Chapter 1

1 Paul’s love to Timothy, and the unfeigned faith which was in Timothy himself, his mother, and grandmother. 6 He is exhorted to stir up the gift of God which was in him, 8 to be stedfast, and patient in persecution, 13 and to persist in the form and truth of that doctrine which he had learned of him. 15 Phygellus and Hermogenes, and such like, are noted, and Onesiphorus is highly commended.

1. Paul, an apostle. See on 1 Tim. 1:1.

By the will of God. Compare “by the commandment of God” (1 Tim. 1:1). Paul never forgot the impact of the life-changing summons that called him to the apostolate (see on Gal. 1:15–17). This direct call from God constituted his chief source of courage and comfort when the problems of the ministry loomed before him.

Promise of life. That is, both eternal salvation, which every believer hopes to realize in the world to come (see on John 3:16; 1 Tim. 6:19), and the new life of righteousness, strength, and peace in the present life (see on 1 John 5:12). As Paul was approaching the hour of his death this hope of eternal life was most precious to him. The Roman emperor might destroy his present life, but he could not take away the apostle’s present peace of mind or deprive him of his eternal reward (see on Matt. 10:28).

In Christ Jesus. A favorite phrase of Paul, which may well be called his motto (cf. Rom. 9:1; 12:5; 16:7; 2 Cor. 1:21; 2:14, 17; 5:17; 12:2; 1 Thess. 4:16; 1 Tim. 2:7; etc.).

2. To Timothy. For a brief biographical sketch see on Acts 16:1.

Dearly beloved son. Literally, “beloved child.” Paul used this affectionate term because he nurtured Timothy in the Christian faith (see on 1 Tim. 1:2).

Grace, mercy, and peace. See on 1 Tim. 1:2.

God the Father and Christ Jesus. See on Rom. 1:7.

3. I thank God. Instead of complaining or pitying himself as he languishes in the Roman prison, Paul recalls pleasant memories of beloved comrades. Truly great men are grateful for life’s sweet moments, whereas others can see only the inconveniences and hardships.

Forefathers. Paul is grateful for strict religious training provided by his parents. His family were loyal to the principles of the strict sect of the Pharisees, as reflected in their early care and eventual interest in his strict Pharisaic education at Jerusalem. For a full discussion of Paul’s family background see Additional Notes on Acts 7, Note 2.

Pure conscience. Even though the Roman emperor Nero was now severely punishing Christians because of their religion, Paul could serve God with a clean conscience, because he worshiped the same God as his forefathers—he had violated no law. His whole life was lived in “pure conscience,” even though he had committed some reprehensible deeds (see on 1 Tim. 1:13).

4. Thy tears. The Ephesian elders also shed “tears” when they parted from Paul at Miletus, believing they would “see his face no more” (see Acts 20:17, 36–38). This tender comradeship of both younger and older co-workers is a model relationship for all pastors and ministerial interns to emulate.

5. When I call to remembrance. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the reading “having been reminded.” Perhaps Paul had just received a letter from Timothy, or a traveler had passed through Rome and given Paul a good report on Timothy.

Unfeigned faith. See on 1 Tim. 1:5.

First. Paul here compares the rich religious background of Timothy’s family with that of his own (v. 3). Both came of sincere Israelite stock and now continued the worship of the same God in the new framework of Christianity. The full parallel between Paul and Timothy is not given, but the implication is clear—Paul now awaited execution because of his Christian faith, the same faith that Timothy shared. What was ahead for Timothy neither of them knew, but Paul took this last opportunity to exhort him to live nobly as a true servant of God (see on ch. 2:1–13).

Lois. There is no further information available concerning this noble woman.

Eunice. Gr. Eunikeµ, “conquering well,” “good victory” (see on Acts 16:1). Paul emphasizes the influence of these Christian women because Timothy’s father, who possibly died when his son was a lad, was a Greek and thus perhaps indifferent to the true God.

I am persuaded. That is, the apostle was persuaded of the genuineness of Timothy’s consecration and his essential abilities prior to his ordination; and his consequent service has vindicated Paul’s earlier confidence. The sincere “faith” of his grandmother and mother was instilled in Timothy from his earliest years; yet the “faith” of his ancestors would not be saving “faith” for Timothy. Second- and third- generation church members cannot trust to mere acquaintance with the gospel for their salvation; it must become a personal “faith,” which brings courage and peace from day to day.

6. Wherefore. Or, “for which cause.” That is, the apostle is calmly confident, while lying in the Roman dungeon, that the churches of Asia are in competent hands, and that the present faith of Timothy constitutes a strong foundation for the rigorous demands of the future.

I put thee in remembrance. Or, “I am reminding you.” The apostle’s gentle words of counsel were undoubtedly a great source of encouragement to young Timothy. These words breathe confidence and tender fellowship.

Stir up. Gr. anazoµpureoµ, “to renew the flame,” “to rekindle.” This statement does not necessarily suggest that Timothy’s courage or industry was lagging; rather, it is Paul’s method of commending Timothy for past service efficiently done and of challenging him to continue his meritorious service. Because Paul was now forced to leave the post of leadership in Asia Minor, Timothy was to rise up with new ardor and to assume yet wider responsibilities.

Gift. See on 1 Tim. 4:14.

Putting on of my hands. See on 1 Tim. 4:14.

7. Fear. Gr. deilia, “cowardice,” “timidity.” That genuine Christianity did not produce cowards is best observed in Christ and Paul. No coward would write such an epistle while sitting in the shadow of the executioner’s sword.

Power. Gr.dunamis, “strength,” “ability” (see on Luke 1:35; 1 Cor. 4:20), from which our English word “dynamite” is derived.

Love. See on 1 Cor. 13:1. A quality that must accompany “power” lest the latter be employed in a harsh, unkindly, unbrotherly manner. The Lord Jesus is a striking example of power yoked with love.

Sound mind. That is, good sense that keeps faithful Christians from the pitfalls of fanaticism and erratic practices.

8. Be not thou therefore ashamed. The Greek implies that Timothy had not been ashamed heretofore. Paul here is challenging his faithful co-worker never to become ashamed. Such expressions of confidence inspire younger workers to even nobler achievements.

Testimony of our Lord. That is, the Christian witness about Jesus Christ, which to the Gentiles was “foolishness” and to the Jews a “stumblingblock” (see on 1 Cor. 1:23, 25).

Prisoner. Additional evidence that Paul was writing this epistle while in the Roman prison (see p. 325).

Partaker of the afflictions. Gr. sugkakopatheoµ, “to suffer evil jointly,” “to share disgrace together.”

Of the gospel. Literally, “for the gospel.” Paul was being publicly humiliated for the gospel’s sake; anything less than full fellowship with Paul, publicly and privately, would have been cowardice (see on v. 7). The apostle understood well that the forces of evil relentlessly pursue every child of God, that before the crown of glory there must be the cross of disgrace and misunderstanding (see ch. 3:12).

Power of God. Only the grace of God can strengthen the believer to overcome the specious enticements and endure the afflictions of the enemy of souls (see on Rom. 1:16; 1 Cor. 1:18).

9. Who hath saved us. Verses 8–11 must be considered as one unit. The “power of God” alone could save men from their sinful habits. As long as men submit their wills to God their salvation is secure (see on Matt. 1:21).

Called. God desires all men to be saved (see on 1 Tim. 2:4). However, there are many who refuse God’s offer of salvation (see on Matt. 23:37).

With an holy calling. Or, “to a holy calling,” that is, to a life recognized for its irreproachableness. Compare on Rom. 1:7.

Not according to our works. That is, not on the basis of “our works.” Salvation by faith is one of the fundamental facts of the gospel Paul specially emphasized, because of the deceptive confidence of the Jews in the saving power of “the works of the law” (see on Gal. 2:16; Rom. 3:19–24; Rom. 10:1–4; Eph. 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). Man has nothing to offer God as the basis of his salvation; he is helpless without the freely offered mercy of God.

His own purpose. Because of the very nature of love (see 1 John 4:9, 10) God took the initiative by purposing the salvation of sinners through the gift of His Son, “Christ Jesus.” For a more detailed discussion of God’s purposes see on Rom. 8:28–30; Eph. 1:3–11.

Grace. See on Rom. 1:7; 3:24; 1 Cor. 1:3. God’s love, ever flowing to undeserving sinners, invites every man to accept the redemption provided in Christ (see on Rom. 3:23, 24; Eph. 2:4–10).

Before the world began. Gr. pro chronoµnaioµnioµn, “before times eternal,” that is, before the long ages of this earth’s history. In His foreknowledge God was prepared to meet the tragedy and crisis of sin before it entered our world (see Rom. 16:25, 26; see on Matt. 25:34; 1 Cor. 2:7). Because of God’s omniscience, past, present, and future are alike known to Him; no earthly event can surprise Him. Knowing that sin would be a personal attack by created beings against His authority, and thus against His character, God was always prepared to demonstrate His love and fairness, not only to a sinless universe, but also before those who had despised divine love. See on John 1:14; 3:16; Rom. 5:5–10.

10. Manifest. That is, God’s “purpose and grace” (v. 9) were clearly revealed in Jesus Christ. Men are to think of the invisible God in terms of what they see in Jesus. Men now know what God thinks of their earthly sufferings because of Christ’s healing ministry and His messages of cheer and hope. Man can measure the tender regard God has for humanity by comparing the enduring affection of Jesus.

Appearing. Gr. epiphaneia, “appearance,” “visible manifestation” (see on 1 Tim. 6:14). This is the only instance in the NT where epiphaneia refers to the first advent of our Lord. In all other instances the word describes the second advent (see 2 Thess. 2:8; 1 Tim. 6:14; 2 Tim. 4:1, 8; Titus 2:13).

Saviour. Gr. soµteµr, “deliverer,” “preserver,” a word often ascribed by the ancients to their gods, leading statesmen, and generals. However, only Jesus Christ has brought genuine deliverance to a world bound in the chains of sinful habit.

Abolished. Gr. katargeoµ (see on Rom. 3:3). When Christ arose from the grave a power stronger than “death” was manifested. Christ offers the same power over “death” to all who accept the plan of salvation. “Death” is no longer something to fear.

Life. See on John 1:4; 3:16. This was indeed hope for a world that viewed death as a dark mystery. This promise of “life” gave joy and meaning to the temporary sojourn on earth. Instead of futility it brought purpose; for despair it substituted cheer, reflected in the light of Christian helpfulness.

Immortality. Or, “incorruptibility,” that is, life that will never terminate (see Rom. 2:7). Here Paul refers to the physical resurrection and bodily existence of the redeemed in the new earth.

To light. The entrance of Jesus Christ and His message of deliverance from sin and victory over death are here compared with the dawn of a new day after a dark night. Indeed, Jesus Christ is the “light” of men (see on John 1:4). As Paul awaited his impending execution the “light” of God’s promises of “life and immortality” brought triumphant peace to his soul.

Gospel. The object of Paul’s highest regard and the source of all his courage and peace. In view of the benefits of the gospel, Paul and Timothy were not ashamed of what they preached (see v. 8).

11. Appointed. That is, by God (see on 1 Tim. 1:1; 2:7).

Preacher. See on 1 Tim. 2:7.

Apostle. Paul claims this title because of his direct call by Jesus to the ministry (see 1 Cor. 15:8, 9). For a discussion as to the meaning of “apostle” see on Mark 3:14; Acts 1:2.

Teacher. This completes the threefold concept that constitutes Paul’s understanding of his ministerial commission.

Of the Gentiles. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the omission of these words. However, as Paul wrote in 1 Tim. 2:7, he was sent to the Gentiles as their special apostle (see Acts 9:15; Rom. 11:13; 15:16; Gal. 1:15, 16; 2:7, 8; Eph. 3:8; 1 Tim. 2:7).

12. Suffer. Because of his own experience of suffering for the sake of the gospel Paul could sympathetically exhort Timothy to suffer without wavering.

These things. That is, the height of humiliation. Paul had been indicted for criminal acts against the Roman Empire.

Ashamed. Even though Paul faced the disgrace of execution as a criminal, and the sneers of an empire, his confidence in the message he preached buoyed up his spirit and strengthened his courage. This same kind of nobility steeled the hearts of the Hebrew worthies when they faced the fury of Babylon’s king (see Dan. 3:16–18); Christ also gave the universe an example of unashamed confidence in the overruling providence of the Father when He faced the disgrace of the cross.

Know. Paul is convinced of Christ’s personal concern for his welfare, and his gratitude for this is revealed in his unashamed witness.

Believed. The form of the Greek verb emphasizes that Paul had begun his trust in years past, and continued trusting. He had maintained his faith even amid the different experience of being treated as a common criminal. God expects no one to trust Him blindly. He has given to each man sufficient evidence upon which to base his confidence. The joy of life is in recognizing these evidences of the hand of God.

Persuaded. Or, “convinced.”

To keep. The entire clause reads literally, “to guard my deposit unto that day” (cf. 1 Tim. 6:20; 2 Tim. 1:14). Commentators are divided as to whether Paul here refers to something he has entrusted to Christ or to something Christ has entrusted to him. The first view considers Paul’s personal salvation, his character, his future, to be the deposit that Christ will faithfully keep until the day of resurrection, when life is restored to the sleeping saints. Even though death hides men from earthly view, Christ has marked the graves of all who will one day receive the gift of eternal life.

Those who set forth the second view find difficulty in thinking that Paul would use the same words found in 1 Tim. 6:20 and 2 Tim. 1:14, but in a different sense. In these passages the meaning clearly denotes the deposit entrusted to Timothy as a Christian minister. These commentators contend that Paul here shares with Timothy the confidence that even though he himself would soon die, the gospel would not perish, but that Christ is able to guard the Christian witness until the task is done. Other men, like Timothy, will be entrusted with the same commission that was given to Paul. Even though Paul’s death would be a crushing shock to the young churches, they were to be persuaded, with Paul, that Christ still lives and is able to lead them on to even greater achievements than he had made for Christ.

That day.That is, the day when the task committed to Christians is completed. Paul perhaps refers to “that day” when “life and immortality” (see v. 10) will be granted to the faithful because they have kept pure that which was committed unto them.

13. The form. Gr. hupotupoµsis, “example,” “pattern,” “model,” translated “pattern” in 1 Tim. 1:16. As one of Christ’s instruments by which Paul’s “deposit,” or his “legacy of truth” (see on 2 Tim. 1:12), will be safely guarded and passed on to the world, Timothy is challenged to present faithfully the gospel as he heard it from Paul. Paul here implies that his words were God breathed (see on ch. 3:16) and fully as authoritative as those of the OT. Thus, they are not to be tampered with, but held fast as the model of gospel truth.

Sound. Gr.hugiainoµ, “to be healthy” (see on 1 Tim. 1:10). Paul’s message was free from error, and faithfully presented the soundness of God’s plan of salvation. He was positive that the gospel he preached was the truth (see on Gal. 1:6–8).

Heard of me. Paul had fully instructed Timothy in the truth.

Faith and love. This phrase is to be connected with “hold fast.” Timothy’s personal faith could have no better foundation. Furthermore, the presentation of words about God’s gift of salvation must be in the same spirit of love that characterizes the God of salvation. Given in any other spirit, Timothy’s preaching would be a barrier to the reception of the gospel, not a help.

14. That good thing … keep. The entire clause reads literally, “guard the excellent deposit” (see on 1 Tim. 6:20; 2 Tim. 1:12). Here Paul refers to Timothy’s commission as a faithful minister of the gospel, which was entrusted to him by both men and God. Part of this “deposit” was Paul’s own words, which he challenged Timothy to “hold fast” (v. 13). Paul’s service was about finished; the apostle had kept this deposit of truth free from doctrinal error or moral taint. But the work that had been committed to Paul, his “deposit,” was now laid on the shoulders of Timothy and others. Henceforth they were to be custodians of the priceless treasure of the gospel, and, in turn, to pass it on faithfully to other guardians.

By the Holy Ghost. That is, the Holy Spirit is the effective agent who enables men successfully to fulfill the task of preaching the gospel. There is no limit to the usefulness and influence of anyone who consecrates his will to the purposes of God. The Holy Spirit becomes man’s strength and is the unseen power behind every advance of the cause of God.

Dwelleth. The power of God becomes allied with the vital forces of men. Man changes intrinsically when he allows the Holy Spirit to direct his life. Compare John 15:4–7 (see John 14:17; see on 1 Cor. 6:19; Eph. 3:16).

15. Asia. That is, the Roman province of Asia with the city of Ephesus as its capital (see Additional Note on Acts 16:15; see The Journeys of Paul).

Turned away from me. Nothing is known of the particular situation here referred to. However, it must have been some event that called for a display of courage and honor by those who professed loyalty to Christianity. Paul keenly felt this disappointment, and knew that if all his colaborers would flee in the face of persecution, the structure he had labored to build up would collapse. However, confidence in Timothy’s devotion cheered Paul and provided the setting for his challenge to Timothy that he stand unashamed of the gospel he preached (see on v. 8). Furthermore, he was to guard triumphantly the sacred “deposit” of truth (see on v. 12) he had received from Paul and the other apostles (v. 14) at the time of his conversion.

Phygellus and Hermogenes. The Scriptures provide no further information regarding these men or their offense. It is tragic to be remembered only for shame or cowardice. These men had failed to “guard” the “deposit” of truth that had been entrusted to them.

16. Onesiphorus. Literally, “one who brings profit.” Nothing further is known concerning this faithful believer. Apparently he was true to the meaning of his name in that he brought much joy and encouragement to Paul at a time when other church members were failing him. Onesiphorus was not ashamed of the gospel or of the disgrace it brought to Paul. Some believe that he was then dead, (1) because Paul refers only to his “house” here and to his “household” in ch. 4:19; (2) because the wording in ch. 1:18, “in that day,” when understood in terms of v. 12 and ch. 4:8, constitutes a reference to the second advent.

Refreshed. Onesiphorus was like a breath of mountain air to Paul breathing the miasma of his Roman prison. Instead of commiserating with Paul, he brought courage, buoyancy, and fellowship.

Not ashamed. In contrast with Phygellus and Hermogenes, and a worthy model for Timothy (cf. v. 8).

Chain. See on Acts 28:20.

17. He sought me. Perhaps Onesiphorus was a prominent member of the Ephesian church, probably a merchant, who made business trips to Rome. However, to try to find Paul was a hazardous undertaking because, after the fire of Rome, all Christians were suspect.

Very diligently. There was nothing casual about Onesiphorus’ attempt to reach Paul.

18. In that day. See on v. 12; ch. 4:8. The source of Paul’s joy was “that day” when sin and shadows flee, when pain and poverty will be no more. Then life’s deepest longings will be realized, and the blighted dreams of earth exchanged for the wonders and unending delights of heaven (see on Matt. 16:27; Rom. 2:7; 2 Tim. 4:1; Rev. 21:1–4).

Ministered. That is, gave personal service. Nothing further is known of the ministry of Onesiphorus at Ephesus here referred to.

Unto me. Textual evidence attests (cf. p. 10) the omission of these words. Paul refers to Onesiphorus’ life of service to the cause of Christ, part of which was in fellowship with Paul.

Knowest. As a leading worker in Ephesus, Timothy was a witness to the faithfulness of Onesiphorus.

Ellen G. White comments

2    MM 203

2, 3 AA 499

2–4ML 209

5     AA 203; PP 592

6     ChS 90

6–8AA 499

7     CH 630; DA 341; ML 148

8     3T 67

9–12AA 500

10   GC 533; SR 48; 5T 260; 6T 230

12   AA 27, 511, 512; CSW 110; SL 82; SR 318; 2T 320; 4T 599

13   AH 438

15   AA 490

16–18AA 491