2 Timothy 4:16

¶ At my first answer no man stood with me, but all [men] forsook me: [I pray God] that it may not be laid to their charge.

At {G1722} my {G3450} first {G4413} answer {G627} no man {G3762} stood {G4836} with me {G3427}, but {G235} all {G3956} men forsook {G1459} me {G3165}: I pray God that it may {G3049} not {G3361} be laid {G3049} to their charge {G846}.

The first time I had to present my defense, no one stood by me; everyone deserted me — may it not be counted against them.

At my first defense, no one stood with me, but everyone deserted me. May it not be charged against them.

At my first defence no one took my part, but all forsook me: may it not be laid to their account.

Commentary

In 2 Timothy 4:16, the Apostle Paul, writing from Roman imprisonment and nearing the end of his life, reflects on a profound moment of abandonment during his initial legal defense.

Context

This verse is found in Paul's second letter to Timothy, his spiritual son and protégé. It's one of Paul's last epistles, often called his "farewell letter," penned while he awaited execution in Rome. The phrase "my first answer" (Greek: apologia) refers to his initial court appearance or hearing before Roman authorities, likely Emperor Nero or his representatives. It was a critical moment where he stood trial for his faith and missionary activities. Paul reveals that at this crucial juncture, he was utterly forsaken by his companions and supporters, who perhaps feared persecution or arrest themselves for associating with him. This personal confession underscores the severe challenges and loneliness faced by early Christians, especially leaders like Paul, under Roman rule.

Key Themes

  • Human Desertion and Loneliness: Paul vividly describes being abandoned by those who should have stood by him. This highlights the painful reality of human frailty and the fear that can overcome even followers of Christ in the face of severe danger. Despite his immense spiritual strength, Paul was not immune to the sting of betrayal.
  • Profound Forgiveness: The most striking aspect of this verse is Paul's response to the desertion: "I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge." This echoes the spirit of Christ on the cross (Luke 23:34) and exemplifies radical Christian forgiveness. It demonstrates Paul's deep spiritual maturity and his commitment to grace over resentment, even in the face of personal hurt. This prayer is a powerful testament to the transformative power of the Gospel.
  • God's Faithfulness Amidst Human Failure: Though men failed him, the subsequent verse (2 Timothy 4:17) reveals that the Lord stood with him. This contrast emphasizes that while human support may waver, God's presence and strength are constant and unwavering.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "answer" here is apologia (ἀπολογίᾳ), which means a "defense" or "vindication." It's the same root word from which we get "apologetics," referring to a reasoned defense of the faith. Paul's "first answer" was his initial legal defense, not an apology in the modern sense. The word "forsook" (ἐγκατέλιπον - egkatelipon) conveys a strong sense of abandonment, implying that they left him completely alone in his time of need.

Practical Application

Paul's experience in 2 Timothy 4:16 offers timeless lessons for believers:

  • Empathy for Others: We should extend understanding and grace to those who may falter under pressure, remembering that fear can be a powerful motivator.
  • The Power of Forgiveness: Paul's prayer is a challenge to all Christians to forgive those who hurt or abandon them, reflecting the character of Christ. It reminds us that holding grudges harms us more than those we resent.
  • Reliance on God Alone: When human support fails, this verse calls us to deepen our reliance on God, who promises never to leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Our ultimate strength and comfort come from Him.
  • Courage in Adversity: Despite the desertion, Paul continued his defense and remained faithful to his mission, providing an example of perseverance for all who face difficult circumstances for their faith.
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Cross-References

  • Acts 7:60

    And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

  • Mark 14:50

    And they all forsook him, and fled.

  • John 16:32

    Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.

  • Psalms 31:11

    I was a reproach among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours, and a fear to mine acquaintance: they that did see me without fled from me.

  • Psalms 31:13

    For I have heard the slander of many: fear [was] on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life.

  • Philippians 1:7

    ¶ Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

  • 1 Peter 3:15

    But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and [be] ready always to [give] an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
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