Paul’s final letter is 2 Timothy. The last two chapters, in particular, speak into the hostile environment in which his first readers found themselves.
3.1-5 describe ‘terrible times,’ in which most people will pursue ungodliness in many ways. Yet, amidst this ungodliness, legalism (a form of godliness) finds a home. This strange and contradictory environment is what Christians have to navigate.
3.9-12 goes on to describe persecutions which Paul endured and which the follower of Christ has to expect.
In 4.10, 14, Paul names Demas and Alexander, the unfaithful servant and the opponent. These statements are specific, since he names known individuals. It is unusual for Paul to name specific people in this way.
In this last message, Paul makes it clear that this world is not an easy place for someone who is a follower of Jesus Christ.
And he insists on a godly response. There are strong statements of purpose and hope.
3.10 – ‘my way of life.’ An important phrase. Paul continues to live with purpose, faith, patience, love, and endurance. In the face of anything that happens to him, these qualities remain.
3.15-17 – scripture. Timothy had known the scriptures from his childhood. And we return to the same scriptures.
4.6-8 – commitment to the end. Paul expected hardships, persecutions and sufferings so he lived focused on knowing Christ and making Him known.
4.17-18 – ultimately, the Lord stood with him. Irrespective of circumstances, we find God Himself, Father, Son, Holy Spirit, to be faithful and close.