The Second Letter of Paul to Timothy

A NT letter and one of the three “Pastoral Letters” purported to have been written by the apostle Paul to his associates in Christian mission. This letter presents Paul’s final words to Timothy as the apostle faces execution: the apostle urges him to embrace sound doctrine and defend it against error. Many scholars think the Letter was actually written by followers of Paul after the apostle’s death.

Outline of Contents

2 Timothy

I. Introduction (2Tim 1:1-7)

A. Prescript (2Tim 1:1-2)

B. Thankful remembrance for Christian heritage of Paul and Timothy (2Tim 1:3-7)

II. Exhortations (2Tim 1:8-4:5)

A. Experience of suffering as authentication of elect (2Tim 1:8-2:26)

B. Presence of heresy as authentication of prophecy; great value of tradition (2Tim 3:1-4:5)

III. Conclusion (2Tim 4:6-22)

A. Personal notes concerning Paul’s situation; final instructions (2Tim 4:6-18)

B. Greetings (2Tim 4:19-21)

C. Grace, offered on behalf of church (2Tim 4:22)