v1: The solemn charge; since Timothy was answerable to God. He must be motivated by Christ's return as Judge of all men. There is a reward, or a lack of reward. It is Christ's "appearing" (epiphany) that is here linked with our service and our reward, as in v8 also.

v2: The command is to be faithful today in the ministry to which Christ has called us. For Timothy, this would prepare his people for the trials of life. Paul commanded Timothy to press on whatever the circumstances.

v3-4: Swimming against the tide; Ezek 33.30-33; many, even professing Christians, will reject sound doctrine. They will prefer other things, following after useless fables.

v5: In the light of such things, we must be watchful. Paul never pretended that Christian leadership would be easy. There remains a constant need for personal vigilance, as well as maintaining a concern for others.

Timothy had to do the work of an evangelist, which was necessarily to encourage others to win unbelievers for Christ, and he had to fulfil what was clearly his own calling.

v6-8: A sober reflection of an exemplary life, as in 1 Sam 12 and John 17. Paul had maintained his integrity in all circumstances; he had faithfully proclaimed the message of Christ. As his race ends, his life draws to a close; the faithful man looked back and looked forward.

He speaks of a reward (as in v1). What he called Timothy to do, he had done himself. He looked forward with anticipation, not fear, for death held no power over him. He was confident too that many others would win a reward; he did not think of himself as better than other Christians.

v9-15: Paul maintained a concern for others. But he also suffered constantly from attacks and disappointments at the hands of men.

• There was the departure of worldly Demas (contrast Col 4.14).
• Crescens and Titus had to move on to serve God elsewhere.
• Luke had been Paul's companion for many years, and had remained with him. Mark was now valued, for he had earlier left Paul (Acts 13.13).
• Paul sent Tychicus to help others in Ephesus.
• Alexander was picked out as one who especially opposed Paul; Paul warned Timothy of his continuing influence.

Paul asked Timothy to bring his books. Paul was not so proud to seek the wisdom of others. Spurgeon comments; ‘He who will not use the thoughts of other men’s brains proves he has no brains of his own.’ (Sermon on 2 Timothy, quoted in Worship Matters, Bob Kauflin.)

v16: Paul had stood alone, but the Lord was with him. He always had confidence in God, and encouraged Timothy to have that same confidence.

v17-18: When Paul was alone, God was with him. The Lord would come to rescue him.

v19-22: A group of faithful brothers and sisters. Onesimus (Onesiphorus) now had his own household; no longer a runaway slave, but a godly husband and father.