ENDURANCE AND SEPARATION IN THE MINISTRY
Click chart to enlarge
Charts from Jensen's Survey of the NT - used by permission
Second Timothy - Swindoll
2 TIMOTHY | |||
2 Timothy 1:1-18 | 2 Timothy 2:1-26 | 2 Timothy 3:1-17 | 2 Timothy 4:1-22 |
Retain the Standard |
Rightly Divide the Word |
Difficult Times Will Come |
Preach the Word |
PAST | PRESENT | FUTURE | |
Foundation of Christian Service |
Pictures of Christian Servant |
Dangerous Times for Christian Servant |
Commission of Christian Servant |
Unashamed as a Witness: Guard the Gospel |
Unashamed as a Workman: Suffer for the Gospel |
Adequate as a Workman: Continue in the Gospel |
Awarded as a Workman: Preach the Gospel |
Power of the Gospel |
Perseverance of the Gospel Message | Protection of the Gospel |
Proclamation of the Gospel |
Reminder | Requirements | Resistance | Requests |
Encouragement in Ministry |
Examples in Ministry |
Exhortations in Ministry |
Exhortations to Fulfill Ministry |
Commendation & Charge |
Commission to Fulfill |
Conflict to Face |
Course to Finish |
Compiled from Jensen's Survey of the NT and Wilkinson's Talk Thru the Bible |
Explanation - The following list includes not only commentaries but other Christian works by well known evangelical writers. Most of the resources below are newer works (written after 1970) which previously were available only for purchase in book form or in a Bible computer program. The resources are made freely available by archive.org but have several caveats - (1) they do not allow copy and paste, (2) they can only be checked out for one hour (but can be checked out immediately when your hour expires giving you time to read or take notes on a lengthy section) and (3) they require creating an account which allows you to check out the books free of charge. To set up an account click archive.org and then click the picture of the person in right upper corner and enter email and a password. That's all you have to do. Then you can read these more modern resources free of charge! I have read or used many of these resources but not all of them so ultimately you will need to be a Berean (Acts 17:11+) as you use them. I have also selected works that are conservative and Biblically sound. If you find one that you think does not meet those criteria please send an email at https://www.preceptaustin.org/
COMMENTARIES ON 2 Timothy
The Bible Exposition Commentary - Ephesians through Revelation - Warren Wiersbe
Rosscup - One of America’s most appreciated staunchly evangelical Bible conference teachers gives diligent, refreshing expositions. These are all of his 23 separate, earlier books in the “Be” series on the New Testament. He strikes a particular appeal with lay people as he crystallizes sections, deals with some of the verses, handles certain problems and backgrounds and applies principles. He is premillennial.
Be faithful (1 & 2 Timothy, Titus) by Wiersbe, Warren Or here - Be ready
1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon : it's always too soon to quit! by Wiersbe, Warren
Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the New Testament by Wiersbe, Warren W
Cyril Barber - This is a book of exceptional merit. Pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers will profit from its use. Wiersbe introduces each book of the NT, provides an outline, and then furnishes his readers with a chapter-by-chapter discussion of the contents. The homiletic style is a “plus.” Recommended.
With the Word - Devotional Commentary - Warren Wiersbe - 428 ratings - Chapter by chapter. Helpful insights.
The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible : New Testament, King James Version - Acts, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians - This is a very useful resource which always includes numerous related cross-references. It will be of aid to you preaching and teaching.
Exposition of the Pastoral Epistles by Hendriksen, William,
James Rosscup - As usual, Hendriksen is detailed and offers much aid in word meanings, possible views which he documents, and full discussion of the passages. His commentary is one of the finer works for serious students.
The pastoral epistles : an introduction and commentary by Guthrie, Donald,
James Rosscup - A recent work, this has a good introduction, but the commentary lacks detail. The author is better known for his three-volume work on New Testament introduction. This book is helpful, especially for an up-to-date conservative answer to critical views concerning introductory matters. The revisions are not extensive since the 1957 edition.
1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James by Morris, Leon,
The message of 2 Timothy : guard the Gospel by Stott, John R. W.
James Rosscup - An articulate and well-organized exposition of Second Timothy that is very suggestive for messages on the epistle. Though brief, Stott has quite good insight into the meaning of verses and has a rare ability to state truth succinctly.
Cyril Barber - The first volume in a new series entitled The Bible Speaks Today. Deserves to be read by all who are interested in living dynamically for Christ. Highly recommended. 2
See also II Timothy : standing firm in truth : 8 studies with commentary for individuals or groups by Stott, John R. W
1 & 2 Timothy and Titus : to guard the deposit by Hughes, R. Kent, Rosscup ranks the #3 (out of 6) expositional commentary.
Cyril Barber - The authors include personal anecdotes in these commentaries, and this gives their work a downto-earth quality. They adhere to the text and are not afraid to champion interpretations (e.g., of 1 Timothy 2:11-12) that are unpopular in today’s milieu. Anyone teaching or preaching on these “pastoral” epistles will find considerable help in these pages.
James Rosscup - Hughes does the Timothys, Chapell Titus, both giving frequently refreshing survey expositions along homiletically useful, applicational lines for pastors, teachers, students, and laity. Illustrations occur often, and solid explanation in between is not always present (cf. I Tim. 2:1–2; and v. 8, the significance of raised hands). On some texts basic explanation is quite good (2:11–15), yet on v. 15 the light hint at a meaning does not give much to go on (cf. also on 4:10, 16, or 2 Tim. 4:8, in the latter a vagueness on the NT “crown” concept). Overall, the treatments help mostly on often choice illustrations and pastoral applications, and this is well worth the time.
The letters to Timothy and Titus by MacDonald, William (2003) 148 pages.
Pastoral Epistles by Mounce, William D
James Rosscup - Here is one of the best three exegetical works in recent years for advanced students and teachers wanting detail (cf. also Marshall and Knight). The 641 big pages, in typical WBC form, provide much detailed grappling with grammar, word study, context, background, customs, etc., while showing helpful sources from voluminous awareness on issues. Mounce is open to Pauline authorship, and usually puts forth solid help by carefully explaining data.
Cyril Barber - Defends the Pauline authorship, but adopts a vacillating approach to passages dealing with gender roles. Some disturbing elements are to be noted in Mounce’s presentation, for example his statement that “there is no salvation apart from discipleship” (p. 434). This is a very full work and the judicious reader has much to gain from it.
The letters to Timothy and Titus by Towner, Philip H.,
James Rosscup - Favoring authorship by Paul (30–32), Towner provides a succinct, lucid commentary that sometimes explains verses or parts of them, sometimes ignores things (as “especially those who believe,” 4:10; “save both yourself and your hearers,” 4:16; or 2 Tim. 4:8, where the words do not really resolve Towner’s idea that a faithful life is necessary for receiving a crown, final righteousness, with this being of grace and not earned). Overall, the work seems below average, a mixture of being of some help and of little help, this depending on which verse. It will be of mediocre benefit only to those wanting a cursory, yet easily flowing guide. It grew out of Towner’s Ph. D. dissertation under I. Howard Marshall at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, but does not approach Marshall’s usual kind of serious explanation.
The Pastoral Epistles : studies in 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus by Kent, Homer Austin,
James Rosscup - This is a fairly detailed exposition that usually gives various views on many of the larger interpretive problems and provides reasons for the view favored. Kent uses his own translation. The outline is very clear, and the evangelical exposition is geared for Bible college students, pastors desiring a brief, knowledgeable survey that comes right to the point without being technical, and laymen wanting a commentary that will satisfy them without losing them.
Cyril Barber - This exemplary study has stood the test of time. Now, in this new, revised edition, Kent's commentary should continue to enjoy wide-spread acceptance. 2
1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus by Johnson, Luke Timothy
James Rosscup - A highly regarded scholar provides clear results of great industry in older and newer thought. One gains access to much on word study, exegetical details, ways of grasping Paul’s meaning, and literature that probes issues. Johnson is confident that Paul was the author. The work is quite worthwhile in opening up many parts of the books.
Cyril Barber - Begins with the reasons for the neglect of the Pastorals, but ignores the effect those who have denied their Pauline authorship has had on others. Provides new ideas on the values inherent in these canonical works.
The interpretation of st. paul's epistles to the colossians, to the thessalonians, to timothy, to titus and to philemon by R.C.H. Lenski - Lutheran commentator who writes excellent notes.
1 and 2 Timothy, Titus by Fee, Gordon D; Gasque, W. Ward
James Rosscup - This is a reworking of his 1984 work in the Good News Commentary (San Francisco: Harper and Row). As in his work on I Corinthians, Fee is clear in most cases (not easy to follow when he gets too terse), capable on Greek grammar and local setting, unity and integrity of the books. Each section has a summary. He aims to be of help to teachers, preachers and students. His belief is that Paul authored the books and wrote to meet specific situations in the churches, not to give a manual for the church as some have held. The work has switched from the GNT to the NIV. Fee is evangelical.
The communicator's commentary. 1, 2 Thessalonians, 1, 2 Timothy, Titus by Demarest, Gary W (Now published as the Preacher's Commentary)
First and second Timothy and Titus by Oden, Thomas C
Cyril Barber - Defends the Pauline authorship as well as two Roman imprisonments for the apostle Paul. Provides the kind of comments on the text that preachers will find most helpful.
1 & 2 Timothy and Titus by Gangel, Kenneth - This is more like a workbook with questions and short explanatory notes
Walking in power, love, and discipline - 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy and Titus by Arthur, Kay,
The pastoral epistles : based on the Revised Standard Version by Hanson, Anthony T
The faithful sayings in the pastoral letters by Knight, George W. (George William), 1931-
STUDY BIBLES:
Note: The first 4 resources have no time restriction and allow copy and paste function:
(1) KJV Bible Commentary - Hindson, Edward E; Kroll, Woodrow Michael. Over 3000 pages of the entire OT/NT. Well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective. Pre-millennial. User reviews - it generally gets 4/5 stars from users. - 372 ratings
Very well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective user reviews
The King James Version Bible Commentary is a complete verse-by-verse commentary. It is comprehensive in scope, reliable in scholarship, and easy to use. Its authors are leading evangelical theologians who provide practical truths and biblical principles. Any Bible student will gain new insights through this one-volume commentary based on the timeless King James Version of the Bible.
(2) The King James Study Bible Second Edition 2240 pages (2013) (Thomas Nelson) General Editor - Edward Hindson with multiple contributing editors. . 3,194 ratings. Pre-millennial. See introduction on How to Use this Study Bible.
(3) NKJV Study Bible: New King James Version Study Bible (formerly "The Nelson Study Bible - NKJV") by Earl D Radmacher; Ronald Barclay Allen; Wayne H House. 2345 pages. (1997, 2007). Very helpful notes. Conservative. Pre-millennial. 917 ratings
(4) The Wycliffe Bible Commentary - only the New Testament (for OT see below to borrow) - 1126 pages. (1971) Everett F Harrison - Editor of New Testament. Uses the KJV. Strictly speaking not a study Bible, but short notes are similar. KJV text in left column, commentary notes in right column. The comments are generally verse by verse, short, conservative and to the point. Pre-millennial.
Quote from Henry Alford (1810-1871 - not a dispensationalist!) on Revelation 20 - "It will have been long ago anticipated by the readers of this Commentary, that I cannot consent to distort words from their plain sense and chronological place in the prophecy, on account of any considerations of difficulty, or any risk of abuses which the doctrine of the millennium may bring with it. Those who lived next to the Apostles, and the whole Church for 300 years, understood them in the plain literal sense: and it is a strange sight in these days to see expositors who are among the first in reverence of antiquity, complacently casting aside the most cogent instance of consensus which primitive antiquity presents. As regards the text itself, no legitimate treatment of it will extort what is known as the spiritual interpretation now in fashion.”
Dictionary of Biblical Imagery - free for use online with no restrictions (i.e., you do not need to borrow this book). Editors Leland Ryken, J C Wilhoit, Tremper Longman III - This is a potential treasure chest to aid your preaching and teaching as it analyzes the meaning of a host of Biblical figures of speech. Clue - use the "One-page view" which then allows you to copy and paste text. One downside is there is no index, so you need to search 3291 pages for entries which are alphabetical.
Zondervan NIV Study Bible - (2011) 2570 pages - Use this one if available as it has more notes than edition below. One hour limit
NIV Study Bible by Barker, Kenneth L; Burdick, Donald W (1995) 2250 pages. This is the first edition. This resource has been fully revised in 2020. One hour limit
Believer's Bible Commentary - OT and NT - MacDonald, William (1995) 2480 pages. Conservative. Literal. Often has very insightful comments. John MacArthur, says "Concise yet comprehensive - the most complete single-volume commentary I have seen." Warren Wiersbe adds "For the student who is serious about seeing Christ in the Word." One hour limit.
Rosscup - This work, originally issued in 1983, is conservative and premillennial, written to help teachers, preachers and people in every walk of life with different views, explanation and application. The 2-column format runs verse by verse for the most part, usually in a helpfully knowledgeable manner, and there are several special sections such as “Prayer” in Acts and “Legalism” in Galatians. The premillennial view is evident on Acts 1:6, 3:20, Romans 11:26, Galatians 6:16, Revelation 20, etc.
HCSB Study Bible : Holman Christian Standard Bible - General Editor Jeremy Royal Howard (2010) 2360 pages. Conservative. Good notes. Include Holmans excellent maps. One hour limit
Life Application Study Bible: Old Testament and New Testament: New Living Translation. Has some very helpful notes especially with application of texts. 4,445 ratings One hour limit
The MacArthur Study Bible - John MacArthur. Brief but well done notes for conservative, literal perspective. 1,275 ratings
ESV Study Bible - Excellent resource but not always literal in eschatology and the nation of Israel 6,004 ratings
The David Jeremiah Study Bible - (2013) 2208 pages. 2,272 ratings Logos.com - "Drawing on more than 40 years of study, Dr. David Jeremiah has compiled a legacy resource that will make an eternal impact on generations to come. 8,000 study notes. Hundreds of enriching word studies"50+ Essentials of the Christian Faith" articles."
Wycliffe Bible Commentary - Charles Pfeiffer - 1560 pages (1962). 214 ratings Less detailed than the KJV Bible Commentary. Conservative. Notes are generally verse by verse but brief.
Rosscup - Conservative and premillennial scholars here have been experts in their fields. The work contains brief introductions and attempts to give a verse-by-verse exposition, though it does skip over some verses. The treatments vary with the authors, but as a whole it is a fine one-volume commentary for pastors and students to use or give to a layman. Outstanding sections include, for example: Whitcomb on Ezra-Nehemiah-Esther; Culver on Daniel; Ladd on Acts; Harrison on Galatians; Johnson on I Corinthians; and Ryrie on the Johannine Epistles.
The Defender's Study Bible : King James Version by Morris, Henry M. Excellent notes by well known creationist. 45 ratings
New Bible Commentary - (1994) See user reviews
Compact Bible commentary by Radmacher, Earl D; Allen, Ronald Barclay; House, H Wayne, et al - 954 pages. 424 ratings Multiple contributors to the comments which are often verse by verse. The comments are brief but meaty and can really help your study through a given book. A sleeper in my opinion.
The Experiencing God Study Bible: the Bible for knowing and doing the will of God - Blackaby, Henry (1996) 1968 pages - CHECK THIS ONE! Each chapter begins with several questions under the title "PREPARE TO MEET GOD." Then you will interesting symbols before many of the passages. The chapter ends with a "DID YOU NOTICE?" question. This might make a "dry chapter" jump off the page! Read some of the 48 ratings
NLT Study Bible (Illustration Version)
Disciple's Study Bible: New international version 54 ratings Not that helpful for verse by verse study. Focuses on application of Christian doctrines. 10,000 annotations; doctrinal summaries, "Life Helps" section relate doctrine to everyday discipleship.
The Living Insights Study Bible : New International Version - Charles Swindoll. Notes are good but somewhat sparse and not verse by verse.
The Apologetics Study Bible Understand Why You Believe by Norman Geisler
NIV Archaeological Study Bible (2005) 2360 pages 950 ratings (See also Archaeology and the Bible - OT and NT)
"Readers who desire a more intimate knowledge of the historical context of the Bible will appreciate the NIV Archaeological Study Bible. Full of informative articles and full-color photographs of places and objects from biblical times, this Bible examines the archaeological record surrounding God’s Word and brings the biblical world to life. Readers’ personal studies will be enriched as they become more informed about the empires, places, and peoples of the ancient world. Features include: • Four-color interior throughout • Bottom-of-page study notes exploring passages that speak on archaeological and cultural facts • Articles (520) covering five main categories: Archaeological Sites, Cultural and Historical Notes, Ancient Peoples and Lands, the Reliability of the Bible, and Ancient Texts and Artifacts • Approximately 500 4-color photographs interspersed throughout • Detailed book introductions that provide basic, at-a-glance information • Detailed charts on pertinent topics • In-text color maps that assist the reader in placing the action "
NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible. Bringing to Life the Ancient World of Scripture Keener, Craig and Walton, John. Editors (2017)
The Holman Illustrated Study Bible 120 ratings Includes the excellent Holman maps but otherwise of little help in serious study.
Zondervan King James Version Commentary - New Testament
NIV Celebrate Recovery Study Bible
Daily Study Bible for Women : New Living Translation
The Woman's Study Bible : the New King James Version
The Study Bible for Women : Holman Christian Standard Bible
Daily Study Bible for Men : New Living Translation
NIV Topical Study Bible : New International Version
Ryrie Study Bible - Charles Ryrie (1978) 2142 pages. Conservative. 216 ratings
Ryrie Study Bible Expanded Edition (1994) 2232 pages
The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible : New American standard study by Strong, James, 1822-1894; Zodhiates, Spiros
The New Inductive Study Bible : updated New American Standard Bible - Introductions of each book give suggestions how to perform an inductive study on that specific book. Not strictly speaking a "study Bible" with notes but a Bible to help you study inductively. Has wide margins for making notes. This is one that works best in "paper," not digitally.
With the Word - Devotional Commentary - Warren Wiersbe - 428 ratings
Evangelical Commentary on the Bible - Judges by Andrew Boling (20 pages); editor Walter Elwell (1989) 1239 pages. User reviews. (See also Boling's 380 page commentary on Judges the Anchor Bible Series)
Halley's Bible Handbook Henry H. Halley - (2000) 2720 pages (much larger than original edition in 1965 and no time limit on use). (Halley's Bible handbook : an abbreviated Bible commentary - one hour limit 1965 872 pages)
Rosscup - A much-used older evangelical handbook bringing together a brief commentary on Bible books, some key archaeological findings, historical background, maps, quotes, etc. It is helpful to a lay Bible teacher, Sunday School leader, or pastor looking for quick, pertinent information on a Bible book. This is the 72nd printing somewhat revised. Halley packed in much information. Unger’s is better overall, but that is not to say that Halley’s will not provide much help on basic information.
The Shaw Pocket Bible Handbook - Editor - Walter Elwell (1984) 408 pages.
"This hardback is small in size but packed full of content: Brief summaries of every book of the bible, cultural, archaeological and historical info, word definitions, pictures, maps and charts." Worth checking!
James Rosscup writes that "This was the great work in the life of the versatile Dean of Canterbury. An outcome of this production was the New Testament for English Readers (4 vols.). Alford was a Calvinist, conservative and premillennial, though not dispensational. He takes a literal interpretation of the thousand years in Rev. 20 and has a famous quote there, is strong on sovereign election as in Ro 8:29, 30 and 1Pe 1:2, but, unfortunately, holds to baptismal regeneration in such texts as Titus 3:5 and John 3:5. He shows a great knowledge of the Greek text and faces problems of both a doctrinal and textual nature." (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors: An Annotated Bibliography of Selected Works)
John Piper writes ""When I’m stumped with a...grammatical or syntactical or logical [question] in Paul, I go to Henry Alford. Henry Alford...comes closer more consistently than any other human commentator to asking my kinds of questions."
Charles Haddon Spurgeon writes that this text "is an invaluable aid to the critical study of the text of the New Testament. You will find in it the ripened results of a matured scholarship, the harvesting of a judgment, generally highly impartial, always worthy of respect, which has gleaned from the most important fields of Biblical research, both modern and ancient, at home and abroad. You will not look here for any spirituality of thought or tenderness of feeling; you will find the learned Dean does not forget to do full justice to his own views, and is quite able to express himself vigorously against his opponents; but for what it professes to be, it is an exceedingly able and successful work. The later issues are by far the most desirable, as the author has considerably revised the work in the fourth edition. What I have said of his Greek Testament applies equally to Alford’s New Testament for English Readers,* which is also a standard work." (Spurgeon, C. H. Lectures to my Students, Vol. 4: Commenting and Commentaries; Lectures Addressed to the students of the Pastors' College, Metropolitan Tabernacle)
GREGG ALLEN - sermon
- 2 Timothy 2:20-21 "Vessels for Honor"
- 2 Timothy 2:8-10 "God's Unchained Word!"
- 2 Timothy 2:8-10 "Remember Jesus - Raised From the Dead!"
Study Guides
Click here to Listen to Audio Studies on 2 Timothy
2 Timothy Teacher Notes - related to preceding lectures
- 2 Timothy study 4 - 2 Timothy 2:1-7
- 2 Timothy study 5 - 2 Timothy 2:8-13
- 2 Timothy study 6 - 2 Timothy 2:14-19
- 2 Timothy study 7 - 2 Timothy 2:20-26
2 Timothy Study Notes - miscellaneous notes!
- 2 Timothy study 4 - 2 Timothy 2:1-7 - 116 pages of miscellaneous notes
- 2 Timothy study 5 - 2 Timothy 2:8-13 - 121 pages of miscellaneous notes
- 2 Timothy study 6 - 2 Timothy 2:14-19 - 149 pages of miscellaneous notes
- 2 Timothy study 7 - 2 Timothy 2:20-26 - 142 pages of miscellaneous notes
See Caveats regarding Barclay's theology which was not always orthodox. This resource is listed because he gives some excellent background and helpful word studies.
His word studies are often exceptional but see "The Enigmatic William Barclay" which discusses some of Barclay's unorthodox teachings. The upshot is "Be a Berean" (Acts 17:11-note)
James Rosscup: This is a lucid and well-organized exposition of the epistles with many helpful lists on different facets of truth John can have in mind at different points as on “light” and “darkness” in I John 1:5. There is stimulating background material and warm application. (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors: An annotated bibliography of selected works).
D Edmond Hiebert - Prints the author's own translation. A series of popular studies whose strong point is word study. Contains good illustrative material. Part of the author's interpretation follows a liberal position. Barclay holds that Christ's descent into Hades gave those who there heard Him a second chance.
- 2 Timothy 2:1-13 Victorious Vessels!
- 2 Timothy 2:14-26 The Winning Christian Life!
CHRIS BENFIELD - Sermons
James Rosscup - Earlier this was published in The Cambridge Greek Testament (Cambridge: University, 1922). It is one of the finest older works which grapples seriously with the Greek. Bernard was a fine scholar in his day.
BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS FOR FREEDOM Study Notes
- 2 Timothy 2:2 The Plan of Discipleship
- 2 Timothy 2:8-13 Bible Study Questions- The Important Step of Commitment
THOMAS BROOKS (1608 - 1680) - Read this one!
THOUGHT - I recall General George Patton reading the biography of Erwin Rommel, the famous "Desert Fox", so he could learn how to defeat this most crafty of German generals. The principle applies to our arch enemy Satan who was more crafty (Genesis 3:1+).
- 2 Timothy 2:25-26 Satan's Devices to Draw the Soul to Sin 12 devices and their remedies -Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices
- Read the related resource Schemes of the Devil
ERNEST FAULNER BROWN
D Edmond Hiebert - A concise, conservative, phrase-by-phrase interpretation by a missionary in India who understands the positions of Timothy and Titus in the light of his own missionary experience.
James Rosscup on 1998 Crossway edition - Publishers shortened and brought older writing up to date. One will not go wrong here, but find considerable insight on what verses mean. He will, however, be wise to go to several commentaries which offer even more on exegetical concerns, views, reasons, etc. while being enriched by this perceptive mind.
R K CAMPBELL
ALAN CARR Sermons
RICH CATHERS
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7 - 2000
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7 - 2018 - Below is an example of the type of illustrations frequently found in his sermons..
Illustration - Final words - When people speak their “final words”, sometimes it’s worth paying attention to, other times not so much. In her 2014 memoir, Ginger Alden revealed then-fiance Elvis Presley’s final words before his death in 1977. During a night of sleeplessness, Presley told Alden, “I’m going to the bathroom to read.” The rest, as they say, is history. When Sir Isaac Newton died, he was humble. He said, “I don’t know what I may seem to the world. But as to myself I seem to have been only like a boy playing on the seashore and diverting myself now and then in finding a smoother pebble or a prettier shell than the ordinary, whilst the great ocean of truth lay all undiscovered before me.” That’s a little better. Paul’s letter to Timothy is of particular value to us because these are Paul’s last words of instruction to Timothy, his “next generation” leader. - 2 Timothy 2:8-18 - 2018
- 2 Timothy 2:19-22 - 2018
- 2 Timothy 2:23-26 - 2018
CENTURY BIBLE
OSWALD CHAMBERS
CHRYSOSTOM
- 2 Timothy 2:1 Strong in Grace
- 2 Timothy 2:2 Handing Off the Truth
- 2 Timothy 2:3-7 Embracing Hardship for Gospel
- 2 Timothy 2:8-13 Endurance
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19 How To Use The Bible
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19 Using the Word Properly
- 2 Timothy 2:20-22 The Person God Uses
- 2 Timothy 2:23-26 The Gentle Art of Correction
- 2 Timothy 2:1-2 Lay People In Soul-Winning
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7 A Good Soldier Of Jesus
- 2 Timothy 2:2 Command To Teach
- 2 Timothy 2:7-18 Remember The Great Fact Of The Gospel
- 2 Timothy 2:9 The Word of God Is Not Bound
- 2 Timothy 2:11-13 He Abideth Faithful
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Rightly Dividing The Word Of Truth
- 2 Timothy 2:19 The Communist and the Living Church
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7 Commentary
- 2 Timothy 2:8-13 Commentary
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19 Commentary
- 2 Timothy 2:20-26 Commentary
- 2 Timothy 2:1-9 Strong Grace, Hard Work, Good Memories
- 2 Timothy 2:10-13 The Results of the Resurrection
- 2 Timothy 2:14-21 Avoid Tiresome Nitpickers (Dr. Derek Thomas)
- 2 Timothy 2:22-26 Flee and Pursue
DWIGHT EDWARDS - well done exposition
EXPLORE THE BIBLE
James Rosscup - The author is lucid in his statements and has written a fair commentary based upon the Greek. Among older works it is not as helpful as Bernard and Huther, however.
FIRST EVANGELICAL FREE: WICHITA, KANSAS - Series on 2 Timothy
- 2 Timothy 2:1-2:7 SEMPER FI: Josh Black
- 2 Timothy 2:8-2:13 REMEMBER TO ENDURE: Josh Black
- 2 Timothy 2:14-2:19 THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW: Josh Black
- 2 Timothy 2:20-2:26 THE LORD'S SERVANT: Lucas McGarity
GENE GETZ Bible Principles Short Videos
- 2 Timothy 1:1-5 Deepening Relationships: As we get to know one another as brothers and sisters in Christ, our relationships should grow closer and deeper. Video
- 2 Timothy 1:6-12; Identifying with Christ: With God's help, we should determine never to be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Video
- 2 Timothy 1:13-2:2; Mentoring Others: Spiritual leaders should develop a core of faithful men and women who can multiply their efforts. Video
- 2 Timothy 2:3-7;Suffering for Christ: When we serve our Lord Jesus Christ faithfully, we should expect difficult challenges that may at times create intense times of persecution. Video
- 2 Timothy 2:8-13; Focusing on Christ: To fulfill God's will in our lives, we must keep our minds focused on the Lord Jesus Christ--who He is, His ministry, and His promises.Video
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19; Countering False Doctrine: Spiritual leaders must counteract the lingering influence of false teachers.Video
- 2 Timothy 2:22-26; Able to Teach: When interacting with false teachers, we should initially respond with sincere patience and gentleness. Video
GOTQUESTIONS - 2 Timothy
GRACE BIBLE CHURCH
VANCE HAVNER
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7: The Disciplined Christian Life
- 2 Timotny 2:1-7 A Few Good Men
- 2 Timothy 2:8-13 Semper Fidelis
- 2 Timothy 2:8-13 He is Faithful
- 2 Timothy 2:15: Dispensationalism
- 2 Timothy 2:14-26 Refutiate Falseness
- 2 Timothy 2:23-26 Gentle Servants
Cyril Barber - Continuously in print for 50 years, having made its debut in 1947. Ironside always has something good to say. He is easy to read, evangelical, and provides deft applications of the truth to life. One limitation of this revision is the use of the KJV when some other modern translation (e.g., NKJV) would have better served the needs of modern readers. Otherwise, this exposition is lucid and ideal for lay Bible study.
James Rosscup - He is staunchly evangelical, showing good broad surveys based on diligent study, practical turns, even choice illustrations. In prophecy he is premillennial dispensational....Many preachers have found that Ironside works, read along with heavier books on details of exegesis, help them see the sweep of the message and prime their spirits for practical relevance.
John Cereghin - Ironside, Harry A., Expository Notes on the Epistles of James and Peter, 1947, 41 pages. Brief devotional exposition. He attacks hyper-Calvinism (68); denounces the error of “soul sleep” (73); suggests that angels may refer to Genesis 6 (82-83); teaches the Premillennial coming of Christ (98). A practical and devotional exposition. Reprinted from the 1904 edition.
Rosscup - This is a helpful old set of 1863 for laypeople and pastors to have because it usually comments at least to some degree on problems. Though terse, it provides something good on almost any passage, phrase by phrase and is to some degree critical in nature. It is evangelical. There is also a 1-volume edition, briefer at some points (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1961). Especially in its multi-volume form this is one of the old evangelical works that offers fairly solid though brief help on many verses. Spurgeon said, “It contains so great a variety of information that if a man had no other exposition he would find himself at no great loss if he possessed this and used it diligently” (Commenting and Commentaries, p. 3). Things have changed greatly since this assessment! It is primarily of help to pastors and lay people looking for quick, though usually somewhat knowledgeable treatments on verses.
Spurgeon - A really standard work. We consult it continually, and with growing interest. Mr. Fausset’s portion strikes us as being of the highest order.
My Comment - This is one of the best older (Pre-1800) works on interpretation of prophecy as it tends to interpret the text literally and not allegorically.
James Rosscup - A thorough explanation which usually deals with problems perceptively and mentions differing views. This is one of the better commentaries of recent decades. Held in high respect by scholars, the effort concludes for authenticity of the epistles and carries on a judicious exegesis while often being quite instructive in reasoning.
James Rosscup - The two books above are expositional studies of I and II Timothy respectively. They are based on the English text and are outstanding popular treatments with many thoughts provocative for the preacher and the teacher. The very interesting writing style makes them ideal to recommend to laymen. King, a noted spiritual life speaker in his day, has given much rich food for thought here, presenting it simply yet in provocative words.
Here is the book to borrow - To my son : an expositional study of II Timothy
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7 Some Things Every Christian Should Understand
- 2 Timothy 2:8-10 The Gospel Gold Mine
- 2 Timothy 2:11-13 Something to Sing About
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19 Three Words
- 2 Timothy 2:20-21 The Vessels of the House
- 2 Timothy 2:22-26 Meet Three Groups
STEVE KRELOFF - Messianic Jewish Pastor
- 2 Timothy Sermons - 37 messages - excellent Mp3's messages below
- The Demands of Discipling - 2 Timothy 2:1-7
- Teaching Teachers - 2 Timothy 2:1-2
- Entrusting the Word to Faithful Men - 2 Timothy 2:1-7
- Pictures of Christian Service - 2 Timothy 2:2-7
- Motivation For Endurance - 2 Timothy 2:8-13
- Motivations for Endurance - 2 Timothy 2:8-13
- Church Leaders And False Teaching - 2 Timothy 2:14-19
- How to be Useful to the Master - 2 Timothy 2:20-26
- Useful For The Master (Part 1) - 2 Timothy 2:20-22
- Useful For The Master (Part 2) - 2 Timothy 2:23-26
D Edmond Hiebert - Oosterzee, J. J. Van, "The Pastoral Letters," J. P. Lange's Commentary on the Holy Scriptures. Translated from the German. (1863). The abundant material is in three sections: exegetical and critical; doctrinal and ethical; homiletical and practical. A full evangelical treatment by a Dutch Reformed minister and theologian of the past century.
James Rosscup - The treatments of books within this evangelical set vary in importance. Generally, one finds a wealth of detailed commentary, background, and some critical and exegetical notes. Often, however, there is much excess verbiage that does not help particularly. On the other hand, it usually has something to assist the expositor on problems and is a good general set for pastors and serious lay people though it is old.
DAVID LEGGE
LIGONIER MINISTRIES - Devotionals
- 2 Timothy 2 Why Study God’s Word?
- 2 Timothy 2:11–13 Reigning with Christ
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Hermeneutics
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Intellectual Treason
J P LILLEY - The Pastoral Epistles - Well done verse by verse comments, informative, not technical
D Edmond Hiebert - Uses author's own translation. A scholarly, conservative work giving a comprehensive discussion of the Pastorals as a group as well as the individual epistles. A verse-by-verse exposition characterized by spiritual warmth and practical appeal.
Cyril Barber - This "first century message to twentieth century pastors" is a work of rare merit, and we welcome its reappearance.
- 2 Timothy 2 Paul's Portrait of a Leader
- 2 Timothy 2 Portrait of a Leader
- 2 Timothy 2:1-2: Elements of a Strong Spiritual Life 1
- 2 Timothy 2:1-4 Advice to a Young Disciple - Study Guide - 4 studies in dropdown
- 2 Timothy 2:3-7: Elements of a Strong Spiritual Life 2
- 2 Timothy 2:8-9: Motives for Sacrificial Ministry-Part 1
- 2 Timothy 2:10-14: Motives for Sacrificial Ministry Part 2
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19: The Danger of False Teaching
- 2 Timothy 2:14–26 Characteristics of a Useful Vessel
- 2 Timothy 2:20-22 An Honorable Vessel, Part 1
- 2 Timothy 2:23-26 An Honorable Vessel, Part 2
- 2 Timothy 2:4 The True Aim of Life - Pleasing Christ
- 2 Timothy 2:13 A Faithful God
- 2 Timothy 2:19 The Foundation and the Seal
- 2 Timothy 2:20, 21 The Great House and its Vessels
P G MATTHEW 2 TIMOTHY SERMONS
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7 The True Pastoral Ministry
- 2 Timothy 2:8-13 Sufferings No Surprise
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19 The One Holy Orthodox Church
- 2 Timothy 2:20-26 Holy People and Holy Pastors
J VERNON MCGEE - Mp3's
F B MEYER
J R MILLER
- 2 Timothy 2:1 be strong in the grace
- 2 Timothy 2:2 among
- 2 Timothy 2:3 endure hardness soldier
- 2 Timothy 2:4 affairs of this life
- 2 Timothy 2:5 strive for masteries
- 2 Timothy 2:9 not bound
- 2 Timothy 2:10 for the elect’s sake
- 2 Timothy 2:11 faithful saying
- 2 Timothy 2:13 believe not
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Study dividing word of truth
- 2 Timothy 2:16 profane vain babblings
- 2 Timothy 2:17 canker Hymenaeus and Philetus
- 2 Timothy 2:18 overthrow the faith
- 2 Timothy 2:19 this seal
- 2 Timothy 2:20 great house
- 2 Timothy 2:21 purge himself from these prepared unto every good work
- 2 Timothy 2:22 Flee also youthful lusts
- 2 Timothy 2:24 strive
- 2 Timothy 2:25 repentance
- 2 Timothy 2:26 taken captive
H C G MOULE
D Edmond Hiebert comments that this work is "Marked by careful scholarship, spiritual insight, and reverent faith. One of the outstanding volumes of the series. Appended is a long poem by the author on the martyrdom of Paul.
Cyril Barber - A delightful devotional commentary. First published in 1905
NET BIBLE NOTES
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7 Becoming Strong in Christ's Grace
- 2 Timothy 2:3-7 Becoming Strong in Christ’s Grace
- 2 Timothy 2:8-9 Remember Jesus Christ
- 2 Timothy 2:10-13 Why Endurance Matters
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19 Developing Steadiness in the Faith Mp3 only
- 2 Timothy 2:20–26 Useful to the Master
OUR DAILY BREAD Devotionals
- 2 Timothy 2 devotionals at Biblegateway - of variable quality
- 2 Timothy 2 Devotionals on site
The Devotionals Below are Offsite
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7: The Next Planting
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7: An Attached Fuel Hose
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7: Example That Encourages
- 2 Timothy 2:1: What Comes Naturally?
- 2 Timothy 2:1-6: Chinese Proverbs
- 2 Timothy 2:1-13 Desire to Please God
- 2 Timothy 2:1-10 He Did It
- 2 Timothy 2:1-13 Help Wanted!
- 2 Timothy 2:2: An Unbroken Chain
- 2 Timothy 2:2: The Value of One
- 2 Timothy 2:2: Becoming A Mentor
- 2 Timothy 2:2: Pupil or Teacher?
- 2 Timothy 2:2 The Next Generation
- 2 Timothy 2:3 Supreme Motive
- 2 Timothy 2:3: Is Faith An Escape?
- 2 Timothy 2:3 Fishing in a Tub
- 2 Timothy 2:3 Faithful Service
- 2 Timothy 2:8 Living Testament
- 2 Timothy 2:9. Locked In
- 2 Timothy 2:10 The Reason & The Risk
- 2 Timothy 2:11 Saving Ourselves
- 2 Timothy 2:12: The Danger of Denial
- 2 Timothy 2:12-13: A Consistent Father
- 2 Timothy 2:12. The Danger Of Denial
- 2 Timothy 2:14-18 Handle With Care
- 2 Timothy 2:14-26 Flee Temptation
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Approved
- 2 Timothy 2:15 The Shooting Panda
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Study To Live
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Truth Or Error?
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Imagine That!
- 2 Timothy 2:15. Rightly Dividing The Word
- 2 Timothy 2:15 No More; No Less
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Daily Diligence
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Guarding Hearts
- 2 Timothy 2:15a Watching the Signs
- 2 Timothy 2:19 God Remembers
- 2 Timothy 2:19. He Knows Me
- 2 Timothy 2:19 Well-Known
- 2 Timothy 2:19- 26 A Servant’s Heart
- 2 Timothy 2:19-26 Speaking Truth In Love
- 2 Timothy 2:19-26 Always Preparing
- 2 Timothy 2:19-26 Say No And Yes
- 2 Timothy 2:19-26 Agents Of Change
- 2 Timothy 2:21 Hallowing Halloween
- 2 Timothy 2:22: Ice-Cream Man
- 2 Timothy 2:22 Flee!
- 2 Timothy 2:22: The Fatal First Step
- 2 Timothy 2:23: A Sense Of Dread
- 2 Timothy 2:22-26 Silly Arguments
- 2 Timothy 2:22-26a Easily Distracted
- 2 Timothy 2:22: Swimming With Sharks
- 2 Timothy 2:24 A Gentle Witness
- 2 Timothy 2:24-25 A Knightly Soldier
- 2 Timothy 2:24-25. Strong—And Gentle
- 2 Timothy 2:24-25 Correcting Error
- 2 Timothy 2:24 A Servant's Heart
- 2 Timothy 2:24 Speaking The Truth In Love
- 2 Timothy 2:24-25: Strong--And Gentle
- 2 Timothy 2:25 Pachyderm Pedicures
- 2 Timothy 2:1-4 The Soldier - J Mike Minnix
- 2 Timothy 2:3-4 Am I a Soldier of the Cross? - David E Owen
- 2 Timothy 2:3-4 Am I A Soldier of the Cross (different) - David E Owen
- 2 Timothy 2:1-12 The Giant of Fear - Denis Lyle
"If a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully." 2 Timothy 2:5
In other words, it is not a bare striving, but a striving according to certain rules. But these rules are spiritual rules; and being spiritual rules, exclude everything of sense, reason, and nature. Now man, in an unregenerate condition, whether he be in a state of profanity, or in a state of profession, has no spiritual knowledge of the way by which to overcome. He may strive against his lusts; he may endeavor to overcome those things that conscience bears testimony against; but he is not crowned, because he strives not lawfully. He strives in his own strength; contends in his own wisdom; and trusts in his own righteousness. Such strugglers and such overcomers (if overcomers they ever are) are not crowned, because they strive not according to the rules laid down in God's word. This at once excludes all creature righteousness, human wisdom, and natural strength. This takes the crown completely off the creature, and puts it on the head of the Redeemer.
There are certain rules then laid down in the Scripture, according to which we are to fight and to overcome. For instance, the Lord of life and glory is held out in the word as our pattern--"He has left us an example that we should follow his steps." He fought the battle before us; and he gained the victory, not for himself only, but for his people; and he has left us here below to walk in his footsteps, and to overcome in the same way as he did; as we read, "To him that overcomes will I grant to sit with me in my throne; even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne." All striving then, and all overcoming, which is not in the steps of Christ, and precisely (in a measure) in the same way in which Jesus strove and overcame, is not the overcoming which is crowned with God's approbation.
- 2 Timothy 2:1,2 Preservation and Transmission of the Faith
- 2 Timothy 2:3-7 The Christian's Life as Military Service, etc
- 2 Timothy 2:8-10 The Power of a Belief in the Resurrection and Incarnation
- 2 Timothy 2:13-18 Need of a Solemn Charge Against a Controversial Spirit
- 2 Tim 2:1–13
- 2 Tim 2:1
- 2 Tim 2:2
- 2 Tim 2:5–6
- 2 Tim 2:8
- 2 Tim 2:9
- 2 Tim 2:10
- 2 Tim 2:11
- 2 Tim 2:12
- 2 Tim 2:13
- 2 Tim 2:14
- 2 Tim 2:15
- 2 Tim 2:17
- 2 Tim 2:18
- 2 Tim 2:19
- 2 Tim 2:20–21
- 2 Tim 2:23
- 2 Tim 2:25–26
- 2 Timothy 2:1-4 Being A Good Soldier Of Jesus Christ
- 2 Timothy 2:2 What God Wants Me to Be
- 2 Timothy 2:3-4 The Lord's Army
- 2 Timothy 2:3-4 We Need More Soldiers
- 2 Timothy 2:19-24 Folks To Avoid While In Church
- 2 Timothy 2:19-26 Things To Avoid While In Church
ADRIAN ROGERS - devotional
- 2 Timothy 2:1-2 Be Strong In The Grace That Is In Christ Jesus
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7 Soldiers, Athletes & Farmers
- 2 Timothy 2:3-4 A Good Soldier Of Jesus Christ
- 2 Timothy 2:8-10 Resurrection Life
- 2 Timothy 2:11-13 A Faithful Father
- 2 Timothy 2:14-26 Rightly Dividing The Word Of Truth
- 2 Timothy 2:19-21 A Great House
- 2 Timothy 2:22-26 Pursuing The Right Things
RAYMOND SAXE Sermons
- 2 Timothy 2:1-26 (pdf)
- 2 Timothy 2:1-2 (pdf)
- 2 Timothy 2:3-7 (pdf)
- 2 Timothy 2:8-10 (pdf)
- 2 Timothy 2:11-13 (pdf)
- 2 Timothy 2:14-18 (pdf)
- 2 Timothy 2:19-21 (pdf)
- 2 Timothy 2:22-26 (pdf)
SERMON AUDIO 2 TIMOTHY Audios and Pdfs
Caveat emptor - quality may vary
- 2 Timothy 2:1 Strength in the Grace of Christ.
- 2 Timothy 2:7 Consideration enforced.
- 2 Timothy 2:10 Paul’s Love to the Elect exemplified.
- 2 Timothy 2:11–14 The Equity of God’s Procedure.
- 2 Timothy 2:19 The Stability of the Covenant.
- 2 Timothy 2:20,21.Saints, Vessels of Honour
- 2 Timothy 2:25, 26. The great Ends of the Ministry,
JAMES SMITH
SPEAKER'S COMMENTARY
- 2 Timothy 2 Exposition
- 2 Timothy 2:1 Devotional
- 2 Timothy 2:11 Devotional
- 2 Timothy 2:12 Devotional
- 2 Timothy 2:19a Our Daily Help
- 2 Timothy 2:19 Devotional
- 2 Timothy 2:22 Flee - Expository Note
- 2 Timothy 2:8: Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ
- 2 Timothy 2:9 Not Bound Yet
- 2 Timothy 2:9 The Word of God Unbound - Study Notes
- 2 Timothy 2:12: Suffering and Reigning with Jesus
- 2 Timothy 2:15: Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth
- 2 Timothy 2:13 Eternal Faithfulness Unaffected by Human Unbelief
- 2 Timothy 2:15 Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth
- 2 Timothy 2:19 The Foundation and its Seal; A Sermon for the Times
- 2 Timothy 2:20,21 The Great House and the Vessels in It
CLAUDE STAUFFER SERMON NOTES
- 2 Timothy 1:14-2:2 How to Defend a Lion
- 2 Timothy 2:3-13: Soldiers, Athletes and Farmers
- 2 Timothy 2:3-8 The Note of Certainty
- 2 Timothy 2:8 Follow the Leader
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19: Avoiding Congregational Gangrene
- 2 Timothy 2:20-22 Fit to be Used
- 2 Timothy 2:23-26 Guidelines for Controversies
- 2 Timothy 2:1-7 Be Strong
- 2 Timothy 2:8-10 Don't Ever Forget
- 2 Timothy 2:10 Suffering for those Not Saved
- 2 Timothy 2:10-11 Intermission for the Holy Spirit
- 2 Timothy 2:12 Endurance
- 2 Timothy 2:12 Do Not Just Taste Salvation
- 2 Timothy 2:14-19 Be A Good Worker
- 2 Timothy 2:20-22 Keep Yourself Pure
- 2 Timothy 2:23-26 Drawing Others to Salvation
- Exhortation and Encouragement of Timothy - 2 Timothy 2:1-26
- Faithfulness For the Sake of the Elect - 2 Timothy 2:1-13
- Reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others - 2 Timothy 2:1-2
- Soldier . . . athlete . . . farmer - 2 Timothy 2:3-7
- Raised from the dead - 2 Timothy 2:8
- Suffering . . . chained like a criminal - 2 Timothy 2:9-10
- For the sake of the elect - 2 Timothy 2:10
- Here is a trustworthy saying - 2 Timothy 2:11-13
- Faithfulness in the Face of False Teachers - 2 Timothy 2:14-26
- Quarreling about words - 2 Timothy 2:14
- Present yourself to God as one approved - 2 Timothy 2:15-19
- Large house . . . noble . . . ignoble - 2 Timothy 2:20
- If a man cleanses himself - 2 Timothy 2:21
- Pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace - 2 Timothy 2:22-24
- In the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth - 2 Timothy 2:25-26
GEOFF THOMAS 2 TIMOTHY SERMONS
- 2:1-7 Being Strong In The Grace That Is Christ Jesus
- 2:8 Remember Jesus Christ Raised From The Dead
- 2:14-18 Watching The Tongue And Watching The Word
- 2:19 The Foundation, The Seal, And The Inscription
- 2:8-10 God’s Word Is Not Chained
- 2:11-13 God Will Remain Faithful; He Cannot Disown Himself
- 2:20-21 Living A Noble And Useful Life
- 2:22-24 Fleeing From And Pursuing After
- 2:25-26 The Christian Facing Opposition
DAVID THOMPSON 2 TIMOTHY SERMONS
THOMAS WATSON