2 Timothy 2:1

¶ Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

Thou {G4771} therefore {G3767}, my {G3450} son {G5043}, be strong {G1743} in {G1722} the grace {G5485} that is in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424}.

So then, you, my son, be empowered by the grace that comes from the Messiah Yeshua.

You therefore, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

Thou therefore, my child, be strengthened in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

Commentary

In this pivotal opening to the second chapter of his final epistle, the Apostle Paul issues a profound charge to his beloved spiritual son, Timothy. 2 Timothy 2:1 KJV serves as a foundational exhortation for all believers, emphasizing the true source of spiritual resilience and strength.

Context

This verse immediately follows Paul's earnest call in 2 Timothy 1:13-14 for Timothy to "hold fast the form of sound words" and to "keep that good thing which was committed unto thee." Paul, facing imminent martyrdom, is passing the torch of ministry to Timothy, urging him to remain steadfast in the face of growing apostasy and persecution. The "therefore" links directly back to the challenges and responsibilities outlined in the previous chapter, setting the stage for the qualities needed for faithful ministry and endurance in spiritual warfare.

Key Themes

  • Strength in Grace: The command "be strong" (Greek: endynamoo) isn't a call to muster self-strength, but to be continually empowered by a divine source. It signifies an active reception of God's enabling power. This strength is crucial for enduring hardship and fulfilling God's calling, especially in ministry.
  • Source of Strength – Christ Jesus: Paul explicitly states that this strength is "in Christ Jesus." This highlights that true spiritual fortitude does not originate from human effort or ability, but from the person and work of Jesus Christ. It is through union with Him that believers access divine grace and spiritual power.
  • The Nature of Grace: The term "grace" (Greek: charis) refers to God's unmerited favor and divine enablement. It is the spiritual power God provides, freely given, to live righteously, serve effectively, and persevere through trials. This echoes the truth that believers are saved by grace (Ephesians 2:8) and also empowered by grace for service.
  • Spiritual Mentorship and Sonship: Paul's address, "my son," underscores the deep personal relationship and spiritual mentorship between the seasoned apostle and his younger protégé. It's a tender yet firm instruction from a spiritual father to his heir in ministry, emphasizing the importance of passing on sound doctrine.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek verb for "be strong," endynamoo (ἐνδυναμοῦ), means "to empower," "to strengthen," or "to be made able." It suggests an internal strengthening by an external, divine power, not just a command to 'try harder.' This divine empowerment is contrasted with human weakness, emphasizing the sufficiency of God's grace even in frailty. The term charis (χάρις) for "grace" is central to Pauline theology, denoting God's benevolent action towards humanity, often manifested as spiritual power and favor for living the Christian life.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Timothy 2:1 offers timeless encouragement. In a world full of challenges, temptations, and discouragement, our strength is not found in our own abilities, intellect, or resources, but in the boundless grace of Christ Jesus. To "be strong in the grace" means:

  • Relying on Christ: Actively depending on Jesus for daily strength, wisdom, and perseverance, rather than striving in our own might.
  • Embracing God's Provision: Recognizing that God provides all the necessary grace for every good work and every trial, including facing persecution or opposition for the Gospel.
  • Facing Challenges with Faith: Approaching difficulties not with fear, but with confidence in the divine enablement available through Christ. This applies to resisting sin, enduring suffering, and faithfully proclaiming the Gospel.

This verse calls us to a life of active faith, where our spiritual resilience is rooted firmly in the unshakeable grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, enabling us to serve and persevere in His name.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 12:9 (37 votes)

    And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:10 (37 votes)

    Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

  • Ephesians 6:10 (32 votes)

    ¶ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

  • 2 Timothy 1:7 (31 votes)

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

  • Philippians 4:13 (27 votes)

    I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

  • 1 Corinthians 16:13 (11 votes)

    ¶ Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.

  • Haggai 2:4 (8 votes)

    Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the LORD; and be strong, O Joshua, son of Josedech, the high priest; and be strong, all ye people of the land, saith the LORD, and work: for I [am] with you, saith the LORD of hosts: