Context
2 Timothy 4 is the legacy chapter of the epistle. Paul is passing the ministry baton to Timothy after running his race as hard as he could for the glory of God. (2 Tim. 4:6-8) This chapter closes the letter with final instructions and greetings. One of the major themes is Paul’s sense of loneliness at the end of his life and ministry, while holding on to the confidence that the Lord is standing by him and strengthening him. (2 Tim. 4:17)
Commentary
Timothy’s final instructions include coming to visit Paul at his first opportunity. It appears that the Apostle had been abandoned by many who had formerly served with him. “For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia.” (2 Tim. 4:9-10) “At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me.” (2 Tim. 4:15) This is a reminder that in serving Jesus for the long haul there can be seasons when friendships can let you down. Being let down by friends would be a major discouragement and deterrent to ministry unless of course we remember that Jesus promises to be with us wherever we go. (2 Tim. 4:17, Matthew 28:20) The Christian who endures faithfully even through abandonment has the hope that, “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom…” (2 Tim. 4:18) Not all relationships are lost as Paul ends by sending his greetings to a few friends. (2 Tim. 4:19-22) Because of the gospel, we will be in the presence of the Lord for ever and ever. This is the encouragement we need to fuel us until the end.
Key Points
- • Paul abandoned by friends, but strengthened by Jesus (V. 9-18)
- • Paul’s final greetings (V. 19-22)
Discussion/ Application Questions
2 Timothy 4:9–18
1. Have you ever felt “lonely” in your pursuit of the Lord? Where do we go with feelings of isolation for comfort?
2. When making disciples and living on mission, why is biblical community so valuable?
3. What makes a “godly” friend?
4. Who are you encouraging in their mission to make disciples?
5. Who is encouraging you to endure to make disciples?
6. Have you ever experienced a strained/ended friendship? How do you guard against bitterness and resentment?
7. How do we turn our expectations for friendship towards Christ and the gospel?
8. How does Jesus satisfy our need for companionship?
9. Are you doing things necessary for cultivating a relationship with Jesus? What examples can you share?
10. If someone were experiencing loneliness, how could you use this passage to encourage them in the gospel?
11. How does a vision of the future kingdom fuel faithfulness in evangelism?
2 Timothy 4:19–22
12. How could our community group send “greetings” to missionaries as a way of encouragement for them while serving abroad?
Prayer Guide
Pray for our church that community groups and friendships would be strong and encourage faithful disciple making. Pray for hearts of people who have felt betrayed or abandoned to have their hope strengthened in the Lord.
Pray for our city that, as we are taking the gospel together to our neighbors, co-workers, and friends, many would come to know Christ and be transformed.
Pray for our world that missionaries serving internationally would experience meaningful community and be encouraged to endure.