The letter sets forth Paul's desire for Timothy to continue in the work God had called Timothy to do. We also see Paul's great desire for and close bond with Timothy. He calls him "my beloved son" (1:2); he is reminded of Timothy's tears and longs to see him (1:4). He gives encouragement for Timothy to persevere in the midst of opposition and complacency.
There are some 30 references to Jesus Christ in 83 verses.
Date: 64 A.D. (?)
I. Introduction 1:1-2
II. Paul's Relationship With Timothy 1:3-18
- Fond Remembrance 1:3-5
- Encouragement toward Ministry 1:6-18
- Remember the gift of God 1:6-7
- Do not be ashamed 1:8-12
- Hold fast to sound words 1:13
- Keep the good thing 1:14
- Know those who have departed 1:15
- Remember the faithful 1:16-18
- Commit Faithful Words to Faithful Men 2:1-13
- Be strong 2:1
- Find those who will be able to teach 2:2
- Endure hardship 2:3-6
- REMEMBER JESUS CHRIST 2:8-9
- Follow my example 2:10
- The faithful saying 2:11-13
- Deal Wisely with the Unfaithful 2:14-26
- Don't strive 2:14-21
- Flee youthful lusts & disputes 2:22-23
- Be Gentle 2:24-26
- The Evil of the Last Times 3:1-9
- Live righteously 3:10-17
- There will be persecutions 3:10-13
- Hold to Scripture 3:14-17
- Minister to Others 4:1-5
- Preach the Word 4:1-4
- Do the work of an evangelist 4:5
- I have finished well 4:6-8
- Come be my friend 4:9-16
- The Lord is faithful 4:17-18
- Final greetings 4:19-21
- Farewell 4:22
Key Idea: Those who are committed to Christ finish with no regrets.
Key Passage: 2:8
Key Lesson: Stay committed to Christ and His work
