The Introduction to 2 Timothy

Jim Butler2 Timothy 1:1–2

Second Timothy is Paul's final letter, written from a Roman prison cell where he awaited execution, and its weight cannot be understood apart from that context. This introductory sermon to 2 Timothy surveys the life and missionary ministry of the Apostle Paul, the historical occasion of the letter, its fourfold purpose, and the opening greeting of 2 Timothy 1:1–2. The sermon argues that the letter's authority rests on Paul's apostolic office by divine will, that its content — grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus — is indispensable for faithful ministry, and that its words were written, as Calvin said, not in ink but in Paul's own blood. Believers are called to receive this letter as a solemn charge to faithful, gospel-grounded perseverance in whatever age they find themselves.