BACKGROUND NOTES ON
PAUL'S SECOND LETTER TO TIMOTHY

Author
The apostle Paul is explicitly identified as the author. Some scholars maintain that it wasn't written by Paul, mostly based on the fact that the writing style is too different to be ascribed to Paul. However, taking into account that writers' styles do change with time, and that Paul was writing this letter without the help of a literary assistant recording his dictation, from a damp prison cell, there is really no reason to doubt Paul's authorship.
 
Why was it written?
This epistle is regarded as Paul's final letter. After he was released from his (first) Roman imprisonment described at the end of Acts, Paul travelled to a number of places. He was then rearrested, but this time he was put in an imperial prison, not under house arrest as previously. He had been through a preliminary hearing, that convinced him that he would die soon (4:16).
Paul was virtually alone, not even having enough clothing to protect against the cold (4:13). Only Luke had access to him, others have deserted him or was sent out on ministry. Paul wanted company, twice asking Timothy to come, and bring his books and coat. It is not known whether Timothy got to Paul in time to say goodbye.
Paul gives various instructions and warnings to Timothy to help him in his ministry.
 
How and when was it written?
Paul wrote this letter from his prison cell in Rome, shortly before his death, probably AD 64-67. He usually dictated his letters to various literary assistants named in the letters, but apparently he wrote down the two letters to Timothy, and the letter to Titus, himself.
 
First audience and destination:
This epistle is addressed to Timothy, Paul's apostolic representative. After being released from his first imprisonment, Paul sent Timothy to help the church in Ephesus with its difficulties. It is unsure if Timothy was still in Ephesus at the time of this letter.
 
Literary style:
¤ Contains all the standard parts of a first-century epistle
¤ Known for its pastoral and personal tone, written to encourage Timothy in his ministry.
¤ Shares certain vocabulary and style elements with 1 Timothy and Titus, that makes these three letters distinct from his other (non-personal) letters. The three letters are often considered a unit and called "The Pastoral Epistles.
 
Special themes:
¤ Divine election
¤ Inspiration of Scripture
¤ Sound doctrine
 
Special features:
¤ Contains one of the "Faithful Sayings" quotes in the Pastoral Letters (2: 11-13). (These were confessions of the early church, almost certainly used in public worship.
¤ Organised into two main sections:
» Chapters 1-4:5 on the general subject of ministry.
» Chapters 4:6-4:22 contains Paul's personal farewell, includes some of the most personal and moving words penned by Paul.
 
General structure:
 
¤ Greeting and Encouragement to Persevere (Chapter 1)
»
» Introduction and Greeting (1:1-2): Paul opens with a greeting to Timothy.
» Encouragement to Remain Faithful (1:3-14): Paul encourages Timothy to be bold, reminding him of his spiritual heritage and calling.
» Examples of Faithfulness and Abandonment (1:15-18): Paul contrasts those who have deserted him with those who have remained loyal, urging Timothy to follow the example of the faithful.
 
¤ Instructions for Endurance in Ministry (Chapter 2)
» Call to Endurance (2:1-13): Paul uses metaphors (soldier, athlete, farmer) to illustrate the commitment needed for ministry.
» Warning Against Quarreling and False Teaching (2:14-26): Timothy is urged to avoid disputes, live righteously, and instruct others with patience and gentleness.
 
¤ Warnings About Difficult Times and False Teachers (Chapter 3)
» Description of the Last Days (3:1-9): Paul warns about the rise of ungodly behavior and false teachers in the last days.
» The Importance of Scripture (3:10-17): Paul highlights the importance of continuing in the faith and using Scripture as the foundation for teaching, reproof, and training in righteousness.
» The Importance of Scripture (3:10-17): Paul highlights the importance of continuing in the faith and using Scripture as the foundation for teaching, reproof, and training in righteousness.
 
¤ Charge to Preach the Word and Paul's Final Reflections (Chapter 4)
» Charge to Proclaim the Gospel (4:1-5): Paul solemnly charges Timothy to preach the Word diligently in all seasons.
» Paul's Reflections and Final Instructions (4:6-18): Paul reflects on his approaching death, expresses confidence in his salvation, and gives personal messages about various individuals.
» Closing Greetings and Benediction (4:19-22): Paul concludes with greetings and a blessing of grace.