2 Timothy 1:7

KJV

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} God {G2316} hath {G1325} not {G3756} given {G1325} us {G2254} the spirit {G4151} of fear {G1167}; but {G235} of power {G1411}, and {G2532} of love {G26}, and {G2532} of a sound mind {G4995}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For God gave us a Spirit who produces not timidity, but power, love and self-discipline.

Berean Standard Bible

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.

American Standard Version

For God gave us not a spirit of fearfulness; but of power and love and discipline.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Timothy 1:7 stands as a powerful declaration of the divine resources available to every believer, particularly in times of challenge and spiritual warfare. It asserts that God does not impart a spirit of timidity or cowardice, but rather endows His children with the Holy Spirit, who manifests as power, unconditional love, and a disciplined, well-ordered mind. This verse serves as a foundational truth, countering fear with the empowering presence and character of God Himself, equipping believers for faithful service and steadfast witness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is nestled within Paul's deeply personal and final letter to his beloved protégé, Timothy. Immediately preceding it, Paul exhorts Timothy to "stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands" [2 Timothy 1:6](/2_timothy/1-6 "2 Timothy 1:6 - Stir Up the Gift"). This implies that Timothy, perhaps due to his youth, natural disposition, or the immense pressures of leading the church in Ephesus amidst persecution, might have been prone to timidity or a lack of confidence. Verse 7 then provides the theological basis for why Timothy (and all believers) should not succumb to such fear, directly linking the antidote to the nature of the Spirit God has given. Following this, Paul urges Timothy not to be "ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner" [2 Timothy 1:8](/2_timothy/1-8 "2 Timothy 1:8 - Not Ashamed of the Gospel"), further emphasizing the call to boldness and resilience in the face of suffering for the Gospel. The entire chapter, indeed the entire letter, is a call to steadfastness, faithfulness, and courage in ministry.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote 2 Timothy from Roman imprisonment, likely his final incarceration, knowing his execution was imminent. This backdrop of impending martyrdom and widespread persecution of Christians provides a somber yet urgent tone to his counsel. Timothy was serving in Ephesus, a bustling metropolis known for its pagan worship (especially the cult of Artemis) and philosophical debates, making Christian leadership there particularly challenging. The early church faced external threats from Roman authorities and internal challenges from false teachers and wavering believers. In such an environment, fear, discouragement, and compromise were constant temptations. Paul's words are thus not abstract theological statements but vital, practical encouragement for a young leader facing immense pressure, reminding him of the divine equipping necessary to persevere and fulfill his calling, even unto death.

* **Key Themes:** The verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Timothy and Paul's broader theology. It underscores the theme of **Divine Empowerment**, asserting that God actively equips His servants with supernatural abilities, not leaving them to rely on their own strength. It directly addresses the theme of **Overcoming Fear and Timidity**, presenting a stark contrast between a spirit of fear (not from God) and the Spirit of God, who imparts courage. This ties into the broader call for **Steadfastness and Perseverance in Ministry**, especially in the face of suffering, as seen in Paul's own example and his exhortations throughout the letter (e.g., [2 Timothy 2:3](/2_timothy/2-3 "2 Timothy 2:3 - Endure Hardship")). Furthermore, the mention of "love" and "a sound mind" highlights the theme of **Balanced Christian Character and Conduct**, emphasizing that spiritual power is not raw force but is always tempered by divine love and guided by wisdom and self-control, essential for effective and godly leadership (as elaborated in [Titus 2](/titus/2 "Titus 2 - Sound Doctrine and Godly Living")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **fear (Greek, _deilía'_):** From the Strong's data, this term signifies "timidity" or "cowardice." It is distinct from a healthy, reverential fear (phobos) of God. Here, it denotes a spirit of faintheartedness, apprehension, or shrinking back from duty or danger, which is contrary to the nature of God and the Spirit He gives.
* **power (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** This word denotes "force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)." It speaks of inherent strength, ability, and might. It is the root of our English word "dynamite," implying an explosive, enabling capacity for action and effectiveness in ministry, overcoming obstacles, and bearing witness.
* **sound mind (Greek, _sōphronismós'_):** Derived from a verb meaning "to discipline," this term translates to "discipline, i.e. self-control." It refers to a well-ordered, sober, and disciplined mind; the ability to exercise good judgment, maintain composure, and think clearly, especially under pressure. It implies prudence, discretion, and mental stability, preventing rash decisions or emotional instability often induced by fear.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear;":** This opening clause presents a definitive negation. The "spirit of fear" is identified as something *not* originating from God. This "spirit" refers not to the Holy Spirit, but to a disposition, attitude, or inner inclination towards timidity, cowardice, or anxiety. It is a direct refutation of the idea that God would equip His servants with a debilitating apprehension that hinders their calling or witness.
* **"but of power,":** In stark contrast to fear, God *has* given believers a "spirit of power." This refers to the enabling strength and divine ability imparted by the Holy Spirit, empowering believers to fulfill their ministry, overcome spiritual opposition, and live a life that honors God, even in the face of adversity. It is the dynamic force necessary for effective service.
* **"and of love,":** Following power, "love" (agápē) is presented as another essential characteristic given by God. This is not merely human affection but divine, unconditional, self-sacrificial love. This love is the primary motivation for ministry, fostering unity, enabling courageous action without selfish ambition, and providing the spiritual framework within which true power operates.
* **"and of a sound mind.":** The final attribute is "a sound mind," signifying self-control, discipline, and sobriety of judgment. This ensures that the power and love are exercised with wisdom, discernment, and mental clarity, preventing impulsiveness, fanaticism, or irrationality. It is the spiritual equilibrium that allows believers to navigate challenges with composure and make wise decisions consistent with God's will.

#### Literary Devices
The verse powerfully employs **Contrast** as its primary literary device, setting "the spirit of fear" in direct opposition to the triad of "power, and of love, and of a sound mind." This antithetical structure highlights the fundamental difference between what God does *not* give and what He *does* give, emphasizing the divine origin of courage and spiritual strength. Furthermore, the phrase "spirit of fear" can be seen as a **Metaphor** or a form of **Personification**, representing a pervasive disposition or influence that grips individuals, which God actively counteracts. The concluding phrase, "of power, and of love, and of a sound mind," forms a potent **Triadic Structure** or rule of three, a rhetorical device that lends emphasis, completeness, and memorability to the virtues God bestows. This tripartite description encapsulates the holistic nature of divine empowerment: strength for action, compassion for motivation, and wisdom for direction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is profoundly theological, revealing the very character of God as a benevolent Giver who equips His people for their calling, rather than leaving them vulnerable to debilitating fear. It underscores the vital role of the Holy Spirit as the active agent of divine empowerment within believers, manifesting not as a spirit of timidity, but as dynamic power, selfless love, and disciplined thought. This divine impartation ensures that Christian life and ministry are not based on human strength or emotional volatility, but on God's supernatural provision, enabling believers to stand firm, minister effectively, and bear witness boldly, even amidst persecution. It challenges the notion that fear is a natural or acceptable state for a child of God, asserting that it is an alien disposition to be resisted by embracing the Spirit's gifts.

* [Romans 8:15](/romans/8-15 "Spirit of Adoption, Not Fear")
* [1 John 4:18](/1_john/4-18 "Perfect Love Casts Out Fear")
* [Philippians 4:6-7](/philippians/4-6-7 "Do Not Be Anxious")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world often characterized by anxiety, uncertainty, and fear, 2 Timothy 1:7 offers a timeless and profoundly liberating truth for believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that any spirit of timidity, crippling anxiety, or reluctance to step out in faith does not originate from God. Instead, as His children, we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who is the source of divine power to accomplish His will, unconditional love to serve others, and a sound, disciplined mind to navigate life's complexities with wisdom and composure. This verse calls us to actively reject fear as an intruder and to embrace the full inheritance of the Spirit's empowering presence. It encourages us to live with boldness, not recklessness, trusting that God has equipped us with everything necessary to fulfill our purpose, share our faith, and stand firm in truth, regardless of external circumstances or personal weaknesses. Our courage is not self-generated, but Spirit-given, allowing us to face challenges not with dread, but with divine confidence and clarity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry do you most often experience the "spirit of fear," and how might this verse challenge those feelings?**
* **How can you intentionally "stir up" (as in 2 Timothy 1:6) the power, love, and sound mind that God has given you through the Holy Spirit?**
* **Considering the balance of "power, love, and a sound mind," how might an overemphasis or neglect of one of these attributes impact your spiritual walk or service?**

### FAQ

**What kind of "fear" is Paul referring to in 2 Timothy 1:7?**

Answer: Paul is referring to a spirit of timidity, cowardice, or faintheartedness, rather than a healthy, reverential fear of God. The Greek word used, _deilía_, specifically denotes a disposition of shrinking back from duty, danger, or the demands of ministry due to apprehension or lack of courage. It is the opposite of boldness and confidence, which are characteristics God desires for His children, especially in the face of opposition or suffering for the Gospel, as seen throughout Paul's exhortations to Timothy in [2 Timothy 1:8-12](/2_timothy/1-8-12 "Paul's Example of Suffering for the Gospel").

**How do "power, love, and a sound mind" relate to the Holy Spirit?**

Answer: These three qualities are presented as the direct manifestations or gifts of the Holy Spirit within believers. When God gives "the Spirit," He is giving the Holy Spirit, who then produces these characteristics. The "power" (_dýnamis_) is the Holy Spirit's enabling strength for witness and service, as promised in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Power to Be Witnesses"). The "love" (_agápē_) is the divine, self-sacrificial love that is a fruit of the Spirit, as listed in [Galatians 5:22](/galatians/5-22 "Fruit of the Spirit"). And "a sound mind" (_sōphronismós_) refers to the Spirit's work in granting self-control, discipline, and clear judgment, which are also aspects of the Spirit's fruit and guidance (e.g., [Galatians 5:23](/galatians/5-23 "Fruit of the Spirit: Self-Control")). Thus, these are not merely human virtues to be cultivated, but divine endowments given by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Second Timothy 1:7 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the perfect embodiment of the power, love, and sound mind that the Spirit imparts. Christ demonstrated unparalleled **power** over sin, sickness, death, and evil, culminating in His resurrection, which is the ultimate display of God's _dýnamis_ [Ephesians 1:19-20](/ephesians/1-19-20 "God's Incomparably Great Power"). His entire earthly ministry was characterized by **love**—the _agápē_ that led Him to lay down His life for His friends [John 15:13](/john/15-13 "Greater Love Has No One Than This") and for His enemies [Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "God Demonstrates His Own Love"). Furthermore, Jesus always acted with perfect **soundness of mind**, exhibiting unparalleled wisdom, self-control, and clarity of purpose, even in the face of immense pressure and suffering [Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Jesus' Prayer in Gethsemane"). The "spirit" God gives us is none other than the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Christ Himself, who empowers believers to live lives that reflect their Lord. Through Christ, we are freed from the bondage of fear, for He has conquered all that fear represents, and His victory is now ours by virtue of His indwelling Spirit, enabling us to walk in the same power, love, and sound mind that characterized His earthly life and ministry [John 14:12](/john/14-12 "Greater Works Than These").

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

Romans 8:15

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

1 John 4:18

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Galatians 5:22

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Luke 10:19

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Acts 1:8

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Zechariah 4:6

Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This [is] the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.