2 Timothy 2:8

KJV

¶ Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:

KJV (with Strong's)

Remember {G3421} that Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547} of {G1537} the seed {G4690} of David {G1138} was raised {G1453} from {G1537} the dead {G3498} according to {G2596} my {G3450} gospel {G2098}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Remember Yeshua the Messiah, who was raised from the dead, who was a descendant of David. This is the Good News I proclaim,

Berean Standard Bible

Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David, as proclaimed by my gospel,

American Standard Version

Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, of the seed of David, according to my gospel:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul's urgent exhortation to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:8 serves as a foundational anchor for enduring faith and ministry, urging him to fix his mind on the pivotal truths of the Christian faith: the humanity of Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah from the lineage of David, His undeniable triumph over death through resurrection, and the consistent, salvific message of the gospel Paul proclaimed. This concise command encapsulates the core of Christian doctrine, providing stability amidst persecution and theological error.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul’s second letter to Timothy, written from a Roman prison, likely his final epistle. Paul is encouraging Timothy, his spiritual son and a young leader, to remain steadfast in the face of suffering and false teaching. The immediate preceding verses (2 Timothy 2:1-7) use various analogies—a soldier, an athlete, a farmer—to illustrate the demanding and disciplined nature of faithful Christian service. [2 Timothy 2:8](/2_timothy/2-8 "2 Timothy 2:8") then provides the theological bedrock for such perseverance, reminding Timothy of the unshakeable truth of Christ's identity and work, which is the ultimate motivation for enduring hardship and faithfully passing on the gospel. It serves as a concise summary of the gospel message that undergirds all Christian endeavor.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote this letter during a period of intense Roman persecution against Christians, likely under Emperor Nero. Timothy was ministering in Ephesus, a city known for its diverse religious practices, philosophical schools, and burgeoning heresies (e.g., Gnosticism, which denied Christ's true humanity). The emphasis on Jesus being "of the seed of David" was crucial for both Jewish and Gentile audiences. For Jews, it affirmed Jesus' messianic credentials, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies (e.g., [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "God's Covenant with David")). For Gentiles, it anchored Christ in historical reality, countering Gnostic tendencies to view Him as a mere spirit. The resurrection, too, was a radical claim in a Greco-Roman world that often viewed the body as inferior or irrelevant after death.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Timothy 2:8](/2_timothy/2-8 "2 Timothy 2:8") powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout Paul's writings and the broader book of 2 Timothy. Firstly, it highlights the **Dual Nature of Christ**, emphasizing both His true humanity ("of the seed of David") and His divine power demonstrated in His resurrection. This counters any attempts to diminish His full identity. Secondly, the **Centrality of the Resurrection** is paramount; it is the cornerstone of Christian hope and the validation of Christ's victory over sin and death, a theme Paul passionately defends elsewhere (e.g., [1 Corinthians 15:12-20](/1_corinthians/15-12-20 "The Resurrection of Christ as the Foundation of Faith")). Finally, the phrase "according to my gospel" underscores the **Integrity and Consistency of the Gospel Message**. Paul is not presenting a new or unique gospel but reminding Timothy of the singular, unchanging truth that he himself preached and lived by, which is the power of God for salvation ([Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "The Power of the Gospel")). This gospel is the foundation upon which Timothy's ministry must stand firm, even in the face of suffering and opposition, as Paul encourages him to "share in suffering for the gospel" in [2 Timothy 1:8](/2_timothy/1-8 "Paul's Charge to Timothy to Not Be Ashamed of the Gospel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Remember (Greek, _mnēmoneúō_):** This verb signifies more than a casual recollection; it implies a continuous, active mental engagement—to keep in mind, to be mindful of, or even to rehearse. In this imperative, Paul calls Timothy to a deliberate and sustained focus on these foundational truths, suggesting they are essential for his spiritual and ministerial stability. It's a call to let these truths shape his perspective and actions.
* **Raised (Greek, _egeírō_):** This term means to waken, rouse, or lift up, often from sleep, lying, or death. Here, in the context of "from the dead," it specifically denotes resurrection. The perfect passive participle used in the original Greek ("egegermenon") emphasizes that Jesus *was* raised, and He *remains* in a resurrected, living state. It highlights the completed action by God and its enduring, permanent result: Christ is eternally alive and victorious.
* **Gospel (Greek, _euangélion_):** Derived from the word meaning "good message" or "good news," this term refers to the core proclamation of Christianity: the saving work of Jesus Christ. When Paul says "my gospel," he is not claiming a unique or different gospel, but rather the specific articulation and emphasis of the singular good news of Christ that he was commissioned to preach, focusing on Christ's death, burial, and resurrection as the means of salvation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Remember that Jesus Christ":** Paul issues a direct command to Timothy, urging him to keep the person of Jesus Christ at the forefront of his mind. This is not merely an intellectual exercise but a call to live in light of who Jesus is. The names "Jesus" (His human name, signifying "Yahweh saves") and "Christ" (His title, "Anointed One" or "Messiah") together proclaim His full identity as both human and divine Savior.
* **"of the seed of David":** This phrase emphasizes Jesus' true humanity and His specific lineage, fulfilling numerous Old Testament prophecies that the Messiah would come from the royal line of David (e.g., [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Prophecy of the Branch from Jesse's Roots"), [Jeremiah 23:5](/jeremiah/23-5 "The Righteous Branch of David")). This detail was crucial for establishing His credentials as the rightful King and Messiah, especially in a Jewish context, and it counters any docetic or Gnostic tendencies to deny His physical reality.
* **"was raised from the dead":** This is the climactic truth of the verse, highlighting the central event of Christian faith. The resurrection is God's ultimate vindication of Jesus, demonstrating His divine power, His victory over sin and death, and the truth of His claims. It is the guarantee of our own future resurrection and the foundation of Christian hope. The perfect passive participle underscores that this is a completed, permanent state.
* **"according to my gospel":** This concluding phrase clarifies that the truths about Jesus' Davidic lineage and His resurrection are integral to the gospel message that Paul consistently preached. It signifies that these are not peripheral doctrines but essential components of the good news of salvation. Paul's gospel is not distinct from the apostles' gospel but represents his particular emphasis and theological articulation of the one true gospel, stressing its historical facts and redemptive power.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Emphasis** is achieved through the imperative "Remember," highlighting the critical importance of these truths for Timothy's ministry and faith. The phrase "of the seed of David" utilizes **Metonymy**, where "seed" stands for offspring or descendant, underscoring Jesus' authentic human lineage and fulfillment of **Prophecy**. The entire verse functions as a powerful **Summary** or **Creed**, condensing core Christian doctrines into a concise, memorable statement. The juxtaposition of "seed of David" (humanity, lineage) and "raised from the dead" (divinity, power over death) creates a subtle **Antithesis** that highlights the paradox and fullness of Christ's nature. Finally, the phrase "according to my gospel" serves as a **Signature** or **Attestation**, lending apostolic authority and personal conviction to the proclaimed truths.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound truths encapsulated in [2 Timothy 2:8](/2_timothy/2-8 "2 Timothy 2:8") resonate throughout the entirety of Christian theology. The emphasis on Jesus' Davidic lineage connects Him directly to God's covenant promises to Abraham and David, demonstrating His rightful claim as the Messiah and King. His resurrection from the dead is the linchpin of the Christian faith, validating His atoning work on the cross and guaranteeing the believer's future hope. It signifies God's triumph over sin, death, and the grave, establishing Christ as the living Lord who reigns. This foundational truth empowers believers to endure suffering, knowing that their ultimate destiny is resurrection and eternal life with Him, reflecting the very power that raised Christ.

* [Romans 1:3-4](/romans/1-3-4 "Jesus, Son of David and Son of God")
* [1 Corinthians 15:3-4](/1_corinthians/15-3-4 "The Gospel Message: Christ Died, Was Buried, and Rose Again")
* [Hebrews 7:14](/hebrews/7-14 "Jesus' Lineage from Judah")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For believers today, remembering the core truths of Jesus Christ's identity and resurrection, as exhorted in [2 Timothy 2:8](/2_timothy/2-8 "2 Timothy 2:8"), serves as an unshakeable anchor in a world filled with shifting ideologies and personal trials. In moments of doubt, suffering, or temptation, fixing our minds on the reality that Jesus, the promised King, truly died and rose again, provides immense strength and hope. This truth assures us that our faith is not based on a myth but on historical fact and divine power. It empowers us to live with purpose, knowing that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work within us, enabling us to overcome sin and live a life transformed. It also fuels our evangelistic efforts, reminding us of the life-giving message we are called to share, a message that offers true hope and salvation to a dying world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does remembering Jesus Christ's Davidic lineage and resurrection strengthen your faith in challenging times?**
* **In what ways does the truth of Christ's resurrection impact your daily life and perspective on suffering?**
* **How can you more intentionally "remember" these core truths in your personal devotion and public witness?**
* **What does "according to my gospel" mean for how you understand and share the good news of Jesus Christ?**

### FAQ
**Why does Paul emphasize Jesus being "of the seed of David"?**

Answer: Paul emphasizes Jesus being "of the seed of David" to affirm His true humanity and His rightful claim as the Messiah. This lineage was crucial for Jewish audiences, as Old Testament prophecies (e.g., [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "God's Covenant with David"), [Psalm 89:3-4](/psalm/89-3-4 "God's Covenant with David")) explicitly stated that the Messiah would come from David's royal line. By highlighting this, Paul demonstrates that Jesus fulfills these ancient promises, establishing His credentials as the long-awaited King and Savior, a truth also affirmed in [Romans 1:3](/romans/1-3 "Jesus, Descendant of David"). This also counters any early heresies that denied Christ's physical reality.

**What is the significance of "was raised from the dead" for Christian faith?**

Answer: The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the absolute cornerstone of Christian faith. It is not merely a historical event but a theological necessity that validates everything Jesus claimed and accomplished. His resurrection proves His victory over sin and death, confirms His divine identity, and guarantees the believer's own future resurrection and eternal life. As Paul argues in [1 Corinthians 15:17](/1_corinthians/15-17 "If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile"), "if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins." The resurrection means Christ is a living Savior, actively interceding for believers ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Christ's Intercession")), and it provides the ultimate hope for humanity.

**What does Paul mean by "according to my gospel"? Is it different from other gospels?**

Answer: When Paul says "according to my gospel," he is not suggesting he preaches a different or unique gospel from other apostles. Rather, he is referring to the specific articulation and emphasis of the one true gospel that he was commissioned to proclaim. His gospel consistently centered on the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the means of salvation, as he outlines in [1 Corinthians 15:1-4](/1_corinthians/15-1-4 "The Core of the Gospel Paul Preached"). It emphasizes the historical facts of Christ's saving work and its universal implications for all humanity, both Jew and Gentile. Paul's "gospel" is simply the particular way he received, understood, and faithfully delivered the singular good news of Jesus Christ to the world, often emphasizing grace through faith over works of the law, as seen throughout his epistles (e.g., [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Salvation by Grace Through Faith")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[2 Timothy 2:8](/2_timothy/2-8 "2 Timothy 2:8") stands as a powerful Christ-centered declaration, encapsulating the very essence of the New Testament's message. Jesus Christ's identity as "of the seed of David" directly fulfills the Old Testament prophecies of a Messiah who would reign on David's throne forever ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "God's Covenant with David")). This lineage confirms His rightful claim as the promised King, the one through whom God's eternal kingdom would be established, as proclaimed by the angel Gabriel to Mary in [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "The Angel Gabriel's Prophecy to Mary about Jesus' Kingship"). His resurrection "from the dead" is the ultimate demonstration of His divine power and victory over sin and death, transforming Him from a crucified Messiah into the reigning Lord. This event is the foundation of the Christian's hope, for just as Christ was raised, believers too will experience resurrection and new life in Him ([Romans 6:4-5](/romans/6-4-5 "Union with Christ in His Death and Resurrection")). Paul's "gospel" is precisely this good news: that the Davidic Messiah, Jesus, died for our sins and was raised for our justification ([Romans 4:25](/romans/4-25 "Jesus Died for Our Sins and Was Raised for Our Justification")), offering salvation to all who believe. Thus, every aspect of [2 Timothy 2:8](/2_timothy/2-8 "2 Timothy 2:8") points to Jesus as the central figure of God's redemptive plan, the fulfillment of all promises, and the living hope for humanity.

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

Acts 2:24

Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

Romans 2:16

In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.

1 Corinthians 15:11

Therefore whether [it were] I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed.

1 Corinthians 15:20

¶ But now is Christ risen from the dead, [and] become the firstfruits of them that slept.

2 Thessalonians 2:14

Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Matthew 1:1

¶ The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

Romans 1:3

Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;