2 Timothy 1:6

KJV

¶ Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.

KJV (with Strong's)

Wherefore {G1223}{G3739}{G156} I put {G363} thee {G4571} in remembrance {G363} that thou stir up {G329} the gift {G5486} of God {G2316}, which {G3739} is {G2076} in {G1722} thee {G4671} by {G1223} the putting on {G1936} of my {G3450} hands {G5495}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For this reason, I am reminding you to fan the flame of God’s gift, which you received through s’mikhah from me.

Berean Standard Bible

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

American Standard Version

For which cause I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee through the laying on of my hands.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Timothy 1:6, the Apostle Paul issues a profound and urgent exhortation to his spiritual son, Timothy, urging him to actively rekindle and fan into full flame the spiritual endowment he received from God. This directive serves as a timeless reminder for all believers to diligently cultivate and deploy their divinely bestowed gifts, ensuring they remain vibrant and effective for the advancement of God's Kingdom rather than allowing them to languish or diminish through neglect or timidity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated early in Paul's second letter to Timothy, one of the "Pastoral Epistles." The letter itself is a deeply personal and poignant communication, likely penned by Paul from Roman imprisonment as he faced imminent martyrdom, a reality he acknowledges in [2 Timothy 4:6-8](/2_timothy/4-6-8 "Paul's Anticipation of Death"). Paul writes to encourage Timothy, who appears to be struggling with timidity, discouragement, or the immense pressures of ministry in Ephesus, a city fraught with doctrinal challenges and spiritual opposition. The immediate preceding verses (2 Timothy 1:3-5) establish Paul's deep affection and gratitude for Timothy, recalling his sincere faith and the faith of his mother and grandmother. This personal affirmation sets the stage for the direct command in verse 6, which is then immediately followed by a powerful antidote to fear in [2 Timothy 1:7](/2_timothy/1-7 "The Spirit of Power, Love, and Self-Control"). The exhortation to "stir up the gift" is thus a call to renewed spiritual vitality and boldness in the face of daunting circumstances.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Timothy served as a key leader in the early church, specifically in Ephesus, a prominent Roman city known for its diverse religious practices, including the widespread worship of Artemis. The early Christian community there faced significant external pressures from paganism and internal threats from false teachers (as evidenced throughout [1 Timothy](/1_timothy/1 "First Timothy - Instructions for Ministry") and [2 Timothy](/2_timothy/1 "Second Timothy - Perseverance in Ministry")). Paul's imprisonment under Roman authorities meant that the church was increasingly vulnerable, and its leaders, like Timothy, bore heavy responsibilities. The "laying on of hands" was a recognized practice in the ancient Near East and early church, signifying identification, blessing, commissioning, or the impartation of authority and spiritual gifts, often in the context of ordination for ministry. This act, likely occurring at a pivotal moment in Timothy's call to ministry (perhaps referenced in [1 Timothy 4:14](/1_timothy/4-14 "Do Not Neglect Your Gift")), would have been a public and solemn affirmation of God's call and equipping.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme of [2 Timothy 1:6](/2_timothy/1-6 "Stir Up the Gift of God") is the **stewardship of spiritual gifts**. Paul emphasizes that the spiritual endowment Timothy possesses is not self-generated but is "the gift of God," highlighting its divine origin and gracious bestowal. This underscores the broader theological theme of **divine equipping for ministry**, where God sovereignly empowers believers for specific service within His Kingdom. Another crucial theme is **perseverance and faithfulness** in ministry, particularly when facing adversity. The command to "stir up" implies a potential for dormancy or decline, urging active engagement and renewed zeal. This ties into the theme of **overcoming timidity with boldness**, as Paul immediately follows this verse with a declaration that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind ([2 Timothy 1:7](/2_timothy/1-7 "The Spirit of Power, Love, and Self-Control")). Finally, the verse touches upon **apostolic authority and succession**, as Paul's "laying on of hands" signifies his role in affirming and commissioning Timothy for his God-given calling.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Stir up (Greek, _anazōpyréō'_):** This vivid compound verb literally means "to kindle up again," "to fan into flame," or "to revive a fire." It paints a powerful picture of embers that are still present but smoldering, needing to be fanned back into a roaring fire. The prefix `ana-` (ἀνά) means "again" or "up," and `zōpyreō` (ζωπυρέω) means "to kindle" or "to keep alive." This implies that the gift is not lost or gone, but its intensity or effectiveness may have diminished. It calls for an active, intentional effort to reignite and invigorate what is already there, not to create something new.
* **Gift (Greek, _chárisma'_):** From `charizomai` (χαρίζομαι), meaning "to grant graciously," this noun refers to a "divine gratuity," specifically a "spiritual endowment" or "miraculous faculty." It emphasizes that the ability or qualification for ministry is a gracious bestowal from God, not something earned or inherently possessed. The term underscores the unmerited favor of God in equipping His servants.
* **Putting on (Greek, _epíthesis'_):** Derived from `epitithēmi` (ἐπιτίθημι), meaning "to place upon," this noun refers to "an imposition (of hands officially)." In the context of the early church, the laying on of hands was a significant act, often associated with commissioning, ordination, blessing, or the impartation/recognition of spiritual gifts and authority for ministry. It signifies a formal, public, and divinely sanctioned act of designation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wherefore I put thee in remembrance":** Paul begins by drawing a conclusion ("Wherefore," G156 `aitía` - "for this cause/reason") from the preceding verses, which highlighted Timothy's sincere faith and Paul's deep affection for him. The phrase "I put thee in remembrance" (G363 `anamimnḗskō`) indicates that Paul is not introducing a new concept but is reminding Timothy of something he already knows or possesses, urging him to recall and act upon it. This sets a pastoral tone, not one of rebuke, but of loving encouragement and exhortation.
* **"that thou stir up the gift of God":** This is the core command of the verse. Timothy is exhorted to actively "fan into flame" (G329 `anazōpyréō`) the spiritual "gift" (G5486 `chárisma`) that originates from "God" (G2316 `theós`). This "gift" is understood to be a spiritual endowment for ministry, perhaps a specific ability like teaching, evangelism, or leadership, or the general spiritual capacity for faithful service. The imperative suggests that spiritual gifts require active cultivation and engagement to remain potent and effective, implying a danger of neglect or dormancy.
* **"which is in thee":** This clause (G3739 `hós` G2076 `estí` G1722 `en` G4671 `soí`) affirms that the gift is an inherent possession within Timothy. It is not something he needs to acquire, but something already divinely deposited within him. This provides assurance and underscores his responsibility to steward what he has already received.
* **"by the putting on of my hands":** This final phrase (G1223 `diá` G1936 `epíthesis` G3450 `moû` G5495 `cheír`) clarifies the channel or occasion through which the gift was recognized, affirmed, or perhaps imparted. The "putting on of my hands" refers to Paul's own participation in a significant event, likely Timothy's ordination or commissioning for ministry, an act that publicly acknowledged and perhaps conveyed a spiritual endowment or authority. This highlights the role of apostolic authority and communal affirmation in the recognition and activation of spiritual gifts.

#### Literary Devices
The most prominent literary device in [2 Timothy 1:6](/2_timothy/1-6 "Stir Up the Gift of God") is **Metaphor**. The Greek word `anazōpyréō` vividly employs the imagery of fanning embers into a flame, likening a spiritual gift to a fire that needs tending. This metaphor powerfully conveys the idea that spiritual gifts, though divinely given, are not static; they require active cultivation, renewed zeal, and intentional engagement to remain vibrant and effective. It suggests a potential for the gift to smolder or die out if neglected. Additionally, the verse functions as a strong **Apostolic Exhortation**, where Paul, as an apostle and spiritual father, issues a direct and urgent command to his protégé, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and diligence in ministry. This hortatory tone underscores the gravity of the message and Paul's pastoral concern for Timothy's effectiveness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's exhortation to Timothy in [2 Timothy 1:6](/2_timothy/1-6 "Stir Up the Gift of God") resonates deeply with the broader biblical theology of spiritual gifts and divine calling. It affirms that God sovereignly bestows unique endowments upon believers, not for personal aggrandizement, but for the common good and the building up of the body of Christ. The imperative to "stir up" underscores the human responsibility in stewarding these divine graces, implying that gifts can lie dormant or diminish if not actively exercised and fueled by spiritual discipline and devotion. This concept is foundational to understanding Christian service, where divine empowerment meets human diligence. It challenges believers to move beyond passive reception to active participation in God's redemptive purposes, recognizing that their gifts are integral to the church's health and mission in the world.

* [1 Corinthians 12:7](/1_corinthians/12-7 "Spiritual Gifts for the Common Good")
* [1 Timothy 4:14](/1_timothy/4-14 "Do Not Neglect Your Gift")
* [Romans 12:6](/romans/12-6 "Gifts Differ According to Grace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The command to "stir up the gift of God" is a timeless call to spiritual vitality and intentional stewardship for every believer. It challenges us to examine our own lives: are the spiritual gifts God has graciously bestowed upon us actively being used and cultivated, or are they merely smoldering embers, neglected and underutilized? This verse reminds us that our spiritual endowments are not static possessions but dynamic capacities that require consistent engagement, prayer, study of God's Word, and reliance on the Holy Spirit to flourish. It urges us to overcome any timidity, fear, or complacency that might hinder us from fully deploying our God-given abilities for His glory and the good of His church. Just as a fire needs oxygen and fuel to burn brightly, our spiritual gifts need active exercise and a vibrant relationship with Christ to fulfill their divine purpose, empowering us to serve with passion, purpose, and power in a world desperately in need of God's light.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What spiritual gifts do I believe God has given me, and how actively am I using them in my daily life and ministry?**
* **Are there areas in my spiritual life where my "fire" feels like it's merely smoldering, and what practical steps can I take to "fan it into flame"?**
* **How might fear, complacency, or busyness be hindering me from fully exercising the spiritual gifts God has placed within me?**
* **In what ways can I intentionally seek opportunities to serve others and the church, thereby actively "stirring up" my gifts?**

### FAQ
**What exactly is "the gift of God" that Timothy is told to stir up?**

Answer: While the precise nature of "the gift" (Greek, `chárisma`) is debated among scholars, it broadly refers to a spiritual endowment or qualification for ministry that God graciously bestowed upon Timothy. Given the context of the Pastoral Epistles, it likely encompasses his specific calling and abilities as an evangelist, teacher, and church leader, perhaps including the spiritual authority and wisdom necessary for his pastoral duties in Ephesus. It's not merely a natural talent but a divinely empowered capacity for service, recognized and affirmed through the laying on of hands.

**What does it mean practically to "stir up" a spiritual gift today?**

Answer: To "stir up" a spiritual gift means to actively cultivate, engage, and invigorate it, preventing it from becoming dormant or ineffective. Practically, this involves several actions:
1. **Active Exercise:** Regularly using your gift in service to God and others, even when it feels challenging or uncomfortable.
2. **Spiritual Discipline:** Deepening your relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, worship, and fellowship, which fuels your spiritual life and strengthens your gifts.
3. **Renewed Passion:** Recapturing the initial enthusiasm and devotion for ministry that may have waned due to trials, routine, or discouragement.
4. **Boldness:** Overcoming fear, timidity, or hesitation to use your gift, remembering that God has given us a [spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind](/2_timothy/1-7 "2 Timothy 1:7 - The Spirit of Power, Love, and Self-Control").
5. **Learning and Growth:** Seeking to grow in understanding and proficiency regarding your gift, perhaps through mentorship or training.

**What is the significance of "by the putting on of my hands" in relation to the gift?**

Answer: The "putting on of my hands" (Greek, `epíthesis cheirōn`) refers to a significant moment in Timothy's life, likely his ordination or commissioning for ministry. This act, also mentioned in [1 Timothy 4:14](/1_timothy/4-14 "1 Timothy 4:14 - Do Not Neglect Your Gift"), was a common practice in the early church. It symbolized several things: identification with the one laying hands on, blessing, the impartation or recognition of spiritual authority, and often the public affirmation of a divine call and the spiritual gifts associated with it. It served as a public, solemn, and divinely sanctioned act that designated Timothy for his specific work, confirming the gift already present within him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The exhortation to "stir up the gift of God" finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the supreme Giver and Embodiment of all spiritual gifts. It is through Christ that believers receive the Holy Spirit, who then distributes these various `charismata` "as he wills" ([1 Corinthians 12:11](/1_corinthians/12-11 "1 Corinthians 12:11 - Distribution of Gifts by the Spirit")). Jesus Himself, as the perfectly endowed Son, perfectly utilized every divine gift and power for the Father's glory and the redemption of humanity, culminating in His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection. He is the one who, upon His ascension, "gave gifts to men" ([Ephesians 4:8](/ephesians/4-8 "Ephesians 4:8 - Christ Gives Gifts to Men")), equipping His church for its mission. Therefore, when believers "stir up" their gifts, they are not merely exercising personal abilities but are participating in the ongoing ministry of Christ through His Spirit, building up His body ([Ephesians 4:12](/ephesians/4-12 "Ephesians 4:12 - Equipping the Saints for Ministry")) and extending His Kingdom. Our gifts are ultimately for the glory of Christ, to make Him known, and to serve as instruments through which His love, power, and truth are manifested in the world, reflecting the very character of the One who perfectly stewarded His divine anointing.

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 4:14

Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

1 Peter 4:10

As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

1 Peter 4:11

If any man speak, [let him speak] as the oracles of God; if any man minister, [let him do it] as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Romans 12:6

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us prophesy] according to the proportion of faith;

Romans 12:8

Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, [let him do it] with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

1 Thessalonians 5:19

Quench not the Spirit.

2 Peter 3:1

¶ This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in [both] which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: