2 Timothy 1:5

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

When I call {G2983} to remembrance {G5280} the unfeigned {G505} faith {G4102} that is in {G1722} thee {G4671}, which {G3748} dwelt {G1774} first {G4412} in {G1722} thy {G4675} grandmother {G3125} Lois {G3090}, and {G2532} thy {G4675} mother {G3384} Eunice {G2131}; and {G1161} I am persuaded {G3982} that {G3754} in {G1722} thee {G4671} also {G2532}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I recall your sincere trust, the same trust that your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice had first; and I am convinced that you too now have this trust.

Berean Standard Bible

I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am convinced is in you as well.

American Standard Version

having been reminded of the unfeigned faith that is in thee; which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and, I am persuaded, in thee also.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, tenderly affirms Timothy's authentic faith, recalling its genuine nature and tracing its spiritual lineage back through his godly grandmother Lois and mother Eunice. This verse serves as a powerful encouragement to Timothy, reminding him of the deep roots of his conviction and the enduring legacy of faith passed down through generations, thereby bolstering his resolve for faithful ministry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse opens the deeply personal and pastoral second letter of Paul to Timothy, his beloved spiritual son and protégé. Following the customary greeting in [2 Timothy 1:1-2](/2_timothy/1-1-2 "2 Timothy 1:1-2 - Paul's Greeting to Timothy"), Paul immediately expresses his heartfelt longing for Timothy and his constant remembrance of him in prayer ([2 Timothy 1:3-4](/2_timothy/1-3-4 "2 Timothy 1:3-4 - Paul's Affection for Timothy")). Verse [2 Timothy 1:5](/2_timothy/1-5 "2 Timothy 1:5 - Timothy's Unfeigned Faith") then provides the foundational reason for Paul's confidence in Timothy: the authenticity of his faith, which is not a recent acquisition but a heritage. This affirmation sets the stage for Paul's subsequent exhortations to stir up the gift of God ([2 Timothy 1:6](/2_timothy/1-6 "2 Timothy 1:6 - Stirring Up the Gift")) and to not be ashamed of the gospel ([2 Timothy 1:8](/2_timothy/1-8 "2 Timothy 1:8 - Not Ashamed of the Gospel")), grounding his call to courageous ministry in Timothy's established spiritual character.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul is writing this letter from Roman imprisonment, likely his final incarceration, facing imminent martyrdom. The tone is urgent, intimate, and valedictory. Timothy, a young leader in the early church, was serving in Ephesus, a city known for its diverse religious practices and significant spiritual challenges. He may have been facing opposition, personal timidity, or the burden of leadership in a demanding environment. In the Greco-Roman world, lineage and heritage were highly valued, often determining social standing and personal identity. Paul's emphasis on Timothy's family faith would have resonated deeply, affirming his spiritual "pedigree" not in terms of earthly status, but in terms of divine blessing and authentic discipleship. This encouragement was crucial for a young pastor navigating the complexities and dangers of ministry in the first century.

* **Key Themes:** [2 Timothy 1:5](/2_timothy/1-5 "2 Timothy 1:5 - Timothy's Unfeigned Faith") powerfully introduces several key themes that permeate the entire letter. Firstly, the theme of **genuine faith** is paramount; Paul stresses that Timothy's faith is "unfeigned," meaning sincere and without hypocrisy, a vital characteristic for any believer, especially a leader. Secondly, the verse highlights the profound importance of **spiritual legacy and family influence**. Timothy's faith is explicitly linked to his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice, underscoring the intergenerational transmission of faith and the critical role of godly upbringing. This echoes the Old Testament emphasis on passing down God's commands to future generations, as seen in [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teach Your Children Diligently"). Finally, the verse exemplifies **affirmation and encouragement** in discipleship. Paul's "remembrance" and "persuasion" serve as a deep personal endorsement, providing Timothy with the spiritual confidence needed to persevere in the face of hardship, a theme further developed in Paul's exhortations to "fight the good fight" throughout [2 Timothy](/2_timothy/1 "The Second Letter to Timothy").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **unfeigned (Greek, _anypókritos'_):** Derived from a negative particle ("a-" meaning "without") and a word related to "hypocrite," this term literally means "without a mask" or "without pretense." In ancient Greek theater, an actor (hypokrites) would wear a mask to portray a character. Thus, "unfeigned" signifies a faith that is authentic, sincere, and not merely an outward performance or a superficial display. It speaks to the deep, inner conviction and genuine nature of Timothy's belief, contrasting with insincere or hypocritical religiosity.
* **faith (Greek, _pístis'_):** This foundational theological term denotes persuasion, credence, and moral conviction. In a religious context, it refers to belief in God's truthfulness, reliance upon Christ for salvation, and constancy in that profession. Here, it refers to the spiritual conviction and trust in God that characterized Timothy's life, not just intellectual assent but a living, active trust that shapes one's character and actions.
* **dwelt (Greek, _enoikéō'_):** A compound word formed from "en" (in) and "oikeō" (to inhabit), this verb means "to inhabit" or "to dwell in." When used figuratively, as it is here, it implies a settled, abiding presence. Paul is not merely saying that faith was present in Lois and Eunice, but that it took up residence, making its home within them. This suggests a deep, pervasive, and established quality of their faith that permeated their lives and was therefore able to be transmitted.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee,"**: Paul begins by expressing his deep personal reflection and recollection. The phrase "call to remembrance" (G5280, _hypómnēsis_) indicates a vivid and intentional recall, not a casual thought. The core of this remembrance is Timothy's "unfeigned faith"—a faith that is genuine, sincere, and without hypocrisy. This immediately establishes Timothy's spiritual character as authentic, providing a strong foundation for Paul's subsequent encouragement. The preposition "in" (G1722, _en_) emphasizes that this faith is an internal, abiding quality within Timothy.
* **"which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice;"**: Paul traces the origin of Timothy's genuine faith back through his maternal lineage. The relative pronoun "which" (G3748, _hóstis_) connects Timothy's faith directly to the faith of his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice. The verb "dwelt" (G1774, _enoikéō_) is significant, suggesting that this faith was not a fleeting emotion but a settled, abiding presence within these women. The word "first" (G4412, _prōton_) indicates the chronological order of this spiritual inheritance, highlighting the profound impact of their godly example and instruction on Timothy's early life and spiritual formation.
* **"and I am persuaded that in thee also."**: This concluding clause reveals Paul's strong conviction regarding Timothy's faith. The phrase "I am persuaded" (G3982, _peíthō_) indicates a deep, settled certainty based on observation and spiritual discernment. Paul is not merely hoping or wishing, but is convinced that the same genuine faith that characterized Lois and Eunice also resides in Timothy. The inclusion of "also" (G2532, _kaí_) reinforces the continuity and shared nature of this spiritual gift across the generations, affirming Timothy's place within this faithful lineage.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. **Affirmation** is central, as Paul's words serve as a profound endorsement of Timothy's character and spiritual authenticity, designed to build his confidence. The device of **Genealogy** or **Spiritual Lineage** is evident in tracing Timothy's faith back through his grandmother and mother, emphasizing the intergenerational transmission of faith and the importance of a godly heritage. This creates a sense of continuity and rootedness. The phrase "unfeigned faith" utilizes **Contrast** by implicitly distinguishing genuine faith from hypocritical or superficial belief, a distinction often made in the New Testament. Finally, the **Personal Address** and intimate tone ("thee," "thy grandmother," "thy mother") underscore the deep, father-son relationship between Paul and Timothy, making the encouragement all the more impactful and heartfelt.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[2 Timothy 1:5](/2_timothy/1-5 "2 Timothy 1:5 - Timothy's Unfeigned Faith") offers profound theological insights into the nature of faith and its transmission. It underscores that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but a genuine, indwelling conviction that shapes one's life. The emphasis on Lois and Eunice highlights the crucial role of the family, particularly mothers and grandmothers, in spiritual formation and discipleship. This verse affirms the divine sovereignty in calling individuals while also acknowledging the human responsibility in nurturing faith within the home and community. It speaks to the enduring power of a godly example and the importance of passing on a spiritual legacy, demonstrating how God uses faithful individuals across generations to build His kingdom and raise up future leaders.

* [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Teaching Children God's Word")
* [Proverbs 22:6](/proverbs/22-6 "Train Up a Child")
* [Psalm 78:4-7](/psalm/78-4-7 "Teaching the Next Generation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Timothy 1:5](/2_timothy/1-5 "2 Timothy 1:5 - Timothy's Unfeigned Faith") serves as a powerful mirror for contemporary believers, inviting us to examine the authenticity of our own faith and to appreciate the spiritual heritage that may have shaped us. It challenges us to cultivate a faith that is "unfeigned"—sincere, transparent, and deeply rooted, not merely an outward performance. For those who have received faith through the diligent efforts and godly examples of parents, grandparents, or other mentors, this verse is a call to gratitude and a reminder of the precious foundation upon which our spiritual lives are built. It also places a profound responsibility on current generations to live out a genuine faith before those who follow, recognizing that our consistent witness and intentional discipleship within the home and community can profoundly impact future generations. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to embrace our spiritual identity with confidence, knowing that God uses both our personal conviction and our communal heritage to equip us for His purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways does my faith demonstrate itself to be "unfeigned" or truly genuine in my daily life?**
* **Who are the individuals (family or otherwise) who have significantly contributed to my spiritual heritage and the development of my faith? How can I honor their legacy?**
* **What steps can I take to intentionally pass on a genuine faith to the next generation, whether within my family, church, or community?**
* **How does Paul's affirmation of Timothy's faith encourage me in my own spiritual journey or ministry?**

### FAQ
**What does "unfeigned faith" mean, and why is it important?**

Answer: "Unfeigned faith" (Greek: _anypókritos pístis_) means faith that is sincere, genuine, and without hypocrisy or pretense. The Greek word _anypókritos_ literally translates to "without a mask," contrasting with the "hypocrite" (an actor who wears a mask). It's important because it signifies a faith that comes from deep within the heart, not merely an outward show or performance to impress others. This genuine faith is foundational for true spiritual life, authentic worship, and effective ministry, as it reflects a true relationship with God rather than a superficial religiosity. Paul often emphasizes sincerity in Christian living, as seen in his call for "love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith" in [1 Timothy 1:5](/1_timothy/1-5 "1 Timothy 1:5 - The Goal of Instruction").

**How does this verse emphasize the role of family in spiritual development?**

Answer: This verse powerfully highlights the intergenerational transmission of faith by explicitly stating that Timothy's "unfeigned faith" first "dwelt" in his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. This indicates that Timothy's spiritual foundation was laid within his home, through the consistent example, teaching, and nurturing of these two godly women. It underscores the profound and irreplaceable impact that parents and grandparents can have in shaping the faith of younger generations. It teaches us that the home is a primary crucible for spiritual formation, where faith is not just taught but lived out and passed down, as also encouraged in [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Teaching God's Commands to Your Children").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [2 Timothy 1:5](/2_timothy/1-5 "2 Timothy 1:5 - Timothy's Unfeigned Faith") speaks to the human lineage of faith, its ultimate fulfillment and power are found in Christ. The "unfeigned faith" that dwelt in Lois, Eunice, and Timothy is not merely a human virtue but a divine gift, made possible through the saving work of Jesus Christ. It is faith *in* Christ that truly transforms the heart and enables genuine living. Paul's confidence in Timothy's faith is ultimately a confidence in the indwelling Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live authentically. Just as Christ Himself was the embodiment of perfect sincerity and truth ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), so too does His Spirit cultivate "unfeigned faith" in His followers. The spiritual legacy passed down through Timothy's family finds its ultimate source and purpose in the gospel of Christ, which is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes ([Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Power of the Gospel")). Thus, Timothy's faith, rooted in his family, is ultimately rooted in the finished work of Christ, through whom all genuine spiritual life and heritage flow.

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

1 Timothy 1:5

¶ Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and [of] a good conscience, and [of] faith unfeigned:

Acts 16:1

¶ Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father [was] a Greek:

1 Timothy 4:6

¶ If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

Romans 15:14

¶ And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

2 Timothy 3:15

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Hebrews 6:9

¶ But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.

Psalms 116:16

O LORD, truly I [am] thy servant; I [am] thy servant, [and] the son of thine handmaid: thou hast loosed my bonds.