TRV
Translation
King James Version
¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,
Complete Jewish Bible
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
Berean Standard Bible
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life in Christ Jesus,
American Standard Version
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, according to the promise of the life which is in Christ Jesus,
World English Bible Messianic
Paul, an emissary of Yeshua the Messiah through the will of God, according to the promise of the life which is in Messiah Yeshua,
Geneva Bible (1599)
Paul an Apostle of Iesus Christ, by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Iesus,
Young's Literal Translation
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, through the will of God, according to a promise of life that is in Christ Jesus,
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Commentary on 2 Timothy 1 verses 1–5
1 ¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,
2 To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
3 I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;
4 Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy;
5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.
Here is, I. The inscription of the epistle Paul calls himself an apostle by the will of God, merely by the good pleasure of God, and by his grace, which he professes himself unworthy of. According to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, or according to the gospel. The gospel is the promise of life in Christ Jesus; life is the end, and Christ the way, Joh 14:6. The life is put into the promise, and both are sure in Christ Jesus the faithful witness; for all the promises of God in Christ Jesus are yea, and all amen, Co2 1:20. He calls Timothy his beloved son. Paul felt the warmest affection for him both because he had been an instrument of his conversion and because as a son with his father he had served with him in the gospel. Observe, 1. Paul was an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God; as he did not receive the gospel of man, nor was taught it, but had it by the revelation of Jesus Christ (Gal 1:12), so his commission to be an apostle was not by the will of man, but of God: in the former epistle he says it was by the commandment of God our Saviour, and here by the will of God. God called him to be an apostle. 2. We have the promise of life, blessed be God for it: In hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before the world began, Tit 1:2. It is a promise to discover the freeness and certainty of it. 3. This, as well as all other promises, is in and through Jesus Christ; they all take their rise from the mercy of God in Christ, and they are sure, so that we may safely depend on them. 4. The grace, mercy, and peace, which even Paul's dearly beloved son Timothy wanted, comes from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord; and therefore the one as well as the other is the giver of these blessings, and ought to be applied to for them. 5. The best want these blessings, and they are the best we can ask for our dearly-beloved friends, that they may have grace to help them in the time of need, and mercy to pardon what is amiss, and so may have peace with God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
II. Paul's thanksgiving to God for Timothy's faith and holiness: he thanks God that he remembered Timothy in his prayers. Observe, Whatever good we do, and whatever good office we perform for our friends, God must have the glory of it, and we must give him thanks. It is he who puts it into our hearts to remember such and such in our prayers. Paul was much in prayer, he prayed night and day; in all his prayers he was mindful of his friends, he particularly prayed for good ministers, he prayed for Timothy, and had remembrance of him in his prayers night and day; he did this without ceasing; prayer was his constant business, and he never forgot his friends in his prayers, as we often do. Paul served God from his forefathers with a pure conscience. It was a comfort to him that he was born in God's house, and was of the seed of those that served God; as likewise that he had served him with a pure conscience, according to the best of his light; he had kept a conscience void of offence, and made it his daily exercise to do so, Act 24:16. He greatly desired to see Timothy, out of the affection he had for him, that he might have some conversation with him, being mindful of his tears at their last parting. Timothy was sorry to part with Paul, he wept at parting, and therefore Paul desired to see him again, because he had perceived by that what a true affection he had for him. He thanks God that Timothy kept up the religion of his ancestors, Ti2 1:5. Observe, The entail of religion descended upon Timothy by the mother's side; he had a good mother, and a good grandmother: they believed, though his father did not, Act 16:1. It is a comfortable thing when children imitate the faith and holiness of their godly parents, and tread in their steps, Jo3 1:4. - Dwelt in thy grandmother and thy mother, and I am persuaded that in thee also. Paul had a very charitable opinion of his friends, was very willing to hope the best concerning them; indeed he had a great deal of reason to believe well of Timothy, for he had no man like-minded, Phi 2:20. Observe, 1. We are, according to St. Paul, to serve God with a pure conscience, so did his and our pious forefathers; this is to draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having our heart sprinkled from an evil conscience, Heb 10:22. 2. In our prayers we are to remember without ceasing our friends, especially the faithful ministers of Christ. Paul had remembrance of his dearly beloved son Timothy in his prayers night and day. 3. The faith that dwells in real believers is unfeigned; it is without hypocrisy, it is a faith that will stand the trial, and it dwells in them as a living principle. It was the matter of Paul's thanksgiving that Timothy inherited the faith of his mother Eunice and his grandmother Lois, and ought to be ours whenever we see the like; we should rejoice wherever we see the grace of God; so did Barnabas, Act 11:23, Act 11:24. I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in the truth, Jo2 1:4.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–5. Public domain.
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John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily on 2 Timothy 1
What is the reason of his writing this second Epistle to Timothy? He had said, "I hope to come unto thee shortly" (1 Tim. iii. 14), and as this had not taken place, instead of coming to him, he consoles him by a letter, when he was grieving perhaps for his absence, and oppressed by the cares of the government, which he had now taken in hand. For even great men, when they are placed at the helm, and are charged with the direction of the Church, feel the strangeness of their position, and are overwhelmed, as it were, by the waves of business. This was particularly the case when the Gospel was first preached, when the ground was everywhere unturned, and all was opposition and hostility. There were, besides, heresies commencing from the Jewish teachers, as he has shown in his former Epistle. Nor does he only comfort him by letters, he invites him to come to him: "Do thy diligence," he says, "to come shortly unto me," and, "when thou comest, bring with thee the books, but especially the parchments." (2 Tim. iv. 9 and 2 Tim. iv. 13.) And he seems to have written this Epistle when his end was approaching. For he says, "I am now ready to be offered up"; and again, "At my first answer no man stood with me." (2 Tim. iv. 6 and 2 Tim. iv.16) To set all this right, he both offers consolation from his own trials, and also says, "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus." Thus at the very commencement he raises up his mind. Tell me not, he says, of the dangers here. These obtain for us eternal life, where there is no peril, where grief and mourning flee away. For He hath not made us Apostles only that we might encounter dangers, but that we might even suffer and die. And as it would not be a consolation to recount to him his own troubles, but rather an increase of his grief, he begins immediately with offering comfort, saying, "According to the promise of life which is in Jesus Christ." But if it is a "promise," seek it not here. For, "hope that is seen is not hope." (Rom. viii. 24.)
John DamasceneAD 749
He wrote to him while he was hindered and bound in Rome. And therefore he urged him for a second letter. He begins by praising the student, that he is a slave to Christ who dwells above.
OecumeniusAD 990
COMMENTARY ON 2 TIMOTHY
HYPOTHESIS ON THE SECOND EPISTLE TO TIMOTHY
Paul sends this from Rome. The pretext of the Epistle is this: Since those who had accompanied Paul on his journey left him, the Apostle, wishing Timothy to come to him, writes the Epistle. And first, he shows that he remembers Timothy's devotion and the faith of his ancestors. Then he states that those from Asia, namely Phygelus and Hermogenes, have turned away from him, seeing his chains. But he bears witness to the greatest zeal only in Onesiphorus, and he received him when he came to Rome and stayed with him. Paul commands Timothy to avoid foolish disputes, because from them arise quarrels. For Hymenaeus and Philetus also turned aside in this way, departing from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened, and they overturn some people; therefore, Paul rather encourages Timothy to pay attention to himself and to the teaching, and to know that in the last times there will be men lovers of themselves, and of pleasures rather than of God, and foreseeing these things, to safeguard the people lest anyone be deceived by them. And having urged him much concerning morals and the accuracy of the teaching, and indicating that the time of his departure is at hand and that he is about to be offered as a drink offering and to bear witness, he instructed him to come to him quickly, bringing the cloak and the books. Paul warns Timothy about Alexander the coppersmith and to be on guard, as he indicated many things to him, and thus he concludes the Epistle.
What then does the Second Epistle to Timothy say? In the first, Paul said, "I hope to come to you soon." He was not able to go. For he was already held captive by Nero. Therefore, knowing this, instead of his presence, he sent letters, at once comforting him regarding his not coming, and at the same time encouraging Timothy, who was thus entrusted with the care of the Church.
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life in Christ Jesus.
I am an apostle, Paul says, appointed to the promised life which is in Christ Jesus, that is, to be given through Christ Jesus in the future.
according to the promise of life. Paul said, Let us not recall present dangers: let life proceed according to these promises. Therefore, since it is promised, he says, seek it there. From the prologue, he comforts Timothy in his own trials.
— [THEODORET] "The Lord God," Paul says, "appointed me as an apostle, along with Christ, so that I might proclaim to men the promised eternal life." [end of the excerpt by Theodoret] —1
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Second Timothy 1:1 serves as a foundational declaration of the Apostle Paul's divine commission and the essence of the gospel message he proclaims. It establishes his authority as an apostle, not by human design but by the sovereign will of God, and immediately introduces the central theme of the letter: the promise of eternal life, which is exclusively found and secured in Christ Jesus. This opening sets a tone of divine authority and profound hope, preparing Timothy for the exhortations to faithfulness and perseverance that follow.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse initiates Paul's deeply personal and final letter to his beloved disciple, Timothy. Following the standard epistolary opening of the Greco-Roman world, Paul immediately identifies himself and his authority, grounding his subsequent instructions and appeals in a divine mandate. The salutation here is more expansive than some of Paul's other letters, emphasizing the source of his apostleship ("by the will of God") and the substance of his message ("according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus"). This comprehensive introduction prepares Timothy for the weighty themes of steadfastness in ministry, guarding the gospel, and enduring suffering that permeate the rest of the epistle. It is a poignant farewell from a spiritual father to his son, imbued with theological depth from its very first words.
Historical & Cultural Context: Written during Paul's second, and likely final, imprisonment in Rome (circa A.D. 66-67), 2 Timothy is a testament to the apostle's unwavering faith in the face of imminent martyrdom. The historical backdrop is one of increasing persecution for Christians under Emperor Nero, coupled with the rise of false teachings and spiritual apathy within the church. Paul, aware of his impending death, writes to Timothy, who is serving as a leader in Ephesus, a city grappling with these challenges. In this context, Paul's assertion of his divine calling and the unshakeable promise of life in Christ serves as a powerful anchor for Timothy, who might be tempted to waver or become discouraged. The cultural understanding of "apostle" (one sent with authority) would have lent significant weight to Paul's words, underscoring the divine origin of the message he was entrusting to Timothy.
Key Themes: The opening verse immediately introduces several key themes that resonate throughout the entire letter and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, Apostolic Authority and Divine Sovereignty are paramount, as Paul's commission is "by the will of God," not human appointment. This divine origin undergirds all his teachings and commands, particularly as he urges Timothy to "guard the good deposit entrusted to you" (2 Timothy 1:14). Secondly, the Promise of Life is central, highlighting the eschatological hope of the gospel. This promise of eternal life in Christ stands in stark contrast to the temporal suffering Paul is enduring and the spiritual dangers Timothy faces, offering a powerful motivation for perseverance. This theme is further developed as Paul speaks of God "who saved us and called us to a holy calling... by the grace given us in Christ Jesus before the ages began" (2 Timothy 1:9). Finally, the phrase "in Christ Jesus" underscores the absolute centrality of Christ to all salvation and spiritual blessing, a foundational Pauline concept that emphasizes union with Christ as the source of all spiritual reality, including the promised life. This echoes Paul's consistent emphasis on Christ as the source of all spiritual blessings, as seen in passages like Ephesians 1:3.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is the Apostolic Salutation, a standard feature of Paul's letters, which immediately identifies the author and his divinely appointed authority. This salutation functions not merely as an introduction but as a Theological Declaration, succinctly encapsulating Paul's identity, the source of his authority, and the core message of the gospel—the promise of life in Christ. The use of Prepositional Phrases ("by the will of God," "according to the promise," "in Christ Jesus") is highly effective, precisely defining the relationships and dependencies within Paul's calling and the gospel message. These phrases act as theological anchors, clarifying the divine origin, the nature of the message, and the exclusive means of its realization. Furthermore, the subtle Emphasis on "Christ Jesus" (appearing twice, once as "Jesus Christ" and then "Christ Jesus") underscores the absolute centrality of Jesus to Paul's identity, his mission, and the very essence of the "promise of life." This repetition reinforces the Christ-centered nature of Paul's theology from the outset.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Timothy 1:1 encapsulates profound theological truths that resonate throughout the New Testament. It asserts that true ministry and spiritual authority are not self-derived but are rooted in God's sovereign will and purpose. The "promise of life" points to the eschatological hope inherent in the gospel—eternal life through Christ's redemptive work, a life that transcends physical death and earthly suffering. This life is not earned but is a gift, accessed solely through union with Christ Jesus. This concept of being "in Christ" is foundational to Pauline theology, signifying a spiritual reality where believers are identified with Christ in His death, resurrection, and new life, receiving all the blessings of salvation through Him. The verse thus serves as a powerful reminder of God's initiative in salvation, the certainty of His promises, and the absolute necessity of Christ for experiencing true, eternal life.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Timothy 1:1 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. Paul's unwavering conviction that his apostleship was "by the will of God" reminds us that our own callings, whether in ministry or daily life, are not accidental but are part of God's deliberate and sovereign plan. This understanding provides immense peace and purpose, especially when facing challenges or uncertainties. It encourages us to seek God's will in our lives, trusting that He has uniquely equipped us for the good works He has prepared in advance. Furthermore, the "promise of life which is in Christ Jesus" serves as an anchor for our souls. In a world fraught with fleeting pleasures, anxieties, and the certainty of death, this verse redirects our gaze to the eternal, secure hope found exclusively in Christ. It calls us to live with an eternal perspective, valuing spiritual life over temporal gains, and finding our ultimate identity and security in our union with Him. This truth should ignite a passion within us to share this life-giving promise with others, knowing that only in Christ can true and lasting life be found.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does it mean for Paul to be an "apostle by the will of God"?
Answer: For Paul to be an "apostle by the will of God" means that his calling, authority, and mission as an apostle were not self-appointed, nor were they conferred by human institutions or desires. Instead, his apostleship originated directly from the sovereign purpose, deliberate choice, and divine decree of God himself. This emphasizes the divine legitimacy and authority behind Paul's ministry and the message he proclaimed, underscoring that his work was part of God's overarching plan for salvation. This divine commissioning is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, as seen in Galatians 1:1.
What is the "promise of life" mentioned in this verse?
Answer: The "promise of life" refers to the certainty of eternal life that God has pledged to humanity through Jesus Christ. This is not merely physical existence, but a spiritual, abundant, and everlasting life that begins in the present through faith and culminates in the resurrection and eternal fellowship with God. It stands in contrast to spiritual death and the perishable nature of earthly life. This promise is a central component of the gospel message, offering hope and assurance to believers. It is a divine assurance, a guaranteed reality, as further elaborated in Titus 1:2.
Why is it significant that this promise of life is "in Christ Jesus"?
Answer: The phrase "in Christ Jesus" is profoundly significant because it highlights the exclusive and indispensable means by which the promise of life is realized. It means that eternal life is not a general spiritual concept available to all apart from Christ, but is specifically and only found through a personal, spiritual union with Him. All spiritual blessings, including salvation, redemption, and eternal life, are mediated through Christ. This emphasizes the centrality of Jesus as the sole source and conduit of God's life-giving grace, a concept foundational to Paul's theology, echoing the truth found in John 14:6.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Timothy 1:1 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, as He is the very embodiment and guarantor of the "promise of life." Paul's apostleship, "by the will of God," was specifically commissioned to proclaim this life-giving gospel, a gospel centered entirely on Christ. The "promise of life" is not a vague hope but a concrete reality secured through Christ's atoning death and victorious resurrection. He is the one who "abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" (2 Timothy 1:10). Furthermore, the phrase "which is in Christ Jesus" points to the profound theological truth that all spiritual blessings, including eternal life, flow from our union with Him. As believers, we are "in Christ," meaning we are identified with His death to sin and His resurrection to new life, becoming partakers of His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). He is the "resurrection and the life" (John 11:25), and it is through His perfect obedience and sacrifice that God's promise of eternal life is made available to all who believe. Thus, this opening verse of 2 Timothy powerfully directs our gaze to Christ as the source, substance, and surety of our eternal hope.