον1of the testimony

“of testifying” or “of telling others”

322TI18blk9τὸν δέσμιον αὐτοῦ1his prisoner

“a prisoner for his sake” or “a prisoner because I testify about the Lord”

332TI18ry82figs-metaphorσυνκακοπάθησον τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ1share in suffering for the gospel

Paul speaks of suffering as if it were an object that could be shared or distributed among people. Alternate translation: “suffer with me for the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

342TI18hi9aτῷ εὐαγγελίῳ, κατὰ δύναμιν Θεοῦ1gospel according to the power of God

“gospel, allowing God to make you strong”

352TI19ld55κλήσει ἁγίᾳ1with a holy calling

“with a calling that set us apart as his people” or “to be his holy people”

362TI19ub31οὐ κατὰ τὰ ἔργα ἡμῶν1not according to our works

“not because we did anything to deserve it”

372TI19kyr5ἀλλὰ κατὰ ἰδίαν πρόθεσιν καὶ χάριν1but according to his own plan and grace

“but because he planned to show us kindness”

382TI19pq1zἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1in Christ Jesus

“through our relationship to Christ Jesus”

392TI19zq7mπρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων1before times ever began

“before the world began” or “before time began”

402TI110h5e5figs-metaphorφανερωθεῖσαν δὲ νῦν, διὰ τῆς ἐπιφανείας τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1Gods salvation has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus

Paul speaks of salvation as if it were an object that could uncovered and shown to people. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has shown how he will save us by sending our Savior Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

412TI110i7clfigs-metaphorκαταργήσαντος μὲν τὸν θάνατον1who put an end to death

Paul speaks of death as if it were an independent process instead of the event of people dying. Alternate translation: “who destroyed death” or “who made it possible for people not to remain dead forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

422TI110i3wlfigs-metaphorφωτίσαντος δὲ ζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1brought life that never ends to light through the gospel

Paul speaks of teaching about eternal life as if it were an object that could be brought from darkness into light so that people could see it. Alternate translation: “taught what life that never ends is by preaching the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

432TI111tb9bfigs-activepassiveἐτέθην ἐγὼ κῆρυξ1I was appointed a preacher

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God chose me to be a preacher” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

442TI112j37gδι’ ἣν αἰτίαν1For this cause

“Because I am an apostle”

452TI112y8l4καὶ ταῦτα πάσχω1I also suffer these things

Paul is referring to being a prisoner.

462TI112td39πέπεισμαι1I am persuaded

“I am convinced”

472TI112p6pifigs-metaphorτὴν παραθήκην μου φυλάξαι1to keep that which I have entrusted to him

Paul is using a metaphor of a person leaving something with another person who is supposed to protect it until he gives it back to the first person. Possible meanings are (1) Paul is trusting Jesus to help him remain faithful, or (2) Paul is trusting that Jesus will ensure that people continue spreading the gospel message. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

482TI112qcu3figs-metonymyἐκείνην τὴν ἡμέραν1that day

This refers to the day when God judges all people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

492TI113h1qdὑποτύπωσιν ἔχε ὑγιαινόντων λόγων, ὧν παρ’ ἐμοῦ ἤκουσας1Keep the example of faithful messages that you heard from me

“Keep teaching the correct ideas I have taught you” or “Use how I taught you as a pattern for what and how you should teach”

502TI113b2ldἐν πίστει καὶ ἀγάπῃ τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus

“as you trust in Jesus Christ and love him”

512TI114i5g5τὴν καλὴν παραθήκην1The good thing

This refers to the work of proclaiming the gospel correctly.

522TI114cb5qφύλαξον1guard it

Timothy needs to be alert because people will oppose his work, try to make him stop, and distort what he says.

532TI114a3v2διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου1through the Holy Spirit

“with the power of the Holy Spirit”

542TI115p6f4figs-metaphorἀπεστράφησάν με1turned away from me

This is a metaphor that means they stopped helping Paul. They abandoned Paul because the authorities had thrown him into prison. Alternate translation: “have stopped helping me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

552TI115x6cctranslate-namesΦύγελος καὶ Ἑρμογένης1Phygelus and Hermogenes

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

562TI116e6hltranslate-namesὈνησιφόρου1Onesiphorus

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

572TI116zz44τῷ…οἴκῳ1to the household

“to the family”

582TI116td1qfigs-metonymyτὴν ἅλυσίν μου οὐκ ἐπησχύνθη1was not ashamed of my chain

Here “chain” is a metonym for being in prison. Onesiphorus was not ashamed that Paul was in prison but came to visit him frequently. Alternate translation: “was not ashamed that I was in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

592TI118p3diδῴη αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος, εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου1May the Lord grant to him to find mercy from him

“May Onesiphorus receive mercy from the Lord” or “May the Lord show him mercy”

602TI118x2dkfigs-metaphorεὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου1to find mercy from him

Paul speaks of mercy as if it were an object that could be found. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

612TI118f3epfigs-metonymyἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ1on that day

This refers to the day when God will judge all people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

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2 Timothy 02 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set words farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with verses 11-13. Paul may be quoting a poem or hymn in these verses.

Special concepts in this chapter

We will reign with him

Faithful Christians will reign with Christ in the future. (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Analogies

In this chapter, Paul makes several analogies to teach about living as a Christian. He uses analogies of soldiers, athletes, and farmers. Later in the chapter, he uses the analogy of different kinds of containers in a house.

632TI21t13s0Connecting Statement:

Paul pictures Timothys Christian life as a soldiers life, as a farmers life, and as an athletes life.

642TI21bll5figs-metaphorτέκνον μου1my child

Here “child” is a term of great love and approval. It is also likely that Timothy was converted to Christ by Paul, and so this is why Paul considered him like his own child. Alternate translation: “who is like my child” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

652TI21e6exfigs-metaphorἐνδυναμοῦ ἐν τῇ χάριτι τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1be strengthened in the grace that is in Christ Jesus

Paul speaks about the motivation and determination that Gods grace allows believers to have. Alternate translation: “let God use the grace he gave you through your relationship to Christ Jesus to make you strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

662TI22ig9vδιὰ πολλῶν μαρτύρων1among many witnesses

“with many witnesses there to agree that what I said is true”

672TI22kv1mfigs-metaphorταῦτα παράθου πιστοῖς ἀνθρώποις1entrust them to faithful people

Paul speaks of his instructions to Timothy as if they were objects that Timothy could give to other people and trust them to use correctly. Alternate translation: “commit them” or “teach them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

682TI23yc1jσυνκακοπάθησον1Suffer hardship with me

Possible meanings are (1) “Endure suffering as I do” or (2) “Share in my suffering”

692TI23juu2figs-simileὡς καλὸς στρατιώτης Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1as a good soldier of Christ Jesus

Paul compares suffering for Christ Jesus to the suffering that a good soldier endures. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

702TI24a4x7οὐδεὶς στρατευόμενος ἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις1No soldier serves while entangled in the affairs of this life

“No soldier serves when he is involved in the everyday business of this life” or “When soldiers are serving, they do not get distracted by the ordinary things that people do.” Christs servants should not allow everyday life to keep them from working for Christ.

712TI24p7n5figs-metaphorἐμπλέκεται1while entangled

Paul speaks of this distraction as if it were a net that tripped people up as they were walking. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

722TI24d2lgτῷ στρατολογήσαντι1his superior officer

“his leader” or “the one who commands him”

732TI25d483figs-explicitἀθλῇ τις, οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes by the rules

Paul is implicitly speaking of Christs servants as if they were athletes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

742TI25xbn6figs-activepassiveοὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1he is not crowned unless he competes by the rules

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they will crown him as winner only if he competes by the rules” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

752TI25lea8οὐ στεφανοῦται1he is not crowned

“he does not win the prize.” Athletes in Pauls time were crowned with wreaths made from the leaves of plants when they won competitions.

762TI25reg6νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1competes by the rules

“competes according to the rules” or “strictly obeys the rules”

772TI26wz35figs-metaphorτὸν κοπιῶντα γεωργὸν δεῖ πρῶτον τῶν καρπῶν μεταλαμβάνειν1It is necessary that the hardworking farmer receive his share of the crops first

This is the third metaphor Paul gives Timothy about working. The reader should understand that Christs servants need to work hard. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

782TI27bdk9νόει ὃ λέγω1Think about what I am saying

Paul gave Timothy word pictures, but he did not completely explain their meanings. He expected Timothy to figure out what he was saying about Christs servants.

792TI27a22qἐν πᾶσιν1in everything

“about everything”

802TI28rp960Connecting Statement:

Paul gives Timothy instructions on how to live for Christ, how to suffer for Christ, and how to teach others to live for Christ.

812TI28mh1kfigs-metaphorἐκ σπέρματος Δαυείδ1from Davids seed

This is a metaphor that means Jesus descended from David. Alternate translation: “who is a descendant of David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

822TI28wt31figs-activepassiveἐγηγερμένον ἐκ νεκρῶν1who was raised from the dead

Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom God caused to live again” or “whom God raised from the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

832TI28s4vhfigs-metonymyκατὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιόν μου1according to my gospel message

Paul speaks of the gospel message as if it were especially his. He means that this is the gospel message that he proclaims. Alternate translation: “according to the gospel message that I preach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

842TI29t2axfigs-metonymyμέχρι δεσμῶν ὡς κακοῦργος1to the point of being bound with chains as a criminal

Here “being chained” represents being a prisoner. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “to the point of wearing chains as a criminal in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

852TI29pc6tfigs-metaphorὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐ δέδεται1the word of God is not bound

Here “bound” speaks of what happens to a prisoner, and the phrase is a metaphor that means no one can stop Gods message. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “no one can put the word of God in prison” or “no one can stop the word of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

862TI210aa1xfigs-activepassiveδιὰ τοὺς ἐκλεκτούς1for those who are chosen

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “for the people whom God has chosen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

872TI210j2bkfigs-metaphorσωτηρίας τύχωσιν τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus

Paul speaks of salvation as if it were an object that could be physically grasped. Alternate translation: “will receive salvation from Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

882TI210el68μετὰ δόξης αἰωνίου1with eternal glory

“and that they will be forever with him in the glorious place where he is”

892TI211nr7uπιστὸς ὁ λόγος1This is a trustworthy saying

“These are words you can trust”

902TI211g6e4writing-poetryεἰ γὰρ συναπεθάνομεν, καὶ συνζήσομεν1If we have died with him, we will also live with him

This is most likely the beginning of a song or poem that Paul is quoting. If your language has a way of indicating that this is poetry, you could use it here. If not, you could translate this as regular prose rather than poetry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]])

912TI211in38συναπεθάνομεν1died with him

Paul uses this expression to mean that people share in Christs death when they trust in him, deny their own wants, and obey him.

922TI213y1wjwriting-poetryεἰ ἀπιστοῦμεν…ἀρνήσασθαι…ἑαυτὸν οὐ δύναται1if we are unfaithful…he cannot deny himself

This is most likely the end of a song or poem that Paul is quoting. If your language has a way of indicating that this is poetry you could use it here. If not, you could translate this as regular prose rather than poetry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]])

932TI213ke4wεἰ ἀπιστοῦμεν1if we are unfaithful

“even if we fail God” or “even if we do not do what we believe God wants us to do”

942TI213ihd4ἀρνήσασθαι…ἑαυτὸν οὐ δύναται1he cannot deny himself

“he must always act according to his character” or “he cannot act in ways that are the opposite of his real character”

952TI214u6610General Information:

The word “them” may refer to “the teachers” or “the people of the church”

962TI214r5lqfigs-metaphorἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1before God

Paul speaks of Gods awareness of Paul as if he is in Gods physical presence. This implies that God will be Timothys witness. Alternate translation: “in Gods presence” or “with God as your witness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

972TI214g6p7μὴ λογομαχεῖν1against quarreling about words

Possible meanings are (1) “not to argue about foolish things that people say” or (2) “not to quarrel about what words mean”

982TI214rke6ἐπ’ οὐδὲν χρήσιμον1it is of no value

“this does not benefit anyone”

992TI215m3vyσεαυτὸν, δόκιμον παραστῆσαι τῷ Θεῷ, ἐργάτην ἀνεπαίσχυντον1to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no reason to be ashamed

“to present yourself to God as a person who has proven to be worthy and with no cause for shame”

1002TI215rj6yfigs-metaphorἐργάτην1a worker

Paul presents the idea of Timothy correctly explaining Gods word as if he were a skilled workman. Alternate translation: “like a workman” or “like a worker” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1012TI215xgz9ὀρθοτομοῦντα τὸν λόγος τῆς ἀληθείας1accurately teaches the word of truth

Possible meanings are (1) “explains the message about the truth correctly” or (2) “explains the true message correctly.”

1022TI216e27qfigs-metaphorἐπὶ πλεῖον…προκόψουσιν ἀσεβείας1which leads to more and more godlessness

Paul speaks of this kind of talk as if it were something that could physically move to another location, and he speaks of godlessness as if it were that new location. Alternate translation: “which causes people to become more and more ungodly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1032TI217i73tfigs-simileὁ λόγος αὐτῶν ὡς γάγγραινα νομὴν ἕξει1Their talk will spread like cancer

Cancer quickly spreads in a persons body and destroys it. This is a metaphor that means what those people were saying would spread from person to person and harm the faith of those who heard it. Alternate translation: “What they say will spread like an infectious disease” or “Their talk will spread quickly and cause destruction like cancer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1042TI217x2k6translate-namesὙμέναιος, καὶ Φίλητος1Hymenaeus and Philetus

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1052TI218fi9zfigs-metaphorοἵτινες περὶ τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἠστόχησαν1who have gone astray from the truth

Here “gone astray from the truth” is a metaphor for no longer believing or teaching what is true. Alternate translation: “who have started saying things that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1062TI218pu22ἀνάστασιν ἤδη γεγονέναι1the resurrection has already happened

“God has already raised dead believers to eternal life”

1072TI218ura5ἀνατρέπουσιν τήν τινων πίστιν1they destroy the faith of some

“they cause some people to stop believing”

1082TI219zp5mfigs-metaphor0General Information:

Just as precious and common containers can be used for honorable ways in a wealthy house, any person who turns to God can be used by God in honorable ways in doing good works. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1092TI219ir1zfigs-metaphorὁ…στερεὸς θεμέλιος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἕστηκεν1the firm foundation of God stands

Possible meanings are (1) “Gods truth is like a firm foundation” or (2) “God has established his people like a building on a firm foundation” or (3) “Gods faithfulness is like a firm foundation.” In any case, Paul speaks of this idea as if it were a buildings foundation laid in the ground. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1102TI219nd7tfigs-metonymyὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου1who names the name of the Lord

“who calls on the name of the Lord.” Here “name of the Lord” refers to the Lord himself. Alternate translation: “who calls on the Lord” or “who says he is a believer in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1112TI219y3bcfigs-metaphorἀποστήτω ἀπὸ ἀδικίας1depart from unrighteousness

Paul speaks of unrighteousness as if it were a place from which one could leave. Alternate translation: “stop being evil” or “stop doing wrong things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1122TI220j75lfigs-metaphorσκεύη χρυσᾶ καὶ ἀργυρᾶ…ξύλινα καὶ ὀστράκινα1containers of gold and silver…containers of wood and clay

Here “containers” is a general word for bowls, plates, and pots, which people put food or drink into or on. If your language does not have a general word, use the word for “bowls” or “pots.” Paul is using this as a metaphor to describe different types of people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1132TI220mt5eτιμὴν…ἀτιμίαν1honorable use…dishonorable

Possible meanings are (1) “special occasions…ordinary times” or (2) “the kinds of activities people do in public…the kinds of activities people do in private.”

1142TI221jm3pfigs-metaphorἐκκαθάρῃ ἑαυτὸν ἀπὸ τούτων1cleans himself from dishonorable use

Possible meanings are (1) “separates himself from dishonorable people” or (2) “makes himself pure.” In any case, Paul speaks of this process as if it were a person washing himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1152TI221g79ffigs-metaphorἔσται σκεῦος εἰς τιμήν1he is an honorable container

Paul speaks about this person as if he were an honorable container. Alternate translation: “he is like the container that is useful for special occasions” or “he is like the container that is useful for activities good people do in public” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1162TI221mh63figs-activepassiveἡγιασμένον εὔχρηστον τῷ Δεσπότῃ, εἰς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἡτοιμασμένον1He is set apart, useful to the Master, and prepared for every good work

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Master sets him apart, and he is ready for the Master to use him for every good work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1172TI221nl5dfigs-metaphorἡγιασμένον1He is set apart

He is not set apart physically or in the sense of location, but instead to fulfill a purpose. Some versions translate this “sanctified,” but the text signals the essential idea of being set apart. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1182TI222h9p6figs-metaphorτὰς δὲ νεωτερικὰς ἐπιθυμίας φεῦγε1Flee youthful lusts

Paul speaks about youthful lusts as if they are a dangerous person or animal that Timothy should run away from. Alternate translation: “Completely avoid youthful lusts” or “Absolutely refuse to do the wrong things that young people strongly desire to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1192TI222srb7figs-metaphorδίωκε…δικαιοσύνην1Pursue righteousness

Here “Pursue” means the opposite of “Flee.” Paul speaks of righteousness as if it is an object that Timothy should run towards because it will do him good. Alternate translation: “Try your best to obtain righteousness” or “Seek after righteousness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1202TI222hg99μετὰ τῶν1with those

Possible meanings are (1) Paul wants Timothy to join with other believers in pursuing righteousness, faith, love, and peace, or (2) Paul wants Timothy to be at peace and not argue with other believers.

1212TI222gl3qfigs-idiomτῶν ἐπικαλουμένων τὸν Κύριον1those who call on the Lord

Here “call on the Lord” is an idiom that means to trust and worship the Lord. Alternate translation: “those who worship the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1222TI222b2tifigs-metaphorἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας1out of a clean heart

Here “clean” is a metaphor for something pure or sincere. And, “heart” here is a metonym for “thoughts” or “emotions.” Alternate translation: “with a sincere mind” or “with sincerity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1232TI223tmf7figs-metonymyτὰς δὲ μωρὰς καὶ ἀπαιδεύτους ζητήσεις παραιτοῦ1refuse foolish and ignorant questions

“refuse to answer foolish and ignorant questions.” Paul means that the people who ask such questions are foolish and ignorant. Alternate translation: “refuse to answer the questions that foolish people who do not want to know the truth ask” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1242TI223kh6pfigs-metaphorγεννῶσι μάχας1they give birth to arguments

Paul speaks of ignorant questions as if they were women giving birth to children. Alternate translation: “they cause arguments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1252TI225un9lἐν πραΰτητι1in meekness

“meekly” or “gently”

1262TI225u6rpπαιδεύοντα τοὺς1educate those

“teach those” or “correct those”

1272TI225jt1rfigs-metaphorμήποτε δώῃ αὐτοῖς ὁ Θεὸς μετάνοιαν1God may perhaps give them repentance

Paul speaks of repentance as if it were an object that God could give people. Alternate translation: “God may give them the opportunity to repent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1282TI225u8dyεἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας1for the knowledge of the truth

“so that they will know the truth”

1292TI226ef3qfigs-metaphorἀνανήψωσιν1They may become sober again

Paul speaks of sinners learning to think correctly about God as if they were drunk people becoming sober again. Alternate translation: “They may think correctly again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1302TI226mql8figs-metaphorἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος1leave the devils trap

Paul speaks of the devils ability to convince Christians to sin as if it were a trap. Alternate translation: “stop doing what the devil wants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1312TI226dj4jfigs-metaphorἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα1after they have been captured by him for his will

Convincing Christians to sin is spoken of as if the devil had physically captured them and made them his slaves. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “after he has deceived them into obeying his will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1322TI3introk2cr0

2 Timothy 03 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The “last days” could mean in the future just before Jesus returns. If so, Paul is prophesying in verses 1-9 and 13 about those days. The “last days” could also mean the Christian age, including Pauls time. If so, what Paul teaches about being persecuted applies to all Christians. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])

1332TI31j97t0Connecting Statement:

Paul lets Timothy know that in the future people will stop believing the truth, but he should continuing trusting Gods word even when he is persecuted.

1342TI31g65rἐν ἐσχάταις ἡμέραις1In the last days

Possible meanings are (1) this is a time later than Pauls time. Alternate translation: “in the future just before Jesus returns” or (2) this refers to the Christian age, including Pauls time. Alternate translation: “during this period of time before the end”

1352TI31n7gsκαιροὶ χαλεποί1difficult times

These will be days, months, or even years when Christians will endure suffering and danger.

1362TI32jb27φίλαυτοι1lovers of themselves

Here “lovers” refers to brotherly love or love for a friend or family member, a natural human love between friends or relatives. This is not the kind of love that comes from God. Alternate translation: “self-centered”

1372TI33u3n7ἄστοργοι1without natural affection

“not loving their own families”

1382TI33r2uvἄσπονδοι1unable to reconcile

“not agreeing with anyone” or “not living in peace with anyone”

1392TI33ks9yἀφιλάγαθοι1not lovers of good

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “haters of good”

1402TI34dw5zπροπετεῖς1reckless

doing things either without thinking about what bad things could happen or even knowing that bad things could happen

1412TI34d6ngτετυφωμένοι1conceited

thinking they are better than other people

1422TI35k5dcfigs-metaphorἔχοντες μόρφωσιν εὐσεβείας, τὴν δὲ δύναμιν αὐτῆς ἠρνημένοι1They will have a shape of godliness, but they will deny its power

Paul speaks of godliness, the habit of honoring God, as if it were a physical object that had a shape and had physical power. Alternate translation: “They will appear to honor God, but they way they act will show that they do not really believe in Gods power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1432TI35tpe8ἔχοντες μόρφωσιν εὐσεβείας1have a shape of godliness

“appear to have godliness” or “appear to honor God”

1442TI35xm1cfigs-metaphorτούτους ἀποτρέπου1Turn away from these people

“Turn away” here is a metaphor for avoiding someone. Alternate translation: “Avoid these people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1452TI36gu4bἐνδύνοντες εἰς τὰς οἰκίας, καὶ αἰχμαλωτίζοντες1enter into households and captivate

“enter into houses and greatly influence”

1462TI36u9m5γυναικάρια1foolish women

“women who are spiritually weak.” These women may be spiritually be weak because they fail to work at becoming godly or because they are idle and have many sins.

1472TI36e9exfigs-metaphorσεσωρευμένα ἁμαρτίαις1who are heaped up with sins

Paul speaks of the attraction of sin as if sin were heaped up on the backs of these women. Possible meanings are (1) “who sin often” or (2) “who feel terrible guilt because they continue to sin.” The idea is that these men can easily influence these women because the women are unable to stop sinning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1482TI36izz9figs-metaphorἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις1are led away by various desires

Paul speaks about these various desires as if they could lead another person away. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they desire to sin in various ways rather than obey Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1492TI38m6a70Connecting Statement:

Paul gives an example of two false teachers from the time of Moses and applies it to the way people will be. Paul encourages Timothy to follow his own example and stay in Gods word.

1502TI38b8eltranslate-namesἸάννης καὶ Ἰαμβρῆς1Jannes and Jambres

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1512TI38tgn8figs-metaphorἀντέστησαν1stood against

Paul speaks of those who argue against someone as if they were standing against them. Alternate translation: “opposed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1522TI38dc3zἀνθίστανται τῇ ἀληθείᾳ1stand against the truth

“oppose the gospel of Jesus”

1532TI38g4kkἄνθρωποι κατεφθαρμένοι τὸν νοῦν1They are men corrupt in mind

“Their minds are corrupt” or “They cannot think rightly”

1542TI38pfh1ἀδόκιμοι περὶ τὴν πίστιν1and with regard to the faith they are proven to be false

They have been tested in how well they trust in Christ and obey him, and they have failed the test. Alternate translation: “and without sincere faith” or “and they have shown that their faith is not genuine”

1552TI39c6xxfigs-metaphorοὐ προκόψουσιν ἐπὶ πλεῖον1they will not advance very far

Paul uses an expression about physical movement to mean that the false teachers will not have much success among the believers. Alternate translation: “they will not have much success” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1562TI39mv4jἔκδηλος1obvious

something people can easily see

1572TI39z4fuἐκείνων1of those men

“of Jannes and Jambres”

1582TI310vw42figs-metaphorσὺ…παρηκολούθησάς μου τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ1you have followed my teaching

Paul speaks of giving close attention to these things as if one were physically following them as they moved. Alternate translation: “you have observed my teaching” or “you have payed close attention to my teaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1592TI310wma6μου τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ1my teaching

“what I have taught you to do”

1602TI310lq3vτῇ ἀγωγῇ1conduct

the way a person lives his life

1612TI310l4ppτῇ μακροθυμίᾳ1longsuffering

one person being patient with those people who do things of which he does not approve

1622TI311r9vkfigs-metaphorἐκ πάντων, με ἐρρύσατο ὁ Κύριος1Out of them all, the Lord rescued me

Paul speaks of God having stopped him from suffering these hardships and dangers as if God had carried him out of a physical location. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1632TI312ke7fζῆν εὐσεβῶς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1to live in a godly manner in Christ Jesus

“to live godly lives as followers of Jesus”

1642TI312xm9lfigs-activepassiveδιωχθήσονται1will be persecuted

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “will certainly have to endure persecution” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1652TI313s7f2γόητες1impostors

An imposter is a person who wants other people to think he is someone other, usually more important, than who he is.

1662TI313imc8προκόψουσιν ἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον1will go from bad to worse

“will become even more evil”

1672TI313eyx5figs-metaphorπλανῶντες καὶ πλανώμενοι1leading others and themselves astray

Here, to lead someone astray is a metaphor for persuading someone to believe something that is not true. Alternate translation: “deceiving themselves and others” or “believing lies and teaching lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1682TI314ytg9figs-metaphorμένε ἐν οἷς ἔμαθες1remain in the things that you have learned

Paul speaks of biblical instruction as if it were a place that Timothy could stay in. Alternate translation: “do not forget what you learned” or “continue doing what you have learned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1692TI315w9l5figs-personificationἱερὰ γράμματα οἶδας, τὰ δυνάμενά σε σοφίσαι εἰς σωτηρίαν διὰ πίστεως τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1the sacred writings. These are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus

Paul speaks of the sacred writings as if they were a person who could make someone else wise. Alternate translation: “that when you read the word of God, you can become wise so as to receive salvation from Christ Jesus by faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1702TI316s274figs-activepassiveπᾶσα Γραφὴ θεόπνευστος1All scripture has been inspired by God

Some Bibles translate this as “All scripture is God-breathed.” This means God produced the scripture through his Spirit by telling people what to write. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has spoken all scripture by his Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1712TI316uv35ὠφέλιμος1It is profitable

“It is useful” or “It is beneficial”

1722TI316vl2nπρὸς ἐλεγμόν1for conviction

“for pointing out errors”

1732TI316e5h9πρὸς ἐπανόρθωσιν1for correction

“for fixing errors”

1742TI316y1hfπρὸς παιδείαν τὴν ἐν δικαιοσύνῃ1for training in righteousness

“for training people to be righteous”

1752TI317nb12figs-gendernotationsὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος1the man of God

This means any believer in God whether male or female. Alternate translation: “all believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

1762TI317uu7iἄρτιος ᾖ…ἐξηρτισμένος1may be competent, equipped

“may be completely prepared”

1772TI4introk2xa0

2 Timothy 04 General Notes

Structure and formatting

“I give this solemn command”

Paul begins to give personal instructions to Timothy.

Special concepts in this chapter

Crown

Scripture uses different kinds of crowns as images for different things. It appears Christ will award the crown in this chapter to believers as a reward for living rightly.

1782TI41t68n0Connecting Statement:

Paul continues to remind Timothy to be faithful and that he, Paul, is ready to die.

1792TI41cb15figs-explicitδιαμαρτύρομαι ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1this solemn command before God and Christ Jesus

“this solemn command in the presence of God and Christ Jesus.” It is implied that God and Jesus will be Pauls witnesses. Alternate translation: “this solemn command having as my witnesses God and Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1802TI41eh3xδιαμαρτύρομαι ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1solemn command

“serious command”

1812TI41u32gfigs-merismζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς1the living and the dead

Here “the living” and “the dead” are used together to mean all people. Alternate translation: “all people who have ever lived” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1822TI41lwt2figs-metonymyνεκρούς, καὶ τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ, καὶ τὴν βασιλείαν αὐτοῦ1the dead, and because of his appearing and his kingdom

Here “kingdom” stands for Christs rule as king. Alternate translation: “the dead when he returns to rule as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1832TI42j2z7figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον1the word

“Word” here is a metonym for “message.” Alternate translation: “the message about Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1842TI42zzh4figs-ellipsisἀκαίρως1when it is not

Here the word “convenient” is understood. Alternate translation: “when it is not convenient” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1852TI42g7axἔλεγξον1Reprove

tell someone he is guilty of doing wrong

1862TI42u1ycπαρακάλεσον, ἐν πάσῃ μακροθυμίᾳ καὶ διδαχῇ1exhort, with all patience and teaching

“exhort, and teach the people, and always be patient with them”

1872TI43jv7aἔσται γὰρ καιρὸς ὅτε1For the time will come when

“Because at some time in the future”

1882TI43ilx7ἀνέξονται1people

The context indicates that these will be people who are a part of the community of believers.

1892TI43u2ccτῆς ὑγιαινούσης διδασκαλίας οὐκ ἀνέξονται1will not endure sound teaching

“will no longer want to listen to sound teaching”

1902TI43fyl3τῆς ὑγιαινούσης διδασκαλίας1sound teaching

This means the teaching that is true and correct, according to Gods word.

1912TI43e5t2figs-metaphorκατὰ τὰς ἰδίας ἐπιθυμίας, ἑαυτοῖς ἐπισωρεύσουσιν διδασκάλους1they will heap up for themselves teachers according to their own desires

Paul speaks of people obtaining many teachers as if it were putting them into a heap or pile. Alternate translation: “they will listen to many teachers who assure them that there is nothing wrong with their sinful desires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1922TI43s375figs-idiomκνηθόμενοι τὴν ἀκοήν1who say what their itching ears want to hear

Paul speaks of people strongly wanting to hear something as if their ears itched and could only be satisfied if teachers taught them what they wanted to hear. Alternate translation: “who say only what they want so much to hear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1932TI44rh2ifigs-metaphorἀπὸ μὲν τῆς ἀληθείας τὴν ἀκοὴν ἀποστρέψουσιν1They will turn their hearing away from the truth

Paul speaks about people no longer paying attention as if they were physically turning away so they cannot hear. Alternate translation: “They will no longer pay attention to the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1942TI44xrv7figs-metaphorτοὺς μύθους ἐκτραπήσονται1they will turn aside to myths

Paul speaks about people starting to pay attention to myths as if they were physically turning towards them to listen. Alternate translation: “they will pay attention to teachings that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1952TI45ehz7figs-metaphorνῆφε1be sober-minded

Paul wants his readers to think correctly about everything, and he speaks about them as if he wanted them to be sober, that is, not drunk with wine. Alternate translation: “think clearly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1962TI45tv3kἔργον…εὐαγγελιστοῦ1the work of an evangelist

This means to tell people about who Jesus is, what he did for them, and how they are to live for him.

1972TI46sh23figs-metaphorἐγὼ…ἤδη σπένδομαι1I am already being poured out

Paul speaks of his readiness to die as if he were a cup of wine ready to be poured out as a sacrifice to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1982TI46fb7lfigs-euphemismὁ καιρὸς τῆς ἀναλύσεώς μου ἐφέστηκεν1The time of my departure has come

Here “departure” is a polite way of referring to death. Alternate translation: “Soon I will die and leave this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1992TI47d9tsfigs-metaphorτὸν καλὸν ἀγῶνα ἠγώνισμαι1I have competed in the good contest

Paul speaks of his hard work as if he had been an athlete competing for a prize. Alternate translation: “I have done my best” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2002TI47kq83figs-metaphorτὸν δρόμον τετέλεκα1I have finished the race

Paul speaks of his life of service to God as if he had been running a race on foot. Alternate translation: “I have completed what I needed to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2012TI47vk2pfigs-metaphorτὴν πίστιν τετήρηκα1I have kept the faith

Paul speaks of his trust in Christ and his obedience to God as if they were a valuable object that he kept in his possession. Possible meanings are (1) “I have been faithful in doing my ministry” or (2) “I have kept the teachings about what we believe from any error” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2022TI48ujg5figs-activepassiveἀπόκειταί μοι ὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος1The crown of righteousness has been reserved for me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has reserved the crown of righteousness for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2032TI48hg8ifigs-metaphorτῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος1crown of righteousness

Possible meanings are (1) the crown is the prize that God gives to people who have lived the right way or (2) the crown is a metaphor for righteousness. Just as the judge of a race gives a crown to the winner, when Paul finishes his life, God will declare that Paul is righteous. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2042TI48dwn6στέφανος1crown

a wreath made of laurel tree leaves that was given to winners of athletic contests

2052TI48n3k8ἐν, ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ1on that day

“on the day when the Lord comes again” or “on the day when God judges people”

2062TI48uh88figs-pastforfutureἀλλὰ καὶ πᾶσιν τοῖς ἠγαπηκόσι τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ1but also to all those who have loved his appearing

Paul speaks about this event as if it has already happened. It can be stated as a future event. Alternate translation: “but also he will give it to those who are eagerly waiting for him to return” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])

2072TI49s7xl0Connecting Statement:

Paul talks of specific people and how they behaved, of Gods work for and to him, and then closes with greetings to and from certain people.

2082TI49t8b7ἐλθεῖν…ταχέως1come…quickly

“come…as soon as possible”

2092TI410e4xxtranslate-namesΔημᾶς…Κρήσκης…Τίτος1Demas…Crescens…Titus

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2102TI410ji2lfigs-metonymyτὸν νῦν αἰῶνα1this present world

Here “world” refers to worldly things as opposed to the things of God. Possible meanings are (1) he loves the temporary comforts of this world or (2) he is afraid he will die if he remains with Paul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2112TI410u2qbΚρήσκης εἰς…Τίτος εἰς1Crescens went…and Titus went

These two men had left Paul, but Paul is not saying that they also “love this present world” like Demas.

2122TI410gs61translate-namesΔαλματίαν1Dalmatia

This is the name of a land region. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2132TI411w21uμοι εὔχρηστος εἰς διακονίαν1he is useful to me in the work

Possible meanings are (1) “he can help me in the ministry” or (2) “he can help me by serving me.”

2142TI413d5rwφελόνην1cloak

a heavy garment worn over clothes

2152TI413v9b6translate-namesΚάρπῳ1Carpus

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2162TI413k6tjτὰ βιβλία1the books

This refers to scrolls. A scroll was a type of book made of one long sheet of papyrus or leather. After writing on a scroll or reading it, people rolled it up using rods on the ends

2172TI413e395figs-explicitμάλιστα τὰς μεμβράνας1especially the parchments

This may refer to a specific type of scroll. Alternate translation: “especially those made from animal skins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2182TI414un4vἈλέξανδρος ὁ χαλκεὺς…ἐνεδείξατο1Alexander the coppersmith displayed

“Alexander, who works with metal, displayed”

2192TI414kv94translate-namesἈλέξανδρος1Alexander

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2202TI414jv63figs-metaphorπολλά μοι κακὰ ἐνεδείξατο1displayed many evil deeds against me

Paul speaks of doing evil deeds as if they were put on display. Alternate translation: “did many evil things to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2212TI414wbx4figs-metaphorἀποδώσει αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος κατὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ1The Lord will repay him according to his deeds

Paul speaks of punishment as if it were payment. Alternate translation: “The Lord will punish him for what he has done” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2222TI414xrj6αὐτῷ…αὐτοῦ1him…his

Alexander

2232TI415jq91ὃν1him…he

Alexander.

2242TI415i4ajfigs-metonymyἀντέστη τοῖς ἡμετέροις λόγοις1opposed our words

Here “words” refers to a message or teaching. Alternate translation: “opposed the message that we teach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2252TI416v847ἐν τῇ πρώτῃ μου ἀπολογίᾳ1At my first defense

“When I first appeared in court and explained my actions”

2262TI416f2c3οὐδείς μοι παρεγένετο1no one stood with me

“no one stayed with me and helped me”

2272TI416rm2tfigs-activepassiveμὴ αὐτοῖς λογισθείη1May it not be counted against them

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “May God not count it against them” or “I pray that God does not punish those believers for leaving me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2282TI417t1fwfigs-metaphorὁ…Κύριός μοι παρέστη1the Lord stood by me

Paul is speaking as if the Lord had physically stood with him. Alternate translation: “the Lord helped me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2292TI417y69mfigs-activepassiveἵνα δι’ ἐμοῦ τὸ κήρυγμα πληροφορηθῇ1so that, through me, the message might be fully proclaimed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that I was able to speak all of the Lords message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2302TI417gsr8figs-metaphorἐρύσθην ἐκ στόματος λέοντος1I was rescued out of the lions mouth

Paul is speaking about danger as if he had been threatened by a lion. This danger could have been physical, spiritual, or both. Alternate translation: “I was rescued from great danger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2312TI419n4zcfigs-metonymyτὸν Ὀνησιφόρου οἶκον1house of Onesiphorus

Here “house” stands for the people who live there. Alternate translation: “family of Onesiphorus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2322TI419mef8Ὀνησιφόρου1Onesiphorus

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this name in 2 Timothy 1:16.

2332TI420lie9translate-namesἜραστος…Τρόφιμον1Erastus…Trophimus

These are all names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2342TI420wp9htranslate-namesΜιλήτῳ1Miletus

This is the name of a city to the south of Ephesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2352TI421p7pxtranslate-namesΕὔβουλος…Πούδης…Λίνος1Eubulus…Pudens, Linus

These are all names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2362TI421cvc7σπούδασον…ἐλθεῖν1Do your best to come

“Make a way to come”

2372TI421eh95πρὸ χειμῶνος1before winter

“before the cold season”

2382TI421z1j9ἀσπάζεταί σε Εὔβουλος, καὶ Πούδης, καὶ Λίνος, καὶ Κλαυδία, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ1greets you, also Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers

This can be translated as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “greets you. Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers also greet you”

2392TI421er77translate-namesΚλαυδία1Claudia

This is a female name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2402TI421mk26figs-gendernotationsοἱ ἀδελφοὶ1all the brothers

Here “brothers” means all believers whether male or female. Alternate translation: “all the believers here” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

2412TI422tx26figs-youὁ Κύριος μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματός σου1May the Lord be with your spirit

“I pray that the Lord makes your spirit strong.” Here “you” is singular and refers to Timothy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2422TI422k85yfigs-youἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν1May grace be with you

“I pray that the Lord shows his grace to all of you there.” Here “you” is plural and refers to all the believers there with Timothy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])