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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Timothy 4:9–15.
Here are divers particular matters which Paul mentions to Timothy, now at the closing of the epistle. 1. He bids him hasten to him, if possible (Ti2 4:9): So thy diligence to come shortly to me. For Timothy was an evangelist, one who was not a fixed pastor of any one place, but attended the motions of the apostles, to build upon their foundation. Paul wanted Timothy's company and help; and the reason he gives is because several had left him (Ti2 4:10); one from an ill principle, namely, Demas, who abides under an ill name for it: Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world. He quitted Paul and his interest, either for fear of suffering (because Paul was now a prisoner, and he was afraid o coming into trouble upon his account) or being called off from his ministry by secular affairs, in which he entangled himself; his first love to Christ and his gospel was forsaken and forgotten, and he fell in love with the world. Note, Love to this present world is often the cause of apostasy from the truths and ways of Jesus Christ. He has gone off, has departed to Thessalonica, called thither perhaps by trade, or by some other worldly business. Crescens had gone one way and Titus another way. Luke however remained with Paul (Ti2 4:11, Ti2 4:12), and was not this enough? Paul did not think it so; he loved the company of his friends. 2. He speaks respectfully concerning Mark: He is profitable to me for the ministry. It is supposed that this Mark was he about whom Paul and Barnabas had contended, Act 15:39. Paul would not take him with him to the work, because he had once flinched and drawn back: but now, says he, Take Mark, and bring him with thee. By this it appears that Paul was now reconciled to Mark, and had a better opinion of him than he had had formerly. This teaches us to be of a forgiving spirit; we must not therefore disclaim for ever making use of those that are profitable and useful, though they may have done amiss. 3. Paul orders Timothy to come to him, bids him as he came through Troas to bring with him thence those things which he had left behind him there (Ti2 4:13), the cloak he had left there, which, it may be, Paul had the more occasion for in a cold prison. It is probable that it was the habit Paul usually wore, a plain dress. Some read it, the roll of parchment I left at Troas; others, the desk that I left. Paul was guided by divine inspiration, and yet he would have his books with him. Whereas he had exhorted Timothy to give attendance to reading, so he did himself, though he was now ready to be offered. As long as we live, we must be still learning. But especially the parchments, which some think were the originals of his epistles; others think they were the skins of which he made his tents, whereby he obtained a livelihood, working with his own hands. 4. He mentions Alexander, and the mischief that he had done him, Ti2 4:14, Ti2 4:15. This is he who is spoken of Act 19:33. It should seem, he had been a professor of the Christian religion, a forward professor, for he was there particularly maligned by the worshippers of Diana, and yet he did Paul much evil. Paul was in as much danger from false brethren (Co2 11:26) as from open enemies. Paul foretels that God would reckon with him. It is a prophetical denunciation of the just judgment of God that would befall him: The Lord will reward him according to his works. He cautions Timothy to take heed of him: "Of whom be thou aware also, that he do not, under pretence of friendship, betray thee to mischief." It is dangerous having any thing to do with those who would be enemies to such a man as Paul. Observe, (1.) Some who were once Paul's hearers and admirers did not give him reason to remember them with much pleasure; for one forsook him, and another did him much evil, and greatly withstood his words. Yet, (2.) At the same time he mentions some with pleasure; the badness of some did not make him forget the goodness of others; such as Timothy, Titus, Mark, and Luke. (3.) The apostle has left a brand on the names and memory of two persons; the one is Demas, who forsook him, having loved the present world, and the other is Alexander, who greatly withstood his words. (4.) God will reward evil-doers, particularly apostates, according to their works. (5.) Of such as are of Alexander's spirit and temper we should beware; for they will do us no good, but all the mischief that is in their power.
Historical interpretation
Eight Centuries of Reception
8 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
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would have comprehended in their instructions, unless any think that is was in prayer that Paul had left his cloak with Carpus! God, forsooth, would not hear cloaked suppliants, who plainly heard the three saints in the Babylonian king's furnace praying in their trousers and turbans.
Nay, there is more than this: for even Christ, we shall find, has ordinary raiment; Paul, too, has his cloak. If at once, of every article of furniture and each household vessel, you name some god of the world as the originator, well, I must recognise Christ, both as He reclines on a couch, and when He presents a basin for the feet of His disciples, and when He pours water into it from a ewer, and when He is girt about with a linen towel -a garment specially sacred to Osiris.
The paenula is the distinctive dress of a Roman citizen, thus a garment that Paul would have needed on his journeys to identify him as such.
It is worth while to enquire why he calls Timothy to him, inasmuch as he was intrusted with a Church, and a whole nation. It was not from arrogance. For Paul was ready to come to him; for we find him saying, "But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God." (1 Tim. iii. 15.) But he was withholden by a strong necessity. He was no longer matter of his own movements. He was in prison, and had been confined by Nero, and was all but on the point of death. That this might not happen before he saw his disciple, he therefore sends for him, desiring to see him before he dies, and perhaps to deliver much in charge to him. Wherefore he says, "Hasten to come to me before the winter." "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world." He does not say, "That I may see thee before I depart this life," which would have grieved him, but "because I am alone," he says, "and have no one to help or support me." "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed to Thessalonica"; that is, having loved his own ease and security from danger, he has chosen rather to live luxuriously at home, than to suffer hardships with me, and share my present danger. He has blamed him alone, not for the sake of blaming him, but to confirm us, that we may not be effeminate in declining toils and dangers, for this is, "having loved this present world." "Only Luke is with me." For he adhered to him inseparably. It was he who wrote the Gospel, and the General Acts; he was devoted to labors, and to learning, and a man of fortitude. "Take Mark, and bring him with thee, for he is profitable to me for the ministry." It is not for his own relief, but for the ministry of the Gospel that he wanted him. For though imprisoned, he did not cease to preach. "The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments." The word here translated "cloak" may mean a garment, or, as some say, a bag, in which the books were contained. But what had he to do with books, who was about to depart and go to God? He needed them much, that he might deposit them in the hands of the faithful, who would retain them in place of his own teaching.
Paul makes a distinction here between the parchment volumina, which are in the form of scrolls, and the regular libros, which are in book or codex form.
The view that this paenula is some other kind of book, rather than just a garment, is ridiculous.
The money-bag had the books and the paper. He teaches us as if its our last breath, that if we are in prison, the divine oracles not must not be neglected. He speaks of the Jewish propitiation of the law.
I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and the books, especially the parchments.
I have sent Tychicus. See the unity through all things.
Bring the cloak that I left. Here Paul mentions a certain garment. However, he seeks to ensure that he is not a burden to anyone in need. For this is of the greatest concern to him everywhere.
— [CHRYSOSTOM] In another way. Here the type of clothing is mentioned. Some indeed want it to signify a case in which little books were kept. But what necessity was there for the little books themselves, for one who was soon to depart to God? Certainly, then it was especially necessary to entrust them to the faithful, and for them to have those as their own teaching. Indeed, he was seeking a case so that he would not need to receive it from others. [end of the excerpt by Chrysostom] —
— [THEODORET] especially the parchments. The term "parchments," more commonly known in Roman usage as "scrolls" [εἶλητα], was used moderately according to the custom in Rome, from which Paul was indeed writing the Epistle. For the ancient Scriptures were contained in scrolls, just as the Jews still mostly possess them up to the present day. [end of the excerpt by Theodoret] —
He referred to books [βιβλία] in a general sense, so that Paul might also have books in another form or format.
especially the parchments. Perhaps, however, these contained certain more useful things within themselves. Nevertheless, those worthy of laughter are those who think that the Apostle here meant a cloak rather than a type of booklet, who did not pay attention to the sequence of letters. For it would have been needless to say: "And books," even if that had been a type of booklet, since it could have been indicated together with others.
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Summary
In 2 Timothy 4:13, the Apostle Paul, writing from the confines of a Roman prison and anticipating his imminent martyrdom, issues a deeply personal and practical request to his trusted disciple Timothy. This verse offers a poignant glimpse into the physical hardships and intellectual priorities of a seasoned apostle in his final days, revealing his need for warmth and his unwavering commitment to ongoing study and engagement with sacred texts, even as his earthly ministry drew to a close.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within the concluding remarks of Paul's final epistle, often regarded as his spiritual last will and testament to Timothy. The preceding verses in 2 Timothy 4 reveal Paul's profound awareness of his approaching death, declaring that he is "already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come" (2 Timothy 4:6). He has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7). His requests in verse 13, therefore, are not for comfort in a long retirement, but for essential items to sustain him in his final, challenging moments, underscoring the immediate and pressing nature of his circumstances. The passage then transitions into warnings about false teachers and commendations of faithful co-workers, grounding Paul's personal needs within the broader context of his pastoral concerns.
Historical & Cultural Context
Paul is likely imprisoned in Rome for a second time, probably during the Neronian persecution (c. AD 64-68). This imprisonment was far more severe than his previous house arrest, as indicated by his request for a cloak, suggesting a cold, damp, and uncomfortable dungeon, possibly the Mamertine Prison. Travel in the ancient world was arduous and often required leaving belongings in various locations. Troas was a significant port city in Asia Minor, a place where Paul had ministered previously, notably during his second and third missionary journeys (Acts 16:8-11 and Acts 20:5-12). Carpus was evidently a trusted Christian brother in Troas with whom Paul had left these items. The mention of "books" and "parchments" highlights the value of written materials in a time before printing presses, where scrolls (books) and more durable, expensive animal-skin documents (parchments) were crucial for study, teaching, and legal defense.
Key Themes
This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within 2 Timothy and Paul's broader theology. First, it underscores the reality of suffering in ministry, even for an apostle of Paul's stature. Despite his spiritual strength, Paul remained a human being with physical needs, reminding us that even the most devoted servants of God are not immune to hardship. Second, it powerfully illustrates the enduring value of God's Word and continuous learning. Paul's urgent request for his "books" and "parchments" in his final moments emphasizes the indispensable role of Scripture and theological reflection in sustaining faith and ministry, even unto death. This echoes his earlier charge to Timothy to "give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine" (1 Timothy 4:13). Finally, it subtly highlights the importance of Christian fellowship and practical support, as Paul relies on Timothy to fulfill this personal, yet vital, request, demonstrating the interdependency within the body of Christ.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term refers to a heavy outer garment, often a thick cloak or mantle, worn for protection against cold or rain. Its importance to Paul in a cold, damp Roman prison is evident, signifying a basic human need for warmth and comfort in severe conditions.
Properly meaning "near," this preposition indicates proximity or association. In this context, it specifies that Paul's cloak and other items were left "with" Carpus, implying they were in his care or possession at Troas.
A diminutive of bíblos, this word refers to a roll or scroll, typically made of papyrus. These "books" likely encompassed various written materials, possibly Old Testament scrolls, personal notes, or other theological treatises that Paul found valuable for study and reflection.
This adverb, derived from a superlative, means "most (in the greatest degree)" or "particularly." Its use here emphasizes the heightened importance Paul placed on the "parchments" above the general "books," indicating their unique value or necessity to him.
Of Latin origin, this word denotes a "membrane" or a written sheep-skin. Parchments were more durable and expensive than papyrus scrolls, often reserved for more significant or authoritative texts, such as copies of the Old Testament Scriptures, personal theological notes, or perhaps even drafts of his own letters or a defense brief for his trial.
Verse Breakdown
"The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus"
Paul identifies a specific item, a heavy outer garment, and its precise location and custodian. This detail speaks to Paul's itinerant missionary life, where he would leave belongings in trusted hands as he traveled. The request for the cloak underscores his physical discomfort and need for warmth in his harsh prison environment.
"when thou comest, bring [with thee]"
This is a direct command and an urgent plea for Timothy to come to Paul, bringing these specific items. The immediacy of "when thou comest" suggests Paul's awareness of his limited time and his pressing need for these articles. It highlights the personal nature of their relationship and Paul's reliance on Timothy.
"and the books, [but] especially the parchments"
Beyond physical comfort, Paul's intellectual and spiritual needs are paramount. He requests "the books," likely papyrus scrolls containing various writings, but he specifically emphasizes "especially the parchments." This distinction suggests the parchments held particular significance—perhaps more valuable copies of Scripture, personal notes, or documents crucial for his defense or continued theological work. This reveals Paul's unwavering commitment to study and the Word of God, even in the shadow of death.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices that enrich its meaning. Metonymy is evident in "the cloke," which stands not merely for a garment but for Paul's physical needs, his vulnerability, and the harsh realities of his imprisonment. Similarly, "the books" and "the parchments" function as symbols of intellectual and spiritual sustenance, representing Paul's enduring commitment to the study of God's Word and theological reflection, even in his final hours. The specific mention of "Troas" and "Carpus" adds a layer of verisimilitude, grounding the narrative in concrete details that lend authenticity to Paul's personal circumstances. Furthermore, the entire request, coming from a man facing execution, evokes pathos, drawing the reader into Paul's human experience of suffering and his profound dedication to his calling.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This seemingly mundane request from Paul carries profound theological weight, revealing the holistic nature of human existence, even for a spiritual giant. It reminds us that while our ultimate hope is spiritual, our physical needs are real and legitimate, and God cares for the whole person. More significantly, Paul's prioritization of "the books, but especially the parchments" underscores the supreme value of God's inspired Word. Even facing martyrdom, Paul's desire was not for worldly comforts or escape, but for continued engagement with the Scriptures, demonstrating their indispensable role in sustaining faith, providing wisdom, and equipping for ministry until the very end. This highlights the enduring truth that spiritual vitality is intrinsically linked to diligent study and meditation on divine revelation.
Reflection and Application
Paul's final request to Timothy offers a powerful and multifaceted lesson for believers today. It grounds the lofty spiritual aspirations of the Christian life in the very real, often uncomfortable, realities of human existence. We learn that it is not unspiritual to acknowledge and address our physical needs, even amidst profound spiritual challenges or suffering. More profoundly, Paul's unwavering commitment to his "books" and "parchments" serves as a timeless paradigm for prioritizing God's Word. In an age of distraction and fleeting information, Paul's example calls us to a deep, abiding, and lifelong engagement with Scripture, recognizing it as the wellspring of truth, wisdom, and spiritual sustenance. His life, even in its twilight, was one of continuous learning and dependence on divine revelation, urging us to cultivate a similar hunger for God's truth, regardless of our circumstances or stage of life. Furthermore, this verse subtly reminds us of the profound privilege and responsibility of Christian community, where we are called to bear one another's burdens and meet practical needs, just as Timothy was called to serve Paul.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the "cloke" Paul requested, and why was it important?
The "cloke" (Greek: phelónēs) was a heavy outer garment, likely made of thick wool or leather, similar to a poncho or a large cape. It was essential for protection against cold, rain, and the elements. Paul's request for it, especially from a Roman prison, indicates his physical suffering and the harsh, cold, and damp conditions he endured. It highlights his very real human vulnerability despite his spiritual strength and impending martyrdom.
What were the "books" and "parchments" Paul wanted, and why the distinction?
The "books" (Greek: biblíon) likely referred to papyrus scrolls, which were common writing materials of the time. These could have included various texts, such as copies of Old Testament scriptures, other Christian writings, or personal notes. The "parchments" (Greek: membrána) were more durable and expensive documents made from animal skins (vellum). Paul's emphasis on "especially the parchments" suggests they held particular significance. They might have contained more authoritative or personally valuable texts, such as his own theological notes, drafts of his letters, or perhaps even copies of the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) that he frequently quoted and studied. This distinction underscores their greater value and importance to Paul for his continued study, reflection, or even for preparing a legal defense.
Why did Paul, near death, still want these items for study?
Paul's desire for his "books" and "parchments" in his final moments reveals his unwavering commitment to God's Word and continuous learning. Even facing martyrdom, he sought to remain engaged with Scripture, perhaps for personal spiritual nourishment, for continued theological reflection, or to prepare for his final defense before Roman authorities. This demonstrates that for Paul, the study of God's Word was not merely a task for ministry, but a lifelong pursuit essential for spiritual vitality and perseverance, even unto death. It powerfully illustrates the truth that "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Paul's poignant request in 2 Timothy 4:13 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment not in the material items themselves, but in the profound example of reliance and suffering that points directly to the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul's physical need for a "cloke" in his cold prison foreshadows the physical vulnerability and suffering of Christ, who "had nowhere to lay his head" (Matthew 8:20) and endured the ultimate physical agony on the cross (Isaiah 53:5). Yet, just as Paul found solace and strength in the written Word, Christ himself, though the living Word, consistently drew upon the Scriptures to fulfill His mission, declaring, "It is written" (Matthew 4:4). Paul's enduring commitment to the "books" and "parchments" even unto death mirrors Christ's unwavering obedience to the Father's will, which was always in perfect alignment with the divine plan revealed in the Old Testament Scriptures (Luke 24:44). Ultimately, Paul's life, marked by suffering and sustained by the Word, becomes a powerful testimony to the Christ who suffered for us, who is the Living Word, and who promises to sustain His followers through every trial, even to the very end (Hebrews 12:2).