2 Timothy 4 explained: Paul's Last Charge and Farewell

A solemn charge (vv. 1-5)

Speaking as if in a courtroom before God and Jesus, Paul urges Timothy to keep sharing the message whether people welcome it or not, correcting and encouraging with patience. He warns that many will drift toward teachers who only tell them what they want to hear, so Timothy must stay clear-headed, endure hardship and finish his work.

A life poured out (vv. 6-8)

A drink offering was wine poured out at an altar alongside a sacrifice, and Paul uses it as a picture of his own death, which he expects soon. Like an athlete at the finish line, he looks ahead to the winner's wreath, which he says the Lord will give not only to him but to all who long for Jesus' return.

Friends gone, friends wanted (vv. 9-13)

Most of Paul's companions have left, some sent on errands and Demas because he preferred an easier life, so Paul asks Timothy to come and bring Mark, who had once abandoned Paul on an earlier journey. Calling Mark helpful suggests that old rift had healed, and the request for a cloak and scrolls hints at a cold cell and a man still reading.

Alone at trial (vv. 14-18)

Paul warns about Alexander, a metalworker who did him great harm, and says that at his first court hearing everyone abandoned him, though he asks that it not be held against them. He says the Lord stood with him so he could still speak, and the "lion's mouth" most likely means deadly danger, though exactly what is uncertain.

Last greetings (vv. 19-22)

Paul greets old friends, gives news of coworkers, and urges Timothy to arrive before winter, when sea travel largely stopped. Several believers in Rome send greetings, and Linus may be the man later remembered as an early leader of the church there.

Key verse: 2 Timothy 4:7

Where Christians differ

Christians differ on whether Paul himself wrote this farewell from prison or a later follower wrote it in his name to honor his memory and pass on his teaching.

Something to think about

Looking back on a stretch of your own life, what would have to be true for you to feel you had finished it well?