2 Timothy 1:1

¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,

Paul {G3972}, an apostle {G652} of Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547} by {G1223} the will {G2307} of God {G2316}, according to {G2596} the promise {G1860} of life {G2222} which {G3588} is in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424},

From: Sha’ul, an emissary of the Messiah Yeshua by God’s will, which holds forth a promise of life through being united with Messiah Yeshua

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life in Christ Jesus,

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, according to the promise of the life which is in Christ Jesus,

Commentary

Context of 2 Timothy 1:1

The Second Epistle to Timothy is a deeply personal and poignant letter from the Apostle Paul to his beloved protégé, Timothy. Written likely during Paul's final imprisonment in Rome, shortly before his execution (around 66-67 AD), this letter serves as Paul's last will and testament, offering encouragement, instruction, and a powerful call to faithfulness in the face of suffering and apostasy. The opening verse establishes Paul's authority and the foundational truth of the gospel, setting the tone for the exhortations that follow.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Apostolic Authority and Divine Calling: Paul begins by asserting his identity as "an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God." This is not a self-appointed title but a divine commission, emphasizing that his ministry and message are divinely ordained. This declaration reinforces the weight and truthfulness of his subsequent instructions to Timothy and the church.
  • The Promise of Life: Central to Paul's declaration is the phrase "according to the promise of life." This highlights the core of the Christian gospel: the assurance of eternal life, not earned by human merit, but freely given by God. This promise stands in stark contrast to the fleeting nature of earthly life and the certainty of death, offering profound hope and purpose.
  • Life "In Christ Jesus": The phrase "which is in Christ Jesus" underscores the exclusive means by which this promise of life is realized. It is not a general life force or a philosophical concept, but a specific, personal union with Jesus Christ. All spiritual blessings, including this promise of life, are found solely in Him. This concept of being "in Christ" is foundational to Paul's theology.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Greek word for "apostle" (apostolos) literally means "one sent forth" or "a messenger," particularly one sent with a special commission. Paul consistently uses this term to emphasize his direct appointment by Christ, not by human design (cf. Galatians 1:1).
  • The phrase "promise of life" (Greek: epangelia zoes) points to the certainty of God's word. An epangelia is a divine assurance or pledge, reinforcing the reliability of the eternal life offered through Christ.

Practical Application

2 Timothy 1:1 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today:

  • Understanding Our Calling: Just as Paul was called "by the will of God," believers are also called to a purpose. Recognizing that our faith and life's journey are part of God's sovereign plan provides peace and direction.
  • Anchoring in the Promise: In times of doubt, fear, or suffering, the "promise of life which is in Christ Jesus" offers unwavering hope. This verse encourages us to fix our gaze on the eternal inheritance we have in Him, a promise that transcends earthly trials.
  • The Centrality of Christ: All true life, meaning, and hope are found exclusively "in Christ Jesus." This verse calls us to maintain a Christ-centered focus in our faith, our actions, and our understanding of salvation, echoing the gospel message found in John 3:16.
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Cross-References

  • Hebrews 9:15

    ¶ And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

  • John 17:3

    And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

  • John 10:28

    And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand.

  • 2 Corinthians 1:1

    ¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy [our] brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:

  • 1 John 5:11

    And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

  • 1 John 5:13

    These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

  • Ephesians 3:6

    That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
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