Aspect Description
Authorship The book of 2 Timothy is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul. It is considered one of the pastoral epistles, which also include 1 Timothy and Titus.
Recipient 2 Timothy is addressed to Timothy, a young church leader and close companion of Paul. Timothy was serving in Ephesus at the time.
Date of Writing It is commonly believed that 2 Timothy was written around AD 67, during Paul's second imprisonment in Rome, shortly before his death.
Purpose Paul wrote this letter to encourage and instruct Timothy in his pastoral duties, to warn him about false teachings, and to strengthen him in the face of persecution.
Historical Context The letter is set against the backdrop of severe Christian persecution under the Roman Emperor Nero. The Christian community faced significant challenges, including false teachings and external persecution.
Themes Key themes include perseverance in faith, the importance of sound doctrine, endurance through suffering, and the duty to preach the Gospel fearlessly.
Key Verses Notable verses include 2 Timothy 1:7 ("For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control") and 2 Timothy 4:7 ("I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith").
Legacy 2 Timothy offers considerable insight into the personal thoughts and feelings of Paul, and it underscores the importance of mentorship, steadfastness, and resilience in the Christian faith.


Chapter Summary
Chapter 1 Introduction and Thanksgiving: Paul encourages Timothy to remain steadfast, not ashamed of the gospel, and to hold fast to the sound teaching he has received.
Chapter 2 Instructions for a Good Soldier of Christ: Paul urges Timothy to be strong in grace, to entrust the gospel to faithful people, and to endure hardship like a good soldier.
Chapter 3 Perilous Times and Apostasy: Paul warns of difficult times in the last days and calls Timothy to continue in the things he has learned, emphasizing the value of Scripture.
Chapter 4 Paul’s Final Charge and Personal Remarks: Paul charges Timothy to preach the word diligently and shares personal reflections as he anticipates his imminent departure.