Introduction

In 2 Timothy 4:6–22, Paul reflects on the imminent end of his life and ministry. He encourages Timothy to carry on the work of proclaiming the Gospel and to persevere in the face of challenges. Paul emphasizes the faithfulness of God, who will ensure that His Gospel is proclaimed despite human limitations. This passage serves as both a personal farewell and a call to action for the next generation of Gospel workers.

Key Points

• Main Point: Regardless of human limitation, God will still proclaim His Gospel across the world.
• Purpose: Carry on God’s Gospel work as a new generation.

2 Timothy 4:6

For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come.

Paul knows his death is near and describes his life as a drink offering being poured out—his final sacrifice in service to Christ. Knowing our time is limited, we must minister in a way that leaves a lasting impact, ensuring God’s work continues through the next generation.

2 Timothy 4:7

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Paul confidently declares that he has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. His life was spent in unwavering service to Christ. We must live with the same devotion, knowing that what is done for Christ alone will last.

2 Timothy 4:8

Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.

Paul looks forward to receiving the crown of righteousness from King Jesus, not just for himself but for all who long for His return. The hardships of ministry pale in comparison to the joy of Christ’s commendation—”Well done, good and faithful servant.”

2 Timothy 4:9–10

Do your best to come to me soon. For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica.

Paul urges Timothy to come quickly, revealing the personal pain of ministry—Demas, once a co-laborer, has abandoned him for love of the world. We must not be surprised when even fellow believers fail us but continue forgiving and pressing on in proclaiming the Gospel.

2 Timothy 4:10b; 12

Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus.

Though not all departures are betrayals, Paul still feels the loss of partners in ministry as they serve in different regions. Change and loss are inevitable, but God uses them to advance His unstoppable Gospel. We must embrace change, trusting in God’s greater plan.

2 Timothy 4:11

Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry.

Luke remains with Paul, and he requests Mark, who once abandoned him but has now proven faithful. God restores and reconciles, providing the right ministry partners at the right time. Gospel work is not individualistic—God calls us to serve alongside others.

2 Timothy 4:13

When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments.

Paul asks for his cloak for warmth and, above all, his parchments—Scripture. Even at the end of his ministry, he treasures God’s Word. If we want our work to have lasting impact, we must build it on the foundation of Scripture.

2 Timothy 4:14–15

Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message.

Paul warns Timothy about Alexander, who strongly opposed the Gospel. Ministry will always face opposition from the world, but God is just and will deal with those who resist His truth. Our task is to remain faithful.

2 Timothy 4:16–17

At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.

During Paul’s trial, no one stood by him, but Christ did. When human support fails, Christ remains. He strengthens us so that His Gospel is proclaimed to all, no matter the opposition.

2 Timothy 4:18

The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Paul declares that the Lord will rescue him from every evil and bring him safely into His heavenly kingdom. His confidence is not in escaping suffering but in Christ’s faithfulness to bring him home. We serve not for earthly security but for eternal glory.

2 Timothy 4:19–21

Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. Erastus remained at Corinth, and I left Trophimus, who was ill, at Miletus. Do your best to come before winter. Eubulus sends greetings to you, as do Pudens and Linus and Claudia and all the brothers.

Paul acknowledges his Gospel partners, showing that the next generation is taking up the mission. Though Paul’s life is ending, the work continues. We are called to carry forward the Gospel and, when our time comes, pass it on to those after us.

2 Timothy 4:22

The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.

Paul’s final words: “The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.” Ministry is not sustained by human effort but by the presence of Christ and His grace. As we carry the Gospel forward, we rely not on ourselves but on the One who is with us always.

Conclusion

Paul’s final words reflect his unwavering confidence in the Lord’s faithfulness and his hope in the eternal crown of righteousness. He passes the baton to Timothy, urging him to carry on the work of the Gospel despite the challenges of ministry. This passage highlights the enduring nature of God’s work and the call for each generation to faithfully proclaim His Word.

Summary

1. Paul reflects on his faithful ministry and anticipates his eternal reward (4:6–8).
2. Paul acknowledges the challenges of ministry, including betrayal and opposition, but also highlights the faithfulness of Gospel partners (4:9–17).
3. Paul concludes with a declaration of God’s faithfulness and a charge to Timothy to carry on the work of the Gospel (4:18–22).