If you knew you had mere days or weeks to live, what would your frame of mind be? What things would you want people to know? What instructions would you give to ensure your work continued? These are the questions answered in the Apostle Paul's final short letter to his young protégé, Timothy. It's quick, heartfelt read.
Since Timothy was quite familiar with Paul's doctrine, you won't find much exposition in this letter. Instead you find unique insights into the heart and mind of the apostle.
Keep track of what you learn about Paul. Where is he? What is his emotional state? What things are weighing heaviest on his mind?
List the instructions and admonitions he gives Timothy. What seems to be his greatest concern for Timothy?
Bonus study: Compare this letter with Deuteronomy 31. Both Moses and Paul knew death was imminent. Are there similarities in the tone or content in their final words? What differences do you notice?
How would you summarize Paul's last words?
Paula Wiseman says
Lots of similarities between Moses & Paul, Timothy & Joshua… worth a second look. Thanks for posting your favorite verses 🙂
Lauren Wiseman says
Hm. I don’t think I’ve ever made the connection of 2 Timothy with Deuteronomy 31. I’ll have to try that. I really like 2 Timothy, but I like Paul’s letters in general, too. Paul’s words basically sum up everything he’s wanted to tell Timothy, I think, and it really sums up what we need to keep in mind all the time. I really like 2:11-13 and 24-26 myself…
Excellent post!