(A.D.67?) [Paul's final New Testament letter written shortly before he was executed in Rome. Many had forsaken him (1:15; 4:10,14), and Timothy, who had become very close, was absent, ministering in Ephesus likely. He writes for him to come at all speed. 4:9,13,21] Paul's personal encouragement to a fellow-laborer who had become a son to him, whose affections and emotions were quite visible in times past. He is in Paul's waking thoughts and prayers. His family is cherished by him because of their devoted influence for Christ. Though many have turned away from him due to his imprisonment as a criminal (2:9), Timothy is not to permit this to cause him to withdraw from his own work. Though he is in prison, possibly appearing on the surface to some that God has forsaken him, God is not a liar; His promise and power for men's salvation remains as true and effective since the very beginning! He is more confident now than ever that God has him in His eternal care! So this (Paul's physical circumstances) should not cause Timothy to become discouraged and diminish in his own calling. As an example for Timothy, Onesiphorus, also of Ephesus, is remembered for his loyalty and compassion in his arrest and imprisonment, even coming to Rome for a personal visit.

Therefore, he should continue in the strength which Christ alone gives through grace for endurance. Physical circumstances in life should not take precedence over faithful service in Christ. All things are to be endured for His sake, especially wrongful accusations: for Christ Himself suffered and died under such. But God has raised Him from the dead, and now, as He lives, all who believe in Him lives also. Physical death is no obstacle in this eternal relationship! Christ is our example and forerunner of all who will follow: As He suffered, we suffer; as he died, we die; as He rose, we will rise; as He reigns, we too shall reign! These are His promises, and He keeps His word! Paul warns Timothy against involvement in any study or engagement pertaining to anything other than sound scriptural doctrine. Again true Christian doctrine edifies the body of Christ, whereas isms lead to schisms, which are divisive and destructive. Only gentle instruction, patience, and prayer will help recover such an one whom Satan has entangled.

Paul warns Timothy of the fact that Satan will flood the Church in the last times with every manner of evil spirit, to seduce, if it were possible, the very elect itself! ( Mk.13:22) Instruction in sound doctrine is the sure defense against such. Do not neglect it to the peril of one's own soul! Polarization between good and evil will grow, and the good will suffer much persecution by the growing consuming cancer of evil. But salvation will come to those who endure through good sound doctrine. God's Word is the only source for this, so know it well! In addition, it is not enough to simply know it, one must do it (good works) to survive. ( Mat.7:24; Js.1:22-25; Rev.2:7; 22:14)

[Paul's final charge to Timothy.] Knowing that the latter times will bring in many who will entice numbers away, it is imperative that Timothy be diligent in the preaching of the word, which is the power of God unto Salvation! ( Rom.1:15-16; 16:25; I Co.1:18; 2:4-5) Paul has been faithful from the first to do this, and is now aware that his final days have arrived. His work has been discharged in due course; moreover, he is not ashamed of his efforts. It is his expectation to be met with approval from his Lord when he exchanges his Earthly sufferings for his Heavenly promises (Mat.25:21,34-40). He speaks a final testimony to many who are named, some having forsaken him, others still serving faithfully by his side, and still others commissioned for service elsewhere. His heart longs for Timothy's comforting presence. Instructions are given him for his journey to Rome and his guard against seducers in the faith. Final salutations from Rome to Ephesus.