2 Timothy - Introduction

INTRODUCTION

Many Bible scholars believe that Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy during a second and final imprisonment in ROME. At that time Timothy was a chief leader in the church of Ephesus (see 1 Timothy: Introduction).

These scholars believe that Paul was released from his first imprisonment in Rome (Acts 28:16,30). But after some time, they say, Paul was again imprisoned and eventually put to death by the Romans.

As Paul wrote this letter, he knew that his death was near (2 Timothy 4:6). This is the last of Paul’s New Testament letters.

OUTLINE

1. Introduction (1:1-18)
   1. Greeting and Thanksgiving (1:1-7).
   2. Encouragement to be Faithful (1:8-18).
2. The Christian Leader (2:1-3:17).
   1. A Soldier of Christ (2:1-13).
   2. A Workman Approved by God (2:14-26).
   3. A Guardian of the Gospel (3:1-17).
3. Conclusion (4:1-22).
   1. Paul’s Final Charge to Timothy (4:1-8).
   2. Personal Remarks (4:9-22).