2 Timothy


Four years, after writing the epistle to the Philippians, AD 66, St. Paul wrote his last epistle to Timothy, who was then Pastor of the Ephesus church. The Emperor Nero was showing greater hostility than ever against Christians, and circumstances indicated that St. Paul was to be a martyr very soon. He evidently felt great confidence in Timothy as a sort of successor in a general "care of all the churches." Hence to him he now wrote special warnings and commendations and prophecies respecting the Church's future. R4526:3
It was probably during a second imprisonment in Rome that the Apostle wrote this epistle to Timothy. R3209:6 These words were addressed to Timothy when the Apostle Paul was an old man. Nor was Timothy a child in years at the time this epistle was addressed to him. Timothy's mother and himself were converts to the Gospel of Christ presumably at the time of Paul's visit to their home at Lystra during his first missionary tour. It is presumed that at the time of his receipt of this letter Timothy must have been forty years of age. Tradition has it that he was about sixteen years old at the time of his own and his mother's conversion to the Gospel. When he was about 21 years of age he, with Silas, accompanied the Apostle Paul on his second tour through Asia Minor, and from that time on for some sixteen years he was closely identified with the Apostle in his service of the truth, until left by the Apostle Paul with the church at Ephesus, that he might help them over some difficulties into which they had fallen. It was while Timothy was thus serving the church at Ephesus that he received the two epistles which bear his name. We note with appreciation the Apostle's care over this younger brother in the service. He remembered that heretofore Timothy had been so close to himself in the work that he had been measurably shielded from many trials to which he would now be exposed; and yet, no doubt he realized that, if Timothy would be prepared to take the work of a general minister, which Paul, the prisoner and growing old, must shortly lay aside, it was time that he was learning how to stand, complete in the strength which God supplies through his Word, without leaning so particularly, as heretofore, upon any earthly prop. R2165:2,5
Paul was in prison in the city of Rome, and is supposed to have been 63 years of age at this time. What else than the power of God could so sustain an able and cultured man under the various trials and vicissitudes through which he passed, including this his last imprisonment and final execution, which followed shortly after the writing of this epistle to Timothy? In the light of the foregoing circumstances, Paul's charge to Timothy is, so to speak, his dying message; and so regarded, its solemnity and impressiveness are increased before our minds. R2229:1,3
The second epistle to Timothy was to instruct him relative to false teachers. R868:5

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:1]

Paul— Wrote this last Epistle in 66 AD to Timothy, who was then Pastor of the Ephesus Church. R4526:3 Paul had lived for a while in a house in Rome, was released for about three years. He revisited some of the churches, and took the gospel to Spain. He was again arrested, and put into prison in Rome, where he wrote this Epistle. Nero raised a terrible persecution against the Christians at this time, apparently to cover up his setting the city on fire. Paul was beheaded shortly after. R2229:1-3, 3210:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:2]

To Timothy— It is presumed that at the time of his receipt of this letter Timothy must have been about 40 years of age. Tradition has it that he was about 16 years old at the time of his own and his mother's conversion. R2165:2
Dearly beloved son— Although Paul had no natural children, his tender address to Timothy, his invocation upon him of a divine blessing, shows that he lacked none of those fine, noble and endearing sentiments which belong to a true parent. R2165:3 Because Paul felt great confidence in Timothy as a successor for the general "care of all the churches," he sent him special warnings, commendations and prophecies respecting the Church's future. R4526:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:4]

Of thy tears— When they parted at Ephesus, in the interest of the truth. (Acts 20:37) R2165:3, 1886:1*

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:5]

In thee also— As a result of favorable parental influence. R1671:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:6]

Stir up— Re-enkindle. R2165:6
The gift— The gifts of the Spirit, common in the early Church, followed the laying on of Apostolic hands. F284
Of my hands— The fact that the apostle Paul had this power to confer the gifts of the spirit is proof that he was the Lord's choice for Judas' place, as none but the apostles could confer these gifts. R1433:3, 1419:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:7]

Us— Children of God, who have left the world, who have been begotten of the holy Spirit. R5093:3
The spirit— Disposition. D326; R3325:6, 2560:5, 1737:5, 1693:2, 1414:1, 1412:5, 1081:1, 1079:3
Of fear— The new creature must repel every attack of servile fear and must cultivate trust in the Lord. R5977:3 Doubt, lack of faith, lack of the holy Spirit. E249 Spirit of dread; spirit of timidity. R5093:6, 4378:3 Servile fear, which belongs to the flesh, the fallen condition. R5977:3 We should not be fearful, men-pleasers, or sycophants. R2263:4 All fear, being a manifestation of one form of selfishness, is made up of the elements of self-love. The spirit of fear does not come from God. R5094:1 The "spirit of fear" may be made a valuable servant of the new creature, but it is an intolerable master. Make it your watchdog, kenneled just outside the door of your heart, to guard your treasures of holiness, joy, peace, love and fellowship. E197
But of power— Courage. R4378:6 Strength, firmness for everything that is right. R5094:2 Energy, zeal, awakened by love. R2166:1 Making us "mighty to the pulling down of strongholds." (2 Cor. 10:4) E250 In proportion as we get this spirit, we get this power, or spirit of assurance that God is able and willing to work things together for good. (Rom. 8:28) R5094:2, 5977:6 "Othodoxy" fails to see that the spirit of love and of a sound mind is a power. R1122:2 Power to govern the whole being as we grow up toward the stature of the fullness of Christ—complete in him. R1414:1, 1081:2 Not begotten of self-esteem but based upon faith in the Lord. R4378:3
And of love— Not "natural" love, which is largely selfish, but a generous self-sacrificing love. E250 Inspired by a true knowledge of God. R5977:6, 4379:1 The spirit of kindness and gentleness, enabling the Christian to have more and more compassion for those who are out of the way. R5977:6, 5094:4 Forgiveness should be prompted by the spirit of love and brotherly kindness and not forced out of us by importunity nor by pity for the wrong doers' suffering or sorrow. R1693:6 In proportion to the measure of the holy Spirit which we have, we shall have love—first, toward God; secondly, to the children of God; thirdly, to our neighbors and friends; and lastly, to our enemies. R5094:3
And of a sound mind— Implying that the world in general does not have such a mind. R3773:2 Only those who are begotten again of the holy Spirit have this spirit. R3972:2 From God's standpoint, this is a new mind. E257; R5093:3, 3773:2, 1414:1 The mind of Christ, his spirit, his mind. R3325:6, 5888:3 A mind that is fortified and strengthened by the Word of the Lord on every subject; wise in judging of times, seasons and methods for using the energy of love which burns as a fire within the consecrated heart. R2166:1 The spirit of a sound mind is the most desirable thing in the world. R5099:3, 1414:1, 1081:1 A mind in a sound healthy condition, and in full possession of all its faculties. R1412:6, 1079:3 Enabling its possessor to view things more correctly, giving wisdom and grace for the affairs of life far beyond any that they would have had without it.R2263:3,4 An unsound mind results from the mental and moral unbalance brought about through sin. R1080:4 Strictly speaking, there is not a perfectly sound mind in the world. R1412:6, 1080:1 The right attitude of mind. R2685:6 Free from bias or prejudice in any direction. R1412:6,4407:5 This spirit leads us to consider what is right and what is wrong in all the affairs of life. R5094:5 The spirit of reason and justice. R5942:6,4485:2 The spirit of love and reasonableness. R5417:6 As we grow in the spirit of a sound mind, we learn better how to deal with others, so as to be in harmony with the divine will, the divine spirit. R5417:2 In choosing a means of livelihood, the decisive question would be, In which avocation can I best serve the Lord? R5358:2 We are to discriminate between those who are good subjects for the truth, and those who are not. R5376:4 A spirit so necessary to a clear understanding, and to obedience, of the truth. R1412:5 Our minds are all imperfect and unsound. When we are guided by the Lord's will as expressed to us in his Word, then we come to have the spirit of a sound mind. R5726:3 Our minds become more and more sound by reason of their harmony with God's mind, and as ours become submissive to His. Q452:3; R5843:5, 5978:1; Q44:7Under the guidance of the holy Spirit, Christians learn gradually to rectify the errors of their own judgments in respect to all the various questions which come before them. E253 "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God who giveth to all liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him." (James 1:5) R1777:1 Gossips and busy-bodies in other men's matters give one evidence of an unsound mind—a measure of insanity. R1413:2, 1080:2 The spirit of devils produces the spirit of an unsound mind. R2185:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:8]

Be not thou ashamed— The truth is to be spoken humbly, yet fearlessly. R5978:1

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:9]

Who hath saved us— From Adamic sin and its penalty through Jesus our propitiation. R643:5
Called us— The fore-ordained church is now being called, and tested, and selected, for participation in the divine nature—and joint-heirship with Jesus Christ. R1642:3, 3282:4
An holy calling— All the Gospel church are called to heavenly conditions and are cut off from their earthly rights as men. R5023:2, 1881:4; Q436:1
Our works— We are called not by any past evidence of our worthiness. R1642:2
His own purpose— That this new order of beings should be selected from among the human order. R1642:3 That the overcomers may be joint-heirs with Jesus in his coming work of judging the world. (1 Cor. 6:2) R2990:3 God's purpose was to make a "new creation," of his own nature—the divine nature—and his beloved Son, our Lord, was to be the chief, or head. R1642:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:10]

Now made manifest— God's purpose and grace is now made manifest. (See verse 9.) R625:6
By the appearing— Life, immortality and sonship have only been since the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples. R530:3*
Jesus Christ— We are dependent on Christ for both life and immortality. R27:5* He came to give his life a ransom-price, to give life that corresponded to the life that Adam lost. R5418:1
Abolished death— Vanquished death. R194:2 Obtained the right to do so by giving his life a ransom for all. (1 Tim. 2:6) R252:3, 726:3, 62:4* Broke death's hold on man. E393 Death is not a friend, but an enemy. God regards death as the penalty, the wages of sin. R625:6
Hath brought life— A restitution from destruction for those who shall attain to life as perfect human beings. A204, 206; E393;R4155:5, 422:2, 339:4 Life everlasting. R1655:5 Knowledge and opportunity for eternal life did not obtain in the world until our Lord came. R4598:2, 5775:3, 5507:2 Represented by the Queen's chamber of the Great Pyramid. C368 "If a man die, shall he live again?" (Job 14:14) E383
And immortality— Greek, aptharsia; meaning incorruption. It is the death-proof condition of the divine nature and the "prize" for which the Body of Christ is running. A204, 206; E397; F727; R3175:2, 2339:4, 1641:5 Represented by the King's Chamber of the Great Pyramid. C368 The high calling for believers. R422:2, 339:4 Immortality is a quality only of the divine nature and was originally possessed only by the heavenly Father. Whoever will attain to this highest order or degree of existence, will obtain it as a reward or gift. R1641:6 An indestructible existence, not dependent upon food or drink, or conditions of any kind. R1641:5 "God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect." (Heb. 11:40) R1095:6 Life everlasting for the world, and immortality for the Church. SM545:T; R5608:3, 5088:6 The narrow way to life was not opened up until Jesus came. T28 The offer of immortality is exclusively confined to those who are associates with Jesus and will now suffer with him. CR444:1 The immortality class is the little flock, the joint heirs who shall be associated with Christ as members of His body, those to whom it will be His pleasure to give glory, honor, and immortality. HG132:3
To light— Clearly to light. R1655:5 It is the gospel, not the Lord's living, dying, or resurrection, that brought this to light. This gospel was not fully understood by the apostles until they had received the Holy Spirit. Q335:4 Before Jesus Christ the future life was not made known, not brought to light. R5772:2, 217:5; Q12:2; SM43:3, 538:1 There was no kingdom seed, no kingdom promises and hopes planted, until Christ came. R3769:3, 637:6* The fact that our Savior brought these to light demonstrates that they were not seen before. Although there had been an intimation given to Abraham, yet everything looked contrary to this. R5608:3, 1095:5 The first feature of God's plan of salvation began to be manifested when our Lord Jesus came into the world. R5275:5 Neither life nor immortality had been disclosed or made accessible previous to the gospel—the "great salvation which began to be preached by our Lord." (Heb. 2:3) E393; OV43:2
Through the gospel— The voice of God by Jesus Christ proclaiming glad tidings of the coming kingdom. R810:3* The good tidings of blessings for all of humanity who would seek him in honesty and earnestness of heart. R5275:5

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:12]

I am not ashamed— From the worldly standpoint the true follower of Jesus is branded a fanatic, a fool, unbalanced. But from the Christian's standpoint, the view is reversed. R4501:5
Persuaded that he— Christ. E346; R1881:2
That which I have committed unto him— Referring to life. Paul does not fear losing the Divine nature and eternal life. R140:2
Against that day— The day of Christ, the Millennial day. E346

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:13]

Form of sound words— Ignoring the traditions and creeds of uninspired men and corrupt systems. R369:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 1:15]

Which are in Asia— Evidently including even the Antioch church. F277
Phygellus and Hermogenes— False teachers who arose in the Church of Ephesus. R2221:4

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:3]

Endure— Bravely and cheerfully. R3069:3 Patiently endure afflictions to the end. R1823:4 Willingly, gladly, under the guidance of the Captain.R5404:5 Do not become weary; consider what the Lord faithfully endured of opposition. R4804:1
Hardness— Hard, distressing conditions; unpleasant, difficult circumstances; experiences designed to work out for the Christian's good. R5404:5 Humiliation and self-sacrifice. R1708:5 The Christian enlists in this warfare, knowing that it means his death—the death of the flesh, of the human nature. R5404:4 Poverty, scant rations, and hard service. R3162:6*
As a good soldier— Representing the Christian. R5403:3 Of the cross; foregoing the rights and privileges of the present time. R5404:2 Having a soldierly bearing, as a proper representative of the King; battling against Satan. R5404:4,1 Not merely outwardly loyal, but having the full spirit of the cause; not ashamed of the garment of Christ's righteousness. R5404:4 Assisting and setting an example to the other soldiers. R5404:2 Some of a Christian's greatest difficulties are right in his own person; the chief battle is with himself. R5404:2 Unless we are willing to learn lessons through experience and to endure hardness, we shall not be prepared to enter the eternal glory. R5147:6 Even though Paul had received rough treatment and was beaten by the mob, yet he asked the commander for the privilege of speaking to the people. R4485:3 A vow of complete, unquestioning obedience to the orders of superiors—the entire suppression of every selfish interest for the advancement of the supreme cause one has contracted voluntarily to serve, to follow, and for which, if need be, to die. R3162:4* The true soldier does not debate his cause. He is rightly supposed to have settled upon its justice and righteousness before he enlisted to serve it—he is ready to spend all and be all spent in its defense. R3162:6* Not trembling before the certainty of hunger, thirst, nakedness, wounds or death. R3163:1* Using the term soldier to represent the Christian has a great deal of meaning because there is a war going on here on earth. R5403:3
Of Jesus Christ— There was no organized undertaking for the overthrow of sin until Jesus came. His mission was to overcome Satan, overcome sin, and to bring everything into full harmony with God's arrangement. R5403:6

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:5]

Lawfully— Justly. R1312:3 In harmony with our Lord and the arrangements he has provided. R4129:5 However good our intentions, none will be crowned for striving unlawfully. R4282:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:7]

Consider— Reflect, think, study, ponder—study the revelation which God has made respecting himself. R3312:3,6 Consider the natural things of the Lord's provision, and read in them certain great lessons—consider the ravens; (Luke 12:24), the Lord has made provisions for their necessities without barns for the winter time. Consider the lilies of the field; (Matt. 6:28), their beauty teaches us that the Lord has a keen appreciation of the beautiful, and that the Lord is able to produce the beautiful without our aid, and that if necessary he could likewise clothe us miraculously. R3313:1,2 How the Lord suffered in every sense unjustly and for righteousness' sake. R3313:5 The heart that fails to consider the little things fails to be able to appreciate the larger things, and thus is hindered from a proper appreciation of God's plan and character.R3313:3 The Scriptures invite the faithful to consider, to search, to prove, saying, "Come, let us reason together." (Isa. 1:18) R3312:3
And the Lord— Whose assistance is necessary in order to make our study of his Word profitable. R3313:6

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:9]

The Word of God— It is a great mistake to affirm that the Bible is the product of the church; those who make this claim do not know where to look for the church. R1584:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:11]

If we be— If we become. R297:4
Dead with him— Dead to the world and to our own will—alive to the will of God. R297:4, 4616:3, 4453:2, 127:3*, 121:3 Faithful in laying down the present life for the Lord's sake. R2615:5 Only if we suffer with him shall we reign with him. R5621:3 Counting ourselves dead with Christ as actually we were dead with Adam. R914:3 Sanctified believers are reckoned as dying with Christ their Redeemer. R1454:4, 5342:1 Christ and his Church die to human hopes and interests, present and everlasting—laying down their lives, suffering for righteousness' sake. R5495:5 If we have our earthly natures consumed, then we shall get the divine nature. R5250:5, 4784:3, 4525:5 Means the consecration to death of all the members of the body of Christ. R4980:5
Live with him— Be partakers of his divine nature. CR348:6; R4398:1, 2615:5, 121:6 Share with him in the heavenly part of the blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant. R4453:2 Neither the fear of death nor the appreciation of the crown must be our controlling motive but an appreciation of what he has done for us, our love to him, and our desire to please him. R3561:4 Which can be only if we receive the same resurrection change which he experienced. R1260:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:12]

If we suffer— With him. R5739:6, 5546:6, 5421:5, 5420:6, 5196:6, 5108:4, 5090:5, 5079:3, 5051:4; T26 As his members. R5180:4 For right doing; gladly and joyfully we drink whatever cup the Father may pour for us. R5739:6 Drink of his cup of suffering and death. R4547:4, 5643:4, 5420:6, 5192:6, 4147:5 Only those who suffer and die with him will share Messiah's throne of glory. R5180:6, 5638:3, 5622:2, Q610:4; SM144:T The call of this Age is for sacrificers only—to follow our Redeemer's footsteps of self-denial, even unto death. R4920:3, 5392:2, 5090:5, 5067:3, 5063:5, 4453:2; OV189:T Only those who will stand the test of faithfulness under sufferings, trials, crosses, self-sacrificers, have the promise of sharing with Christ in the glories of the Church Triumphant. OV188:4, 379:4; CR80:1, R30:6* "Heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with him." (Rom. 8:17) A212; E144,146; F439; T50; R5677:4, 5643:1, 5192:6, 5079:4, 2787:2, 1782:6, 1574:1, 1566:1, 1372:3, 623:6 This feature has not yet been fully completed. CR93:6 These sufferings are not such as are common to humanity—sickness, etc.—but sufferings for Christ's sake, which means activity in Christ's service. R1782:6Jesus' sufferings were sacrificial, not for any wrong-doing; hence if we share in his sufferings, our sufferings must be sacrificial. R4616:3 This willingness to suffer is the covenant of sacrifice that we make with our Lord. R5108:4 By being made conformable to his death. R4964:6 Suffering which we bring on ourselves through faithfulness to our covenant. R5117:4 The favored of the Lord are required to pass through experiences of suffering more than others. These adversities should be accepted by them as marks of divine favor, fitting them for their future positions. R2761:1 It is one sacrifice in the sense that it is all one body of one Priest that is offered. R4965:3 As soon as the sufferings are ended the glory with begin. CR327:5; R157:2 The glory of the great Christ, Head and body, cannot be ushered in until all of its sufferings are at an end. R3683:3 This thought should be before the minds of those who participate in the Memorial. R5643:1 In the close of this Age the Lord may take away his people in a fiery trouble; but as with Elijah, it will be a chariot to carry them home, to glory, honor and immortality. R5677:4 Those who anticipate that the followers of the Lamb are to be borne to Paradise on flowery beds of ease are surely mistaken. R4138:4
Reign with him— Sharing the glories and honors of our Head on the spirit plane. R4398:1, 5392:2, 5196:6, 5180:4, 5067:3, 4855:6, 4547:4, 3709:3, 1176:3; A196 When he has established his kingdom on earth. R1151:5 Participate in the inauguration of the new dispensation, and in dispensing its blessings. R5421:5 During the Millennial age. OV254:4; R3683:2 Participation with Jesus in the divine nature—glory, honor and immortality. R5677:4 If we miss the persecution we shall also miss the blessing. CR493:1 Made possible by the permission of sin. God could justly permit members of the fallen race, of the same disposition as Jesus to lay down their lives by suffering, to be accounted worthy of also reigning with him. SM67:1 "He called you by our Gospel to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." (2 Thess. 2:14) T80 "Then shall we also appear with him in glory." (Col. 3:4) A86
If we deny him— Disown. R1139:4* God gave to man full freedom of choice to do good or evil, that they may, like himself, do right because it is right. R725:5 He expects of us courage to confess him. SM182:3 "They profess that they know God, but in works they deny him." (Titus 1:16) E490
He also will deny us— Will then deny us. E490

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:13]

Cannot deny himself— God cannot do wrong. "It is impossible for God to lie." (Heb. 6:18) A118; R1177:1, 250:3, 14:1 Because it would be inconsistent with his righteous character. A126

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:15]

Study— Study to know what God would approve. Study the Revelation he has made. Study the nature of everything that we come in contact with, as to whether it is good or evil. R4838:2 Study the doctrine, study your course of conduct, study to shield yourself and others from error and from a worldly spirit. R3097:1 Study the Word; study to avoid error and to shun all foolish questions and profane and vain babblings. R4839:1, 3097:4 Make yourself thoroughly familiar with the truth, that you may indeed be a living epistle, known and read of all men. R5045:4Study our hearts to see that we are striving daily to cast out all the old leaven of sin. R4839:2 Study your weak points and how they may be guarded against, that you may know your talents for service. R3097:4, 1638:2 Study yourself; that you may know both your abilities and your shortcomings. R4839:1, 3097:4, 1083:3* The knowledge of the will of God does not come to us in a supernatural way, but through the study of the Bible. SM351:T; R5511:3, 5203:2 Not a mere formality of thoughtless reading. R5511:3 Find it, mark it, and make sure what you believe. Q487:T Be not only a student, but a doer of his will. R349:4 We are to give all diligence to the work of studying to make this reckoned cleansing, this imputed righteousness, an actual thing, to the extent of our ability. R4839:1 Those who have only a partial understanding of the divine plan will find it difficult, if not impossible, to stand in this evil day the assault of the world, the flesh, and the Adversary. But if they have proper zeal for the Lord and a proper love for the plan, they should manifest that zeal by thorough and persevering study of the volumes. They cannot afford to do less. R4930:5 The elect have been receiving their education by giving themselves wholly to studying the Scriptures of truth, and were being led into all truth by the spirit of truth. R33:5*
Shew thyself— Paul was not writing to all the class; he was writing to a leader, Timothy. Q475:T
Approved unto God— Do not mind so much what men may say or think, but seek the approval of God first. R5512:4
A workman— Suggests the thought of being engaged in service. R5511:6 Those who are willing to serve under disadvantageous conditions. Idlers and drones will not have a place in the kingdom.R5512:4 They must be wise and faithful servants—servants who study. R1797:1
Not to be ashamed— The true Gospel cannot be put to flight. CR64:2
Rightly dividing— Bringing the matter out properly, rightly divided. Q475:T The proper application of the Word of Truth; the understanding of how and when and where it should be applied.R4838:3 Which scriptures belong to the present time and which to the future. Q518:4; R4966:1, 4675:1; OV236:4 Which portions of the word refer to natural Israel and which refer to spiritual Israel. Q518:4; R5808:6 The study of the Bible along dispensational lines clears away all difficulties. R4966:1, 4675:1 To make such a prayerful study of the Word of truth as will enable us to place things where they belong. R5512:2, 2957:3 Truth rightly divided and fairly presented commands the respect even of its opponents. R646:4 Apparently this was not possible during the Dark Ages. R4588:3
The word of truth— Which was given by inspiration. R4242:5* And see that our lives are in harmony with the word. R5512:5 Wisely present it in such manner as to avoid choking the babes in Christ. R806:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:16]

Shun profane— If we have consecrated all to God, our time is not our own; and consequently we have none to spare for the investigation of theories built upon any other foundation than that laid down in the Bible. R5970:2, 5045:3, 3199:3
And vain babblings— Close students of the divine Word are prepared to quickly detect error, even though it lurk behind a very plausible semblance of truth. R1206:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:17]

And their word— What is true of one error is true of another; it is the duty of teachers to defend the hearers by defending the truth. R59:1*
Eat as doth a canker— Into the heart. R1800:5
Hymeneus and Philetus— False brethren, from whom will come the church's greatest peril. R1319:3, 1664:1* False teachers who arose in the Church of Ephesus. R2221:4 At times it seems absolutely to the interest of the Lord's flock to identify persons with false teachings. R2837:2 Forerunners of the Papacy. F201

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:18]

Have erred— The Thessalonian brethren seem to have drawn a wrong conclusion, supposing that Paul taught that the day of the Lord would surely come in their day. R665:3 The resurrection—One of the most prominent doctrines of the New Testament. R1508:6 In this text anastasis has the Greek article, showing emphasis and indicating that the first or special resurrection is surely meant. R1512:1
Overthrow the faith— To tell fairly what another believes and to show that it is wrong is far from evil speaking. In many instances it is a duty to speak. R4524:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:19]

The foundation of God— The ransom provided. R566:6 The Word of the Lord. R4826:1
Standeth sure— All other foundations are worthless—all other theories must come to naught. R4839:1
The Lord knoweth— No one but the Lord certainly, truly, knows which are the true sheep. OV123:1; R5707:4 It would be impossible to establish a communism of saints only, because we cannot read the hearts. R1861:6
Them that are his— The true Church. D158; R3156:1, 1103:3 All the saintly in all sects and parties. R5067:1; CR268:6, 252:1 And will care for them regardless of denominational lines. OV239:7 We may hope for a large number who are not bowing either to sectarianism or to the golden calf of mammon. SM702:1 Those who manifest a reverence for the Lord and to whom he correspondingly manifests his favor in various ways in various ages, co-operating with them for their present joy and their everlasting welfare. R3964:1 The Lord will find and will feed and will strengthen those who are his. R3781:2 He is acting as advocate to these, representing them before the Heavenly Father. CR472:1 The Lord is not at all dependent upon us for the carrying of the present truth to the hungry multitude, but for our advantage he has given us the privilege of becoming co-laborers with him. R3781:2 Members of the true church know each other wherever found, by the description which God has given. R1103:3 "They shall be mine, saith the Lord." (Mal. 3:17) F76 "The Lord knoweth the way of the righteous." (Psa. 1:6) R3155:6 "He calleth his own sheep by name." (John 10:3) R2441:6 We are not to identify the Bride class with the nominal Christian Churches of today any more than we would identify the Apostles with the Jewish Church of their day. SM206:1 He also knows those who are not His, those who are merely deceived tares. NS94:4
Nameth the name— "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain." (Exod. 20:7) R1527:3
Of Christ— Jehovah's representative. R1527:3
Depart from iniquity— Inequity, injustice, and from everything that is unrighteous. R4335:3 Everything wrong in respect to faith, conduct and customs. F83

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:20]

In a great house— The household of faith, the house of God. HG750:6
Vessels of gold— The Little Flock. HG752:4
And of silver— The Great Company. HG752:4
Wood and of earth— Those on the human plane. HG752:6
Some to dishonor— Less honor. (The Great Company.) CR325:4; R5759:1, 5493:3 The vessels for less honor were selected first, until John the baptizer, who was one of the chief of the Ancient Worthies, the house of servants. R1872:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:21]

Purge himself— A purifying of the thoughts. SM337:T To purge out the old leaven of sin. (1 Cor. 5:7) R3096:6
From these— Purge out the old leaven of hypocrisy, envy, and self-exaltation. R2279:5 Foolish questions and strife about words to no profit—especially from the false doctrines of those who would subvert the faith of the church. R3096:6
A vessel unto honor— We should be on the alert to win the very best offered. R5759:1 Given special assistance and special opportunities of service which would not otherwise be his. HG751:4

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:22]

Flee also— Fleeing from temptation. R3973:1
Follow— Pursue. R2517:6
Righteousness— Purity of heart—freedom from unrighteousness. R2518:1 Whatever it may cost, justice and righteousness must be followed. R2517:6
Faith— Fidelity. R2517:6
Charity— Love is purity of heart—freedom from selfishness. R2518:1
A pure heart— The more pure our hearts the less will they be affected by slanders and backbitings and evil-speakings. R2518:1

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:24]

Servant of the Lord— To be proper servants of the Lord, we must not strive, must not argue or quarrel. R5698:6
Be gentle— Cultivate the love which is forbearing, forgiving and kind. R5912:5, 4803:5 Let the sword of the spirit do all the cutting. R3596:4
Apt to teach— To have the teaching ability—able to present the message in a way that will be assimilable to the minds of others, making it clear, plain and logical. R5699:4, 733:3 Also to be meek, loyal of heart, and humble when presenting the truth publicly or in private. R5699:4 Not all have the ability, the gift, of making things plain to others. R5699:4

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:25]

In meekness— Not in bitterness, nor in wrath, nor with sarcasm. R2757:5 Not in a combative spirit or with a show of gratification over the defeat of others. R1920:5 Without strife. R3185:3* When presenting the truth, never assume an air of superiority, nor manifest haughtiness. R5699:4 Put character and principle first, then patience, gentleness, meekness. R4391:1
Instructing— Teaching. E284 Correcting. R4391:1 If the truth is attacked and honest souls are in danger of being stumbled, we must, "contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints." (Jude 3) R5699:1 One should never lose his head—the more cool, calm, and self-composed we are when opposed, the better we can defend the message we bear. R5699:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 2:26]

The devil— Whose very existence is now denied by many. F609 The Apostle was a firm believer in a personal devil. R3165:6
At his will— If they yield themselves to his control. R2179:1 The world's experience under the delusions of the Adversary will, during the Millennial age, be thoroughly exposed. F627

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:1]

In the last days— Of this age. R4438:3, 3347:3, 968:3, 760:4, 352:6* In the harvest, or end of the Gospel age. R4438:3; SM697:3 In the very end of the age. A75 In the close of the present age before the dawning of the new dispensation. R3898:5 In the dawning of this new dispensation and the closing of this Gospel age. R4976:5 In this harvest time when the reign of righteousness is about to begin. R5413:1 The great seventh day, the thousand-year day of his kingdom. R5696:2 We are now living in the very time referred to by the Apostle. R1319:1, 5696:2 "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith." (1 Tim. 4:1) C200 Therefore we need to be fully established in the faith, and able to fully trust the Lord. R5678:5 Not the middle ages. R968:3
Perilous times— Not the conversion of the world, expected by many. A90 At the time of our Lord's second coming the world will be far from converted to God. OV222:4, HG341:3 It will not be so much a perilous time for the world. It will be a time of great peril to the Lord's people—selfishness will be rampant—the spirit of the world surges all around them. R5413:1,2,4 Due largely to the evil spirits, just as in the days of Noah. R4976:6 When error is taking on its most baneful and deceitful forms. R1320:6 Such conditions especially characterize this harvest period. R1664:1* Subtle influences are now at work seeking to dwarf and extinguish the spiritual life and to rob the saints of their glorious hope. R1319:2
Shall come— Greek, enistemi, be present. B158 Because the prince of darkness will make every possible effort to retain his power and dominion; and ignorance, error and superstition are his strongholds. R1362:6

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:2]

For men— Professed Christians, Christendom. R2459:1, 1319:6 This is a graphic illustration of present-day conditions in the Christian world, so called. R5652:4
Of their own selves— Selfish. R1319:5, 1870:5, 1320:1, 846:5 Selfishness is the peculiar characteristic of our day. R2459:4 Love of dress, love of show, love of honor and position. R2459:4
Covetous— Of honors and distinction and the praise of men—ambitious. R1320:1 The love of money, honor, luxuries. R2459:5, 3613:5, 3343:3 The covetous person is a mammon-worshipper and has abandoned the proper worship of God. R2459:5 The way in which other people spend time and money is a temptation to the Lord's people which must be steadfastly resisted. R5413:5
Boasters— Boasting accompanies pride and is the opposite of meekness and humility. Was there ever a time when people were as boastful as they are today? R2459:5 As though the credit of the truth was in some way due to them, and as though they had a right therefore to alter and amend it at their pleasure. R1320:1
Proud— Of wealth, family, sect, self. R2459:6 Of that knowledge which should be received with humility and thankfulness, and which can be retained only under these conditions. R1320:1
Blasphemers— Railers. R3613:5, 3343:3 Greek, blasphemos, one speaking injuriously, or an evil-speaker. R1319:4, 1320:1 Misrepresenters of God's plan and character, and slanderers of one another. R2460:1 Evil speakers against the doctrine of Christ and those who believe and teach it. R1320:1 God's character is blasphemed by attributing to him evil deeds, evil motives, and evil purposes. R2459:6
Disobedient— Greek, apeithes, not persuaded, not of the same mind as. R1319:5
To parents— And higher authority in general. R3613:5 In our day the divinely arranged family order seems to be entirely lost sight of with the great majority. R2460:2 Disrespect for the experiences and advice of parents and seniors. R2074:2 Lack of reverence for parents leads on to that careless condition which fears not God, neither regards man, in its selfish wayward course. R4522:2 Not sufficient time is given to instructing youth respecting the necessity for law and order. R4522:3
Unthankful— Lacking gratitude to God and man; attributing prosperity to one's own ability or luck. R2460:2
Unholy— Not fully consecrated to the Lord. R2460:3 Greek, anosios, unkind. R1319:5, 1320:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:3]

Without natural affections— It is not the province of true Christianity to destroy the natural affections, but rather to deepen them and lift them to a higher plane. R2460:3 These words are omitted in the Sinaitic manuscript. R1319:3
Trucebreakers— Greek, aspondos, irreconcilable, implacable, stubborn, constant in enmity. R1319:5 An unwillingness to make a truce, or to live in harmony and abandon hostilities. R2460:3
False accusers— Willing to accuse enemies falsely, even when the charges are known to be false. This surely indicates a very evil condition of heart. R2460:4 Slanderers. R3343:4 Enticers to strife. R5652:4, 2793:2
Incontinent— Greek, akrates, without self-control, rash, impulsive. R1319:5, 3343:4, 2460:4 Not under restraint; impetuous. R5652:4, 2793:2
Despisers of— Greek, aphilagathos, not friendly to the good. R1319:5, 1320:2
Those that are good— Who hold fast the truth in righteousness. R1320:2 The nominal Christian despises the true saint and tries to believe that his professions of entire consecration to the Lord are hypocrisies. R2460:5

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:4]

Traitors— Cannot be trusted; would sell out their best friends for selfish considerations. R5652:4, 2793:2 False accusers. R1320:2 Ready to break contracts whenever it can be done profitably. Persons controlled by the selfish spirit can never be trusted. R2460:6
Heady— Head-strong; full of self-will; not subject to the mind of Christ. R2461:1, 3343:4 A loss of respect for authority—as people lose faith in the Bible and in God, they become more selfish and self-willed. R5413:2
High-minded— Puffed up. R3343:4 Having a high opinion of their own talents. Probably half of the hopelessly insane have lost their reason because of self-conceit. R2461:2
"Every man that is among you [ought] not think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly." (Rom. 12:3) R2461:2
Lovers of pleasure— The world's pleasures and honors. R2461:3 Pleasure is their aim in life. R5413:4 Love of money, and that which money will purchase—pleasure, power, influence—have driven the world mad. Money is worshipped as an idol. R5696:6
Than lovers of God— Preferring their own wills to the will of God. R1319:6, 1320:2 The general tendency of today is toward a lack of reverence for God and for the order and arrangement which he has established. R2053:5 This condition is to be a sign of the end of the age. R5413:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:5]

A form of godliness— Being great sticklers for days, forms, ceremonies and ecclesiastical authorities. F248 This form of godliness has spread to such an extent that the whole world is styled Christendom—Christ's Kingdom. OV371:4 Must be professed Christians. R171:2* Outwardly Christians, but inwardly skeptics, covetous, extortionate, unjust. R5389:6Tares. R5049:1, 2277:3 Those who should have been humble followers of Jesus were misled into pomposity. SM549:2 Which if possible would deceive the very elect. R365:4 The nominal Church contains much of the world and its spirit. Outward ceremony flourishes. R2091:2 The mind of the flesh will seek partnership with the new mind under certain conditions, but would prefer to recognize love in words, in profession, in manners only. R5123:5 A combination of religious sentiments in sympathy with "political reform" movements, preparing for the predicted politico-religious "confederacy" (Isa. 8:12) give evidence of this. R2091:2
But denying— By their course in life. R2461:4 Walking contrary to godliness. CR494:5
The power— The only power by which any of the fallen race can be reckoned godly or righteous in God's sight is the precious blood of Christ which cleanseth us from all sin. R1319:6
From such turn away— False brethren. R1319:3 Those who deny the very foundation of our faith. R1453:5 Now that the harvest time has come. R2461:5 "Come out of her my people." (Rev. 18:4) R5696:6, 2461:5 "Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them." (Eph. 5:11) R1320:5, 1321:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:6]

For of this sort— Crafty, deceitful, sly, seductive. R1320:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:7]

Ever learning— Seeking by various human philosophies, which ignore or pervert the Word of God. R5508:2, 3153:4 Devouring one error after another to feed their curiosity, deluding themselves, supposing they are feeding upon truth. R1530:6
Never able— Not rooted and grounded in faith. "Carried about with every wind of doctrine." (Eph. 4:14) R651:2
To come to— Arrive at. R651:2
Of the truth— Divine truth is never found except in the divinely appointed channels, and those channels are the Lord and apostles and prophets. R3153:5 One of the most serious and dangerous besetments of the adversary is an exaggeration of the truth. R651:2 "If ye continue in my Word ye shall know the truth." (John 8:31,32) R5508:2, 3153:5

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:8]

Jannes and Jambres— Pharaoh's magicians. R3994:5, 171:3 They opposed Moses by doing something similar to what he did, thus confusing the people. R1320:3
Withstood Moses— Opposition to the truth will be manifested in a subtle, deceptive course similar to that used by those who opposed Moses. R1320:3
So do these also— Types of theologians of today. R4060:3 Christian Scientists. R867:5 False Christs; magicians of Egypt—the world. R171:3* Satan seeks to draw attention from the truth by counterfeiting it. R867:5
Of corrupt minds— Corrupted or turned aside from the truth. R1320:3, 4438:3
Concerning the faith— The apostle did not say reprobate as respects morals, but reprobate as respects the faith. R4438:3, 4060:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:9]

Shall be manifest— By their failure to hinder the Lord's work. R4439:4

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:10]

My doctrine— That which the most thorough investigation of the Scriptures most clearly proves and establishes beyond all peradventure. R1320:6
Manner of life— Consistent both with his faith and with his consecration to the Lord. R1320:6
Purpose— The building up of the Church in the most holy faith. R1320:6
Faith— Positive and clear—not mere guesswork, but knowledge, based upon the sure Word of God. R1320:6
Charity— His great love for the Church. R1320:6
Patience— Greek, hupomonee, cheerful, constant endurance. R2791:1,3 The Apostle puts this quality of patient endurance in the place beyond love. R4910:2 We need patience at the first quarter mark, at the second and at the third quarter mark, and still with us at the fourth quarter mark, the mark for the prize—perfect love. R4910:3,2791:6 We need this important grace more and more near the end of the way. R5651:3 The final test of patient, cheerful endurance must be passed before we can be accepted of the Lord as members of the very elect. R4910:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:12]

Yea, and all— During this present evil world or epoch.A68; R5252:2, 2251:4 Under present conditions. E191; R2251:4 Both the old man and the new man suffer some. Their interests are so closely related that if one suffers they both do. Q534:2 All who can be good and noble, even though not in Christ Jesus, in the restitution time will have fewer steps to retrace. R5395:1
That will live godly— Live to please God. R1467:4 To live in opposition to the course of the world and of our own flesh—actuated by the principles of righteousness. R5117:1, 5394:6 Living righteously, in sympathy with Christ Jesus—faithful even to the laying down of life itself. R5116:6, 5118:1 They see more clearly the principles of God's justice by which their lives are governed. R5394:3 These should not be the cause of suffering to others. R5117:2 By letting our lights shine faithfully, we shall bring upon ourselves persecution. R5544:3 To live godly means not merely to abstain from vicious and overt sin, but to be a hero in the strife—a defender of the right and an opposer of the wrong—a servant of righteousness, a soldier of the cross. R4866:4 We must go in the opposite direction to that of the world. R5117:1 These should expect from the world opposition, misrepresentation, slander, opposition of every kind. R3801:3, 5094:6 Includes the development of love in our hearts and our dispositions. R5116:3Under present conditions faithfulness means faithfulness even unto death. R4897:4 There is no other way to enter the Kingdom than by self-sacrifice, deadening of the flesh. R5118:2 The heavenly things are to be attained only by those who sacrifice earthly things. R4902:4 In this present evil world or dispensation. R1652:3Primarily those who are in Christ Jesus; secondly those who live righteously, but shrink from suffering; thirdly the ancient worthies. R5116:6
In Christ Jesus— Members of his mystical body. R5116:6 These have an intelligent knowledge that they have entered into a covenant of sacrifice. R5394:3 They must uphold the principles of righteousness, and not compromise with sin, nor with the world. R5394:6
Shall suffer— In this life. R3223:2 The Lord's children suffer now while evil doers prosper. R569:2 "Because ye are not of the world." (John 15:19) E235 Contrary to the general thought that it is the wicked upon whom distress and trouble come as a punishment for evil-doing. B137 The systems of rewards and punishments, which justice would indicate, are not now being enforced. R4730:3 God allows his people to suffer for right-doing. R5778:3 To the extent that we are out of harmony with present evil conditions. R5117:2 God permits the church to suffer in order to develop and crystallize character. R5117:5"If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed." (1 Pet. 4:16) R5117:6 The promised blessings of the Scriptures are to these. R5117:2 The sufferings which we bring on ourselves through faithfulness to our covenant. Our physical infirmities which are of heredity are not sufferings of Christ. R5117:4 No one could suffer as a Christian unless he had become a Christian. R5117:3 If suffering should come upon us justly for our faults, we could not glory in it, but rather be ashamed. R2782:1
Persecution— Be misunderstood; slandered. R5094:6 Evil speaking, etc. CR35:4 The experience of every true teacher. R1320:6 There is no exception to this rule. R5778:3 From zealous sectarians whom Satan has blinded with his false doctrines. R5441:6; PD86/99 In a Christian's own home and family, or in the church, or from the world; he will not escape if he is faithful. R4407:2 Comes from the world—those having a form of godliness. R5395:2 The prophets and worthies of old endured much for righteousness' sake. R5547:1 From an opposing world and from false brethren arising in the midst of God's people. R1320:6 Because the world is traveling in the opposite direction to righteousness—in the way of selfishness and gratification of the flesh. R5218:2Nine-tenths of Jesus' persecutions came from professors of religion. R374:3 Are we willing to bear the hatred and scorn, which loyalty to the truth brings? If so, we can go forth in his name, rejoicing as we go. R5441:6 If any man suffer as a Christian—for the truth's sake, for righteousness' sake—let him not be ashamed. (1 Pet. 4:16) R2782:1 An evidence of our faithfulness and sonship. R5544:3 Especially has this been true of these last days. R5773:3 The path to glory, honor, and immortality, in the footsteps of Jesus, is a very rugged one. R5465:6 If any of us is escaping persecution, he should feel fearful of his condition and make careful examination as to whether or not he is faithful to all the privileges and opportunities he can find. R4407:2, 5227:5; OV438:1*; Q740:4, 361:6 The Lord's followers in the present time are called to suffer persecution for righteousness' sake, not because it is either reasonable or proper, but because the Lord, wishing to test, prove, and polish his people, is willing to permit the evil. R4813:6, 2415:2 If we know that we are suffering for righteousness' sake, then we know the spirit of God rests upon us. R5395:5, 5227:5 We are still in this time of persecution; the great Adversary is not yet bound. R2437:3 In proportion as he receives the truth and faithfully declares it. R1467:5 Those faithful to God during this age will have more hardship than have those who are unfaithful. R5294:5 It has been a part of the divine will throughout this Gospel age to allow his faithful servants to suffer reproaches and losses to demonstrate their loyalty to God. R5189:3; SM451:4 Fully exemplified in Paul's own experiences and in the Master's. SM217:1 Sometimes causing excruciating pain, sorrow and heartache today, even though more refined, more civilized than in times past. SM630:T A succession of unkind words and acts with a view to punishing someone for adhering to an opinion or course of conduct; something that is intended and pursued. R5395:2 We cannot be members of the same body and persecute each other. R5395:2 The world cannot endure the searching light of the true Gospel. R2415:2 "Because ye are not of the world, therefore the world hateth you." (John 15:19) F628; R5441:5, 5189:5, 2501:2, 374:3 "They shall say all manner of evil against you falsely." (Matt. 5:11) F464; R5294:5, 3223:2, 1790:3 It is plain to be seen that earthly prosperity in the present age does not attend the Spiritual Israelite. R4051:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:13]

But evil men— In the Church. R968:3
And seducers— Deceivers and leaders astray from the truth. B259; Q853:2; SM697:3
Wax worse and worse— Waxing more and more bold and aggressive as they receive encouragement from that rapidly increasing class that will no longer endure sound doctrine. R1320:5 At the second coming the world will not be converted. OV155:3 These words of the Apostle describe our day. SM697:3
Deceiving— Others. R1320:5 Gentle manners may be exercised by a selfish heart, deceiving itself and seeking to deceive others. R5123:6
Being deceived— There is such a thing as deceiving one's self by repeating a sentiment until one believes it. R5098:5 A man may deceive himself, but he cannot deceive God. R589:4 Becoming more and more firmly entrenched in the snares of their own weaving, so as to make it impossible to extricate them. R1320:5, 2219:5 By their sophistries. R968:3 Satan's devices and snares are operated by moral men who have had some character or standing in connection with the cause of Christ. R1217:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:14]

Continue— Abide. R3210:6

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:15]

From a child— Paul was also endowed from his birth and was zealous toward God long before his conversion from Judaism to Christianity. R1671:6 Holy Scriptures—Referred chiefly to the Old Testament, since the New Testament was not yet completed. R3210:3 These writings collectively were termed "The Law and the Prophets," and the Hebrews were taught of God to esteem them of divine authority and authorship. R1145:3
Which are able— Beyond what is written we need nothing. A21, 25
To make thee wise— Search the Scriptures daily and critically and abandon everything which conflicts therewith. R5097:1 The elect have been receiving their education by giving themselves wholly to studying the Scriptures of truth, and were being led into all truth by the spirit of truth. R33:5* A very large majority of Christians have never searched the Scriptures which are able to make them wise. R362:3
Unto salvation— Great salvation—the high calling. R200:5 We must have reverence for Christ Jesus and obey him to the extent of our ability, else there can be no salvation. R3210:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:16]

All scripture— Holy writings. R3210:5 The teachings of Jesus, the apostles and the prophets—the only inspired authorities. R5406:6 The Word of God which liveth and abideth forever. R2240:6 Covering every knowledge necessary to man. SM109:1 The Bible is the most wonderful book in existence. R1145:1 The Old and the New Testaments form a perfect guide to faith. R2163:1*, 1158:6* Composed of sixty-six separate books, written by about forty different writers, living centuries apart, speaking different languages, subjects of different governments, and brought up under different civilizations. R1145:1 All the books of the Old and New Testaments as we now have them appear in the Greek, in the Sinaitic manuscript, the oldest known Greek manuscript, whose date is about A. D. 350. R1145:6 The Bible is generally accepted by Christian people as of divine authority, but few are able to state clearly why. R1144:3 We still have the apostle's instructions as fully as the early Church. R5067:4; F216
By inspiration of God— Those men were, in some way, inspired by, or brought under the influence of God; so as to be used by him in speaking or writing such words as he wished to have expressed. R1148:1 We need no further doctrinal utterances; no more apostles than the original twelve—Paul taking Judas' place. SM673:T That there would be some who mistakenly would claim to be apostles, the Lord Jesus clearly indicated, declaring that there would be false apostles, "who say that they are apostles and are not." (Rev. 2:2) OV396:1 The decisions of the councils of the Dark Ages are injurious in proportion as they are out of alignment with the words of Jesus and the apostles. OV163:1
And is profitable— Sufficient. R5588:1, 5406:6, 5355:1 They are in error who think that the sanctifying work can go on better without the truth than with it. R1528:2
For doctrine— Theological instruction. R678:6 Containing the full statement of the divine plan; and no human authority is competent to add thereto. R2166:2, 1867:2 There is nothing to hinder God from using a dream to instruct us. Nevertheless, there is but one sure way of receiving dreams: to interpret them only in accord with the Scriptures. To direct us continually by dreams would be to interfere with our walking by faith. R5714:5
For correction— Literally, to bring up and establish one in the right. R2166:4 Of error. R664:4*, 416:2*
For instruction— For holy living. R1528:2 All the instruction which we receive from the Lord comes to us through the written Word. SM584:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 3:17]

That the man of God— Those who, by acquaintance with God, are able to recognize his characteristic methods. B39
May be perfect— Perfectly informed. R5082:5, 2466:6 Perfected in knowledge and conduct. R1867:1 Complete. R3210:5 Perfect in heart, in character, in will; not in the flesh. R2166:5 "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." (Matt. 5:48) R76:5*
Throughly furnished— Paul declares the Word of God is sufficient. R5714:5, 4878:4, 2835:1, 2452:6, 2419:3, 2179:3, 1149:4; SM550:T We need no special message or revelations—nor any occult powers. R2980:6, 5637:5 We are not to expect visions or revelations or any kind of communications from the Lord or the holy angels. All such attempts to communicate with us are of the Adversary. R5355:1 There is no need of any manifestation of spirits—his "elect" shall walk by faith and not by unusual manifestations or sights or sounds. R2179:3 There is no need of the speculations of good people who are dead, or of good people who are living, or yet of our own. E167 Needing no supplements of visions or dreams. R2166:2, 3278:1 The divine Word is to be the great talisman, test, standard, for everything for the Christian. R5714:6 We are continually urged to search the Scriptures, that we may know the will, the counsel of God. R2240:6 That we may be able to speak the word of the Lord freely. R4685:5 That we may be able to connect the different parts of the truth into a harmonious whole. R5558:5 That we may be armed against every attack of skepticism. R1144:3 The Bible furnishes merely a basis for faith. PD6/11 Worldly men admit that no man's education is complete without a considerable knowledge of this wonderful Book. R3210:6 Modern history bears testimony to the fulfillments of prophecy. R1314:4 God's times and seasons are given in such a way as to be convincing only to those who, by acquaintance with God, are able to recognize his characteristic methods. R5368:1 Nothing of importance in Christ's words or deeds has been omitted. F218 There is no need of any more apostles. F209, 210 Yet the Scriptures nowhere instruct the Church to undertake the world's moral uplift and regeneration in the present time. R2414:1
Unto all good works— By the knowledge of the Word of God. R5088:4 To the apostles was given the great work of inaugurating the church. R5588:1The information given us is for the purpose that we may impart it to others. R4685:5 "The Spirit shall guide you into all truth." (John 16:13) E204,205

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:1]

I charge thee— Adjure thee—"I most solemnly urge upon you." R3210:6 Paul's dying charge to Timothy was that he should be diligent and zealous in preaching the Word of God. R2229:3
Before God— He who does not believe in God and in his Son could not preach the Gospel at all. R2229:3
The Lord Jesus Christ who shall judge— No man can really preach the good tidings intelligently who does not believe also that the Son has been appointed by the father to judge the world in the appointed Millennial day. R2229:3
The quick— The living nations first. B145; R568:3 The fallen angels, who have never fallen into death, but are restrained in chains of darkness. R3211:1, 1853:6
And the dead— The race of mankind, all of whom are under the sentence of death. R3211:1
At his appearing— Greek, epiphania, bright shining or manifestation. R2979:2 During his manifestation, at his second advent. R2229:3 It is evident, then, that the Kingdom promised is future, that its work of blessing all humanity is future. HG368:6 The Church hopes to share with him in those future glories and grand opportunities. R3211:1

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:2]

Preach the Word— Teacher and hearer should see to it that it is not man's wisdom that is proclaimed. F255; R4526:3, 2229:4 As long as there are hungry hearts to receive the message—until the Church is complete. R5602:1 All the Lord's people are teachers—it is the chief business of their life. R3211:1 Before we begin to preach, we should be acquainted with the Word, and have a clear, definite understanding of its "good tidings." R646:3 We find Paul exhorting Timothy to preach the word without fear of man. R552:2 We suggest that if the teachers be of divine appointment, those taught are divinely taught. R380:1
Be instant— Always ready to declare the truth. R3211:2 Unceasingly. R3208:3
In season— When it is convenient for you. R4526:3, 3726:6, 1892:5, 1433:4, 731:1, 552:2
Out of season— When it is inconvenient for you, as illustrated by Paul's sermon to the Jews after their attack upon him in the temple at Jerusalem. R3189:2, 4526:3, 3211:2, 3208:3, 2229:3, 1892:5, 1433:4, 552:2
Reprove, rebuke— These words are to be understood as particularly applicable to Timothy as an experienced elder in the church. R3211:2 It is safe to caution all the Lord's people against a too liberal use of reproving and rebuking. R4977:6, 3211:2 Our reproving and rebuking, of teachings and teachers, should be done from a Scriptural standpoint—with brotherly patience, without bitterness, harshness or unkindness, and without arrogance. R2969:6, 646:2 In order to reprove properly, the heart should be very full of love and sympathy; else the reproofs and rebukes might be sharp and possibly do more harm than good. R4977:6, 2229:4 This should be done with patience, gentleness, forbearing and doctrine, showing clearly wherein the principles of righteousness were infringed and pointing out distinctly the Word of the Lord concerning the same. R3211:3 We can judge only by men's words of profession and their course of action; we must leave the rest to be revealed by the great judge. R882:3 Experience has proved that some of the Lord's people are in need of words of warning in order that they be not deceived. R1480:4
Exhort— Exhortation is the form of service which quite evidently can best be used by the majority of the Lord's people, but even this should be characterized by patience, long-suffering, brotherly-kindness. R4978:1, 2229:4 Never degenerate into mere coaxing without sound reason or doctrine. Exhortation without sound reasoning and the strong support of the inspired Word is weak and is not lasting in its effects. R646:2
All long-suffering— Patiently. R4526:6, 4978:1, 2229:4, 646:2
And doctrine— Instruction; explanation; teaching. R4526:6, 2229:4

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:3]

The time will come— Foretells a future day. Prophetically, he points out the great falling away—the organization of papacy—"the dark ages." R2229:5 In the end of this age. R3347:3 Particularly in the latter part of the harvest of the Gospel age, as illustrated by the closing days of John the Baptist. B263, 264 "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith." (1 Tim. 4:1) C200
When they— The people. R676:5*
Will not endure sound doctrine— Wholesome teaching. (MacKnight's translation) R310:3 The Church nominal will not endure preachers who ignore their creeds. R968:2; B258 Though the denominations are willing to make any sort of combination and union to oppose the truth. R1090:2 The reason would be an unsatisfactory condition of heart in the Church, a lack of faith in the Lord's supervision. R4526:6
Their own lusts— Desires or liking. R730:6, 676:5* Their desires for something new. R1320:4
Shall they heap— Accumulate. R730:6
Teachers— Whoever exercises the gift of teaching lays himself open to increased responsibility in the sight of God. R2156:3 If teachers possess an eloquent tongue, it may be a channel for a great blessing; but if contaminated with error, the tongue can do almost untellable harm. R2156:3 "Be not many teachers." (James 3:1) R2156:2
Having itching ears— Desiring something new and different from teachers after their own liking. R4073:5 Teachers that would tickle their ears. R4526:6, 730:6 For worldly praise or applause. R563:2, 365:4; F287 For something new and strange—for human speculations and vain philosophies. R1892:5, 4526:6, 4073:5, 2930:6, 1320:4, 968:2; B258 For a new gospel of education, refinement and wealth. R2930:6 Who would turn their ears away from truth to fables—more pleased with style and oratory than truth. R4526:6 Faithful servants will not seek to please the ear with soft words, nor to lull the drowsy, but will proclaim the unvarnished truth, exposing hypocrisy and deception. R563:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:4]

And they— The ear-pleasing teachers. R730:6, 676:5*
Their ears— Understanding. R676:5*
From the truth— Prophetically, Paul points out the great falling away which culminated in the organization of papacy. R2229:5
Turned unto fables— Congregations moving from the hopes and methods set before us in the gospel to hopes and methods of their own misconceptions and unbelief. R1969:1 Turned from the study of God's Word to the doing of penances and vain repetitions of prayer; from faith in the precious blood of Christ, to the "mass" and its oft-repeated sacrifices for sins. R2229:5 Fables respecting sacred relics and wonderful cures wrought by nails from the cross, pieces of the cross, bones of saints, etc. This period is known in civil history as "the dark ages." R2229:6 Evolution theories and higher criticism unbelief. R2767:2 Such as monkey progenitors millions of years ago. R4073:5 Anecdotes, essays on science, politics, social uplift, etc. R3211:4

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:5]

Thou— Timothy, who was a public minister. R2229:5
In all things— Against these evil influences and tendencies. R1892:5
Endure afflictions— Suffer hardships. R3211:4 They are sure to come to all who are faithful in the service; such are sure to incur the wrath of the adversary, who will actively oppose them.R1892:5
Of an evangelist— A teacher and expounder of the Gospel and not of human tradition. R2230:1
Make full proof— Demonstrate what you have professed and what you know to be the truth, that you are a servant of God and not of man, that you are a loyal ambassador in delivering the message he sends. R3211:4

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:6]

Ready to be offered— Having reached the mark of perfect love. Q274:3
Time of my departure— That is, from life. R700:2*
Is at hand— These words form a part of the last charge of the great Apostle to his son Timothy. R4240:1*

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:7]

I have fought a good fight— Paul had fought in defense of the Lord's testimony to the end of his course to the best of his ability. R2230:4 Against every pernicious influence, doctrine and practice. R4527:2 Paul was the greatest Apostle and, next to the Lord, he is the most perfect model of a self-sacrificing spirit that shines on the sacred records. R552:4 Was there ever a nobler soldier of the cross than St. Paul—the Redeemer alone excepted? R4533:2, 4240:1*, 2229:2 He did not boast of his knowledge, nor of his abilities, nor of his accomplishments, nor of his sufferings. R2230:1 Paul wrote, not egotistically, but for Timothy's encouragement. R4527:1 Paul left an indelible mark on the pages of history. R4533:2 God is seeking only for heroes now—the "elect" must all be courageous, heroes. R4533:3 We must fight against selfishness in its every phase, especially in ourselves. R2230:4 Not with carnal weapons. R4527:2
Finished my course— Paul wrote these words shortly before he was executed. R4050:1 Not merely in theory, but also in practice. R4527:3, 4533:3 It was probably during his second imprisonment that the apostle wrote his epistles to Timothy and Titus. R3209:6 Paul realized that the close of his career was near. R4533:3 He was spared from crucifixion by reason of being a Roman citizen; instead he was beheaded, says tradition. R3209:6, 2229:3
Kept the faith— The true faith once delivered unto the saints. (Jude 3) Faith in the Redeemer's sacrifice; in its application on our behalf; in our justification; in the promises of God's Word; in the Lord and in the brethren. R4533:6, 4527:4 Which God through his Word had inspired, the faith which Paul had received, and was given to all of the Lord's people. He had kept it obediently, faithfully; had not denied it for any consideration, nor bartered it for earthly advantage. R2230:4 Courageously, at the cost of self-denial, of self-sacrifice, hardships and persecutions. R3211:5 And the faith had kept him. R4533:6, 4527:4 A grand testimony, at the conclusion of a grand life, nobly sacrificed. R4527:1 How important are knowledge and a correct faith. R4533:6, 4527:4 This is not merely keeping the faith in us, but in the sense of faithfully declaring it; for whoever does not declare the good tidings to others will soon lose the faith himself. R3211:5 Satan is on the alert continually to take our faith from us—to turn or twist it to our loss or injury. R4534:1, 4527:4

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:8]

Henceforth— For some time before Paul wrote these words, he was standing at the mark for the prize—perfect love. R4050:1 The trial of the majority of the individual members of the church ends, and the decision of their case is reached, long before the end of the age. R2606:2, 654:3
There is laid up— In reservation, in waiting. R2765:2, 1598:2, 1458:4 Awaiting him, not at death, but at his resurrection. R4534:4, 4527:5, 702:1*, 700:2* He did not claim to possess his crown at the time, except by faith. R3211:6 The earnest of his inheritance; a foretaste, a firstfruit, a pledge of that blessedness. R2064:5
For me a crown— Representing a position in the glorified little flock. C215 Glory, honor, immortality; association with Christ in his Millennial Kingdom. R4527:1 Paul had absolute confidence in the Lord and in the promise he had received from him. That crown had been his cause of rejoicing for many years. R4534:1, 4527:4 The secret of Paul's labor was the divine approval, to be manifested in granting him a share in the first resurrection. R4527:1, 1106:1 Paul esteemed that crown because it would afford him untold opportunity of blessing his fellowman during the Millennium. That crown would also be the mark of divine appreciation and love for him. R4534:1, 4527:5
Of righteousness— Of life. R5407:3, 2426:5, 1258:3 "The crown of life which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." (James 1:12) "Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life." (Rev. 2:10) "When the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away." (1 Pet. 5:4) R3211:6; A215Only those who are approved of God as righteous will thus be rewarded and glorified. R3211:6, 5499:3, 4534:4; OV185:1
The righteous judge— The Church, the Lord's body, is being judged now. R2426:5 He will reign in power and great glory. R1316:1
Shall give me— Paul did not expect to go to heaven at his death. R1378:4, 4534:1, 4527:5, 3212:4
At that day— The day of the Lord. R274:6 The day of his appearing and Kingdom. R1378:4, 569:4; C133; NS497:1 There is no kingdom until the King comes. Paul pointed to the second coming of Christ. Now there is no need of sleeping saints to wait for a future time. A288, 287; R3212:4, 1316:2, 845:5*, 475:4, 304:5, 274:6 In the first resurrection at the close of the Gospel age. R4793:4, 2765:3, OV185:1 In the first resurrection, the morning of the Millennial day. R4527:1
Unto all them also— The church. R1258:3 All of the faithful ones of this Gospel age. R3212:5 Paul did not expect to go to heaven, but to await the Lord's return when he and all the faithful would be rewarded by having part in the "first resurrection." R1450:6 The number who love the Lord's revelation in Kingdom glory is comparatively small. R4527:2
Love his appearing— Greek, epiphania, bright shining or manifestation. R2979:2 "Paul excludes from the number of the faithful those to whom Christ's coming is a source of terror."—John Calvin. R3212:5 The early Church lived in joyful anticipation of this longed-for event. R1796:2 His revelation at the second advent. R4534:4, 4527:5,2; 1598:2 In the beginning of the Millennial age. R1105:6 None but this class will receive the crown. R4527:6 Some prefer that he delay his appearing so they may accumulate the wealth they covet. R4527:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:10]

Demas— In his attempt to be a leader he had manufactured a different Gospel, built upon a different foundation than the only true foundation—the death of Christ as man's ransom. R3820:5
This present world— Giving evidence that they had departed from the faith and from all relationship to Christ as his disciples. R4196:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:11]

Luke— A man of education, a scribe, as well as a physician. R4399:3
Mark— The same who on Paul's first missionary tour left him at Perga. (Acts 13:13) R2141:3 He seems to have ultimately become a true yoke-fellow, very highly appreciated by the great Apostle.R2141:3, 4364:2 Paul made acknowledgement of appreciation of his faithfulness. R3009:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:14]

Alexander— Paul clearly exposed unholy motives of pride, ambition, and envy, which scrupled not to make havoc of the Church and of the truth. R3820:5 Possibly a convert to Christianity who subsequently apostatized. R2207:4
Much evil— Much harm. R552:2
The Lord reward him— During the Millennial age. R1469:5,6

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:15]

Greatly withstood our words— Paul's efforts to build the church in the most holy faith. R1319:3

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:16]

At my first answer— In his trial before Nero. R4534:4, 4527:6, 2229:2
No man stood with me— In defending the truth against the assaults of the Adversary to overturn it. R552:2 The fear of the people was so great, and quite probably the Apostle's language so bold, that he was forsaken of all. R2229:2
All men forsook me— Some who did have confidence in him had lost their confidence, and in the heat of trial had deserted him. R3212:1

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:17]

Preaching— Paul spoke the Word with a boldness which permitted the Gospel to be fully known to the Gentiles. R2229:2

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:18]

Shall deliver me— From all the machinations of the Adversary and his blind emissaries. R3212:3
Every evil work— Including the last enemy, death, when we participate in the first resurrection. R3212:6
Will preserve me— In this way the Apostle expected the Lord to preserve him, to keep him unto his heavenly kingdom. R3212:6
His heavenly kingdom— "Partakers of the heavenly calling." (Heb. 3:1) R1881:4 "As we have borne the image of the earthly, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly." (1 Cor. 15:49) R1881:4 It is a heavenly kingdom not because of its locality, but because of its nature. "Heavenly" simply means spiritual. HG33:5, 75:5

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:19]

Prisca— Priscilla. R1549:3*

[NTC - 2 Timothy 4:20]

Trophimus— There is no record that the Lord or the apostles ever healed the infirmities of the consecrated ones. R2364:6, 1689:4
At Miletum sick— The consecrated are not authorized to call upon divine power for the healing of their own infirmities. R1689:4 The saints have been treated physically, much as other men.R712:6 The saints may pray for, and be the instruments in healing others, but themselves they cannot heal. R712:6