Key word: Scripture
This is Paul’s final inspired letter as he awaits what appeared eminent execution in a Roman prison. This imprisonment was about 5 years after the imprisonment in which he wrote the 4 prison epistles. Since Paul is expecting to die soon, he felt the urgency to prepare the younger Timothy for the ministry without his leadership, thus the letter is full of extremely valuable insights and reminders that Timothy, as well as ourselves need. Let’s highlight just a few of these:
1. The gospel (1:8-10). The good news is Christ saved us by grace, through no merit of our own. As a result, He abolished spiritual, and ultimately physical death and brought life and immorality to light.
2. A powerful warning of the difficulties facing the child of God due to deceptive teachers (3:1-9).
3. The clearest presentation of the inspiration and transforming power of scripture found anywhere in the Bible (3:15-17).
4. The biblical methodology of making disciples, starting with accurately handling, interpreting and teaching God’s word (2:15). Then concentrating on those who desire to be faithful servants of the Lord, who in turn will disciple others (2:2).
5. Charging us to “preach” the Word, no matter the cost or resistance (4:1-5).
6. Ending with the goal of the Christian life as that of fighting the good fight, finishing the course the Lord has set before us, and keeping the faith. Such a life leads to the crown of righteousness (4:6-8).
Our key verse has to be 3:16-17 and our key word will be Scripture.
Key verse: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
