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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 to 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 matters. The topics he addressed include warnings about false teachers and advice about 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 different 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 spoke of being 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 the Bible is also referred to as Gods word. This implies several things about it. 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 expressions “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 already exists in their 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]])

42TI11p001translate-namesΠαῦλος1Paul

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

52TI11ha4lΠαῦλος1Paul

Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter. If so, you can use it in your translation.

62TI11vl2gδιὰ θελήματος Θεοῦ1through the will of God

Paul became an apostle because God wanted him to be an apostle. Alternate translation: “because of Gods will” or “because God wanted it to be so”

72TI11e1lgκατ’1according to

This could mean one of two things. (1) God appointed Paul to tell others about the promise of life in Jesus. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of” (2) Paul became an apostle because he himself received the promise of life in Jesus. Alternate translation: “as a result of”

82TI11m9kvfigs-metaphorζωῆς τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1life 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]])

92TI12p002translate-namesΤιμοθέῳ1Timothy

This is the name of a man, the person to whom this letter is written. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

102TI12rp5uΤιμοθέῳ1Timothy

Your language may have a particular way of introducing the person who receives a letter. If so, you can use it in your translation.

112TI12ey7gfigs-metaphorἀγαπητῷ τέκνῳ1my beloved child

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

122TI12w43qχάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη, ἀπὸ1Grace, mercy, and peace from

The letter starts with the name of the author and person who is receiving it. Then Paul adds a blessing to Timothy, the person who is receiving it. Alternate translation: “may you experience kindness, mercy, and peace within you from” or “I pray that you will have grace, mercy, and peace from”

132TI12p003figs-abstractnounsχάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη1Grace, mercy, and peace

Pauls blessing to Timothy includes these three abstract nouns. Your language may have a particular way of expressing these concepts, such as with verbs. If so, you can use them in your translation. Alternate translation: “act kindly, show mercy, and give peace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

142TI12ub7cguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΘεοῦ Πατρὸς καὶ1God the Father and

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

152TI12dcr3figs-inclusiveἡμῶν1our

In this book, unless otherwise noted, the words we, us, and our refer to Paul (the writer of this letter), Timothy (the one to whom this letter is written), and, by extension, all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])

162TI13p004figs-abstractnounsχάριν ἔχω τῷ Θεῷ1I have gratitude to God

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun gratitude with a verb or an adjective. Alternative translation: “I thank God” or “I am thankful to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

172TI13tvb7figs-idiomᾧ λατρεύω ἀπὸ προγόνων1whom I serve from my ancestors

This is an idiom that means that Paul serves God the way his ancestors did. Alternate translation: “whom I serve as my ancestors did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

182TI13ha9dfigs-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]])

192TI13rz7sfigs-abstractnounsὡς ἀδιάλειπτον ἔχω τὴν περὶ σοῦ μνείαν1as I have constant remembrance of you in my prayers night and day

Paul speaks of the action of remembering by using the abstract noun remembrance. Your language may have a particular way of expressing this concept, such as with a verb. If so, you can use it in your translation. Alternative translation: “as I think about you constantly in my prayers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

202TI13p005figs-yousingularσοῦ1you

The word you is singular here and throughout the book, since Paul is addressing Timothy. A note will discuss the one exception in 4:22. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])

212TI13pa6qfigs-merismνυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας1night and day

Here, night and day are used together to refer to all the time included in the night and day. Alternate translation: “always” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

222TI14p006figs-explicitμεμνημένος σου τῶν δακρύων1remembering your tears

The implication is that Paul remembers how Timothy cried as Paul left the last time they were together. Alternate translation: “I remember how you cried when I left you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

232TI14kk82figs-metonymyσου τῶν δακρύων1your tears

Here, your tears refers to the act of Timothys crying. Alternate translation: “that you cried” or “your crying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

242TI14gu8cfigs-metaphorχαρᾶς πληρωθῶ1I may be filled with joy

Paul speaks of himself as if he were a container that someone could fill. Alternate translation: “I may be very joyful” or “I may rejoice a lot” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

252TI14p007figs-activepassiveχαρᾶς πληρωθῶ1I may be filled with joy

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “joy may fill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

262TI15buc3figs-abstractnounsτῆς ἐν σοὶ ἀνυποκρίτου πίστεως1of the genuine faith in you

Paul refers to Timothys faith with an abstract noun. Your language may have a particular way of expressing this concept, such as with a verb. If so, you can use it in your translation. Alternate translation: “that you genuinely believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

272TI15p008figs-metaphorτῆς ἐν σοὶ ἀνυποκρίτου πίστεως1the genuine faith in you

Paul speaks of faith as if it were an object inside of Timothy. Alternate translation: “your genuine faith” or “your faith that is genuine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

282TI15vgz2figs-personificationπίστεως, ἥτις ἐνῴκησεν πρῶτον ἐν τῇ μάμμῃ σου, Λωΐδι, καὶ τῇ μητρί σου, Εὐνίκῃ; πέπεισμαι δὲ ὅτι καὶ ἐν σοί1faith, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am convinced that it is also in you

Paul is speaking of their faith as if it were something that was alive and lived in them. 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-personification]])

292TI15l8wctranslate-namesΛωΐδι1Lois

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

302TI15p009translate-namesΕὐνίκῃ1Eunice

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

312TI16j58kδι’ ἣν αἰτίαν1for which reason

Paul writes that the reason for asking Timothy to rekindle his gift is that he is confident of Timothys faith. Alternative translation: “for this reason” or “because of your faith in Jesus”

322TI16h6eqfigs-metaphorἀναζωπυρεῖν τὸ χάρισμα1rekindle the gift

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

332TI16i977translate-symactionτὸ χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἐν σοὶ διὰ τῆς ἐπιθέσεως τῶν χειρῶν μου1the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands

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. Then Timothy received the gift. Alternative translation: “the gift of God that you received when I prayed for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

342TI16p010figs-metaphorτὸ χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἐν σοὶ διὰ τῆς ἐπιθέσεως τῶν χειρῶν μου1the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands

Paul speaks of the gift as an object inside of Timothy. If the words that is in you do not clearly communicate in your language that Timothy received the gift, you could translate it with a verb that expressing the idea of giving or receiving. Alternative translation: “the gift of God that you received when I laid my hands on you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

352TI17h1z3οὐ…ἔδωκεν ἡμῖν ὁ Θεὸς πνεῦμα δειλίας, ἀλλὰ δυνάμεως, καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ σωφρονισμοῦ1God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of discipline

This could mean one of two things. (1) Spirit could refer 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” (2) Spirit could refer 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”

362TI17p011figs-abstractnounsδυνάμεως, καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ σωφρονισμοῦ1of power, and of love, and of discipline

Paul uses abstract nouns to refer to three things that Timothy should be able to do. Your language may have a particular way of expressing these concepts, such as with verbs. If so, you can use them in your translation. Alternate translation: “that gives us the ability to obey, to love, and to control ourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

372TI17k6g7σωφρονισμοῦ1discipline

The word discipline could mean one of two things. (1) Discipline could refer to self-control. Alternate translation: “the ability to control ourselves” (2) Discipline could refer to the power to control or even correct others. Alternate translation: “to control others”

382TI18fk9zfigs-metonymyτὸ μαρτύριον1the testimony

Paul may be using the word testimony to refer to the activity of telling others about the Lord and not to the message itself. Alternative translation: “of testifying” or “of telling others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

392TI18blk9τὸν δέσμιον αὐτοῦ1his prisoner

Paul is not being held prisoner by the Lord. He is a prisoner because he has testified about the Lord. Alternative translation: “a prisoner for his sake” or “a prisoner for the Lord”

402TI18ry82συνκακοπάθησον τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ1suffer together for the gospel

The term together could mean one of two things. (1) It could mean for Timothy to suffer together with Paul. (2) It could mean for Timothy to suffer together with all Christians who suffer.

412TI18hi9aτῷ εὐαγγελίῳ, κατὰ δύναμιν Θεοῦ1the gospel, according to the power of God

Paul is reminding Timothy that God provides people with power when they suffer. Alternate translation: “the gospel, allowing God to make you strong”

422TI19ld55figs-metonymyκαλέσαντος κλήσει ἁγίᾳ1called us with a holy calling

Paul uses the expression with a holy calling to describe what results from the calling. The call produces holy people or people set apart for God. Alternate translation: “called with a calling that set us apart as holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

432TI19kyr5ἀλλὰ κατὰ ἰδίαν πρόθεσιν καὶ χάριν1but according to his own purpose and grace

Paul is saying that God saves because of his plan and grace. His plan includes showing grace or kindness through Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “but because he planned to show us kindness”

442TI19p012figs-activepassiveκαὶ χάριν, τὴν δοθεῖσαν ἡμῖν ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “and grace, which God gave to us in Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

452TI19pq1zἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1in Christ Jesus

Paul explains that God planned to show kindness through faith in Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “through our relationship to Christ Jesus”

462TI19zq7mfigs-idiomπρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων1before eternal times

This is an idiom that indicates that God decided to save through faith in Christ before time and creation. Alternate translation: “before time began” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

472TI110h5e5figs-metaphorφανερωθεῖσαν δὲ νῦν, διὰ τῆς ἐπιφανείας τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1and which now has been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus

Paul speaks of salvation as if it were an object that could be uncovered and shown to people through the arrival of Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “which now has been shown” or “which now people can see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

482TI110p013figs-activepassiveφανερωθεῖσαν δὲ νῦν1and which now has been revealed

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “which now God has revealed” or “which now God has shown” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

492TI110i3wlfigs-metaphorφωτίσαντος δὲ ζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1brought to light life and immortality through the gospel

Paul refers to life and immortality as if they were objects that could be brought from darkness into light so that people could see them. He is figuratively speaking of revealing or making known. Alternate translation: “revealed life and immortality through the gospel” or “declared life and immortality through the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

502TI111tb9bfigs-activepassiveἐτέθην ἐγὼ κῆρυξ1I was appointed a herald

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “God chose me to be a herald” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

512TI111p014translate-unknownκῆρυξ1a herald

A herald is someone who is sent out to announce a message. If your language does not have a similar term and your readers would not know what a herald is, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

522TI111p015figs-metaphorκῆρυξ1a herald

Paul compares himself to a herald because God has sent him out to announce the gospel message. Alternate translation: “a preacher” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

532TI112j37gδι’ ἣν αἰτίαν1for which reason

Paul provides the reason for his suffering by referring back to his status as an apostle. Alternate translation: “because I am an apostle”

542TI112y8l4figs-explicitκαὶ ταῦτα πάσχω1I also suffer also these things

Paul does not mention the specific things he is suffering, but from the context of the letter, the implication is that he is referring to suffering as a prisoner. Alternate translation: “I also suffer as a prisoner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

552TI112td39πέπεισμαι1I am persuaded

Paul expresses that he is certain that God will make everything right in the end. Alternate translation: “I am sure”

562TI112p6pifigs-metaphorτὴν παραθήκην μου φυλάξαι1to guard my deposit

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. This could mean one of two things. (1) Paul is trusting Jesus to help him remain faithful. Alternate translation: “to help me keep preaching his message” (2) Paul is trusting Jesus to preserve everything he has entrusted to him. Alternate translation: “to protect everything I have invested in serving him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

572TI112qcu3figs-explicitἐκείνην τὴν ἡμέραν1that day

This refers to the day when Jesus returns for judgment. Alternate translation: “the day of judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

582TI113h1qdfigs-metonymyὑγιαινόντων λόγων1the healthy words

Paul wants Timothy to teach the things that he taught and thereby follow his example. The expression the healthy words figuratively means “the correct message” by association, since a healthy mind would recognize that the correct message was reasonable. Alternate translation: “the correct message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

592TI113p016figs-metonymyὑγιαινόντων λόγων1the healthy words

Paul uses the term words figuratively to describe the expression in words of what Christians genuinely believe. Alternate translation: “the correct message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

602TI113p017figs-abstractnounsἐν πίστει καὶ ἀγάπῃ τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus

Paul uses two abstract nouns, faith and love, to refer to actions that Timothy should do. Your language may have a particular way of expressing these concepts, such as with a verb. If so, you can use it in your translation. Alternate translation: “trusting in Christ Jesus and loving others because you belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

612TI113b2ldἐν πίστει καὶ ἀγάπῃ τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus

Here, love could mean one of two things. (1) The love that Timothy should show others. Alternate translation: “trusting in Christ Jesus and loving others because you belong to him” (2) The love that Timothy should show to God. Alternate translation: “trusting in Christ Jesus and loving him”

622TI114i5g5figs-explicitτὴν καλὴν παραθήκην φύλαξον1Guard the good deposit

This refers to the gospel message that God has entrusted to Timothy to share with his people. Alternate translation: “the good message entrusted to you for Gods people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

632TI114cb5qfigs-explicitφύλαξον1guard

Timothy needs to be alert to protect the gospel message because people will oppose him and try to distort what he says and teaches. Alternate translation: “protect … against those who will try to distort it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

642TI114a3v2διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου1through the Holy Spirit

Paul reminds Timothy that the Holy Spirit will help him. Alternate translation: “with the Holy Spirits help”

652TI115p018figs-hyperboleπάντες οἱ ἐν τῇ Ἀσίᾳ1all who are in Asia

The word all could mean one of two things. (1) Paul could have used the word all to mean “many, but not all” in the strict sense, since Timothy and Onesiphorus did not turn away from him. So this would be an example of hyperbole. (2) Paul could have used the word all to refer to the men who came to Rome with him from Asia Minor. Alternate translation: “all who came with me from Asia” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

662TI115p019translate-namesἈσίᾳ1Asia

This is the name of a region, Asia Minor or modern-day Turkey. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

672TI115p6f4figs-metaphorἀπεστράφησάν με1turned away from me

This is a metaphor that means they left Paul and stopped helping him. Alternate translation: “have deserted me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

682TI115p020figs-explicitἀπεστράφησάν με1turned away from me

Paul assumes that Timothy would know that the believers from Asia had abandoned him because the authorities had thrown him into prison. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “have deserted me because I am in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

692TI115x6cctranslate-namesΦύγελος1Phygelus

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

702TI115p021translate-namesἙρμογένης1Hermogenes

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

712TI116e6hltranslate-namesὈνησιφόρου1Onesiphorus

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

722TI116zz44figs-metonymyτῷ Ὀνησιφόρου οἴκῳ1to the household of Onesiphorus

The word household refers to Onesiphorus and all the people in his family, possibly even his servants. Alternate translation: “to Onesiphorus and everyone who lives with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

732TI116td1qfigs-metonymyτὴν ἅλυσίν μου οὐκ ἐπησχύνθη1not ashamed of my chain

The word chain refers to being in prison. Onesiphorus was not ashamed that Paul was in prison but came to visit him frequently. Alternate translation: “was not ashamed of my imprisonment” or “was not ashamed of my being in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

742TI117p022translate-namesῬώμῃ1Rome

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

752TI117p023figs-hendiadysἐζήτησέν με καὶ εὗρεν1sought me and found

The two actions, sought and found, are not two separate actions, but they express the single idea that Onesiphorus diligently did something to completion. Alternate translation: “he sought me until he found me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])

762TI118p3diδῴη αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος, εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου1May the Lord grant to him to find mercy from the Lord

Paul is asking for the Lord to grant mercy to Onesiphorus. Your language may require you to use the name “Onesiphorus” instead of the pronoun him to make it clear who is receiving mercy. Alternative translation: “May Onesiphorus receive mercy from the Lord”

772TI118x2dkfigs-metaphorεὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου1to find mercy from the Lord

Paul speaks of mercy as if it were an object that could be found. Paul is expressing his desire that God show mercy on the day of judgment. Alternate translation: “to receive mercy from the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

782TI118f3epfigs-explicitἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ1in that day

The expression that day refers to the day when God will judge all people; they will find mercy, as Paul mentions, or wrath. Alternate translation: “on the day of judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

792TI118p024translate-namesἘφέσῳ1Ephesus

This is the name of a city, the place where Timothy, the recipient of the letter, is located. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

802TI118p025figs-explicitδιηκόνησεν, βέλτιον σὺ γινώσκεις1he served me, you know very well

Paul is reminding Timothy that Onesiphorus helped him earlier, in Ephesus. So, Paul is asking the Lord to bless Onesiphorus because he helped Paul several times. Alternate translation: “you know well how he helped me earlier when I was in Ephesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

812TI2introk3zn0

2 Timothy 02 General Notes

Structure and formatting

In verses 11b-13, Paul may be quoting a poem or hymn. To show the reader that this may be a quotation, in your translation you may choose to set these verses farther to the right than the other verses in the chapter.

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.

822TI21bll5figs-metaphorτέκνον μου1my child

Here, child is a term of great love and approval. It is also likely that Paul introduced Timothy to Christ, 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]])

832TI21p026figs-activepassiveἐνδυναμοῦ1be strengthened

You could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action. Alternate translation: “let God make you strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

842TI21e6exfigs-abstractnounsἐν τῇ χάριτι τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1in the grace that is in Christ Jesus

Paul wants Timothy to experience the strength that God provides through his grace or kindness and that believers experience through knowing Jesus Christ. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun grace with an adjective. Alternate translation: “as Christ Jesus shows you kindness through your relationship to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

852TI22ig9vfigs-explicitδιὰ πολλῶν μαρτύρων1in the presence of many witnesses

Paul is referring to teaching in a public setting with others present. The implication is that those others could testify as to what he taught. Alternate translation: “in the presence of people who can testify to what I said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

862TI22kv1mfigs-metaphorταῦτα παράθου πιστοῖς ἀνθρώποις1entrust these things to faithful men

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]])

872TI22p027figs-gendernotationsἀνθρώποις1men

Paul uses the term men in a generic sense that includes all people. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

882TI23yc1jfigs-explicitσυνκακοπάθησον1suffer together

The term together could mean one of two things. (1) It could mean for Timothy to suffer together with Paul. Alternate translation: “suffer together with me” (2) It could mean for Timothy to suffer together with all Christians who suffer. Alternate translation: “suffer together with all believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

892TI23juu2figs-metaphorὡς καλὸς στρατιώτης Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1as a good soldier of Jesus Christ

Paul compares suffering for Christ Jesus to the suffering that a good soldier endures. Alternate translation: “as if you were a soldier and Jesus Christ were your commander” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

902TI24a4x7figs-metaphorοὐδεὶς στρατευόμενος ἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις1No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in the affairs of life

To help Timothy understand something important about following Jesus, Paul introduces the metaphor of a soldier who has to decide between pleasing his leader or pleasing those outside the army. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this. Alternate translation: “consider that no dedicated soldier allows the affairs of life to distract him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

912TI24p7n5figs-metaphorἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις1gets entangled in the affairs of life

Paul speaks of being involved in other matters as if they were a net that trapped people and kept them from being able to move freely. Alternate translation: “allows the affairs of life to distract him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

922TI24p028figs-activepassiveἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις1gets entangled in the affairs of life

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “allows the affairs of life to distract him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

932TI24p029figs-explicitταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις1the affairs of life

By life, Paul means, in the context of this metaphor, “civilian life.” The implication is that Timothy and all believers should not allow competing concerns to keep them from serving Christ. Alternate translation: “everyday life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

942TI24d2lgτῷ στρατολογήσαντι1the one who enlisted him

Alternate translation: “his leader” or “the one who commands him”

952TI25d483figs-metaphorἐὰν…ἀθλῇ τις, οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1if anyone competes, he is not crowned if he has not competed lawfully

To help Timothy understand something important about following Jesus, Paul introduces the metaphor of an athlete who has to decide between competing lawfully or not lawfully. The athlete will only receive the crown given to the winner if he competes lawfully. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this directly. Alternate translation: “consider that the officials only crown an athlete as the winner if he competes according to the rules” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

962TI25p031figs-hypoἐὰν…ἀθλῇ τις, οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1if anyone competes, he is not crowned if he has not competed lawfully

Paul is also using a hypothetical situation to teach Timothy. Alternate translation: “suppose an athlete did not compete by the rules. Then he would not be crowned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

972TI25p032ἐὰν…ἀθλῇ τις1if anyone competes

This expression has a specific meaning. Alternate translation: “if an athlete competes in an event”

982TI25xbn6figs-doublenegativesοὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1he is not crowned if he has not competed lawfully

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this double negative as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “the officials will only crown him if he competes by the rules” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

992TI25p033figs-activepassiveοὐ στεφανοῦται1he is not crowned

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “the officials will not crown him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1002TI25p034figs-explicitοὐ στεφανοῦται1he is not crowned

Paul assumes that Timothy will know that in this culture crowning indicated the winner of a competition. Alternate translation: “the officials will not crown him as the winner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1012TI25lea8translate-unknownοὐ στεφανοῦται1he is not crowned

In Pauls time, when athletes won competitions, they were crowned with wreaths made from the leaves of plants. You can express this idea in your translation by referring to the comparable custom in your own culture, or by using a general expression. Alternate translation: “the officials will not give him an award” or “the officials will not declare him to be the winner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1022TI25reg6figs-explicitνομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1he has competed lawfully

Paul is referring to the rules that governed a competition. The athletes had to obey the rules or they would be removed from the competition and not have an opportunity to win. Paul is implicitly encouraging Timothy to serve Christ lawfully. Alternate translation: “he competes according to the rules” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1032TI26wz35figs-metaphorτὸν κοπιῶντα γεωργὸν δεῖ πρῶτον τῶν καρπῶν μεταλαμβάνειν1The hardworking farmer ought to be first to receive of the crops

To help Timothy understand something important about following Jesus, Paul introduces the metaphor of a farmer who has to decide between working hard or not working hard. The farmer will receive a share of the harvest if he is working hard. Paul is encouraging Timothy to work hard in his service to Christ. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this directly. Alternate translation: “consider that a farmer who works hard should receive a share of the crops before anyone else” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1042TI26p035figs-explicitπρῶτον τῶν καρπῶν μεταλαμβάνειν1first to receive of the crops

The farmer is working with other farmers and will receive a part of the crop at the time of harvest. If he works hard, he should receive before the others. It is implied that receiving first is best, possibly because the quality of the crop is better. Alternate translation: “receive the best share of the crops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1052TI27bdk9figs-explicitνόει ὃ λέγω, δώσει γάρ σοι ὁ Κύριος σύνεσιν1Think about what I am saying, for the Lord will give you understanding

Paul gave Timothy three metaphors, but he did not completely explain their implications. He expected Timothy to figure out, with Gods help, what he was saying about Christs servants. Alternate translation: “you will have to think carefully about what I have just told you to understand it completely, but you can depend on God to help you do that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1062TI27p036figs-metonymyὃ λέγω1what I am saying

Paul refers to what he has just written in his letter with the verb saying to express the idea of communicating. Alternate translation: “what I have just told you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1072TI27a22qfigs-explicitἐν πᾶσιν1in everything

This could mean one of two things. (1) God will give Timothy understanding about everything related to the three metaphors. Alternate translation: “about everything I just said” or “about all I said” (2) God will give Timothy understanding about everything related to being a good servant of Christ. Alternate translation: “about everything a good servant needs to understand” or “about all you need to understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1082TI28mh1kfigs-metaphorἐκ σπέρματος Δαυείδ1from the seed of David

The phrase from the seed of refers figuratively to Jesus being descended from King David. Alternate translation: “who is a descendant of David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1092TI28p037translate-namesΔαυείδ1David

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

1102TI28wt31figs-idiomἐγηγερμένον ἐκ νεκρῶν1raised from the dead

The expression raise from the dead is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “whom God caused to live again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1112TI28p038figs-activepassiveἐγηγερμένον ἐκ νεκρῶν1raised from the dead

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “whom God raised from the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1122TI28s4vhκατὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιόν μου1according to my gospel

The term my conveys the idea that it is the gospel associated with Paul because he preaches it. Alternate translation: “according to the gospel message that I preach”

1132TI29t2axfigs-metonymyμέχρι δεσμῶν1unto chains

Paul uses the expression unto chains figuratively to express how far his suffering has gone: from being beaten, to being arrested, to being in chains in prison. Alternate translation: “to the point of being imprisoned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1142TI29p039figs-simileὡς κακοῦργος1like a criminal

Paul compares his situation to the shameful one that a person would be in who had actually committed a crime. Alternate translation: “as if I were a criminal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1152TI29pc6tfigs-metaphorὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐ δέδεται1the word of God is not bound

Here, bound means being held in chains as a prisoner, referring to Pauls condition. Paul contrasts himself, an actual prisoner, with Gods message, which can never be held prisoner. Alternate translation: “nothing is holding back the message from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1162TI29p040figs-activepassiveὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐ δέδεται1the word of God is not bound

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this idea. Alternate translation: “nothing is holding back the message from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1172TI29p041figs-metonymyὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ1the word of God

Paul uses the term word figuratively to describe the message from God that he and others are communicating with words. Alternate translation: “the message from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1182TI210p042figs-hyperboleπάντα ὑπομένω1I endure all things

Here the term all is a generalization that likely refers to the sufferings that Paul describes in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “I endure all of these sufferings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1192TI210aa1xfigs-nominaladjδιὰ τοὺς ἐκλεκτούς1for the chosen

The term chosen is an adjective that functions as a noun here and refers to a group of people. If your language would not use an adjective in that way, you can translate this term with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “for the people whom God has chosen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

1202TI210j2bkσωτηρίας τύχωσιν τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus

The phrase obtain the salvation could also be expressed with Christ Jesus, who grants salvation, as the subject. Alternate translation: “Christ Jesus may grant them salvation”

1212TI210p043figs-abstractnounsσωτηρίας τύχωσιν τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun salvation with a verb. Alternate translation: “Christ Jesus may save them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1222TI210el68figs-abstractnounsμετὰ δόξης αἰωνίου1with eternal glory

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun glory with an adjective. This could mean one of two things. (1) God will give his people a glorious place to live in that will last forever. Alternate translation: “and they will be in a glorious place with him forever” (2) God will allow his people to experience a glorious condition or body that will last forever. Alternate translation: “and they will have a glorious body forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1232TI211nr7uπιστὸς ὁ λόγος1This word is trustworthy

In this context, the term word has a specific meaning. Alternate translation: “this statement is dependable”

1242TI211p044πιστὸς ὁ λόγος1This word is trustworthy

You could represent the meaning of the adjective trustworthy with an active verb, if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “you can trust this statement”

1252TI211p045figs-quotemarksπιστὸς ὁ λόγος1This word is trustworthy

Paul uses this phrase to introduce a direct quotation. The words that follow in the rest of this verse and in 2:12 and 2:13 are a poem or hymn that expresses the message that Paul says is trustworthy. It may be helpful to your readers if you indicate this by marking these words as a direct quotation or by setting them farther to the right, as the General Notes at the beginning of this chapter suggest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1262TI211g6e4writing-poetryεἰ γὰρ συναπεθάνομεν, καὶ συνζήσομεν1For if we died with him, we will also live with him

This is the beginning of a poem or hymn that Paul is probably quoting. If your language has a way of indicating that this is poetry, such as by setting individual phrases on separate lines, you could use it here and in 2:12 and 2:13. If not, you could translate this material as regular prose rather than as poetry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]])

1272TI211in38figs-metaphorεἰ…συναπεθάνομεν1if we died with him

Paul is speaking figuratively since he and Timothy and other believers who should trust this statement have not actually died. This could mean one of two things. (1) Paul could be referring to the way that believers identify with Jesus death when they trust him for salvation. Alternate translation: “if we have identified with Jesus death for us” (2) Paul could be referring to the way that people who believe in Jesus may suffer for him, possibly to the point of dying for him. Alternate translation: “if we are prepared to die for Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1282TI211p046figs-metaphorκαὶ συνζήσομεν1we will also live with him

If died is figurative, then Paul may intend the term live in a figurative sense as well. If so, it could mean one of two things. (1) If died refers to the way that believers identify with Jesus death, then live may refer to how they will act as a result. Alternate translation: “we will not pursue our own desires, instead we will do what Jesus wants us to do” (2) If died refers to being prepared to die for Jesus, then live may refer to life after death. Alternate translation: “God will raise us from the dead as he raised Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1292TI212p047figs-metaphorσυνβασιλεύσομεν1we will reign with him

Paul uses the expression reign to refer figuratively to the reward of obedience on earth, which is eternal life. In the eternal state, believers actually will reign with Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “we will have eternal life with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1302TI212p048εἰ ἀρνησόμεθα1if we deny him

Paul uses the term deny to refer to the action of believers saying that they do not know Jesus Christ during this present life. Alternate translation: “if we say now that we do not know him”

1312TI212p049κἀκεῖνος ἀρνήσεται ἡμᾶς1he also will deny us

Paul uses deny to refer to the action of Jesus Christ on the day of final judgment. Jesus will either receive a faithful believer or reject those who are not true followers. Alternate translation: “he will reject us on the day of judgment”

1322TI213ke4wεἰ ἀπιστοῦμεν1if we are unfaithful

Paul uses the word unfaithful to express the idea that believers do not continue to obey but rather disobey. Alternate translation: “if we disobey Jesus” or “if we do not do what Jesus wants us to do”

1332TI213p050figs-explicitἐκεῖνος πιστὸς μένει1he remains faithful

This could mean one of two things. Alternate translation: (1) “he remains true to himself” (2) “he remains faithful to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1342TI213ihd4ἀρνήσασθαι…ἑαυτὸν οὐ δύναται1he is not able to deny himself

Paul states that Jesus is not able to deny himself, meaning that Jesus is not able to go against his character and will remain true to what he said he would do. Alternate translation: “he must always act according to his character”

1352TI214u661ὑπομίμνῃσκε1remind them

The word them, which is implicit in the Greek verb, probably refers to the people that Timothy has responsibility over. Alternate translation: “remind the people there”

1362TI214p051figs-metaphorἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1before God

Paul uses the expression before God, which means “in front of God,” to mean “where God can see.” Seeing, in turn, figuratively means attention and judgment. Alternate translation: “as God is watching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1372TI214r5lqfigs-explicitἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1before God

The implication is that Paul is telling Timothy to tell the believers, when he gives them this command, that God will be watching what they do. Alternate translation: “with God as their witness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1382TI214g6p7figs-metaphorμὴ λογομαχεῖν1not to battle about words

Paul uses the term battle figuratively to describe arguments. This could mean one of two things. (1) The believers are not to argue about foolish things that people say. Alternate translation: “not to fight about foolish comments” (2) The believers are not to argue about what words mean. Alternate translation: “not to fight about the meanings of words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1392TI214rke6ἐπ’ οὐδὲν χρήσιμον1it is useful for nothing

Paul adds that battling about words has no benefit for those involved. Alternate translation: “it does not benefit anyone”

1402TI215m3vyσεαυτὸν, δόκιμον παραστῆσαι τῷ Θεῷ, ἐργάτην ἀνεπαίσχυντον1to present yourself approved to God, a worker not ashamed

Alternate translation: “do your best to please God and to seek Gods approval”

1412TI215rj6yfigs-metaphorἐργάτην1a worker

Paul says figuratively that Timothy will be a skilled workman if he correctly teaches Gods word. Alternate translation: “like a craftsman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1422TI215xgz9figs-metaphorὀρθοτομοῦντα τὸν λόγος τῆς ἀληθείας1cutting the word of truth straight

Paul refers figuratively to the word of truth as if it were a path that someone was cutting through difficult terrain. When such a path is straight, travelers can follow it directly to their destination. By contrast, the useless discussions that Paul describes in 2:14 and 2:16 would be needless detours in terms of this same metaphor. Alternate translation: “show people how to follow the Scriptures directly” or “teach the Scriptures correctly so that people can follow them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1432TI215p052figs-metonymyτὸν λόγος τῆς ἀληθείας1the word of truth

Paul uses the term word figuratively to refer to something that is expressed in words. This could mean one of two things. (1) It could refer to the message that Timothy is to teach. Alternate translation: “the true message” (2) It could refer to the Scriptures. Alternate translation: “the true things that God has said in the Scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1442TI215p053figs-abstractnounsτὸν λόγος τῆς ἀληθείας1the word of truth

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun truth with an adjective. Alternate translation: “the true message” or “the true things that God has said in the Scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1452TI216e27qfigs-metaphorἐπὶ πλεῖον…προκόψουσιν ἀσεβείας1for they will advance into greater ungodliness

Paul speaks of these discussions figuratively as if they could physically progress in a certain direction, and he speaks of godlessness as that direction. Paul is figuratively describing the effect that these discussions have on people. Alternate translation: “because they cause people to become more and more ungodly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1462TI217i73tfigs-simileὁ λόγος αὐτῶν ὡς γάγγραινα νομὴν ἕξει1their word will have a spreading like gangrene

This is a simile. It means that what the people who were taking part in empty discussions were saying would spread from person to person and harm the faith of those who heard it. Alternate translation: “what people who take part in these discussions say will spread quickly and cause destruction like an infectious disease” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1472TI217p054figs-metonymyὁ λόγος αὐτῶν1their word

Paul uses the term word figuratively to refer to something that is expressed in words. Alternate translation: “what people who take part in these discussions say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1482TI217p055translate-unknownὡς γάγγραινα1like gangrene

Gangrene is type of tissue death caused by infection or lack of blood circulation. It quickly spreads in a persons body and can lead to death. If your readers would not know what gangrene is, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “like an infectious disease” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1492TI217p056ὧν ἐστιν Ὑμέναιος, καὶ Φίλητος1among whom are Hymenaeus and Philetus

Paul gives Timothy the names of two men who are examples of ungodliness and foolish talk. To make the relationship between these names and the preceding their word clear in your language, you may have to make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Hymeneus and Philetus are such people”

1502TI217x2k6translate-namesὙμέναιος, καὶ Φίλητος1Hymenaeus and Philetus

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

1512TI218fi9zfigs-metaphorοἵτινες περὶ τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἠστόχησαν1who have missed the mark regarding the truth

Paul uses this expression to speak figuratively of faith in Christ as if it were a target at which people should aim. Those who have missed the mark no longer believe or teach what is true. Alternate translation: “who have started saying things that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1522TI218p057figs-abstractnounsοἵτινες περὶ τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἠστόχησαν1who have missed the mark regarding the truth

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun truth with an adjective. Alternate translation: “who have started saying things that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1532TI218pu22figs-abstractnounsἀνάστασιν ἤδη γεγονέναι1the resurrection has already happened

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun resurrection with an equivalent expression. Alternative translation: “God has already raised the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1542TI218ura5figs-metaphorἀνατρέπουσιν τήν τινων πίστιν1who are destroying the faith of some

Paul refers to faith as though it were an object that could be destroyed. Alternate translation: “they are causing some people to stop believing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1552TI219ir1zfigs-metaphorὁ…στερεὸς θεμέλιος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἕστηκεν1the firm foundation of God stands

Paul uses the image of the foundation of a building to explain that even though a destructive message has been destroying the faith of some people, God has nevertheless given people who want to continue in the faith a safe and secure “place to stand,” as it were. Alternate translation: “God has provided a secure basis for people to continue to believe in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1562TI219p058figs-metonymyἔχων τὴν σφραγῖδα ταύτην1having this seal

Paul speaks figuratively of the inscription on this foundation as if it were a seal, since seals on the outside of documents often bore inscriptions describing their contents. Alternate translation: “having this inscription” or “which can be described in this way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1572TI219p059figs-quotemarksἔχων τὴν σφραγῖδα ταύτην1having this seal

Paul uses this phrase to introduce two direct quotations. The statements that follow in the rest of this verse describe two aspects of the basis that God has provided for people to continue to believe in him. It may be helpful to your readers if you indicate this by marking these statements as quotations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])

1582TI219nd7tfigs-idiomὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου1who names the name of the Lord

The expression names the name of the Lord is an idiom that refers to saying the name of the Lord in order to declare that one belongs to him. Alternate translation: “who says he believes in the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1592TI219y3bcfigs-abstractnounsἀποστήτω ἀπὸ ἀδικίας1must abstain from unrighteousness

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun unrighteousness with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “must stop doing evil things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1602TI220p060figs-metaphorἐν μεγάλῃ δὲ οἰκίᾳ, οὐκ ἔστιν μόνον σκεύη χρυσᾶ καὶ ἀργυρᾶ, ἀλλὰ καὶ ξύλινα καὶ ὀστράκινα1Now in a great house, there are not only gold and silver containers, but also wood and clay

To help Timothy understand something important about following Jesus, Paul introduces the metaphor of the containers that are in the home of a wealthy person. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this. Alternate translation: “Consider that in the home of a wealthy person, there are containers made of gold and silver, and there are also containers made of wood and clay” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1612TI220p061figs-ellipsisἀλλὰ καὶ ξύλινα καὶ ὀστράκινα1but also wood and clay

Paul leaves out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages in order to be complete. Alternate translation: “and there are also containers made of wood and clay” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1622TI220j75lσκεύη1containers

The word container is a general term for items used to hold food or drink. If your language does not have a general word, you can use a specific word such as “bowl” or “pot.”

1632TI220mt5efigs-abstractnounsἃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν, ἃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν1both some for honor and some for dishonor

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns honor and dishonor with equivalent phrases. This could mean one of two things. (1) Alternate translation: “dishes both for special occasions and for ordinary times” (2) Alternate translation: “dishes both for use in public and for use in private” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1642TI221jm3pfigs-metaphorἐκκαθάρῃ ἑαυτὸν ἀπὸ τούτων1has cleansed himself from these

Paul speaks figuratively of a person washing himself to indicate giving up certain associations or activities. This could mean one of two things. (1) The word these could refer to the false teachers who are destroying the faith of some people. Alternate translation: “these false teachers” (2) The word these could refer to the quarrelling and false teaching that Paul has warned Timothy about. Alternate translation: “these ungodly actions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1652TI221g79ffigs-metaphorἔσται σκεῦος εἰς τιμήν1he will be a container for honor

Paul speaks figuratively of a person who has given up these associations or activities as if he were a particular kind of container. Alternate translation: “he will be like a dish for special occasions” or “he will be like a dish for use in public” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1662TI221p062figs-explicitἔσται σκεῦος εἰς τιμήν1he will be a container for honor

The implication is that God will be able to give important assignments to a person who is free from wrong associations or activities. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “he will be someone to whom God can give important assignments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1672TI221mh63ἡγιασμένον εὔχρηστον τῷ Δεσπότῃ, εἰς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἡτοιμασμένον1having been sanctified, useful to the Master, having been prepared for every good work

These three expressions could relate in one of two ways to the phrase he will be a container for honor. (1) They could be a further description of such a person. Alternate translation: “someone who is sanctified, useful to the Master, and ready for every good work” (2) They could be explaining the reason why the person is ready for honorable use. Alternate translation: “because he is sanctified, because he is useful to the Master, and because he is ready for every good work”

1682TI221p063figs-activepassiveἡγιασμένον1having been sanctified

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea, and you can say who did the action. Alternate translation: “whom God has set apart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1692TI221nl5dfigs-metaphorἡγιασμένον1having been sanctified

If this phrase is continuing the metaphor of objects in a house, then Paul is referring to a person who is free from wrong associations or activities as if he were a precious object whose owner keeps it in a special place. Whether this phrase is continuing the metaphor or not, it still expresses the idea of being “dedicated” for a special purpose. Alternate translation: “whom God has set apart for a special purpose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1702TI221p064figs-metaphorεὔχρηστον τῷ Δεσπότῃ1useful to the Master

In the context of the metaphor of the house, Paul speaks of God figuratively as the head of the household. Alternate translation: “useful to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1712TI221p065figs-activepassiveεἰς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἡτοιμασμένον1having been prepared for every good work

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “who has gotten ready to do any good work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1722TI222h9p6figs-metaphorτὰς…νεωτερικὰς ἐπιθυμίας φεῦγε1flee youthful lusts

Paul speaks about youthful desires as if they were a dangerous person or animal that Timothy should run away from. Alternate translation: “control your youthful desires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1732TI222p066figs-metonymyτὰς…νεωτερικὰς ἐπιθυμίας φεῦγε1flee youthful lusts

Paul speaks figuratively of immoral activities by association with the desires that lead a person to engage in them. Alternate translation: “refuse to do the wrong things that young people want to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1742TI222srb7figs-metaphorδίωκε δὲ δικαιοσύνην, πίστιν, ἀγάπην, εἰρήνην1and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace

Paul is using the verb pursue in contrast to flee. He speaks of these positive things as if Timothy should run towards them because they will do him good. Alternate translation: “be eager to do what is right, to believe in God, to love other people, and to live peacefully with other people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1752TI222p067figs-abstractnounsδικαιοσύνην, πίστιν, ἀγάπην, εἰρήνην1righteousness, faith, love, and peace

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns righteousness, faith, love, and peace with equivalent expressions. Alternate translation: “do what is right, believe in God, love other people, and live peacefully with other people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1762TI222hg99μετὰ τῶν ἐπικαλουμένων τὸν Κύριον ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας1with those who call on the Lord from a clean heart

This likely means that Paul wants Timothy to pursue these positive things together with others who are sincere in their faith. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could put this phrase at the beginning of Pauls command to Timothy, before pursue. Alternate translation: “together with those who worship the Lord with sincere intentions”

1772TI222gl3qfigs-idiomτῶν ἐπικαλουμένων τὸν Κύριον1those who call on the Lord

The expression 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]])

1782TI222p068figs-metonymyἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας1from a clean heart

Paul uses a physical part of the body, the heart, figuratively to represent the intentions and desires of a person. Alternate translation: “with sincere intentions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1792TI222b2tifigs-metaphorἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας1from a clean heart

Paul uses the word clean to describe the intentions or thoughts of a person as though they were an object that could be made clean. Alternate translation: “with sincere intentions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1802TI223tmf7figs-metonymyτὰς…μωρὰς καὶ ἀπαιδεύτους ζητήσεις παραιτοῦ1avoid foolish and ignorant questions

Paul refers to certain kinds of discussions figuratively by association with the questions people might ask that would lead to these discussions. Alternate translation: “do not become involved in foolish and ignorant discussions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1812TI223p069figs-doubletμωρὰς καὶ ἀπαιδεύτους ζητήσεις1foolish and ignorant questions

Paul may be using the words foolish and ignorant together to emphasize a single idea. Alternate translation: “stupid questions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1822TI223kh6pfigs-metaphorγεννῶσι μάχας1they give birth to battles

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

1832TI223p070figs-metaphorμάχας1battles

Paul uses the term battle figuratively to describe arguments. Alternate translation: “they cause arguments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1842TI224p071figs-metaphorδοῦλον…Κυρίου1the servant of the Lord

Paul is using the expression servant of the Lord figuratively to refer to leaders in the church, including Timothy, who teach and must interact with the quarrelsome teachers who challenge their authority and the truth. Alternate translation: “a leader in the church” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1852TI224p072figs-metaphorοὐ δεῖ μάχεσθαι1must not battle

Paul uses the term battle figuratively to describe arguments. Alternate translation: “must not argue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1862TI225un9lfigs-abstractnounsἐν πραΰτητι1in meekness

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun meekness in this expression with an adverb. Alternate translation: “meekly” or “gently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1872TI225u6rpπαιδεύοντα1educating

Paul presents this as the godly response to quarrels. This term can mean “teach” or “correct.” Alternate translation: “teaching” or “correcting”

1882TI225jt1rfigs-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 cause them to repent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1892TI225u8dyεἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας1for the knowledge of the truth

Paul speaks of the result of repentance as knowing the truth. Alternate translation: “so that they will know the truth”

1902TI226p073figs-ellipsisἀνανήψωσιν ἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος1they may become sober again from the trap of the devil

As Paul moves from one metaphor into another, he leaves out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages in order to be complete. Alternate translation: “they may become sober again and escape from the trap of the devil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1912TI226ef3qfigs-metaphorἀνανήψωσιν1they may become sober again

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

1922TI226mql8figs-metaphorἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος1from the trap of the devil

Paul refers to the deception of the devil as a physical trap that sinners are captured in. Alternate translation: “and escape from the devils deception” or “and reject the devils deception” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1932TI226p074figs-activepassiveἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα1having been captured by him for his will

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “after the devil has captured them and made them do what he wanted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1942TI226dj4jfigs-metaphorἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα1having been captured by him for his will

Paul speaks of the devils deception as if the devil had physically captured them and made them do what he wanted. Alternate translation: “after the devil has deceived them and made them do what he wanted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1952TI3introk2cr0

2 Timothy 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Some scholars understand the last days to mean a time in the future just before Jesus returns. If that is the meaning, then Paul is prophesying in verses 1-9 and 13 about those days. Other scholars understand the last days to mean the Christian age, including Pauls time. If so, then what Paul teaches in this chapter about being persecuted applies to all Christians. Translators should be careful not to let how they understand this issue affect how they translate these verses. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])

1962TI31g65rfigs-idiomἐν ἐσχάταις ἡμέραις1in the last days

Paul is using the term days figuratively to refer to a particular time. Alternate translation: “during the period of time before the end” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1972TI31n7gsfigs-explicitἐνστήσονται καιροὶ χαλεποί1there will be difficult times

The implication from what Paul goes on to say about people becoming ungodly and violent is that it will be difficult for believers in this time period. Alternate translation: “Christians will face difficult situations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1982TI32p075figs-gendernotationsοἱ ἄνθρωποι1men

Here Paul is using the term men in a generic sense that includes all people. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

1992TI32jb27φίλαυτοι1self-loving

Here, self-loving refers to loving oneself more than loving family or friends with a natural human love. This is not the kind of love that comes from God. Alternate translation: “self-centered”

2002TI33u3n7ἄστοργοι1unloving

The term unloving means that they will not love other people whom they should love. Alternate translation: “they will not love their own families”

2012TI33r2uvἄσπονδοι1irreconcilable

The term irreconcilable means they will not agree to make peace with others and will insist on living in a state of conflict. Alternate translation: “they will not agree with anyone” or “they will not live in peace with anyone”

2022TI33ks9yἀφιλάγαθοι1not good-loving

The phrase not good-loving could be translated with not and loving expressed with the positive term “hating.” Alternate translation: “They will hate what is good”

2032TI34dw5zπροπετεῖς1reckless

The adjective reckless conveys the idea of doing things without thinking about the negative things that could happen as a result. Alternate translation: “heedless of consequences”

2042TI34d6ngfigs-metaphorτετυφωμένοι1puffed up

The expression puffed up is a metaphor for being proud and considering oneself better than others. Alternate translation: “haughty” or “conceited” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2052TI34p076figs-activepassiveτετυφωμένοι1puffed up

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “haughty” or “conceited” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2062TI35k5dcfigs-idiomἔχοντες μόρφωσιν εὐσεβείας1having a form of godliness

The expression a form of indicates that their godliness is not genuine or true. Alternate translation: “appearing to have godliness” or “appearing to honor God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2072TI35p077grammar-connect-logic-resultκαὶ1And

Paul uses this word to introduce the results of what the previous sentence described. Alternate translation: “So” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

2082TI35p078figs-nominaladjτούτους ἀποτρέπου1turn away from these

The term these is a demonstrative adjective that refers to the people who show the ungodly qualities that Paul lists in the previous verses. Paul is using the term as a noun. If your language does not use adjectives in that way, you can add the word “people” in your translation. Alternate translation: “avoid these people” or “avoid such people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

2092TI35xm1cfigs-metaphorτούτους ἀποτρέπου1turn away from these

The expression turn away is a metaphor for avoiding someone. Alternate translation: “avoid these people” or “avoid such people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2102TI36gu4bfigs-metaphorαἰχμαλωτίζοντες1captivating

Here Paul uses the term captivating figuratively to mean greatly influencing someone by the use of deception. Alternate translation: “manipulating” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2112TI36u9m5γυναικάρια1foolish women

The term foolish women refers to women who are spiritually weak and immature. They allow these men into their homes and listen to them because they are weak, idle, and have many sins. Alternate translation: “women who are spiritually weak”

2122TI36e9exfigs-metaphorσεσωρευμένα ἁμαρτίαις1who are loaded with sins

Paul speaks figuratively of these sins as if they were heaped up on the backs of these women. Paul is explaining why these men can easily influence these women. This could mean one of two things. (1) These women sin often or even continually. Alternate translation: “who sin often” (2) These women feel terrible guilt because they sin. Alternate translation: “who feel terrible guilt for their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2132TI36p079figs-activepassiveσεσωρευμένα ἁμαρτίαις1who are loaded with sins

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “who sin often” or “who feel terrible guilt for their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2142TI36p080figs-activepassiveἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις1led away by various desires

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “various desires lead them away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2152TI36izz9figs-personificationἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις1led away by various desires

Paul speaks figuratively about these various desires as if they could lead a person away. He means that the women decide to do evil things in order to satisfy their desires. Alternate translation: “they decide to sin in various ways” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

2162TI36p081figs-explicitἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις1led away by various desires

The implication is that the women decide to sin with the men who are influencing them and deceiving them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “they decide to sin in various ways with these evil men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2172TI37p082figs-metaphorμηδέποτε εἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας ἐλθεῖν δυνάμενα1never able to come to the knowledge of the truth

Paul speaks figuratively of the knowledge of the truth as if it were a destination at which people could arrive. Alternate translation: “never able to understand the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2182TI38p083ὃν τρόπον δὲ1And what way

Alternate translation: “in the same way that”

2192TI38b8eltranslate-namesἸάννης καὶ Ἰαμβρῆς1Jannes and Jambres

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

2202TI38p084figs-explicitἸάννης καὶ Ἰαμβρῆς1Jannes and Jambres

Paul assumes that Timothy will know that these were the magicians in Pharaohs court who tried to duplicate the miracles that Moses was doing to show that Pharaoh did not have to obey Yahweh. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could identify them more explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jannes and Jambres, Pharaohs magicians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2212TI38p085figs-nominaladjοὗτοι1these

As in 3:5, the term these is a demonstrative adjective that refers to the people who show the ungodly qualities that Paul has described. Paul is using the term as a noun. If your language does not use adjectives in that way, you can add the word “people” in your translation. Alternate translation: “these people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

2222TI38p086figs-abstractnounsτῇ ἀληθείᾳ1the truth

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun truth with an adjective. Alternate translation: “what is true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2232TI38g4kkfigs-metonymyἄνθρωποι κατεφθαρμένοι τὸν νοῦν1men whose mind is corrupted

Paul uses the word mind to refer to the way these evil men think. Alternate translation: “men who cannot think rightly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2242TI38p087figs-activepassiveἄνθρωποι κατεφθαρμένοι τὸν νοῦν1men whose mind is corrupted

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “men who cannot think rightly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2252TI38pfh1ἀδόκιμοι περὶ τὴν πίστιν1unapproved regarding the faith

Paul uses the adjective unapproved to convey the idea that these men have been tested regarding how well they trust in Christ and obey him, and they have failed the test. Alternate translation: “without sincere faith” or “whose faith is not genuine”

2262TI39c6xxfigs-metaphorοὐ προκόψουσιν ἐπὶ πλεῖον1they will not advance unto more

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]])

2272TI39mv4jfigs-hyperboleἡ…ἄνοια αὐτῶν ἔκδηλος ἔσται πᾶσιν1their foolishness will be obvious to all

The word all is a generalization. Paul has just said that these men will have a little success in deceiving some people. But ultimately their foolishness will become widely apparent, as happened to Jannes and Jambres, who were publicly discredited when they were not able to equal the powerful miracles of Moses. Alternate translation: “their foolishness will become widely apparent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

2282TI39z4fufigs-nominaladjἐκείνων1of those

The term those is a demonstrative adjective that refers to Jannes and Jambres. Paul is using the term as a noun. If your language does not use adjectives in that way, you can supply the names of the two men. Alternate translation: “of Jannes and Jambres” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

2292TI310vw42figs-metaphorσὺ…παρηκολούθησάς1you have followed

Paul speaks of giving close attention to the things he lists in this verse as if one were physically following them as they moved. Alternate translation: “you have observed” or “you have paid close attention to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2302TI310wma6figs-abstractnounsμου τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ1my teaching

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun teaching with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “what I have taught others to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2312TI310lq3vfigs-abstractnounsμου…τῇ ἀγωγῇ1my conduct

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun conduct with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “how I live my life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2322TI310p088figs-abstractnounsμου…τῇ προθέσει1my purpose

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun purpose with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “what goal I have in life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2332TI310p089figs-abstractnounsμου…τῇ πίστει1my faith

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun faith with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “what I believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2342TI310p091figs-abstractnounsμου…τῇ μακροθυμίᾳ1my patience

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun patience with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “how I am patient with others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2352TI310p090figs-abstractnounsμου…τῇ ἀγάπῃ1my love

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun love with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “how I love others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2362TI310l4ppfigs-abstractnounsμου…τῇ ὑπομονῇ1my longsuffering

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun longsuffering with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “how I endure when I suffer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2372TI311p092translate-namesἐν Ἀντιοχείᾳ, ἐν Ἰκονίῳ, ἐν Λύστροις1in Antioch, in Iconium, in Lystra

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

2382TI311p093οἵους διωγμοὺς ὑπήνεγκα1what kind of persecutions I endured

Paul is reminding Timothy that he knows of the various ways in which Paul suffered and how he endured until God rescued him. Alternate translation: “how I endured various persecutions”

2392TI311r9vkfigs-metaphorἐκ πάντων, με ἐρρύσατο ὁ Κύριος1the Lord rescued me from them all

Paul speaks figuratively as if God had physically removed him from a situation of danger. Alternate translation: “the Lord preserved me through them all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2402TI312ke7fζῆν εὐσεβῶς1to live piously

The term piously means to live in an obedient way that honors God. Alternate translation: “to live in a way that honors God”

2412TI312xm9lfigs-activepassiveδιωχθήσονται1will be persecuted

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “people will persecute” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2422TI313p094figs-gendernotationsἄνθρωποι1men

Here Paul is using the term men in a generic sense that includes all people. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

2432TI313s7f2γόητες1impostors

The term impostor refers here to a person who wants other people to think he is a true Christian when he is not. Alternate translation: “people who are pretending to be Christians”

2442TI313imc8figs-metaphorπροκόψουσιν ἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον1will advance unto the worse

Paul speaks figuratively of evil people and their character as something that moves forward physically, making gradual progress in a direction. Alternate translation: “will become worse and worse” or “will become even more evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2452TI313p095figs-idiomἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον1unto the worse

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “worse and worse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2462TI313eyx5figs-metaphorπλανῶντες καὶ πλανώμενοι1leading astray and being led astray

The expression leading astray uses the image of physically taking a person to a place that he didnt think he was going to. This is a figurative reference to persuading someone to believe something that is not true. Alternate translation: “teaching lies and believing lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2472TI313p096figs-activepassiveπλανῶντες καὶ πλανώμενοι1leading astray and being led astray

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “teaching lies and believing lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2482TI314ytg9figs-metaphorμένε ἐν οἷς ἔμαθες1remain in the things you have learned

Paul speaks of biblical instruction as if it were a place that Timothy could stay in. Alternate translation: “continue doing what you have learned” or “continue believing what you have learned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2492TI314p097figs-activepassiveἐπιστώθης1become convinced of

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “have firmly believed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2502TI315w9l5figs-personificationτὰ δυνάμενά σε σοφίσαι1which are able to make you wise

Paul speaks of the Scriptures as if they were a teacher who could instruct people and help them become wise. It may be convenient in your translation to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “By studying them you can become wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

2512TI315p098figs-abstractnounsεἰς σωτηρίαν διὰ πίστεως τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1for salvation through the faith that is in Christ Jesus

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun salvation with a verb such as “save.” Alternate translation: “so that you will know enough to trust Christ Jesus to save you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2522TI316s274figs-metaphorπᾶσα Γραφὴ θεόπνευστος1All Scripture is God-breathed

The term God-breathed uses the image of breathing to indicate that the Scriptures come directly from God through his Spirit. Characteristically in the Bible, the breath of God represents the Spirit of God. Alternate translation: “God produced the Scriptures as his Spirit directed people what to write” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2532TI316uv35ὠφέλιμος1is profitable

Paul refers to the Scriptures as profitable to convey the idea that Timothy and all believers will benefit when they use the Scriptures to teach, reprove, correct, and train. Alternate translation: “you will benefit from them as you use them”

2542TI316vl2nfigs-abstractnounsπρὸς ἐλεγμόν1for reproof

Paul instructs Timothy to use the Scriptures as the standard for knowing what is right and wrong and showing people that they are wrong. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun reproof with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “for showing people that they are wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2552TI316e5h9figs-abstractnounsπρὸς ἐπανόρθωσιν1for correction

Paul instructs Timothy to use the Scriptures as the standard for showing people how to make something right. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun correction with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “for showing people how to make things right” or “for showing how to fix errors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2562TI316y1hffigs-abstractnounsπρὸς παιδείαν τὴν ἐν δικαιοσύνῃ1for the training that is in righteousness

Paul instructs Timothy to use the Scriptures as the standard for training people how to live lives that are right with God. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun righteousness with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “for training people how to do what is right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2572TI317nb12figs-gendernotationsὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος1the man of God

This expression could mean one of two things. (1) Paul could be using it to refer to Timothy as the leader of his congregation, to encourage him to use the Scriptures in his teaching. Alternate translation: “you, man of God” (2) Paul could be using the word man in a generic sense that includes all believers in God, whether male or female. Alternate translation: “the person who serves God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

2582TI317uu7iἄρτιος1proficient

Alternative translation: “fully capable”

2592TI317p099figs-activepassiveἐξηρτισμένος1equipped

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “and have everything he needs” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2602TI4introk2xa0

2 Timothy 04 General Notes

Structure and formatting

“I adjure you”

Paul gives personal instructions to Timothy.

Special concepts in this chapter

Crown

Scripture uses different kinds of crowns as images for different things. In this chapter, it appears that Christ will award the crown to believers as a reward and confirmation for living rightly.

2612TI41eh3xδιαμαρτύρομαι1I adjure you

Alternate translation: “I want you to swear an oath”

2622TI41cb15figs-explicitἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1before God and Christ Jesus

Here the word before means “in front of,” that is, “in the presence of.” The implication is that God and Christ Jesus will witness the oath that Paul wants Timothy to swear. Alternate translation: “in the presence of God and Christ Jesus” or “with God and Christ Jesus as the witnesses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2632TI41u32gfigs-merismζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς1the living and the dead

Paul refers to the living and the dead together to mean all people, whether they are alive at the time of judgment or have died. Alternate translation: “those who are still alive and those who have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

2642TI41p100figs-nominaladjζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς1the living and the dead

The terms living and dead are adjectives that Paul is using as nouns to refer to groups of people. If your language does not use adjectives in that way, you can translate these terms with equivalent phrases. Alternate translation: “those who are still alive and those who have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

2652TI41lwt2figs-metonymyκαὶ τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ, καὶ τὴν βασιλείαν αὐτοῦ1and by his appearing and his kingdom

Paul wants Timothy to swear the oath on these things. Paul refers figuratively to Christs return by association to the fact that he will appear once again to people on earth when he returns, and he refers figuratively to Christs rule as king by association to the kingdom that he will rule. It may be helpful to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “I want you to swear this oath on Christs return and on his rule as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2662TI42j2z7figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον1the word

Paul is using the term word to refer figuratively to the whole message about Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “the Gospel message” or “the Good News” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2672TI42zzh4figs-merismεὐκαίρως, ἀκαίρως1opportunely, inopportunely

Paul means that Timothy should be ready to preach about Jesus when it seems like a good time to do so and also when it does not seem like a good time. He is using the two types of occasions together figuratively to indicate all occasions. Alternate translation: “when it is convenient and when it is not convenient” or “at all times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

2682TI42g7axfigs-explicitἔλεγξον1reprove

The command to reprove implies that the action is directed toward people who have done something wrong and are in need of correction. Alternate translation: “correct those who have sinned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2692TI42p101ἐπιτίμησον1rebuke

The word rebuke involves telling someone that they have done something wrong and warning them not to do it again. Alternate translation: “tell them not to sin”

2702TI42p102ἐν πάσῃ μακροθυμίᾳ καὶ διδαχῇ1with all patience and teaching

The implication is that this is how Timothy should preach, reprove, rebuke, and exhort. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “do these things by teaching very patiently” or “always do these things by teaching patiently”

2712TI42p103figs-hyperboleἐν πάσῃ μακροθυμίᾳ1with all patience

This could mean one of two things. (1) Timothy should be patient all the time. Alternate translation: “always … patiently” (2) The word all could be a generalization for emphasis, meaning that Timothy should be very patient. Alternate translation: “very patiently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

2722TI43jv7aἔσται…καιρὸς ὅτε1there will be a time when

Alternate translation: “the time will come when”

2732TI43u2ccοὐκ ἀνέξονται1they will not endure

Alternate translation: “they will no longer listen patiently to”

2742TI43ilx7figs-explicitοὐκ ἀνέξονται1they will not endure

The context indicates that they means people who are a part of the community of believers. Alternate translation: “some believers will no longer listen patiently to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2752TI43fyl3figs-metonymyτῆς ὑγιαινούσης διδασκαλίας1healthy teaching

The expression healthy teaching figuratively means “correct teaching” by association, since a healthy mind would recognize that correct teaching was reasonable. Alternate translation: “correct teaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2762TI43e5t2figs-metaphorκατὰ τὰς ἰδίας ἐπιθυμίας, ἑαυτοῖς ἐπισωρεύσουσιν διδασκάλους1they will heap up for themselves teachers according to their own desires

Paul speaks of how people will obtain many teachers as if they were putting them into a heap or pile. They will want many teachers, but not value these teachers for how they live godly lives or how accurately they teach. Alternate translation: “they will gather many teachers for themselves who will teach what they want” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2772TI43s375figs-idiomκνηθόμενοι τὴν ἀκοήν1their ear itching

Paul speaks of people badly wanting to hear something as if their ears itched and could only be relieved if they found many teachers who would tell them what they wanted to hear. Alternate translation: “because they want to hear it so badly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2782TI43p104figs-metonymyκνηθόμενοι τὴν ἀκοήν1their ear itching

Paul uses the ear figuratively to mean hearing. Alternate translation: “because they want to hear it so badly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2792TI44rh2ifigs-metaphorἀπὸ…τῆς ἀληθείας τὴν ἀκοὴν ἀποστρέψουσιν1will…turn their ear away from the truth

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

2802TI44p105figs-metonymyἀπὸ…τῆς ἀληθείας τὴν ἀκοὴν ἀποστρέψουσιν1will…turn their ear away from the truth

Paul uses the ear figuratively to mean listening. Listening, in turn, figuratively means paying attention. Alternate translation: “will no longer pay attention to the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2812TI44xrv7figs-metaphorτοὺς μύθους ἐκτραπήσονται1be turned aside to myths

Paul speaks about people starting to pay attention to myths as if someone were getting them to wander off in the wrong direction. Alternate translation: “these teachers will get them to pay attention to stories that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2822TI44p106figs-activepassiveτοὺς μύθους ἐκτραπήσονται1be turned aside to myths

If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action. Alternate translation: “these teachers will get them to pay attention to stories that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2832TI45ehz7figs-metaphorνῆφε1be sober

Paul wants his readers to think correctly about everything, and so he speaks as if he wanted them to be sober rather than drunk. Alternate translation: “think clearly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2842TI45tv3kεὐαγγελιστοῦ1an evangelist

Alternate translation: “a person who proclaims the good news about Jesus”

2852TI46p107ἐγὼ…ἤδη σπένδομαι1I am already being poured out

While Paul speaks of his death as already happening, he means that it is an event that will happen soon. Alternate translation: “I will soon be poured out”

2862TI46sh23figs-metaphorἐγὼ…ἤδη σπένδομαι1I am already being poured out

Paul speaks of himself as if he were wine in a cup that was being poured out as a sacrifice to God. Alternate translation: “I will soon sacrifice my life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2872TI46p108figs-activepassiveἐγὼ…ἤδη σπένδομαι1I am already being poured out

If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “I will soon sacrifice my life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2882TI46fb7lfigs-euphemismὁ καιρὸς τῆς ἀναλύσεώς μου ἐφέστηκεν1the time of my departure is here

Paul refers to his death as a departure. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant. Alternate translation: “soon I will die and leave this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

2892TI47d9tsfigs-metaphorτὸν καλὸν ἀγῶνα ἠγώνισμαι1I have fought the good fight

Paul speaks of himself figuratively as if he has been competing in an athletic contest. This could mean one of two things. (1) The word good could describe the kind of effort Paul has made. Alternate translation: “I have done my best” (2) The word good could mean that Paul has pursued a worthwhile endeavor. Alternate translation: “I have worked hard for what really matters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2902TI47kq83figs-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]])

2912TI47vk2pfigs-metaphorτὴν πίστιν τετήρηκα1I have kept the faith

Paul speaks of his trust in Christ and his obedience to God as if they were valuable objects that he has kept in his possession. This could mean one of two things. (1) Paul was faithful to do what God told him to do. Alternate translation: “I have remained faithful in doing my ministry” (2) Paul was faithful to teach the truth. Alternate translation: “I have preserved the teachings from any error” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2922TI48ujg5figs-activepassiveἀπόκειταί μοι ὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος1the crown of righteousness has been reserved for me

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “God has reserved the crown of righteousness for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2932TI48hg8ifigs-metaphorτῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος1the crown of righteousness

This could mean one of two things: (1) The crown figuratively represents the reward that God gives to people who have lived the right way. Alternate translation: “the reward for the righteous” (2) The crown may represent righteousness itself. 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. Alternate translation: “the reward that is righteousness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2942TI48dwn6translate-unknownστέφανος1crown

See how you translated this in 2:5. The crown was a wreath made of laurel tree leaves that was given to winners of athletic contests. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2952TI48n3k8figs-explicitἐν, ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ1on that day

As in 1:12, this refers to the day when Jesus returns for judgment. Alternate translation: “on the day of judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2962TI48uh88τοῖς ἠγαπηκόσι τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ1those who have loved his appearing

Alternate translation: “those who are looking forward to his return”

2972TI48p109figs-metonymyτὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ1his appearing

See how you translated this in 4:1. Paul is referring figuratively to Christs return by association with the fact that he will appear once again to people on earth when he returns. Alternate translation: “his return” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2982TI49t8b7ἐλθεῖν…ταχέως1come…quickly

Alternate translation: “come … as soon as possible”

2992TI410e4xxtranslate-namesΔημᾶς…Κρήσκης…Τίτος1Demas…Crescens…Titus

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

3002TI410ji2lfigs-metonymyτὸν νῦν αἰῶνα1the present age

The expression the present age refers to worldly things as opposed to the things of God. Paul refers to these worldly things figuratively by association with the present time when people generally desire them, as opposed to the future time when the things of God will be established throughout the earth. Alternate translation: “the temporary comforts of this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3012TI410u2qbfigs-ellipsisΚρήσκης εἰς Γαλατίαν, Τίτος εἰς Δαλματίαν1Crescens to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia

Here Paul leaves out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages in order to be complete. He means that like Demas, Crescens and Titus have left him. However, he is probably not saying that they did this because they also “loved this present age” like Demas. Alternate translation: “Crescens has left me and gone to Galatia, and Titus has left me and gone to Dalmatia” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

3022TI410gs61translate-namesΓαλατίαν…Δαλματίαν1Galatia…Dalmatia

This are the names of Roman provinces. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3032TI411p110translate-namesΛουκᾶς…Μᾶρκον1Luke… Mark

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

3042TI411w21uμοι εὔχρηστος εἰς διακονίαν1he is useful to me for service

This could mean one of two things. (1) Mark is useful in helping Paul minister to others, especially by preaching and teaching. Alternate translation: “he is helpful to me in my ministry” (2) Mark is useful in helping Paul to take care of his personal needs. Alternate translation: “he can help take care of my needs”

3052TI412p111translate-namesΤυχικὸν1Tychicus

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

3062TI412p112translate-namesἜφεσον1Ephesus

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

3072TI413d5rwtranslate-unknownφελόνην1cloak

The term cloak refers to a heavy garment worn over clothes. Alternate translation: “coat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

3082TI413v9b6translate-namesΚάρπῳ1Carpus

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

3092TI413k6tjtranslate-unknownτὰ βιβλία1the books

The term books 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 would roll it up using rods on the ends. Alternate translation: “the scrolls” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

3102TI413e395translate-unknownμάλιστα τὰς μεμβράνας1especially the parchments

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

3112TI414un4vtranslate-unknownἈλέξανδρος ὁ χαλκεὺς1Alexander the coppersmith

The term coppersmith refers to a person who worked with things made of copper and other metals. Alternate translation: “Alexander, who works with metal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

3122TI414kv94translate-namesἈλέξανδρος1Alexander

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

3132TI414wbx4figs-metaphorἀποδώσει αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος κατὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ1The Lord will repay him according to his deeds

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

3142TI415i4ajfigs-metonymyἀντέστη τοῖς ἡμετέροις λόγοις1opposed our words

The term words refers to the message that Paul and Timothy and their co-workers teach. Alternate translation: “opposed the message that we teach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3152TI416v847ἐν τῇ πρώτῃ μου ἀπολογίᾳ1At my first defense

Paul is referring to the opening session of his trial. By writing first, he is likely indicating that he will have to appear in court again. Alternate translation: “at the opening session of my trial” or “when I first appeared in court and explained my actions”

3162TI416f2c3οὐδείς μοι παρεγένετο1no one appeared with me

Paul explains to Timothy that he had to go to court alone, without any supporters. Alternate translation: “no one testified on my behalf”

3172TI416rm2tfigs-activepassiveμὴ αὐτοῖς λογισθείη1May it not be counted against them

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “may God not hold it against them” or “I pray that God does not punish those believers for deserting me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3182TI417t1fwfigs-metaphorὁ…Κύριός μοι παρέστη1the Lord stood with 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]])

3192TI417y69mfigs-activepassiveἵνα δι’ ἐμοῦ τὸ κήρυγμα πληροφορηθῇ1so that through me, the proclamation might be fully carried out

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. This could mean one of two things. (1) At his trial, Paul was able to explain the entire message God had given him to proclaim. Alternate translation: “so that I was able to proclaim all of the Lords message” (2) Paul was able to continue proclaiming Gods message right through to this time when he expected to sacrifice his life. Alternate translation: “so that I was able to continue proclaiming the Lords message right to the end” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3202TI417p113figs-hyperboleκαὶ ἀκούσωσιν πάντα τὰ ἔθνη1and all the Gentiles might hear

The word all is a figurative generalization. Alternate translation: “so that as many Gentiles as possible could hear it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

3212TI417gsr8figs-metaphorἐρύσθην ἐκ στόματος λέοντος1I was rescued out of the mouth of the lion

Paul speaks figuratively as if he had been in danger of being killed by a lion at his court appearance. He could mean the physical danger of being sentenced to execution, or the spiritual danger of being tempted not to speak boldly for Jesus, or both. It would probably be best to leave both possibilities open in your translation. Alternate translation: “I was rescued from great danger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3222TI417p114figs-activepassiveἐρύσθην ἐκ στόματος λέοντος1I was rescued out of the mouth of the lion

If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “God rescued me from great danger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3232TI418p115figs-idiomεἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας τῶν αἰώνων1to the ages of the ages

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “forever and ever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3242TI419p116translate-namesΠρίσκαν1Priscilla

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

3252TI419p117translate-namesἈκύλαν1Aquila

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

3262TI419n4zcfigs-metonymyτὸν Ὀνησιφόρου οἶκον1the household of Onesiphorus

See how you translated this in 1:16. The word household refers to Onesiphorus and all the people in his family, possibly even his servants. Alternate translation: “Onesiphorus and everyone who lives with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3272TI419mef8translate-namesὈνησιφόρου1Onesiphorus

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this name in 1:16. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3282TI420p118translate-namesΚορίνθῳ1Corinth

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

3292TI420lie9translate-namesἜραστος…Τρόφιμον1Erastus…Trophimus

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

3302TI420wp9htranslate-namesΜιλήτῳ1Miletus

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

3312TI421cvc7σπούδασον…ἐλθεῖν1Hasten to come

Alternate translation: “do your best to come” or “try as hard as you can to come”

3322TI421eh95figs-explicitπρὸ χειμῶνος1before winter

The implication is that Timothy should try to come to Paul before the cold weather arrives and makes travel difficult or even impossible. If winter is the warm season in your area and summer is the cold season, or if your area does not have a cold season but a rainy season, you can use a more general expression. Alternate translation: “before the cold weather makes travel difficult” or “before the weather changes and makes travel difficult” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3332TI421z1j9figs-ellipsisἀσπάζεταί σε Εὔβουλος, καὶ Πούδης, καὶ Λίνος, καὶ Κλαυδία, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ1Eubulus greets you, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and the brothers

Here Paul leaves out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages in order to be complete. To make sure that the meaning is clear, you can supply these words. The people listed after Eubulus are also greeting Timothy. Eubulus is not greeting them. Alternate translation: “Eubulus greets you, and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the believers here” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

3342TI421p7pxtranslate-namesΕὔβουλος…Πούδης…Λίνος1Eubulus…Pudens…Linus

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

3352TI421er77translate-namesΚλαυδία1Claudia

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

3362TI421mk26figs-gendernotationsοἱ ἀδελφοὶ1the brothers

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

3372TI422tx26figs-youὁ Κύριος μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματός σου1The Lord be with your spirit

Paul ends his letter with a blessing for Timothy. Here, you is singular and refers to Timothy. Alternate translation: “I pray that the Lord makes your spirit strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

3382TI422p119figs-synecdocheὁ Κύριος μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματός σου1The Lord be with your spirit

Paul figuratively describes Timothy as a whole person by reference to his spirit, perhaps because he is wishing particularly for Timothy to receive spiritual strengthening. Alternate translation: “I pray that the Lord makes you strong” or “I pray that the Lord will strengthen you spiritually” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3392TI422k85yfigs-youἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν1Grace be with you

Paul ends his letter with a second blessing. The you is plural and refers to all the believers who are with Timothy. Alternate translation: “may grace be with all of you there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

3402TI422p120ἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν1Grace be with you

If it would be clearer in your language, you could say who Paul wishes will make this happen. Alternate translation: “may God give grace to all of you”