¶ But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
But {G1161} thou {G4771} hast fully known {G3877} my {G3450} doctrine {G1319}, manner of life {G72}, purpose {G4286}, faith {G4102}, longsuffering {G3115}, charity {G26}, patience {G5281},
But you, you have closely followed my teaching, conduct, purpose in life, trust, steadfastness, love and perseverance —
You, however, have observed my teaching, my conduct, my purpose, my faith, my patience, my love, my perseverance,
But thou didst follow my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, patience,
-
1 Timothy 6:11
But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. -
Titus 2:7
In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine [shewing] uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, -
2 Peter 1:5
¶ And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; -
2 Peter 1:7
And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. -
Philippians 2:22
But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. -
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. -
Acts 11:23
Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.
In 2 Timothy 3:10, the Apostle Paul draws a sharp contrast between the corrupting influences and false teachers he described earlier in the chapter (2 Timothy 3:1-9) and the authentic, verifiable life he has lived before his beloved spiritual son, Timothy. This verse serves as a powerful anchor, reminding Timothy of the solid foundation of truth and character he has witnessed firsthand, providing a bulwark against the coming apostasy.
Context
This verse is part of Paul's final letter, urging Timothy to remain steadfast in the faith amidst increasing opposition and moral decay. Paul has just warned Timothy about the "perilous times" and the characteristics of ungodly people who will emerge in the last days. Immediately after describing these corrupt individuals, Paul pivots to his own life, presenting it as a counter-example and a pattern for Timothy to follow. The implication is that while others may mislead with deceptive words, Timothy has seen and known the truth embodied in Paul's consistent conduct and teaching.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "fully known" translates the Greek word parēkolouthēsas (παρηκολούθησας), which means to follow closely, to investigate, to understand thoroughly. It implies careful observation and a complete grasp, not just a casual acquaintance. Timothy wasn't merely told about Paul's life; he had intimately witnessed it. The virtues listed are foundational Christian characteristics:
Practical Application
For believers today, 2 Timothy 3:10 offers several vital lessons: