You, however, have observed my teaching, my conduct, my purpose, my faith, my patience, my love, my perseverance, You, howeverThis phrase serves as a direct address to Timothy, contrasting him with others who have turned away from the truth. The Greek word for "you" (σύ) is emphatic, highlighting Timothy's distinctiveness and faithfulness. The word "however" (δέ) indicates a shift from the preceding verses, where Paul describes the ungodly behaviors of others. This sets Timothy apart as a model of Christian virtue and dedication. have observed
The Greek word used here is "παρακολουθέω" (parakoloutheó), which means to follow closely or to attend diligently. This implies that Timothy has not only been a passive listener but an active participant and observer of Paul's life and ministry. It suggests a deep, personal relationship and mentorship, where Timothy has learned through both instruction and example. my teaching
The term "teaching" (διδασκαλία, didaskalia) refers to the body of doctrine that Paul has imparted. This encompasses the core truths of the Christian faith, rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Historically, Paul's teachings were foundational for the early church, emphasizing salvation by grace through faith, the resurrection, and the lordship of Christ. Timothy is reminded of the sound doctrine he has received, which stands in contrast to the false teachings prevalent at the time. my conduct
"Conduct" (ἀγωγή, agogé) refers to Paul's way of life, his behavior, and actions. This highlights the importance of integrity and consistency between one's beliefs and actions. In a historical context, Paul's conduct was a testament to his faith, often demonstrated through his missionary journeys, his sufferings, and his unwavering commitment to the Gospel. my purpose
The word "purpose" (πρόθεσις, prothesis) denotes a deliberate plan or intention. Paul's purpose was singularly focused on glorifying God and spreading the Gospel. This reflects a life lived with intentionality and direction, rooted in a divine calling. Timothy is reminded of the importance of having a clear, God-given purpose that guides one's life and ministry. my faith
"Faith" (πίστις, pistis) here refers to Paul's trust and belief in God. It encompasses both his personal faith in Christ and the faith he has taught. This faith is not merely intellectual assent but a deep, abiding trust that influences every aspect of life. Historically, Paul's faith was evident in his perseverance through trials and his unwavering hope in the promises of God. my patience
The Greek word for "patience" (μακροθυμία, makrothumia) implies long-suffering and endurance, especially in the face of adversity. Paul's patience was demonstrated in his dealings with both believers and non-believers, showing restraint and perseverance. This quality is essential for ministry, reflecting the patience of Christ Himself. my love
"Love" (ἀγάπη, agapé) is the selfless, sacrificial love that is central to the Christian faith. It is the love that Paul exhibited towards God, the church, and even his enemies. This love is rooted in the love of Christ, who gave Himself for humanity. Timothy is reminded that love is the greatest of all virtues and the hallmark of true discipleship. my endurance
The term "endurance" (ὑπομονή, hypomoné) refers to steadfastness and perseverance, especially under trial. Paul's life was marked by numerous hardships, yet he remained steadfast in his mission. This endurance is a testament to the strength and grace provided by God, serving as an example for Timothy and all believers to remain faithful amidst challenges. Persons / Places / Events 1. PaulThe apostle who wrote the letter to Timothy, providing guidance and encouragement. He is a central figure in the New Testament, known for his missionary journeys and epistles. 2. TimothyA young pastor and protégé of Paul, who is the recipient of this letter. Timothy was a leader in the early church and a close companion of Paul. 3. EphesusWhile not directly mentioned in this verse, Timothy was leading the church in Ephesus at the time, a significant center for early Christianity. 4. Paul's Missionary JourneysThe context of Paul's teachings and conduct, which Timothy observed, occurred during these journeys where Paul spread the Gospel and established churches. 5. Early ChurchThe broader context in which this letter was written, characterized by growth, persecution, and the need for sound doctrine. Teaching Points Observing Godly ExamplesTimothy's observation of Paul's life highlights the importance of learning from mature believers. We should seek out mentors who exemplify Christ-like behavior. Holistic Christian LivingPaul mentions teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, and endurance. A Christian life should be comprehensive, affecting all areas of our behavior and character. Endurance in FaithEndurance is crucial in the Christian walk, especially in the face of trials. Like Paul, we are called to persevere in our faith journey. Purpose-Driven LifePaul lived with a clear purpose, which was to glorify God and spread the Gospel. We should evaluate our lives to ensure our purposes align with God's will. Love as a Central VirtueLove is central to Paul's life and teachings. As Christians, love should be the foundation of our interactions with others. Bible Study Questions 1. How can we identify and learn from godly examples in our own lives, similar to how Timothy observed Paul? 2. In what ways can we ensure that our conduct aligns with our faith, as Paul demonstrated to Timothy? 3. How does understanding Paul's purpose help us define our own purpose in life? 4. What are some practical ways we can develop endurance in our faith, especially during challenging times? 5. How can we make love a more central part of our daily interactions and decisions, following Paul's example? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Corinthians 11:1Paul encourages believers to imitate him as he imitates Christ, similar to how Timothy observed Paul's life. Philippians 3:17Paul urges believers to follow his example, reinforcing the idea of living a life worthy of the Gospel. Hebrews 13:7This verse speaks about remembering leaders who spoke the word of God and considering the outcome of their way of life, paralleling Timothy's observation of Paul. | Grievous Times | R. Finlayson | 2 Timothy 3:1-17 | | A Copy to Write By | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Apostolic Imitation | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Both Doctrines and Graces Must be Good | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Cassock and Character | C. H. Spurgeon. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Christian Consistency | M. Henry. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Commands Should be Enforced by Example | | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Deliverances, to be Noted | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Life an Eloquent Sermon | Bp. Lightfoot. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Patience in Ministers | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Paul's Path of Suffering | Van Oosterzee. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Persecution Beneficial | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Precedents Better than Precepts | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | The Best Patterns Defective | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | The Example of Superiors Powerful | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | The Power of a Godly Life | Life of James Fraser of Brea. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | The Preaching that Tells | British Weekly | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | The Stimulus of Example | W. M. Taylor, D. D., Old Poet., Burke. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | We Must Come Up to the Best Patterns | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | Wicked Men Hate the Good | T. Hall, B. D. | 2 Timothy 3:10-11 | | The Career of the Apostle Commended as an Example to His Youthful Disciple | T. Croskery | 2 Timothy 3:10-12 |
People Jambres, James, Jannes, Paul, TimothyPlaces Ephesus, Iconium, Lystra, Pisidian AntiochTopics Acquainted, Aim, Aims, Behaviour, Charity, Conduct, Doctrine, Endurance, Example, Faith, Follow, Followed, Fully, Hast, Intimately, Longsuffering, Long-suffering, Love, Manner, Observed, Patience, Perseverance, Purpose, Quiet, Resignation, Steadfastness, Teaching, Thoroughly, Trouble, Undergoing, WaitingDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Timothy 3:10 4020 life, of faith
7797 teaching
8026 faith, growth in
8292 love
8318 patience 2 Timothy 3:10-4:8 5109 Paul, apostle 2 Timothy 3:10-11 2060 Christ, patience of
5828 danger
6121 boasting
8215 confidence, results
8418 endurance
8459 perseverance
8797 persecution, attitudes 2 Timothy 3:10-12 1620 beatitudes, the
2425 gospel, requirements Library Fathers and Children'
Malachi iv. 5, 6. Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. These words are especially solemn words. They stand in an especially solemn and important part of the Bible. They are the last words of the Old Testament. I cannot but think that it was God's will that they should stand …
Charles Kingsley—Sermons for the TimesNineteenth Day for the Holy Spirit on Christendom
WHAT TO PRAY.--For the Holy Spirit on Christendom "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof."--2 TIM. iii. 5. "Thou hast a name that thou livest, and thou art dead."--REV. iii. 1. There are five hundred millions of nominal Christians. The state of the majority is unspeakably awful. Formality, worldliness, ungodliness, rejection of Christ's service, ignorance, and indifference--to what an extent does all this prevail. We pray for the heathen--oh! do let us pray for those bearing …
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession The Author to the Reader.
CHRISTIAN READER,--After the foregoing address, I need not put thee to much more trouble: only I shall say, that he must needs be a great stranger in our Israel, or sadly smitten with that epidemic plague of indifferency, which hath infected many of this generation, to a benumbing of them, and rendering them insensible and unconcerned in the matters of God, and of their own souls, and sunk deep in the gulf of dreadful inconsideration, who seeth not, or taketh no notice of, nor is troubled at the …
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life Some Carriages of the Adversaries of God's Truth with Me at the Next Assizes, which was on the 19Th of the First Month, 1662.
I shall pass by what befell between these two assizes, how I had, by my jailor, some liberty granted me, more than at the first, and how I followed my wonted course of preaching, taking all occasions that were put into my hand to visit the people of God; exhorting them to be steadfast in the faith of Jesus Christ, and to take heed that they touched not the Common Prayer, etc., but to mind the Word of God, which giveth direction to Christians in every point, being able to make the man of God perfect …
John Bunyan—Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners The Christian's Book
Scripture references 2 Timothy 3:16,17; 2 Peter 1:20,21; John 5:39; Romans 15:4; 2 Samuel 23:2; Luke 1:70; 24:32,45; John 2:22; 10:35; 19:36; Acts 1:16; Romans 1:1,2; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4; James 2:8. WHAT IS THE BIBLE? What is the Bible? How shall we regard it? Where shall we place it? These and many questions like them at once come to the front when we begin to discuss the Bible as a book. It is only possible in this brief study, of a great subject, to indicate the line of some of the answers. …
Henry T. Sell—Studies in the Life of the Christian Appendix i. Pseudepigraphic Writings
III. The collection of eighteen hymns, which in their Greek version bear the name of the Psalter of Solomon, must originally have been written in Hebrew, and dates from more than half a century before our era. They are the outcome of a soul intensely earnest, although we not unfrequently meet expressions of Pharisiac self-religiousness. [6315] It is a time of national sorrow in which the poet sings, and it almost seems as if these Psalms' had been intended to take up one or another of the leading …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah The Holy Scripture.
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."-- 2 Tim iii. 16, 17. Among the divine works of art produced by the Holy Spirit, the Sacred Scripture stands first. It may seem incredible that the printed pages of a book should excel His spiritual work in human hearts, yet we assign to the Sacred scripture the most conspicuous place …
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit The Scriptures
Q-II: WHAT RULE HAS GOD GIVEN TO DIRECT US HOW WE MAY GLORIFY AND ENJOY HIM? A: The Word of God, which is contained in the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him. 2 Tim 3:16. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God,' By Scripture is understood the sacred Book of God. It is given by divine inspiration; that is, the Scripture is not the contrivance of man's brain, but is divine in its origin. The image of Diana was had in veneration …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity Vehicles of Revelation; Scripture, the Church, Tradition.
(a) The supreme and unique revelation of God to man is in the Person of the Incarnate Son. But though unique the Incarnation is not solitary. Before it there was the divine institution of the Law and the Prophets, the former a typical anticipation (de Incarn. 40. 2) of the destined reality, and along with the latter (ib. 12. 2 and 5) for all the world a holy school of the knowledge of God and the conduct of the soul.' After it there is the history of the life and teaching of Christ and the writings …
Athanasius—Select Works and Letters or Athanasius Epistle xxx. To Narses, the Religious (Narsæ Relegioso) .
To Narses, the Religious (Narsæ Relegioso) [1710] . Gregory to Narses, &c. When I was sending Romanus the guardian (defensorem) to the royal city, he sought long your letters, but they could not be found: but afterwards they were found among many letters from other persons, your Sweetness, therein telling me of your afflictions and tribulations of spirit, and making known the oppositions to you of bad men. But, I pray you, in all this recall to your mind what I believe too that you never …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great Endurance of the World's Censure.
"And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them; neither be afraid of their words, though briars and thorns be with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions; be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they be a rebellious house."--Ezekiel ii. 6. What is here implied, as the trial of the Prophet Ezekiel, was fulfilled more or less in the case of all the Prophets. They were not Teachers merely, but Confessors. They came not merely to unfold the Law, or to foretell the Gospel, …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII Dread of Ridicule.
24th Sunday after Trinity. S. Matt. ix. 24. "And they laughed Him to scorn." INTRODUCTION.--"All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution" (2 Tim. iii. 12.) This is what S. Paul says. This is what everyone of you must make up your mind to, if you intend to live godly lives, and, moreover, to live in Christ. Do you know what that meant to the early Christians? It meant that if they were going to be firm in their faith, live up to their profession, and eschew evil, they should …
S. Baring-Gould—The Village Pulpit, Volume II. Trinity to Advent Of the Unity of the Godhead and the Trinity of Persons
Deut. vi. 4.--"Hear, O Israel The Lord our God is one Lord."--1 John v. 7 "There are three that bear record in heaven the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost and these three are one." "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness," 2 Tim. iii. 16. There is no refuse in it, no simple and plain history, but it tends to some edification, no profound or deep mystery, but it is profitable for salvation. Whatsoever …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning Honour and Glory unto Him.
IN Revelation V, that great worship scene, beginning some day in heaven and going on into future ages, we read of the Lamb to whom honor and glory are due. He alone is worthy. And every heart who knows Him rejoicing in His love, cries out, "Thou art worthy!" Yea, the sweetest song for the redeemed soul is the outburst of praise, which we find on the threshold of His own Revelation. "Unto Him that loveth us and washed us from our sins in His own blood and hath made us kings and priests unto God and …
Arno Gaebelein—The Lord of Glory Inspiration.
"And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write, These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God."-- Rev. iii. 1. We do not speak here of the New Testament. Nothing has contributed more to falsify and undermine faith in the Scripture and the orthodox view concerning it than the unhistoric and unnatural practise of considering the Scripture of the Old and the New Testament at the same time. The Old Testament appears first; then came the Word in the flesh; and only after that the Scripture …
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit Letter xxii (Circa A. D. 1129) to Simon, Abbot of S. Nicholas
To Simon, Abbot of S. Nicholas Bernard consoles him under the persecution of which he is the object. The most pious endeavours do not always have the desired success. What line of conduct ought to be followed towards his inferiors by a prelate who is desirous of stricter discipline. 1. I have learned with much pain by your letter the persecution that you are enduring for the sake of righteousness, and although the consolation given you by Christ in the promise of His kingdom may suffice amply for …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux Letter xi (Circa A. D. 1120) the Abbot of Saint Nicasius at Rheims
The Abbot of Saint Nicasius at Rheims He consoles this abbot for the departure of the Monk Drogo and his transfer to another monastery, and exhorts him to patience. 1. How much I sympathize with your trouble only He knows who bore the griefs of all in His own body. How willingly would I advise you if I knew what to say, or help you if I were able, as efficaciously as I would wish that He who knows and can do all things should advise and assist me in all my necessities. If brother Drogo had consulted …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux The Authority and Utility of the Scriptures
2 Tim. iii. 16.--"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." We told you that there was nothing more necessary to know than what our end is, and what the way is that leads to that end. We see the most part of men walking at random,--running an uncertain race,--because they do not propose unto themselves a certain scope to aim at, and whither to direct their whole course. According to men's particular …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning Stedfastness in the Old Paths.
"Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls."--Jer. vi. 16. Reverence for the old paths is a chief Christian duty. We look to the future indeed with hope; yet this need not stand in the way of our dwelling on the past days of the Church with affection and deference. This is the feeling of our own Church, as continually expressed in the Prayer Book;--not to slight what has gone before, …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII How to Make Use of Christ as the Truth, when Error Prevaileth, and the Spirit of Error Carrieth Many Away.
There is a time when the spirit of error is going abroad, and truth is questioned, and many are led away with delusions. For Satan can change himself into an angel of light, and make many great and fairlike pretensions to holiness, and under that pretext usher in untruths, and gain the consent of many unto them; so that in such a time of temptation many are stolen off their feet, and made to depart from the right ways of God, and to embrace error and delusions instead of truth. Now the question is, …
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life Discerning Prayer.
INTRODUCTORY. BY D.W. WHITTLE. To recognize God's existence is to necessitate prayer to Him, by all intelligent creatures, or, a consciously living in sin and under condemnation of conscience, because they do not pray to Him. It would be horrible to admit the existence of a Supreme Being, with power and wisdom to create, and believe that the creatures he thought of consequence and importance enough to bring into existence, are not of enough consequence for him to pay any attention to in the troubles …
Various—The Wonders of Prayer The Perfect Heart.
For the eyes of the Lord ran to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him--2 CHRON. xvi. 9. This passage occurs in the history of Asa, one of the most godly and devoted kings that ever sat upon the throne of Judah. We are told in the fourteenth chapter that he commenced his reign by setting himself to destroy the idolatry into which the whole nation had been betrayed by its former ruler, and to restore the worship and service …
Catherine Booth—Godliness Links 2 Timothy 3:10 NIV2 Timothy 3:10 NLT2 Timothy 3:10 ESV2 Timothy 3:10 NASB2 Timothy 3:10 KJV
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