2 Timothy 1:12

KJV

For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1223} the which {G3739} cause {G156} I {G3958} also {G2532} suffer {G3958} these things {G5023}: nevertheless {G235} I am {G1870} not {G3756} ashamed {G1870}: for {G1063} I know {G1492} whom {G3739} I have believed {G4100}, and {G2532} am persuaded {G3982} that {G3754} he is {G2076} able {G1415} to keep {G5442} that which I {G3450} have committed unto him {G3866} against {G1519} that {G1565} day {G2250}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and this is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, because I know him in whom I have put my trust, and I am persuaded that he can keep safe until that Day what he has entrusted to me.

Berean Standard Bible

For this reason, even though I suffer as I do, I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day.

American Standard Version

For which cause I suffer also these things: yet I am not ashamed; for I know him whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that he is able to guard that which I have committed unto him against that day.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Timothy 1:12, the Apostle Paul articulates a profound declaration of unwavering faith and resolute confidence in God, even amidst intense personal suffering and the looming threat of death. He affirms that despite the hardships endured for the sake of the gospel, he remains unashamed because his trust is founded upon an intimate, personal knowledge of God, whom he has believed. This conviction is rooted in the certainty that God possesses the power and faithfulness to safeguard all that Paul has entrusted to Him, ensuring its preservation until the eschatological "that day" of Christ's ultimate triumph.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's deeply personal and poignant second letter to Timothy, his beloved spiritual son and protégé. Written from a Roman prison, likely his final incarceration, 2 Timothy serves as Paul's last known epistle, a testament to his enduring faith and a fervent charge to Timothy to remain steadfast in the gospel. Immediately preceding this verse, Paul urges Timothy not to be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord or of Paul, His prisoner, but rather to join him in suffering for the gospel by the power of God [2 Timothy 1:8](/2_timothy/1-8 "2 Timothy 1:8 - Do Not Be Ashamed of the Gospel"). Verse 12 functions as Paul's personal example and theological bedrock for such steadfastness, demonstrating the source of his courage and resilience despite his dire circumstances. It transitions from a command to Timothy to a personal confession, providing a powerful model of unshakeable faith in the face of adversity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote 2 Timothy during a period of intense persecution of Christians under Emperor Nero, likely around A.D. 66-67. Paul himself was imprisoned, facing imminent execution. His suffering, referred to as "these things," encompassed imprisonment, chains, public disgrace, and the abandonment by some former associates. The cultural context of Roman imprisonment was harsh, often involving deplorable conditions and little hope of release. The concept of "shame" (Greek *epaischýnomai*) was particularly potent in Greco-Roman society, where honor and reputation were paramount. For Paul to declare himself "not ashamed" despite his ignominious circumstances was a radical counter-cultural statement, asserting that his perceived dishonor in the eyes of the world was, in fact, honor in the eyes of God. The phrase "that day" carries significant eschatological weight, referring to the Day of Judgment, Christ's return, or the culmination of God's redemptive plan, a common theme in New Testament writings, particularly in Paul's epistles, such as [Philippians 1:6](/philippians/1-6 "Philippians 1:6 - God's Faithfulness to Complete His Work").
* **Key Themes:** The verse encapsulates several major theological and narrative themes prevalent in 2 Timothy and Paul's broader theology. First, it highlights **Unashamed Suffering and Endurance**, demonstrating how suffering for Christ is not a cause for shame but a mark of faithfulness. Paul's willingness to suffer is directly linked to his deep conviction. Second, the theme of **Personal Knowledge and Trust in God** is central, as Paul's confidence stems from an intimate relationship ("I know whom I have believed") rather than mere intellectual assent. This personal knowledge forms the bedrock of his trust. Third, the concept of **Divine Preservation and Faithfulness** is paramount, emphasizing God's ability ("he is able to keep") to safeguard what has been entrusted to Him, underscoring the security of the believer's salvation and destiny. This theme resonates with Jesus' teaching on the security of His sheep in [John 10:28](/john/10-28 "John 10:28 - Jesus' Promise of Eternal Security"). Finally, the verse strongly emphasizes **Eschatological Hope**, with "that day" serving as the ultimate horizon for Paul's expectation and vindication, shifting his focus from present trials to future glory.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Greek, _eídō'_):** From G1492, this verb primarily means "to see" (literally or figuratively), but in its perfect tense (as used here, "I have known"), it implies "to know" in a deep, experiential, and settled sense. It signifies a knowledge gained through personal encounter and sustained relationship, not merely intellectual apprehension. Paul's confidence is not based on knowing *about* God, but on knowing *God personally*.
* **persuaded (Greek, _peíthō'_):** From G3982, this verb means "to convince" or "to pacify." In its perfect passive form (as used here, "I am persuaded"), it denotes a state of being fully convinced, having a settled and firm conviction. It implies an inward certainty, a deep-seated assurance that is unshakeable, resulting from a process of conviction that has come to a definitive conclusion.
* **committed unto him (Greek, _parathḗkē'_):** From G3866, this noun refers to "a deposit" or "something entrusted to another for safekeeping." In ancient legal and financial contexts, a *parathēkē* was a valuable item or sum of money placed with a trusted individual for secure keeping, to be returned on demand. Paul uses this powerful metaphor to describe his life, his ministry, his soul, and indeed his eternal destiny, as a precious deposit he has placed entirely into God's hands, confident in God's power and faithfulness to preserve it intact until "that day."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the which cause I also suffer these things:"** Paul begins by acknowledging the direct consequence of his faithful adherence to the gospel. The "cause" refers back to his commitment to the gospel and his refusal to be ashamed of Christ or his imprisonment, as stated in [2 Timothy 1:8](/2_timothy/1-8 "2 Timothy 1:8 - Do Not Be Ashamed of the Gospel"). "These things" encompass his current imprisonment, chains, and the hardships associated with his apostolic ministry. He identifies with suffering, not as an exception, but as a shared reality for those who follow Christ.
* **"nevertheless I am not ashamed:"** This clause presents a powerful contrast and a defiant declaration. Despite the societal disgrace and personal hardship associated with his suffering, Paul emphatically states his lack of shame. His identity and worth are not defined by his circumstances or by human judgment but by his relationship with God. This unashamedness is a hallmark of true gospel courage.
* **"for I know whom I have believed,"** This is the foundational reason for Paul's unashamed confidence. His faith is not an abstract belief system but a personal, intimate, and experiential knowledge of God. The emphasis is on "whom" (a person), not merely "what" (a doctrine). This deep, relational knowledge provides the unshakeable bedrock for his assurance, distinguishing mere intellectual assent from transformative faith.
* **"and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him"** Building upon his personal knowledge, Paul expresses a settled conviction (persuasion) in God's omnipotence and faithfulness. He has placed his entire being—his life, his calling, his eternal destiny, and everything he holds dear—as a sacred "deposit" into God's hands. He is absolutely certain that God possesses the power ("able") and the commitment ("to keep") to guard and preserve this precious trust. This speaks to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises and His people.
* **"against that day."** This phrase provides the ultimate timeframe and horizon for Paul's hope. "That day" refers to the eschatological day of Christ's return, the Day of Judgment, or the culmination of God's redemptive plan when believers will receive their full inheritance and vindication. Paul's confidence is not in his own ability to endure or preserve himself, but in God's power to bring him safely to that glorious future, regardless of present suffering or even death.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's declaration in 2 Timothy 1:12 is rich with literary artistry that amplifies its theological depth. The most prominent device is **Personal Testimony**, as the entire verse is a first-person confession that serves as a powerful example for Timothy and future believers. There is a strong **Contrast** established between Paul's suffering ("I also suffer these things") and his resolute response ("nevertheless I am not ashamed"), highlighting the paradoxical nature of Christian endurance. The phrase "that which I have committed unto him" functions as a potent **Metaphor**, specifically a **Deposit Metaphor** (Greek *parathēkē*), drawing on the familiar legal and financial concept of entrusting valuables for safekeeping. This metaphor vividly conveys the idea of surrendering one's most precious possession (life, soul, destiny) into God's trustworthy hands. Furthermore, the verse employs **Eschatological Language** with the phrase "against that day," pointing to a future divine reckoning and consummation, which provides ultimate meaning and hope for present suffering. Finally, the structure itself, moving from acknowledgment of suffering to a declaration of unashamedness, then to the foundational reasons (personal knowledge and divine power), and concluding with the ultimate hope, demonstrates a powerful **Logical Progression** that builds a compelling argument for steadfast faith.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's declaration in 2 Timothy 1:12 stands as a cornerstone of Christian theology, affirming God's absolute sovereignty, His unwavering faithfulness, and the secure hope of believers. It underscores that true faith is not a passive intellectual assent but an active, personal entrustment of one's entire being to a known and trusted God. The verse powerfully connects suffering with divine purpose, demonstrating that even in the darkest moments, God remains capable of preserving His own. This confidence in God's power to "keep" what has been committed to Him speaks directly to the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints and the eternal security of the believer, emphasizing that salvation is ultimately God's work from beginning to end, secured by His might and faithfulness, not by human merit or steadfastness.

* [Philippians 1:6](/philippians/1-6 "God's Faithfulness to Complete His Work")
* [John 10:28-29](/john/10-28-29 "Jesus' Promise of Eternal Security for His Sheep")
* [Romans 8:38-39](/romans/8-38-39 "God's Unfailing Love and Preservation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's powerful confession in 2 Timothy 1:12 offers profound encouragement and a timeless model for believers navigating the complexities of faith in a challenging world. It calls us to examine the foundation of our own confidence: Is it rooted in a deep, personal, and experiential knowledge of God, or merely in intellectual assent? Like Paul, we are called to live unashamedly for Christ, even when our faith leads to misunderstanding, ridicule, or hardship. This verse reminds us that our ultimate security does not depend on our ability to hold onto God, but on His perfect ability to hold onto us and everything we entrust to Him. In moments of doubt, fear, or suffering, we are invited to surrender our anxieties, our future, and our very souls into the capable hands of the One whom we have believed, confident that He is able to preserve them until "that day." This eternal perspective empowers us to face present trials with courage, knowing our ultimate vindication and reward are secure in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "things" are you currently suffering or enduring for the sake of your faith?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be tempted to feel "ashamed" of your commitment to Christ, and how can Paul's example encourage you?**
* **How would you describe your "knowledge" of God—is it primarily intellectual, or is it a deep, personal, and experiential relationship?**
* **What "deposits" (your life, future, loved ones, ministry, fears) are you struggling to commit fully to God, and what does Paul's confidence in God's ability to "keep" them mean for you?**
* **How does focusing on "that day" (Christ's return and ultimate victory) change your perspective on present trials and uncertainties?**

### FAQ

**What does "that day" refer to in this verse?**

Answer: "That day" (Greek *hēméra*) is an eschatological term frequently used in the New Testament, particularly by Paul, to refer to a future, decisive point in God's redemptive plan. It encompasses the day of Christ's return (the Second Coming), the Day of Judgment, or the culmination of salvation when believers will be fully vindicated, glorified, and receive their eternal inheritance. For Paul, it represents the ultimate triumph of God's purposes and the secure hope of the believer, providing a powerful motivation for steadfastness in the present, as seen in passages like [1 Corinthians 1:8](/1_corinthians/1-8 "1 Corinthians 1:8 - Blameless Until the Day of the Lord") and [Philippians 1:6](/philippians/1-6 "Philippians 1:6 - God's Faithfulness to Complete His Work").

**What does Paul mean by "that which I have committed unto him"?**

Answer: The phrase "that which I have committed unto him" translates the Greek word *parathḗkē* (G3866), which literally means "a deposit" or "something entrusted for safekeeping." In this context, Paul is using a powerful metaphor to describe everything he has surrendered to God. This includes his very life, his soul, his apostolic ministry, his reputation, his future, and his eternal destiny. He views these as precious valuables that he has placed into God's hands for secure preservation. This concept highlights his absolute trust in God's faithfulness and power to guard and protect what belongs to Him, ensuring its integrity and security until the appointed time.

**How can I have this same confidence as Paul in the face of suffering or uncertainty?**

Answer: Paul's confidence stems from a deep, personal, and experiential knowledge of God ("I know whom I have believed") and a settled conviction in God's power and faithfulness ("am persuaded that he is able to keep"). To cultivate this same confidence, one must:
1. **Cultivate a Personal Relationship with Christ:** Move beyond intellectual knowledge *about* God to an intimate, transformative knowledge *of* God through prayer, Scripture, and obedience.
2. **Embrace God's Character:** Understand and trust in God's attributes—His omnipotence, faithfulness, love, and wisdom—as revealed in His Word and through the person of Jesus Christ.
3. **Practice Entrustment:** Consciously and continually surrender your life, fears, future, and all that you hold dear into God's sovereign care, believing He is capable and committed to preserving them.
4. **Maintain an Eternal Perspective:** Fix your hope not on earthly outcomes but on God's ultimate plan and the promise of "that day," knowing that true security and vindication are found in Christ alone, as encouraged in [Colossians 3:1-2](/colossians/3-1-2 "Colossians 3:1-2 - Set Your Minds on Things Above").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's profound declaration in 2 Timothy 1:12 finds its ultimate fulfillment and foundation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul's confidence is not a self-generated stoicism but a direct outflow of his relationship with the resurrected Lord. When Paul states, "I know whom I have believed," the "whom" is unequivocally Christ, the very embodiment of God's faithfulness and power. It is through Christ that God's eternal purpose and grace were given to us before the ages began [2 Timothy 1:9](/2_timothy/1-9 "2 Timothy 1:9 - God's Purpose and Grace in Christ Jesus"). Christ Himself is the one who conquered death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel [2 Timothy 1:10](/2_timothy/1-10 "2 Timothy 1:10 - Christ's Victory Over Death"). Therefore, the "deposit" Paul has committed is not merely entrusted to an abstract divine power, but to the living Christ, who is "able to keep" it because He is the "author and finisher of our faith" [Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith"). The certainty of "that day" is guaranteed by Christ's own resurrection, which is the firstfruits of the resurrection of all believers [1 Corinthians 15:20-23](/1_corinthians/15-20-23 "1 Corinthians 15:20-23 - Christ's Resurrection as Firstfruits"). Our life is "hidden with Christ in God" [Colossians 3:3](/colossians/3-3 "Colossians 3:3 - Our Life Hidden with Christ"), and He will present us blameless "against that day" [Jude 1:24](/jude/1-24 "Jude 1:24 - God's Power to Keep Us from Stumbling"). Thus, Paul's unashamed suffering and unwavering confidence are a direct testimony to the finished work of Christ, who ensures the preservation of all who believe in Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Timothy 1:8

Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;

Jude 1:24

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present [you] faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,

1 Peter 4:19

Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls [to him] in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

2 Timothy 4:8

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Hebrews 7:25

Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

1 Timothy 6:20

O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane [and] vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:

Nahum 1:7

The LORD [is] good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.