Oecumenius

In his own words on 2 Timothy

• 2 Timothy 1:1

  HYPOTHESIS ON THE SECOND EPISTLE TO TIMOTHY Paul sends this from Rome. The pretext of the Epistle is this: Since those who had accompanied Paul on his journey left him, the Apostle, wishing Timothy to come to him, writes the Epistle. And first, he shows that he remembers Timothy's devotion and the faith of his ancestors. Then he states that those from Asia, namely Phygelus and Hermogenes, have turned away from him, seeing his chains. But he bears witness to the greatest zeal only in Onesiphorus, and he received him when he came to Rome and stayed with him. Paul commands Timothy to avoid foolish disputes, because from them arise quarrels. For Hymenaeus and Philetus also turned aside in this way, departing from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened, and they overturn some people; therefore, Paul rather encourages Timothy to pay attention to himself and to the teaching, and to know that in the last times there will be men lovers of themselves, and of pleasures rather than of God, and foreseeing these things, to safeguard the people lest anyone be deceived by them. And having urged him much concerning morals and the accuracy of the teaching, and indicating that the time of his departure is at hand and that he is about to be offered as a drink offering and to bear witness, he instructed him to come to him quickly, bringing the cloak and the books. Paul warns Timothy about Alexander the coppersmith and to be on guard, as he indicated many things to him, and thus he concludes the Epistle. What then does the Second Epistle to Timothy say? In the first, Paul said, "I hope to come to you soon." He was not able to go. For he was already held captive by Nero. Therefore, knowing this, instead of his presence, he sent letters, at once comforting him regarding his not coming, and at the same time encouraging Timothy, who was thus entrusted with the care of the Church. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life in Christ Jesus. I am an apostle, Paul says, appointed to the promised life which is in Christ Jesus, that is, to be given through Christ Jesus in the future. according to the promise of life. Paul said, Let us not recall present dangers: let life proceed according to these promises. Therefore, since it is promised, he says, seek it there. From the prologue, he comforts Timothy in his own trials. — [THEODORET] "The Lord God," Paul says, "appointed me as an apostle, along with Christ, so that I might proclaim to men the promised eternal life." [end of the excerpt by Theodoret] —1

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 1:2

  To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. my beloved child. For Timothy is indeed a child, and certainly beloved. If he were not very virtuous, he would not be both a child, beloved, and especially of Paul. Grace, mercy. Which even before, he prays these things for himself now as well. The praise of Timothy's faith, and appeal to patience, according to what grace requires, in which he also says that he himself is led by enduring.

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• 2 Timothy 1:3-4

  I give thanks to God, whom I have served from my ancestors with a pure conscience, that I unceasingly remember you in my prayers day and night, longing to see you, mindful of your tears, so that I may be filled with joy. Do you see the excess of love? Paul says, I thank God that I remember you. This is love, when someone takes pride in loving someone. with a pure conscience. How is it in a pure conscience? Where Paul originally was ignorant of Christ? They show that he was conscious of nothing evil in himself. For even if he persecuted, he persecuted out of zeal, and not according to human reasoning, like many who do so for glory, forming heresy; those who are conscious know great corruption. And he presents himself well, so that he may also show that his love for Timothy is genuine, and not receive the reputation of being unloving, not having gone to him, and promising these things. unceasingly remember you. Not just unceasingly remember you, but "In my prayers." Not in a common way, Paul says, as I remember, but in prayers, both night and day. longing to see you. Therefore, I did not voluntarily deprive myself of such great pleasure. You are truly worthy to be loved, both because of your tears and because of your faith and that of your ancestors. But notice that at the beginning Paul does not want to sadden Timothy as if he were not coming, but rather gives hope of seeing him: near the end, however, he implies that he will no longer see him in the flesh, saying: "For I am already being sacrificed, or offered." (2 Tim. 4:6) But here is the order: I have grace from God because I remember you, desiring to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. Then what is left in the middle: "mindful of your tears." Afterwards, lest it seem rash to love, Paul also adds the reason. mindful, Paul says, of your tears. For perhaps, being separated from Paul, Timothy was so distressed as even to weep. But the exceeding, "longing to see you so that I may be filled with joy," as if the mere sight alone were sufficient to fill me with joy.

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• 2 Timothy 1:5

  Taking reminder of the sincere faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded that it is also in you. reminder of the sincere faith. I remembered you, Paul says, in my prayers, recalling both your tears and your sincere faith. first in your grandmother. Another praise: that the lineage on the grandmother's side was not from Greeks, but from Jews who believed in Christ. And his father, being a Greek, was circumcised because of the fear of the Jews. and your mother. The praises of our ancestors, when we also partake in them, come to our glory: but if we are alienated from them, they condemn us more: however, this one was a partaker. and I am persuaded that it is also in you. Therefore, you rightly have this as sincere, since it is established from above and cannot be shaken.

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• 2 Timothy 1:6

  For this reason, I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands. For this reason. Since I am conscious of these things, Paul says. you to rekindle the gift of God. Timothy had received the spiritual gift, and Paul urges that it be carried out with readiness of mind, attention, and vigilance more vehemently and effectively. For the opposites of these make it relaxed, as it is said elsewhere: "Do not extinguish the Spirit." (1 Thess. 5:19) through the laying on of my hands. For as soon as Paul laid his hands on Timothy, appointing him bishop, a gift also came upon Timothy for the working of signs, for teaching, and for presiding over the Church.

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• 2 Timothy 1:7

  For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of discipline. How then shall I rekindle the gift of God? If I stand honorable against temptations. For God has not given us a spirit of fear. For there is a spirit or gift of fear, as it is said in the books of the Kings: And the spirit of fear fell upon them, where it was altogether necessary to fear. (2 Chron. 17:10) But to us, Paul says, a gift of power has been given. but of power. Which is against temptations. and of love. Which is towards the brethren. and of discipline. Concerning a proper life. And in all these things, we must also include our own eagerness.

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• 2 Timothy 1:8

  Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner; but share in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord. Many miserable people, examining the mystery according to human reasoning, say it is a shame to preach the Son of God crucified, not knowing what was accomplished through the cross and the death of the Lord. You, therefore, Paul says, do not be ashamed of the testimony, that is, the cross of Christ, but proclaim it boldly. nor of me His prisoner. Nor should you be ashamed that you have as a teacher one who is bound. For if Christ did not find shame to be crucified, neither do I for the chains. but share in the sufferings. And do not only be unashamed, but also endure hardship with me; that is, if it is necessary for you to suffer such things for the sake of the Gospel, do not have fear. For this is what he also indicated above where Paul says, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power." For do you say that you have suffered by your own power? God gave and will give such power; you only introduced the willingness.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 1:9

  Who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. who has saved us. Then also concerning the cooperation of God and the power, which makes one bravely endure temptations and suffering, Paul states the proofs. He saved us, he says, from the death of sin, and called us with a holy calling, having wandered away, not because we were worthy of the calling, but because God himself did this by his own purpose and grace. Who then, he said (for this is the opinion), while we were enemies, had such feelings towards us, much more so when we have become friends, and wish to be afflicted on that account. God will give the power to become virtuous. and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus. It shows that the salvation given to us by grace through Christ (this he says in Christ Jesus) was predestined beforehand before the ages.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 1:10-11

  Now revealed through the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher of the Gentiles. Already long ago it was prefigured that we would be saved, but now it has been revealed through the incarnation of our Savior God. For such is the will of God, that the world should be saved through faith, now and not at another time, it has now been revealed. who abolished death. To the one who forgives sin, and granted resurrection. life and immortality to light. That is, revealing. The word is worthy of life. Paul says, through the Gospel. For through it, both eternal life and resurrection have been made clear. for which I was appointed. First, he says what is, then he also implies this: You must also go to the Gentiles. Moreover, he also makes the statement more credible.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 1:12

  For this reason I suffer as I do, but I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day. For this reason I suffer as I do. What then is that reason? Because I am a messenger and an Apostle. As if he were saying: I am not being overcome as a criminal and dragged to prison. but I am not ashamed. For the greatest glory is to suffer something for Christ. Do you see how Paul prepares the disciple for afflictions? You will show that if someone does not fear to be ashamed, the danger itself will be easier with the help of Christ. that he is able to guard my deposit. He calls the faith a deposit [παραθήκην], which Christ entrusted [παρέθετο] to him to preach. Either Paul means the believers, whom God entrusted to him to teach, or those whom he entrusted to God. "Behold, I entrust you to the Lord." (Acts 20:32) Among those entrusted is also Timothy. Therefore, Paul says: "for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day."

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 1:13-14

  Hold to the pattern of sound teaching that you have heard from me, in faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us. Hold to the pattern of sound teaching. Like an image, likeness, imitation. "of sound teaching," those concerning faith and life. As I suppose concerning others, they are not sound. that you have heard from me. He did not assign to the disciple only epistles to be made, but also gave instructions orally in his presence. For thus he acted in all things as well. Therefore, let no one think that anything is lacking in the epistles, because they do not discuss everything. in faith and love. For the words and teachings came into being in faith and love given to him through Christ. Guard the good deposit. Paul calls the faith and the care of the Church entrusted to him a deposit. Then he shows that human strength is not enough to guard so much. For there are many obstacles. Therefore, he indicates the way of guarding. "Guard," he says, "through the Holy Spirit." As if he said: Strive to have the Spirit abiding in you, and do not cast it away through bad conduct, and you will guard the deposit. "For unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain; unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain." (Psalm 127:1) Disadvantages of the transmission of divine dogmas.

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• 2 Timothy 1:15

  You know this, that all who are in Asia have turned away from me, among whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. Paul is tested not to be overcome, but to teach endurance in similar trials. For when he was arrested by Nero, his friends in Asia abandoned him. There were many in Rome from Asia who followed Paul or were otherwise faithful. But all of them distanced themselves after his arrest by Nero. that all who are in Asia. That is, those from Asia.

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• 2 Timothy 1:16

  May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus; for he often restored me, and was not ashamed of my chains. May the Lord grant mercy. Notice Paul's eagerness. He did not curse those who abandoned him, but only recounted what they did against him; but he prays much for the one who helped him, and not only for him alone, but also for his household. Therefore, they were virtuous, and so Onesiphorus educated them. of the household of Onesiphorus. O blessed Onesiphorus! who was deemed worthy to restore Paul, may a part of you be with us also. for he often restored me. Just like an athlete seized by the hardship of the struggle. And he was not ashamed of my chains. Leaving aside the dangers, he put forward the shame, persuading the student to be courageous. As if shame alone arises from the matter, and not danger approaching; although indeed danger was also present. For Nero raged against Paul as if one of his own household had instructed him.

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• 2 Timothy 1:17

  But when he was in Rome, he diligently sought me out and found me. he diligently sought me out. Not only, Paul says, did he not avoid my presence, although there was danger and he encountered me after being imprisoned, but he also sought me more earnestly than he owed until he found me. And those who share in the sufferings with the saints will also share in the crowns, as Paul himself says. "Well done, having shared my suffering." (Philip. 4:14)

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• 2 Timothy 1:18

  (may the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that day); and you yourself know how many things he ministered to me at Ephesus better than I do. may the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord. Those who hold the opinions of Marcion leap over [ἐπιπηδῶσι]3 the Scripture, as if there were two Lords, but it says the Lord elsewhere. "But for us there is one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom all things." (1 Cor. 8:6) What then shall we say? This construction is common in the divine Scripture. Just as it is said, Abraham said, "Abraham shall not enter," as if he said, "May the Lord grant him to find mercy with him." And if both the Father and the Son are indicated here, accept it, it is not even inappropriate. For both the Father and the Son are Lord, and the Spirit is Lord, but the one Lord is revealed in the three persons. "The Lord said to my Lord." (Ps. 110:1) That is, it is clarified to say thus the holy substances, as there: "The Lord rained fire and brimstone from the Lord." (Gen. 19:24) to find mercy. But if Onesiphorus needs mercy in order to be saved, how much more do we? he ministered to me at Ephesus. He always served, in Ephesus, in Rome. For the earnest man must always be an example in works.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 2:1

  You therefore, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Paul indicates great kindness by what is added, "my child." "If you are my child," he says, "imitate your father." For the teacher's rebuke is accustomed to add boldness to the student. Therefore, Paul says: "be strong." If anything of this kind happens to you, do not fall, but look to the reward. be strong in the grace. But be strengthened, Paul says, not only by my example, but also through the grace given through Christ. For if he did not justify by his own blood, the grace of the Spirit would not have come. Therefore, he says, have the Spirit as an ally.

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• 2 Timothy 2:2

  And the things you have heard from me among many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. and the things you have heard from me among many witnesses. That is, I did not tell you in secret, but openly in the presence of many. This, however, speaks about preaching. to faithful men, Paul says, not to curious investigators, nor to those reasoning by conflict, but to those who do not betray what is entrusted to them. However, he does not say: Speak, but, entrust. For what profit is it if they are indeed faithful, but not suitable to bring forth to others the things entrusted to them? For teachers must be both faithful and competent to teach. — [PHOTIUS] to faithful men. That is, to bishops, elders, whom Timothy was about to ordain. among many witnesses, that is, of the law and the prophets. [end of the excerpt by Photius O f. 249v; Q f. 119v] — — [OECUMENIUS] For indeed, as I think, concerning bishops and elders who are about to be ordained by Paul, these things he commands to him. For he would not have written such things concerning laymen. For how would it be, if he did not find anyone faithful and able to teach, that he would not have brought them into the faith, while Paul himself preached the word without deceit to both murderous Jews and Greeks? among many witnesses. That is, of the law and the prophets. For the Apostle made them witnesses of his own preaching. Thus, Clement in the seventh book of "Hypotyposes." [end of the excerpt by Oecumenius A f. 178r anonym; B f. 215v; G f.304r] — On living in the present life without anxiety about food that comes without labor.

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• 2 Timothy 2:3

  Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! Is it so great a thing to be a soldier of Christ? But the mark of a soldier is to endure hardship.

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• 2 Timothy 2:4

  No one engaged in warfare. Paul remembered the soldier, showing that the servant of Christ must be eager and bold; and as an athlete, showing that he needs continuous training. If, therefore, he says, the one serving the earthly king is not entangled in matters that distract him from his weapons, how much more the one who has committed himself to the heavenly king and recruited.

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• 2 Timothy 2:5

  And if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. unless he competes according to the rules. For it is not enough merely to be anointed, or to enter the place of combat, or to engage in hand-to-hand fighting with the enemy, but it is also necessary to endure and to win: for this is the law of combat.

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• 2 Timothy 2:6

  The hardworking farmer. Not careless: but one who works. For indeed, the teacher who also works with the students will receive rewards from God for the benefit and advantage of the students. — [GREGORY OF NYSSA]1 As teachers must first be perfected in themselves in what they teach. For this is necessary, to partake first of the fruits, which they cultivate in themselves through virtues before others. [end of the excerpt by Gregory of Nyssa] — The example of the soldier and the wanderer suits the students, but that of the farmer suits only the teachers. For just as, it is said, the farmer takes care of the land and the fruits, so must you take care of the students and your preaching. And see to the return. The benefit, it is said, of the students is first enjoyed by the teacher from God, just as the farmer enjoys the fruits.

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• 2 Timothy 2:7-8

  Understand what I say. For may the Lord give you understanding in everything. Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, of the seed of David according to my Gospel. Since Paul spoke everything in parables, those of the soldier, those of the athlete, those of the farmer, he says: Understand what I say. For whose sake does he say this? in everything, Paul says, so that you may also understand these things as you ought, and do the other things as you must. Remember Jesus Christ, risen. At the same time, Paul also makes the argument against heretics stronger and stimulates discussion: showing that Christ, through suffering, came and conquered death by death. of the seed of David. For already some heretics from that time denied the privilege of God, who considered it a disgrace that the Son of God should suffer, and therefore perhaps introduced unbelievable ideas, not knowing that He had given this as a sign of His highest kindness and goodness. according to my Gospel. For even false apostles preached the Gospel, but badly, as my Gospel, he says, confirms.

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• 2 Timothy 2:9-10

  In which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal, but the word of God is not imprisoned. Therefore, I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain salvation, which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. in which I suffer hardship. The afflictions of Paul reveal the truth of the Gospel. even to imprisonment as a criminal. For who, indeed, would choose to suffer such things unless preaching the truth, and about whom he would not be made altogether more certain? but the word of God is not imprisoned. And if I, Paul says, am imprisoned, the preaching is not imprisoned at the same time, but it goes about. For the tongue speaks with imprisoned hands. Indeed, the only prison of the tongue is fear and unbelief. This, however, he also says to the exhortation of those who were free. For if I who am imprisoned preach, what pardon can be given to those who are free and yet neglect? for the sake of the elect. For the sake of the faithful, Paul says, whom God has chosen: for since God chose them, I must suffer everything for them, because God also suffered for us, and indeed there is some kind of repentance and reward: so that they also, just as we, he says, may obtain salvation. And as if he were saying: Certainly, I could live far from dangers, if I only cared for myself; but I suffer these things for the good of others, so that they may obtain salvation. which is in Christ Jesus. Someone might say: If you yourself cannot obtain salvation, but behold, you are about to die, how will you secure salvation for others? Paul replied: I am not speaking of this earthly life, but of that which is in Christ Jesus, that is, what is given through Christ, what is eternal, what is future with glory. For the salvation of the world has no glory. On faith in Christ, and tolerance for the hope of life.

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• 2 Timothy 2:11

  The saying is trustworthy. For if we have died with him, we will also live with him. The saying is trustworthy. Those who are chosen obtain glorious and eternal salvation. For some have doubted concerning the resurrection, and this assurance was needed. That the saying is trustworthy is also established from reasoning.

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• 2 Timothy 2:12

  If we endure, we will also reign with him. If we deny him, he also will deny us. For if we have died with Christ, (by which I mean death both through baptism and through sufferings, this indeed being the sensible one,) we shall also reign with him." For no one, Paul says, who has shared in sorrows with others can be deprived of good things and prosperity: let alone Christ, who is goodness and kindness itself. If we deny him, he also will deny us. Then also fear them who are evil. But consider what is likely to happen to one who is denied by Christ.

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• 2 Timothy 2:13

  If we are faithless, he remains faithful. He cannot deny himself. If we are faithless, he remains faithful. If we are faithless concerning that he rose from the dead, or that he is God, he remains faithful, that is, true. For having said that he will rise, and that he is God (for this was signified in many ways), he is faithful. For he rose and he is God. He says that he cannot deny himself, so as not to be God or to have risen. Just as he said: There will be no change because of our denial, but he remains faithful and true concerning himself. And to deny, that is, to lie to himself, he cannot do, in not having risen or not being God. For having promised concerning himself, he cannot lie to himself and fail to fulfill the promises. For neither by believing do we make him not God, nor by being unfaithful do we cast out the divine nature, but both in our believing and in our unbelief he himself is God. Therefore, we who believe reap the benefit. But the "It is not possible," instead of, "It is not permitted." "He remains faithful." Therefore, for our salvation, he demands from us consent to him. For, he says, it is not harmed by our denial.

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• 2 Timothy 2:14-15

  These things he reminds you of, sincerely charging you before the Lord not to quarrel about words to no profit, which leads to the ruin of the hearers. Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. These things he reminds you of. So that no one might think these things are unnecessary; concerning these words to Timothy, Paul says, "These things he reminds you of," testifying before the Lord, and it is a fearful thing to speak before God as a witness. not to quarrel. Since the matter has a certain taste, and the human soul always wishes to dispute and argue, you, Paul says, protesting to them before God, do not engage in argument; instead, he says, command, taking God as a witness, so that they may know that if they despise you, God will judge them. about words to no profit. For not only does it have no benefit to engage in disputes, arguments, and battles, but it also causes harm to the weaker among those who listen. present yourself approved. As an example, blameless. a worker who does not need to be ashamed. Much has been said about this shame. For it is likely that some who are perishing feel shame about the preaching, as the apostles suffer badly, and as Christ is preached with the cross, or at least because the preachers are humble, namely, Paul, a weaver of tents, and Peter, along with several others, were fishermen. The fact that he is not ashamed is because he has done nothing corrupt. rightly dividing the word of truth. Cut away like a knife the excess and false doctrines, which those perishing have added to the preaching, and lead straight through the Spirit.

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• 2 Timothy 2:16

  Avoid profane and empty chatter. If anything new in the preaching has been introduced from more recent empty chatter, it is altogether wicked and profane. As for that, either remove it or stand firmly to stop and prevent it altogether. for they will increase in ungodliness. For if anything spurious is introduced, Paul says, it always leads to absurdity. And he receives a greater offering every day.

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• 2 Timothy 2:17

  and their message will spread like gangrene. Hymenaeus and Philetus are among them, who have strayed concerning the truth. like gangrene. Gangrene is a infected ulcer, consuming the place, causing rotting; some say it is a creeping ulcer, or erysipelas. He who is Hymenaeus..." Of those ones who utter profane and empty chatter.

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• 2 Timothy 2:18

  who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened; and they overturn the faith of some. — [THEODORET] saying that the resurrection. They called the succession of procreation of children to be cursed resurrection: and they enticed some to depart from apostolic teaching. [end of the excerpt from Theodoret PG 82.685A] — saying that the resurrection has already happened. Rightly said above, for ungodliness will increase even more. For see how many evil things arise from saying that the resurrection has already happened. We would be deprived of the presence of Christ, what could be more grievous? There is no remedy, nor punishment. Christ, who promised these things, lies. And many similar things, such as, "If there is no resurrection, then Christ has not been raised," (1 Cor. 15:14) nor does a judge sit over the living and the dead. (Acts 10:42) and they overturn the faith of some. Of those who are simpler and weaker.

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• 2 Timothy 2:19

  Yet the solid foundation of God stands firm, having this seal: The Lord knows those who are His. And, let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity. Yet the solid foundation. Indeed, the faith of the weak is subverted; "a solid foundation", however, stands (referring to the faithful who cannot be overthrown), having this mark and sign: The Lord knows those who are His. Once indeed they were foreknown as wholly devoted to God and unchangeable. For the sign that they are known by God is that they could not be overthrown by wickedness so as to depart from the faith. depart from iniquity. Here is another indication: namely, let everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord depart from iniquity, that is, from the error of doctrines, as it is proper to call upon His name. For those who, like certain living columns, remain immovable, bear these inscriptions in their works.

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• 2 Timothy 2:20-21

  In a large house, there are not only golden and silver vessels, but also wooden and pottery, some of which are for honor, and others for dishonor. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. Even now there are some who marvel at why the wicked are not destroyed. And we say that just as in a large house there are various vessels, so too in the world there are different kinds of people, not made so by God. For how could the wicked have the power to cleanse themselves? For this, going forward, commands those who lead themselves to this. and others for dishonor, such as wooden and pottery items. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself. If the pottery vessel is something dishonorable and unclean, for Paul said, "If anyone purifies himself," how then does he speak concerning the apostles, "Having therefore this treasure in earthen vessels"? (2 Cor. 4:7) And we say that there it discusses the nature of the body, not as something impure, but as something made of clay and earth. For from these the shell, the hard shell, is received there, as in relation to the comparison of the treasure contained within it. However, here it discusses virtue and wickedness, calling the wicked ones "pottery" and the virtuous ones "golden." Such persons are able, by their own choice, to be changed, both toward the good and toward the bad. a vessel for honor. As for vessels made of gold and pottery in a house, the vessels always remain the same. But for such-shaped people, it is serious that the pottery becomes gold, and the gold through negligence becomes pottery. Therefore, if someone cleanses himself from these wooden and pottery-like people, as having nothing of their kind, he becomes useful to the Master, since those others are clearly useless. prepared for every good work. Even if now is not the time or opportunity to do this, one must nevertheless be ready and prepared to endure persecutions, sufferings, and martyrdom. On divine teaching and a life pure and peaceful even toward adversaries.

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• 2 Timothy 2:22

  Flee from youthful lust. But pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Youthful lust is not only fornication alone, but also every improper desire, whether one lusts for power or for wealth; for these fantasies are foolish and unstable of mind. Indeed, even an old man becomes youthful. But pursue righteousness. Righteousness is defined as the true and loyal temperament toward those we love. love, and peace with those who call on the Lord. That is, to those who trust alone, those who call upon the Lord without deception and deceit; to the peaceful, the unarmed, unite with them, pursue what has been said with them. from a pure heart. For one can also call upon piousness with hypocrisy.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 2:23-24

  Reject foolish and ignorant questions, knowing that they generate arguments. A servant of the Lord must not argue but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient. foolish and ignorant. For there are also sound and learned questions, namely those concerning the sacred Scriptures. But why did he say, "Reject," and not rather, "Convince and refute it yourself"? Because a good answer brings no benefit: for they generate arguments. A servant of the Lord must not argue. For the servants of Christ ought to be peaceful. but be gentle to all. If one ought to be gentle and mild, how did he say elsewhere: "Rebuke them sharply," (Titus 1:13) and: "Let not the youth be despised"? (1 Tim. 4:12) Because it happens that one can rebuke sharply with mildness, and rashly and severely. able to teach, that is, to those who desire to learn. Furthermore, flee from a heretical man after one or two warnings. patient. For indeed, boldness is fierce, but gentleness knows how to persuade. For who would be persuaded by the bold one, who is often opposed even by the one advising? How then does Paul say elsewhere, after the first and second admonition, to avoid heretics? For see, having said this here as well, he designated the heretics as those challenging. And we say that those confessed and incurably ill must be avoided. But those concerning whom the matter was doubtful, and it is clear from what was said, "that God may grant them repentance." For the phrase "may" is a custom for us to speak about the uncertain.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 2:25-26

  Correcting challengers with gentleness, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the Devil's snare, having been captured by him to do his will. correcting challengers with gentleness. For this is most necessary. For often he who has been given advice ten times and has not listened will obey another who gives advice once, clearly the first ten counselors are working against their own interest. that God may grant them repentance. And if it happens, Paul says, it is the work of God, not only of your gentleness. He suppresses the mindset of the teachers, leading the matter up to God. and that they may come to their senses and escape the Devil's snare. But what is the knowledge of the truth? It is to recover from the Devil and from false doctrines, toward the truth of faith. See how, as from drunkenness or madness, Paul said they recover from the Devil's snare. For just as a little bird, even if caught by the tip of its foot, is still under the snare beneath it; so also we, even if we stray slightly from the doctrine, are caught under the Devil's snare. having been captured by him. Being revived while captured, that is, being seized and confined by error to the will of the Devil. For those who are led astray by evil doctrines, having been seized to the Devil's own will, are held by the Devil. Prophecy of abundant human wickedness, through reprehensible deceit.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:1

  Even in the days of Moses, there were Jannes and Jambres (Ex. 7; 2 Tim. 3:8), as he says: for this is what the words about the golden and pottery vessels signify. Therefore, these types always exist, but especially in the last times. difficult times. It is not the times or the days that are to blame, but the wicked people living in them. For we call times good or bad based on what happens in them.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:2

  lovers of themselves. This is the root of wickedness, to consider only oneself. And those who are such, neglecting their brothers, first destroy their own. arrogant. From lovers of themselves are lovers of money. From these offspring are the boastful and the proud, then from these, blasphemers. For evil types cling to each other just as those who are good do. For all good proceeds from love. disobedient to parents. For arrogance is known to be carried even against nature. ungrateful. The greedy are also ungrateful. For they give thanks only when they have fulfilled their desire, but it never happens that they themselves are satisfied. But he who is such is also impious. For he who does not have gratitude towards God the Benefactor [εὐεργέτῃ2], how will he show gratitude to others?

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:3

  without natural affection. Like those who are hostile towards their own. uncommitted. It shows that they have made no agreement with anyone. devilish. Like slanderers. For he who is conscious of no good in himself curses and slanders everyone, finding some comfort for himself in this. without self-control. Namely those who do not control their tongue, stomach, and those things which are under the stomach. brutal. Some are harsh and cruel. despisers of good. That is, enemies of all things good.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:4

  traitors. One who betrays friendship and companionship. reckless. That is, rash and having nothing stable. snobbish. That is, full of arrogance. lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. Exchanging the love of the divine for something shameful. Indeed, the very form of holiness exposes both hypocrites themselves and deceivers.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:5

  Having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from these turn away. having a form of godliness. From those who speak, they seem to be cultivators of godliness: but from those who act, they are found and convicted to be contrary to their words. And from these turn away. As for those, about whom Paul passed over without going into detail. But writing to Timothy, he advises those with Timothy to avoid such people. For he would not have come to the last days, but rather immediately after the death of Paul, in which Timothy was still to be involved.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:6-7

  For from these are those who enter into households and lead captive young women burdened with sins, who are driven by various lusts: always learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Behold, all their secret and shameless plotting was revealed by the saying, those who enter into households and lead captive young women burdened with sins. Do you see that they have been deceived by the Serpent's deceit, which he used against Adam? For it was likely that he also deceived these men through the women. But by calling them mere women, he only revealed what is easily deceived. Therefore, the one being deceived, even if he is a man, differs in no way from a woman in this respect. But the multitude, accumulated with sins, also shows the confusion of sins. For it is not simply, Paul says, that women deceive (for there are also women of a courageous nature, just as there are men of a weak nature), but the sins accumulated, for from these come also the acts of deceit. who are driven by various lusts. Paul did not blame nature, but such a woman. Here he encountered many lusts. Both bodily and mental. And see also the phrase "driven," as if towards irrational beings. always learning. Not excusing them for these things, but rather strongly blaming them. For since they have heaped up sins for themselves, their mind has naturally become hardened because of them.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:8-9

  Just as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth, men corrupted in mind, reprobate concerning the faith, but they will progress no further. For their folly will be evident to all, as was that of those men. Jannes and Jambres. These were the magicians of Pharaoh. But how does one know their names when Scripture does not say? We say that it was from unwritten tradition; it was likely from the Holy Spirit that Paul knew. so do these also resist the truth. To the true faith. men corrupted in mind, reprobate concerning the faith, but they will progress no further. When someone's mind is corrupted by passions, then they become unreliable regarding faith. How could they advance in wickedness without saying "they will advance"? Here it says, "they will progress no further." There it says that once they begin to wander, they will not stand anywhere, but will always devise something worse; here, however, it says that they will neither deceive nor seize many of the prudent. — [OECUMENIUS] For Paul said beforehand, "Wandering and being led astray." (2 Tim. 3:13) Therefore, the power lies with those who are not easily deceived. [end of the excerpt by Oecumenius A f. 181r; B f. 219r; G f. 308r] — For their folly will be evident to all. Where does this come from? "From ancient times," Paul says, "be assured. For wickedness is easily exposed." In another way. If you are unbelieving, learn from what happened to those magicians (Jannes and Jambres). For even they were exposed as performing illusions and deceiving, when Moses truly performed wonders, so that all things of deceit flourish only for a time. Encouragement to imitate them in opposition to the wicked, in the patience of God.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:10-11

  But you followed my teaching, my conduct, my purpose, my faith, my patience, my love, my endurance, my persecutions, my sufferings, such as happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra, what persecutions I endured; and out of them all the Lord rescued me. Indeed, those are such, Paul said, but you know that mine are not of this kind. For you did not simply accompany me, but you followed closely, that is, you accompanied me for a long time, and you paid attention to all my teachings. Therefore, you must be steadfast in the state of moral teachings, unshakable, "followed my teaching." On the matters concerning doctrines. my conduct. Concerning life. How I was led, Paul says, in the state. my purpose. As to eagerness, and to the presence of the soul. my faith. Preserved in dangers, which would not allow despair, but to believe in God that He would deliver. my patience. Paul says, nothing of the trials was more grievous to me. my endurance. Endurance towards persecutions. such as happened to me. Not only was I persecuted, Paul says, but I also suffered. Then, furthermore, he goes through the trials in detail, making the disciple bolder by this. For continuous memory of the trials, he knows, encourages the soul. But he only mentions these things either because they are more recent or because they were known to Timothy, and this is more likely. at Antioch. The trials are not listed by type. For the discourse does not see it as motivation, but as guidance for the disciple. And here Paul speaks two things suitable for encouragement. That I, he says, showed zeal, and God gave assistance. He indeed says Antioch in Pisidia. — [OECUMENIUS] "at Lystra." I suppose that Paul said Lystra in the last place out of some misery, from which Timothy originated: as if he were to say: Surely, I suffered in frequent and populous cities what I endured; but why did I also suffer in Lystra? From there were found men who would afflict me in Lystra? [end of the excerpt by Oecumenius A f. 181v,; B f. 219r; G f. 308r] —

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:12-13

  And all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. And what am I saying about myself? For all who desire to live piously will be persecuted, Paul says, persecution not only from the idolaters but also tribulations and temptations. For the way of life is narrow and afflicted. (Matt. 7:14) in Christ Jesus. For this alone is a godly life, the one in Christ Jesus. will be persecuted. Such is the nature of things. Since the present life is not for the godly, but for the wicked. For no one lives in peace who wages war and shoots arrows. will grow worse and worse. For to grow is split in the middle, both for the better or for the worse. Therefore, these will grow towards the worse. For by interpreting what worse is, Paul said that they themselves will be led into error and will get it wrong.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:14-15

  But you remain in the things you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. But you remain in the things you have learned. Likewise said David, Do not envy the wicked, nor desire to be with those who do evil. (Ps. 24:1) you have learned, Paul says, that is, you learned with certainty. knowing from whom you have learned them. Paul states two reasons why he must remain committed. And because you have not learned from just any common person, but from Paul; and because a deep root has been placed in you by the Scriptures, having been written a long time ago. However, he calls the Sacred Letters Scripture because they are inspired by God. which are able to make you wise for salvation. He will not allow you to suffer anything foolish, like most do. For the one who knows the Scriptures, as one ought to know them, would never be put to shame. for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. But it makes you wise, not according to the external wisdom that is in words and deceit, but to salvation through the faith in Christ. For the holy Scriptures, and the wisdom from them, lead to the faith of Christ.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 3:16-17

  All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for criticism, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. All Scripture is God-breathed [θεόπνευστος] and profitable. Having spoken many ways of comfort, Paul now speaks of the greatest, that which comes from the reading of the Scriptures. For he is about to say something sad, namely about his own death. But if Timothy must read, how much more must we? for teaching. Since good things teach both lessons and actions. for criticism. Concerning the refutation of falsehoods. for correction. To correct the brothers. for training in righteousness. For the training and leading into righteousness. For from these things, Paul says, something perfect [ἄρτιον] comes to be. A perfect person is one who is always equal, neither leaning downwards with a saddened spirit nor rising and swelling in prosperity, but always remains the same in unequal circumstances. equipped for every good work. Not merely participating but being equipped and complete.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:1

  I therefore seriously charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, at his appearing and his kingdom. The continuous exhortation and command produces three effects: it makes the command more formidable and undeniable, and it presents what is useful in speech. For if it were not such, it would not be necessary for it to be preached with such great determination. Moreover, what belongs to him who urgently announces it is done, no longer subject, as is likely, to the negligence that usually occurs in preaching. who is to judge the living and the dead, at his appearing. Paul speaks of the sinners and the righteous, or those who have passed away, and those still living, or that many will be left alive then. Paul also says elsewhere, "Indeed, we shall not all sleep." (1 Cor. 15:51) at his appearing. When is the future to be judged? At the Lord's arrival, which will be after the kingdom and glory have come. For he will not come in the same way as he came before.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:2

  Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. Preach the word. But what then is the obstacle? Do not hide the message, but proclaim it. be prepared. That is, repeat, look around and watch that no one sins. And do this promptly, untimely, that is, do not have a fixed and definite time for this, but at all times, even if it is not convenient, manage. And if you find, Paul says, someone sinning, correct. For nothing ought to be done before you have convinced: and after you have shown him to be guilty, rebuke. Find fault, blame. Then after the wound, apply a remedy. For Paul says, "encourage," so that such a person is not swallowed up by excessive grief. with great patience. For the matter requires patience, so that one should not simply trust those who speak, but come through every investigation and the test of time to the truth. and careful instruction. Paul says to admonish along with the rebuke, as one lays it upon a child, not as one punishing an enemy, for he knows when encouragement has more power than rebuke. About those who were devising new things to oppose Timothy.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:3-4

  For there will be a time when they will not endure sound teaching; but according to their own desires they will accumulate for themselves teachers, having their ears tickled; and they will turn away their hearing from the truth and turn aside to myths. Therefore, before they rush headlong, occupy them in the meantime while they obey you. For this reason, Paul says "in season and out of season," (2 Tim. 4:2) as long as they endure. For they must be accustomed to persuasion before they revolt. But observe the absurdity of the teachers, that the desires of the people serve as a pretext for them to protect themselves. having their ears tickled. That is, delighting in hearing things that excite desire, and always longing to hear things that please. and they will turn away their hearing from the truth. Paul foretells these things, not to cause sorrow, but teaching that it is necessary for the disciples, until they become obedient and reasonable, to be properly shaped and to be burdened, and so that when this comes to pass, they do not lose heart. "For I was prepared," he says, "and I was not disturbed." (Ps. 119:60) Do you see that they do not err as if unaware, but willingly? For they will turn away their hearing, he says, and be turned aside, so that the evil is voluntary.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:5

  But you be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. But you be sober in all things. Therefore, because of being sober and having been awakened, he said these things. endure hardship. Strive, Paul says, labor, anticipate the teachings of the disciples in good and true doctrines before that distress comes upon you. fulfill your ministry. For even Timothy also served in preaching. Indeed, he preached. Therefore, complete what you have begun with confidence, and spread the message while they are still receptive. Concerning his own impending departure, into eternal glory.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:6

  For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. For I, Paul says, already offer myself as a sacrifice to Christ. And he did not say sacrifice, but a drink offering, indicating something greater and more sacred. For a part of the sacrifice alone was offered to God as incense. But the entire drink offering was dedicated to Him. And Paul himself commands his disciples to do this, saying: "Present your members as a living sacrifice." (Rom. 12:1) For he who sacrifices for Christ performs a sacred service himself. — [OECUMENIUS] The meaning of "being am poured out" is, as it were, that I break the war against all. Neither fighting nor being fought against, for I am perfected. of my departure. For departure means death, either because of the departing from the earth from which we were taken; or towards the Creator Christ. [end of the excerpt by Oecumenius Π f.169r; A f.182v; B f. 220v; G f.309v—310r] —

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:7

  I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. fought. Paul said this, not boasting: by no means, but consoling the disciple, as if he were going to receive crowns and rewards for good works, and as if he said: You ought rather to rejoice than mourn, that I achieve such an end. I have fought the good fight. For every struggle on behalf of Christ is good, even if it involves chains, or persecutions, or deaths. If therefore it is good, then you should accept it yourself. I have finished the race. For Paul had run through the world, leading all to the knowledge of God, so that the Gospel had been fulfilled from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum. I have kept the faith. For many wished to seize it from him, false friends, enemies, Greeks, Jews,

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:8

  From now there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who love his appearance. From now there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness. Then Paul also comforts Timothy from his sufferings. For who would grieve over one receiving a crown? And of righteousness, as if it were the universal virtue. which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day. For do not tell me here about temporary things, for I seek those there. But see how the obligation demands it from him, through the phrase, "will award to me," but he did not say, "He will give"; this is also indicated by, "the righteous Judge." not only to me. Here he also appointed Timothy, saying that he will repay you as well. For if he gives a crown to all who love his appearance, much more to you. But who loves his appearance? Those who do good deeds and are rewarded by the good.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:9

  I urged you to come to me quickly. For what reason does Paul call Timothy to himself to whom the Church of Ephesus had been entrusted? Since Paul being in prison, he was not able to leave. Therefore, he wishes Timothy to come to him, both because he is alone, and because he had given him certain instructions. come to me quickly. Paul did not say: Meanwhile, while I am still alive: for he did not want to sadden Timothy.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:10-11

  For Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present age, and has gone to Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia; Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry. having loved this present age. Having become safe and secure, as he thought. For Demas preferred to indulge in luxury at home rather than suffer hardships with me. But Paul does not want to slander this man, rather to support us so that we do not become weak. Crescens to Galatia. They had left of their own accord, therefore he does not say, "The rest." Moreover, Titus was among the distinguished to whom the bishopric of Crete had been entrusted. Only Luke is with me. This Luke is the one who wrote the Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. And since he was eager to learn, holy and committed, he was never separated from Paul. Take Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me. Paul said, "Not for my comfort, but for the ministry of the Gospel." Indeed, Paul also called Timothy for this reason, so that after his death the brothers might be comforted. for ministry. Of the Gospel, Paul says.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:12-13

  I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and the books, especially the parchments. I have sent Tychicus. See the unity through all things. Bring the cloak that I left. Here Paul mentions a certain garment. However, he seeks to ensure that he is not a burden to anyone in need. For this is of the greatest concern to him everywhere. — [CHRYSOSTOM] In another way. Here the type of clothing is mentioned. Some indeed want it to signify a case in which little books were kept. But what necessity was there for the little books themselves, for one who was soon to depart to God? Certainly, then it was especially necessary to entrust them to the faithful, and for them to have those as their own teaching. Indeed, he was seeking a case so that he would not need to receive it from others. [end of the excerpt by Chrysostom] — — [THEODORET] especially the parchments. The term "parchments," more commonly known in Roman usage as "scrolls" [εἶλητα], was used moderately according to the custom in Rome, from which Paul was indeed writing the Epistle. For the ancient Scriptures were contained in scrolls, just as the Jews still mostly possess them up to the present day. [end of the excerpt by Theodoret] — He referred to books [βιβλία] in a general sense, so that Paul might also have books in another form or format. especially the parchments. Perhaps, however, these contained certain more useful things within themselves. Nevertheless, those worthy of laughter are those who think that the Apostle here meant a cloak rather than a type of booklet, who did not pay attention to the sequence of letters. For it would have been needless to say: "And books," even if that had been a type of booklet, since it could have been indicated together with others.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:14-15

  Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our words. Paul also showed Timothy to endure bravely the troubles from common people. For it is painful to be wronged, especially by common people. the Lord will repay him. Not because Paul was pleased with the punishment, but because for the sake of the weaker among the believers, those who were excessively opposing had to suffer badly, so that they would not despise the weakness of the preaching. according to his deeds. Or that it is a prophecy of things to come, not a curse. Beware of him yourself. Paul did not say, Punish, punish (for it was also permitted for Timothy to do this through the spirit), but, Beware. Do you see that he does not allow punishment? But the "Beware" is like a warning. opposed our words. That is, to those of the preaching.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:16-17

  In my first defense, no one came to my support, but all deserted me (may it not be counted against them). But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the preaching might be fully accomplished and all the Gentiles might hear it. I was rescued from the lion's mouth. In my first defense. Paul already appeared before Nero and escaped. But when he instructed his cupbearer, then he was beheaded. For Nero did not have such zeal towards idols; he was thus relentless in all things. but all deserted me. The Jews, Paul says, the brothers. may it not be counted against them. Do you see that Paul not only does not wish to be avenged, but also prays for their forgiveness? And yet he suffered terrible things. For it is not the same to be betrayed by strangers as by one's own people. But the Lord stood by me. For the Lord does not abandon the one forsaken by men. He strengthened me, Paul says; that is, the Lord granted boldness and did not allow me to fall. Do you see a counsel to the disciple, and again another comfort? so that through me the preaching. See the humility. For I was helped not as worthy of assistance, but because of the preaching, so that it might be fully accomplished and come to an end. and all the Gentiles might hear it, Paul says. "So that the power of the preaching and the care concerning me may become evident to all." from the lion's mouth. It refers to the lion, that is Nero, because of his cruelty and beastliness.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:18

  And the Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and will bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. and the Lord will rescue me. If He will deliver, how does He say, "I am already being poured out"? But see. Then indeed the Lord delivered Paul from Nero, but now no longer from Nero, (for enough has happened according to the Gospel,) but from every sin, that is, the Lord will not allow one who has been condemned in anything to perish. will bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. Paul says, "He will snatch me from there, and will keep me." For this means, "He will bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom." Therefore, this is the true salvation, when we shine there. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. See the doxology for the Son as well as for the Father elsewhere, and for the Spirit; here indeed is the Lord, namely the Son.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY

• 2 Timothy 4:19

  These are the ones whom Paul continually remembers among the tentmakers, from among whom he also stayed with and often mention. But he first remembers the woman, as more trustworthy and earnest. For she also instructed Apollo. He offers a greeting, both comforting at the same time, and also showing honor and love through this, and the greater things, having been filled with much grace, the one being addressed. and the household of Onesiphorus. For Onesiphorus was in Rome. Therefore, Paul greets those in his house, stirring up zeal similar to that of Onesiphorus.

  COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY