2nd Timothy

Last Words

Although this letter is technically a pastoral epistle like 1 Timothy, it is actually very different. It is true that Paul again addresses Timothy as a Christian friend and confidant, but the focus is not primarily on the practical execution of Timothy’s role as a pastor. Second Timothy was written while Paul was waiting on death row in a Roman prison, and therefore this epistle is what might loosely be called a last will and testament. Its author writes as someone who is aware of being in the final days of his life and thus sums up his life for Timothy and posterity. The implied purpose of the letter is to inspire Christ’s followers to follow Paul’s example by persevering in the midst of the sufferings of Christian life and ministry. Additionally, Paul’s farewell words implicitly pass the torch of ministry to Timothy and ultimately to the church throughout all time. – ESV Study Bible