2TI front intro s7fk 0 # Introduction to 2 Timothy<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of 2 Timothy<br><br>1. Paul greets Timothy and encourages him to endure hardship as he serves God (1:1-2:13).<br>1. Paul gives general instructions to Timothy (2:14–26).<br>1. Paul warns Timothy about future events and instructs him about how to carry out his service to God (3:1-4:8).<br>1. Paul makes personal remarks (4:9-24).<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of 2 Timothy?<br><br>Paul wrote 2 Timothy. He was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.<br><br>This book is the second letter Paul wrote Timothy. Timothy was his disciple and close friend. Paul wrote this letter while in prison in Rome. Paul would die soon after writing this letter.<br><br>### What is the Book of 2 Timothy about?<br><br>Paul had left Timothy in the city of Ephesus to help the believers there. Paul wrote this letter to instruct Timothy about various matters. The topics he addressed include warnings about false teachers and enduring difficult situations. This letter also shows how Paul was training Timothy to be a leader among the churches.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “2 Timothy” or “Second Timothy.” Or they may choose a different title, such as “Paul’s Second Letter to Timothy” or “The Second Letter to Timothy.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What is the soldier imagery in 2 Timothy?<br><br>As Paul waited in prison, knowing he would die soon, he spoke of being a soldier of Jesus Christ. Soldiers answer to their leaders. In the same way, Christians answer to Jesus. As “soldiers” of Christ, believers are to obey his commands, even if they die as a result.<br><br>### What does it mean that God inspired Scripture?<br><br>God is the true author of Scripture. He inspired the human authors who wrote the books. That means God in some way caused the people to write what they wrote. This is why the Bible is also referred to as God’s word. This implies several things about it. First, the Bible is free from error and can be trusted. Second, we can rely on God to protect the Scripture from those who want to distort it or destroy it. Third, God’s word should be translated into all the world’s languages.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### Singular and plural “you”<br><br>In this book, the word “I” refers to Paul. Here the word “you” is almost always singular and refers to Timothy. The exception to this is 4:22. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])<br><br>### What did Paul mean by the expression “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” etc.?<br><br>Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.<br><br>### What are the major textual issues in the text of the Book of 2 Timothy?<br><br>For the following verses, modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible already exists in their general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br><br>* “Because of this, I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher” (1:11). Some older versions read, “Because of this, I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher to the Gentiles.”<br>* “Warn them before God” (2:14). Some older versions read, “Warn them before the Lord.”<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translat
2TI 1 intro p5lf 0 # 2 Timothy 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul formally introduces this letter in verses 1-2. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Spiritual children<br><br>Paul discipled Timothy as a Christian and a church leader. Paul may also have led him to believe in Christ. Therefore, Paul calls Timothy “beloved child.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/disciple]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Persecution<br>Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter. Paul encourages Timothy to be willing to suffer for the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 1 1 p001 translate-names Παῦλος 1 Paul This is the name of a man, the author of the letter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 1 1 ha4l Παῦλος 1 Paul Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter. If so, you can use it in your translation.
2TI 1 1 vl2g διὰ θελήματος Θεοῦ 1 through the will of God Paul became an apostle because God wanted him to be an apostle. Alternate translation: “because of God’s will” or “because God wanted it to be so”
2TI 1 1 e1lg κατ’ 1 according to This could mean one of two things. (1) God appointed Paul to tell others about the promise of life in Jesus. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of” (2) Paul became an apostle because he himself received the promise of life in Jesus. Alternate translation: “as a result of”
2TI 1 1 m9kv figs-metaphor ζωῆς τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 life that is in Christ Jesus Paul speaks of **life** as if it were an object inside of Jesus. This refers to the life people receive as a result of belonging to Christ Jesus. Alternate translation: “of the life that we receive as a result of belonging to Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 2 p002 translate-names Τιμοθέῳ 1 Timothy This is the name of a man, the person who this letter is written to. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 1 2 rp5u Τιμοθέῳ 1 Timothy Your language may have a particular way of introducing the person who receives a letter. If so, you can use it in your translation.
2TI 1 2 ey7g figs-metaphor ἀγαπητῷ τέκνῳ 1 my beloved child Here **child** is a term of great love and approval. It is also likely that Paul introduced Timothy to Christ, and so this is why Paul considered him like his own child. Alternate translation: “my dear child” or “my child whom I love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 2 w43q χάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη, ἀπὸ 1 Grace, mercy, and peace from The letter starts with the name of the author and person who is receiving it. Then Paul adds a blessing to the person who is receiving it, Timothy. Alternate translation: “May you experience kindness, mercy, and peace within you from” or “I pray that you will have grace, mercy, and peace from”
2TI 1 2 p003 figs-abstractnouns χάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη 1 Grace, mercy, and peace Paul’s blessing to Timothy includes these three abstract nouns. Your language may have a particular way of expressing these concepts, such as with verbs. If so, you can use it in your translation. Alternate translation: “act kindly, show mercy, and give peace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 1 2 ub7c guidelines-sonofgodprinciples Θεοῦ Πατρὸς καὶ 1 God the Father and This is an important title for God. Paul could be referring to God here as (1) the Father of Christ, or (2) the Father of believers. Alternate translation: “God, who is the Father, and” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
2TI 1 2 dcr3 figs-inclusive ἡμῶν 1 our In this book, unless otherwise noted, the words **we**, **us**, and **our** refer to Paul (the writer of this letter), Timothy (the one to whom this letter is written), and, by extension, all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2TI 1 3 p004 figs-abstractnouns χάριν ἔχω τῷ Θεῷ 1 I have gratitude to God If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **gratitude** with a verb or an adjective. Alternative translation: “I thank God” or “I am thankful to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 1 3 tvb7 figs-idiom ᾧ λατρεύω ἀπὸ προγόνων 1 whom I serve from my ancestors This is an idiom that means that Paul serves God the way his **ancestors** did. Alternate translation: “whom I serve as my ancestors did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 1 3 ha9d figs-metaphor ἐν καθαρᾷ συνειδήσει 1 with a clean conscience Paul speaks of his conscience as if it could be physically clean. A person with a **clean conscience** does not feel guilty because he has always tried to do what was right. Alternate translation: “knowing I have tried my hardest to do what is right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 3 rz7s figs-abstractnouns ὡς ἀδιάλειπτον ἔχω τὴν περὶ σοῦ μνείαν 1 as I have constant remembrance of you in my prayers night and day Paul speaks of the action of remembering with the abstract noun **remembrance**. Your language may have a particular way of expressing this concept, such as with a verb. If so, you can use it in your translation. Alternative translation: “as I think about you constantly in my prayers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 1 3 p005 figs-yousingular σοῦ 1 you The word **you** is singular here and throughout the book, since Paul is addressing Timothy. A note will discuss the one exception in 4:22. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
2TI 1 3 pa6q figs-merism νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας 1 night and day Here **night and day** are used together to refer to all the time included in the night and day. Alternate translation: “always” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2TI 1 4 p006 figs-explicit μεμνημένος σου τῶν δακρύων 1 remembering your tears The implication is that Paul remembers how Timothy cried as Paul left the last time they were together. Alternate translation: “I remember how you cried when I left you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 1 4 kk82 figs-metonymy σου τῶν δακρύων 1 your tears Here **your tears** refers to the act of Timothy’s crying. Alternate translation: “that you cried” or “your crying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 1 4 gu8c figs-metaphor χαρᾶς πληρωθῶ 1 I may be filled with joy Paul speaks of himself as if he were a container that someone could **fill**. Alternate translation: “I may be very joyful” or “I may rejoice a lot” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 4 p007 figs-activepassive χαρᾶς πληρωθῶ 1 I may be filled with joy If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “joy may fill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 1 5 buc3 figs-abstractnouns τῆς ἐν σοὶ ἀνυποκρίτου πίστεως 1 of the genuine faith in you Paul refers to Timothy’s **faith** with an abstract noun. Your language may have a particular way of expressing this concept, such as with a verb. If so, you can use it in your translation. Alternate translation: “that you genuinely believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 1 5 p008 figs-metaphor τῆς ἐν σοὶ ἀνυποκρίτου πίστεως 1 the genuine faith in you Paul speaks of **faith** as if it were an object inside of Timothy. Alternate translation: “your genuine faith” or “your faith that is genuine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 5 vgz2 figs-personification πίστεως, ἥτις ἐνῴκησεν πρῶτον ἐν τῇ μάμμῃ σου, Λωΐδι, καὶ τῇ μητρί σου, Εὐνίκῃ; πέπεισμαι δὲ ὅτι καὶ ἐν σοί 1 faith, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am convinced that it is also in you Paul is speaking of their **faith** as if it were something that was alive and lived in them. Alternate translation: “faith. Lois, your grandmother, and then Eunice, your mother, had this genuine faith in God, and now I am confident that you have this same genuine faith as well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2TI 1 5 l8wc translate-names Λωΐδι 1 Lois This is the name of a woman, Timothy’s grandmother. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 1 5 p009 translate-names Εὐνίκῃ 1 Eunice This is the name of a woman, Timothy’s mother. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 1 6 j58k δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν 1 for which reason Paul writes that the **reason** for asking Timothy to rekindle his gift is that he is confident of Timothy’s faith. Alternative translation: “For this reason” or “Because of your faith in Jesus”
2TI 1 6 h6eq figs-metaphor ἀναζωπυρεῖν τὸ χάρισμα 1 rekindle the gift Paul speaks about Timothy’s need to start using his **gift** again as if he were restarting a fire. Alternate translation: “be eager once more to use the gift” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 6 i977 translate-symaction τὸ χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἐν σοὶ διὰ τῆς ἐπιθέσεως τῶν χειρῶν μου 1 the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands Paul placed his **hands** on Timothy and prayed that God would give him power from God’s Spirit to enable him to do the work that God had called him to do. Then Timothy received the gift. Alternative translation: “the gift of God that you received when I prayed for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2TI 1 6 p010 figs-metaphor τὸ χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἐν σοὶ διὰ τῆς ἐπιθέσεως τῶν χειρῶν μου 1 the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands Paul speaks of **the gift** as an object inside of Timothy. If the words **that is in you** does not clearly communicate in your language that Timothy received the gift, you could translate it with a verb that expressing the idea of giving or receiving. Alternative translation: “the gift of God that you received when I laid my hands on you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 7 h1z3 οὐ…ἔδωκεν ἡμῖν ὁ Θεὸς πνεῦμα δειλίας, ἀλλὰ δυνάμεως, καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ σωφρονισμοῦ 1 God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of discipline This could mean one of two things. (1) **Spirit** could refer to the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “God’s Holy Spirit does not cause us to be afraid. He causes us to have power and love and discipline” (2) **Spirit** could refer to the character of a human being. Alternate translation: “God does not cause us to be afraid but to have power and love and discipline”
2TI 1 7 p011 figs-abstractnouns δυνάμεως, καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ σωφρονισμοῦ 1 of power, and of love, and of discipline Paul uses abstract nouns to refer to three things that Timothy should be able to do. Your language may have a particular way of expressing these concepts, such as with verbs. If so, you can use them in your translation. Alternate translation: “that gives us the ability to obey, to love, and to control ourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 1 7 k6g7 σωφρονισμοῦ 1 discipline The word **discipline** could mean one of two things. (1) **Discipline** could refer to self-control. Alternate translation: “the ability to control ourselves” (2) **Discipline** could refer to the power to control or even correct others. Alternate translation: “to control others”
2TI 1 8 fk9z figs-metonymy τὸ μαρτύριον 1 the testimony Paul may be using the word **testimony** to refer to the activity of telling others about the Lord and not to the message itself. Alternative translation: “of testifying” or “of telling others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 1 8 blk9 τὸν δέσμιον αὐτοῦ 1 his prisoner Paul is not being held **prisoner** by the Lord. He is a prisoner because he has testified about the Lord. Alternative translation: “a prisoner for his sake” or “a prisoner for the Lord”
2TI 1 8 ry82 συνκακοπάθησον τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ 1 suffer together for the gospel The term **together** could mean one of two things. (1) It could mean for Timothy to suffer together with Paul. (2) It could mean for Timothy to suffer together with all Christians who suffer.
2TI 1 8 hi9a τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ, κατὰ δύναμιν Θεοῦ 1 the gospel, according to the power of God Paul is reminding Timothy that God provides people with **power** when they suffer. Alternate translation: “the gospel, allowing God to make you strong”
2TI 1 9 ld55 figs-metonymy καλέσαντος κλήσει ἁγίᾳ 1 called us with a holy calling Paul uses the expression **with a holy calling** to describe what results from the calling. The call produces holy people or people set apart for him. Alternate translation: “called with a calling that set us apart as holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 1 9 kyr5 ἀλλὰ κατὰ ἰδίαν πρόθεσιν καὶ χάριν 1 but according to his own purpose and grace Paul is saying that God saves because of his plan and **grace**. His plan includes showing grace or kindness through Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “but because he planned to show us kindness”
2TI 1 9 p012 figs-activepassive καὶ χάριν, τὴν δοθεῖσαν ἡμῖν ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “and grace, which God gave to us in Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 1 9 pq1z ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 in Christ Jesus Paul explains that God planned show kindness through faith **in Jesus Christ**. Alternate translation: “through our relationship to Christ Jesus”
2TI 1 9 zq7m figs-idiom πρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων 1 before eternal times This is an idiom that indicates that God decided to save through faith in Christ before time and creation. Alternate translation: “before time began” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 1 10 h5e5 figs-metaphor φανερωθεῖσαν δὲ νῦν, διὰ τῆς ἐπιφανείας τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 and which now has been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus Paul speaks of salvation as if it were an object that could be uncovered and shown to people through the arrival of Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “which now has been shown” or “which now people can see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 10 p013 figs-activepassive φανερωθεῖσαν δὲ νῦν 1 and which now has been revealed If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “which now God has revealed” or “which now God has shown” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 1 10 i3wl figs-metaphor φωτίσαντος δὲ ζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 brought to light life and immortality through the gospel Paul refers to **life and immortality** as if they were objects that could be brought from darkness into light so that people could see them. He is figuratively speaking of revealing or making known. Alternate translation: “revealed life and immortality through the gospel” or “declared life and immortality through the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 11 tb9b figs-activepassive ἐτέθην ἐγὼ κῆρυξ 1 I was appointed a herald If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “God chose me to be a herald” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 1 11 p014 translate-unknown κῆρυξ 1 a herald A **herald** is someone who is sent out to announce a message. If your language does not have a similar term and your readers would not know what a **herald** is, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2TI 1 11 p015 figs-metaphor κῆρυξ 1 a herald Paul compares himself to a **herald** because God has sent him out to announce the gospel message. Alternate translation: “a preacher” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 12 j37g δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν 1 for which reason Paul provides the **reason** for his suffering by referring back to his status as an apostle. Alternate translation: “Because I am an apostle”
2TI 1 12 y8l4 figs-explicit καὶ ταῦτα πάσχω 1 I also suffer also these things Paul does not mention the specific **things** he is **suffering**, but from the context of the letter, the implication is that he is referring to suffering as a prisoner. Alternate translation: “I also suffer as a prisoner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 1 12 td39 πέπεισμαι 1 I am persuaded Paul expresses that he is certain that God will make everything right in the end. Alternate translation: “I am sure”
2TI 1 12 p6pi figs-metaphor τὴν παραθήκην μου φυλάξαι 1 to guard my deposit Paul is using a metaphor of a person leaving something with another person who is supposed to protect it until he gives it back to the first person. This could mean one of two things. (1) Paul is trusting Jesus to help him remain faithful. Alternate translation: “to help me keep preaching his message” (2) Paul is trusting Jesus to preserve everything he has entrusted to him. Alternate translation: “to protect everything I have invested in serving him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 12 qcu3 figs-explicit ἐκείνην τὴν ἡμέραν 1 that day This refers to the **day** when Jesus returns for judgment. Alternate translation: “the day of judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 1 13 h1qd figs-metonymy ὑγιαινόντων λόγων 1 the healthy words Paul wants Timothy to teach the things that he taught and thereby follow his example. The expression **the healthy words** figuratively means “the correct message” by association, since a healthy mind would recognize that the correct message was reasonable. Alternate translation: “the correct message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 1 13 p016 figs-metonymy ὑγιαινόντων λόγων 1 the healthy words Paul uses the term **words** figuratively to describe the expression in words of what Christians genuinely believe. Alternate translation: “the correct message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 1 13 p017 figs-abstractnouns ἐν πίστει καὶ ἀγάπῃ τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus Paul uses two abstract nouns, **faith** and **love**, to refer to actions that Timothy should do. Your language may have a particular way of expressing these concepts, such as with a verb. If so, you can use it in your translation. Alternate translation: “trusting in Christ Jesus and loving others because you belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 1 13 b2ld ἐν πίστει καὶ ἀγάπῃ τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus Here **love** could mean one of two things. (1) The love that Timothy should show others. Alternate translation: “trusting in Christ Jesus and loving others because you belong to him” (2) The love that Timothy should show to God. Alternate translation: “trusting in Christ Jesus and loving him”
2TI 1 14 i5g5 figs-explicit τὴν καλὴν παραθήκην φύλαξον 1 Guard the good deposit This refers to the gospel message that God has entrusted to Timothy to share with his people. Alternate translation: “the good message entrusted to you for God’s people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 1 14 cb5q figs-explicit φύλαξον 1 guard Timothy needs to be alert to protect the gospel message because people will oppose him and try to distort what he says and teaches. Alternate translation: “protect … against those who will try to distort it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 1 14 a3v2 διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου 1 through the Holy Spirit Paul reminds Timothy that the Holy Spirit will help him. Alternate translation: “with the Holy Spirit’s help”
2TI 1 15 p018 figs-hyperbole πάντες οἱ ἐν τῇ Ἀσίᾳ 1 all who are in Asia The word **all** could mean one of two things. (1) Paul could have used the word **all** to mean many but not all in the strict sense, since Timothy and Onesiphorus did not turn away from him. So this would be an example of hyperbole. (2) Paul could have used the word **all** to refer to the men who came to Rome with him from Asia Minor. Alternate translation: “all who came with me from Asia” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2TI 1 15 p019 translate-names Ἀσίᾳ 1 Asia This is the name of a region, Asia Minor or modern-day Turkey. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 1 15 p6f4 figs-metaphor ἀπεστράφησάν με 1 turned away from me This is a metaphor that means they left Paul and stopped helping him. Alternate translation: “have deserted me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 15 p020 figs-explicit ἀπεστράφησάν με 1 turned away from me Paul assumes that Timothy will know that the believers from Asia had abandoned him because the authorities had thrown him into prison. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “have deserted me because I am in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 1 15 x6cc translate-names Φύγελος 1 Phygelus This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 1 15 p021 translate-names Ἑρμογένης 1 Hermogenes This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 1 16 zz44 figs-metonymy τῷ Ὀνησιφόρου οἴκῳ 1 to the household of Onesiphorus The word **household** refers to **Onesiphorus** and all the people in his family, possibly even his servants. Alternate translation: “to Onesiphorus and everyone who lives with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 1 16 td1q figs-metonymy τὴν ἅλυσίν μου οὐκ ἐπησχύνθη 1 not ashamed of my chain The word **chain** refers to being in prison. Onesiphorus was not ashamed that Paul was in prison but came to visit him frequently. Alternate translation: “was not ashamed of my imprisonment” or “was not ashamed of my being in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 1 17 p022 translate-names Ῥώμῃ 1 Rome This is the name of a city, the capital of the Roman Empire. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 1 17 p023 figs-hendiadys ἐζήτησέν με καὶ εὗρεν 1 sought me and found The two actions, **sought** and **found**, are not two separate actions, but they express the single idea that Onesiphorus diligently did something to completion. Alternate translation: “he sought me until he found me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
2TI 1 18 p3di δῴη αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος, εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου 1 May the Lord grant to him to find mercy from the Lord Paul is asking for the Lord to **grant mercy** to Onesiphorus. Your language may require you to use the name “Onesiphorus” instead of the pronoun **him** to make it clear who is receiving mercy. Alternative translation: “May Onesiphorus receive mercy from the Lord”
2TI 1 18 x2dk figs-metaphor εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου 1 to find mercy from the Lord Paul speaks of **mercy** as if it were an object that could be found. Paul is expressing his desire that God show **mercy** on the day of judgment. Alternate translation: “to receive mercy from the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 1 18 f3ep figs-explicit ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ 1 in that day The expression **that day** refers to the day when God will judge all people; they will find mercy, as Paul mentions, or wrath. Alternate translation: “on the day of judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 1 18 p024 translate-names Ἐφέσῳ 1 Ephesus This is the name of a city, the place where Timothy, the recipient of the letter, is located. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 1 18 p025 figs-explicit διηκόνησεν, βέλτιον σὺ γινώσκεις 1 he served me, you know very well Paul is reminding Timothy that Onesiphorus helped him earlier, in Ephesus. So, Paul is asking the Lord to bless Onesiphorus because he helped Paul several times. Alternate translation: “you know well how he helped me earlier when I was in Ephesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 intro k3zn 0 # 2 Timothy 02 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>In verses 11b-13, Paul may be quoting a poem or hymn. To show the reader that this may be a quotation, in your translation you may choose to set these verses farther to the right than the other verses in the chapter.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### We will reign with him<br>Faithful Christians will reign with Christ in the future. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Analogies<br>In this chapter, Paul makes several analogies to teach about living as a Christian. He uses analogies of soldiers, athletes, and farmers. Later in the chapter, he uses the analogy of different kinds of containers in a house.
2TI 2 1 bll5 figs-metaphor τέκνον μου 1 my child Here **child** is a term of great love and approval. It is also likely that Paul introduced Timothy to Christ, and so this is why Paul considered him like his own child. Alternate translation: “who is like my child” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 1 p026 figs-activepassive ἐνδυναμοῦ 1 be strengthened You could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action. Alternate translation: “let God make you strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 2 1 e6ex figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῇ χάριτι τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 in the grace that is in Christ Jesus Paul wants Timothy to experience the strength that God provides through his **grace** or kindness that believers experience through knowing Jesus Christ. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **grace** with an adjective. Alternate translation: “as Christ Jesus shows you kindness through your relationship to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 2 ig9v figs-explicit διὰ πολλῶν μαρτύρων 1 in the presence of many witnesses Paul is referring to teaching in a public setting with others present. The implication is that those others could testify as to what he taught. Alternate translation: “in the presence of people who can testify to what I said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 2 kv1m figs-metaphor ταῦτα παράθου πιστοῖς ἀνθρώποις 1 entrust these things to faithful men Paul speaks of his instructions to Timothy as if they were objects that Timothy could give to other people and trust them to use correctly. Alternate translation: “commit them” or “teach them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 2 p027 figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώποις 1 men Paul uses the term **men** in a generic sense that includes all people. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TI 2 3 yc1j figs-explicit συνκακοπάθησον 1 suffer together The term **together** could mean one of two things. (1) It could mean for Timothy to suffer together with Paul. Alternate translation: “suffer together with me” (2) It could mean for Timothy to suffer together with all Christians who suffer. Alternate translation: “suffer together with all believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 3 juu2 figs-metaphor ὡς καλὸς στρατιώτης Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 as a good soldier of Jesus Christ Paul compares suffering for Christ Jesus to the suffering that a good soldier endures. Alternate translation: “as if you were a soldier and Jesus Christ were your commander” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 4 a4x7 figs-metaphor οὐδεὶς στρατευόμενος ἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις 1 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in the affairs of life To help Timothy understand something important about following Jesus, Paul introduces the metaphor of a soldier who has to decide between pleasing his leader or pleasing those outside the army. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this. Alternate translation: “Consider that no dedicated soldier allows the affairs of life to distract him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 4 p7n5 figs-metaphor ἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις 1 gets entangled in the affairs of life Paul speaks of being involved in other matters as if they were a net that trapped people and kept them from being able to move freely. Alternate translation: “allows the affairs of life to distract him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 4 p028 figs-activepassive ἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις 1 gets entangled in the affairs of life If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “allows the affairs of life to distract him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 2 4 p029 figs-explicit ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις 1 the affairs of life By **life**, Paul means, in the context of this metaphor, “civilian life.” The implication is that Timothy and all believers should not allow competing concerns to keep them from serving Christ. Alternate translation: “everyday life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 5 d483 figs-metaphor ἐὰν…ἀθλῇ τις, οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ 1 if anyone competes, he is not crowned if he has not competed lawfully To help Timothy understand something important about following Jesus, Paul introduces the metaphor of an athlete who has to decide between competing lawfully or not lawfully. The athlete will only receive the crown given to the winner if he competes lawfully. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this directly. Alternate translation: “Consider that the officials only crown an athlete as the winner if he competes according to the rules” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 5 p031 figs-hypo ἐὰν…ἀθλῇ τις, οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ 1 if anyone competes, he is not crowned if he has not competed lawfully Paul is also using a hypothetical situation to teach Timothy. Alternate translation: “Suppose an athlete did not compete by the rules. Then he would not be crowned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
2TI 2 5 xbn6 figs-doublenegatives οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ 1 he is not crowned if he has not competed lawfully If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this double negative as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “the officials will only crown him if he competes by the rules” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2TI 2 5 p033 figs-activepassive οὐ στεφανοῦται 1 he is not crowned If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “the officials will not crown him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 2 5 p034 figs-explicit οὐ στεφανοῦται 1 he is not crowned Paul assumes that Timothy will know that in this culture, crowning indicated the winner of a competition. Alternate translation: “the officials will not crown him as the winner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 5 lea8 translate-unknown οὐ στεφανοῦται 1 he is not crowned Athletes in Paul’s time were crowned with wreaths made from the leaves of plants when they won competitions. You can express this idea in your translation by referring to the comparable custom in your own culture, or by using a general expression. Alternate translation: “the officials will not give him an award” or “the officials will not declare him to be the winner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2TI 2 5 reg6 figs-explicit νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ 1 he has competed lawfully Paul is referring to the rules that governed a competition. The athletes had to obey the rules or they would be removed from the competition and not have an opportunity to win. Paul is implicitly encouraging Timothy to serve Christ **lawfully**. Alternate translation: “he competes according to the rules” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 6 wz35 figs-metaphor τὸν κοπιῶντα γεωργὸν δεῖ πρῶτον τῶν καρπῶν μεταλαμβάνειν 1 The hardworking farmer ought to be first to receive of the crops To help Timothy understand something important about following Jesus, Paul introduces the metaphor of a farmer who has to decide between working hard or not working hard. The farmer will receive a share of the harvest if he is hard working. Paul is encouraging Timothy to work hard in his service to Christ. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this directly. Alternate translation: “Consider that a farmer who works hard should receive a share of the crops before anyone else.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 6 p035 figs-explicit πρῶτον τῶν καρπῶν μεταλαμβάνειν 1 first to receive of the crops The farmer is working with other farmers and will receive a part of the crop at the time of harvest. If he works hard, he should receive before the others. It is implied that receiving first is best, possibly because the quality of food is better. Alternate translation: “receive the best share of the crops” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 7 bdk9 figs-explicit νόει ὃ λέγω, δώσει γάρ σοι ὁ Κύριος σύνεσιν 1 Think about what I am saying, for the Lord will give you understanding Paul gave Timothy three metaphors, but he did not completely explain their implications. He expected Timothy to figure out, with God’s help, what he was saying about Christ’s servants. Alternate translation: “You will have to think carefully about what I have just told you to understand it completely, but you can depend on God to help you do that.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 7 p036 figs-metonymy ὃ λέγω 1 what I am saying Paul refers to what he has just written in his letter with the verb **saying** to express the idea of communicating. Alternate translation: “what I have just told you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 2 7 a22q figs-explicit ἐν πᾶσιν 1 in everything This could mean one of two things. (1) God will give Timothy understanding about everything related to the three metaphors. Alternate translation: “about everything I just said” or “about all I said” (2) God will give Timothy understanding about everything related to being a good servant of Christ. Alternate translation: “about everything a good servant needs to understand” or “about all you need to understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 8 mh1k figs-metaphor ἐκ σπέρματος Δαυείδ 1 from the seed of David The phrase **from the seed of** refers figuratively to Jesus being descended from King David. Alternate translation: “who is a descendant of David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 8 p037 translate-names Δαυείδ 1 David This is the name of a man, a great king of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 2 8 wt31 figs-idiom ἐγηγερμένον ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 raised from the dead The expression **raise from the dead** is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “whom God caused to live again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 2 8 p038 figs-activepassive ἐγηγερμένον ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 raised from the dead If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “whom God raised from the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 2 8 s4vh κατὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιόν μου 1 according to my gospel The term **my** conveys the idea that it is the gospel associated with Paul because he preaches it. Alternate translation: “according to the gospel message that I preach”
2TI 2 9 t2ax figs-metonymy μέχρι δεσμῶν 1 unto chains Paul uses the expression **unto chains** figuratively to express how far his suffering has gone, from being beaten to being arrested to being in chains in prison. Alternate translation: “to the point of being imprisoned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 2 9 p039 figs-simile ὡς κακοῦργος 1 like a criminal Paul compares his situation to the shameful one that a person would be in who had actually committed a crime. Alternate translation: “as if I were a criminal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2TI 2 9 pc6t figs-metaphor ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐ δέδεται 1 the word of God is not bound Here **bound** means being held in chains as a prisoner, referring to Paul’s condition. Paul contrasts himself, an actual prisoner, with God’s message, which can never be held prisoner. Alternate translation: “nothing is holding back the message from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 9 p040 figs-activepassive ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐ δέδεται 1 the word of God is not bound If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this idea. Alternate translation: “nothing is holding back the message from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 2 9 p041 figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the word of God Paul uses the term **word** figuratively to describe the message from God that he and others are communicating with words. Alternate translation: “the message from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 2 10 p042 figs-hyperbole πάντα ὑπομένω 1 I endure all things Here the term **all** is a generalization that likely refers to the sufferings that Paul describes in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “I endure all of these sufferings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2TI 2 10 aa1x figs-nominaladj διὰ τοὺς ἐκλεκτούς 1 for the chosen The term **chosen** is an adjective that functions as a noun here and refers to a group of people. If your language would not use an adjective in that way, you can translate this term with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “for the people whom God has chosen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2TI 2 10 j2bk σωτηρίας τύχωσιν τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus The phrase **obtain the salvation** could also be expressed with Christ Jesus as the subject who grants salvation. Alternate translation: “Christ Jesus may grant them salvation”
2TI 2 10 p043 figs-abstractnouns σωτηρίας τύχωσιν τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **salvation** with a verb. Alternate translation: “Christ Jesus may save them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 10 el68 figs-abstractnouns μετὰ δόξης αἰωνίου 1 with eternal glory If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **glory** with an adjective. This could mean one of two things. (1) God will give his people a glorious place to live in that will last forever. Alternate translation: “and they will be in a glorious place with him forever” (2) God will allow his people to experience a glorious condition or body that will last forever. Alternate translation: “and they will have a glorious body forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 11 nr7u πιστὸς ὁ λόγος 1 This word is trustworthy In this context, the term **word** has a specific meaning. Alternate translation: “This statement is dependable”
2TI 2 11 p044 πιστὸς ὁ λόγος 1 This word is trustworthy You could represent the meaning of the adjective **trustworthy** with an active verb, if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “You can trust this statement”
2TI 2 11 p045 figs-quotemarks πιστὸς ὁ λόγος 1 This word is trustworthy Paul uses this phrase to introduce a direct quotation. The words that follow in the rest of this verse and in [2:12](../02/12.md) and [2:13](../02/13.md) are a poem or hymn that expresses the message that Paul says is trustworthy. It may be helpful to your readers if you indicate this by marking these words as a direct quotation or by setting them farther to the right, as the General Notes at the beginning of this chapter suggest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])
2TI 2 11 g6e4 writing-poetry εἰ γὰρ συναπεθάνομεν, καὶ συνζήσομεν 1 For if we died with him, we will also live with him This is the beginning of a poem or hymn that Paul is probably quoting. If your language has a way of indicating that this is poetry, such as by setting individual phrases on separate lines, you could use it here and in [2:12](../02/12.md) and [2:13](../02/13.md). If not, you could translate this material as regular prose rather than as poetry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]])
2TI 2 11 in38 figs-metaphor εἰ…συναπεθάνομεν 1 if we died with him Paul is speaking figuratively, since he and Timothy and other believers who should trust this statement have not actually died. This could mean one of two things. (1) Paul could be referring to the way that believers identify with Jesus’ death when they trust him for salvation. Alternate translation: “if we have identified with Jesus’ death for us” (2) Paul could be referring to the way that people who believe in Jesus may suffer for him, possibly to the point of dying for him. Alternate translation: “if we are prepared to die for Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 11 p046 figs-metaphor καὶ συνζήσομεν 1 we will also live with him If **died** is figurative, then Paul may intend the term **live** in a figurative sense as well. If so, it could mean one of two things. (1) If **died** refers to the way that believers identify with Jesus’ death, then **live** may refer to how they will act as a result. Alternate translation: “we will not pursue our own desires, instead we will do what Jesus wants us to do” (2) If **died** refers to being prepared to die for Jesus, then **live** may refer to life after death. Alternate translation: “God will raise us from the dead as he raised Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 12 p047 figs-metaphor συνβασιλεύσομεν 1 we will reign with him Paul uses the expression **reign** to refer figuratively to the reward of obedience on earth, which is eternal life. In the eternal state, believers actually will **reign** with Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “we will have eternal life with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 12 p048 εἰ ἀρνησόμεθα 1 if we deny him Paul uses the term **deny** to refer to the action of believers saying that they do not know Jesus Christ during this present life. Alternate translation: “if we say now that we do not know him”
2TI 2 12 p049 κἀκεῖνος ἀρνήσεται ἡμᾶς 1 he also will deny us Paul uses **deny** to refer to the action of Jesus Christ on the day of final judgment. Jesus will either receive a faithful believer or reject those who are not true followers. Alternate translation: “he will reject us on the day of judgment”
2TI 2 13 ke4w εἰ ἀπιστοῦμεν 1 if we are unfaithful Paul uses the word **unfaithful** to express the idea that believers do not continue to obey but rather disobey. Alternate translation: “if we disobey Jesus” or “if we do not do what Jesus wants us to do”
2TI 2 13 p050 figs-explicit ἐκεῖνος πιστὸς μένει 1 he remains faithful This could mean one of two things. Alternate translation: (1) “he remains true to himself” (2) “he remains faithful to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 13 ihd4 ἀρνήσασθαι…ἑαυτὸν οὐ δύναται 1 he is not able to deny himself Paul states that Jesus is not able to **deny himself**, meaning that Jesus is not able to go against his character and will remain true to what he said he would do. Alternate translation: “he must always act according to his character”
2TI 2 14 u661 ὑπομίμνῃσκε 1 remind them The word **them**, which is implicit in the Greek verb, probably refers to the people that Timothy has responsibility over. Alternate translation: “remind the people there”
2TI 2 14 p051 figs-metaphor ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 before God Paul uses the expression **before God**, which means “in front of God,” to mean “where God can see.” Seeing, in turn, figuratively means attention and judgment. Alternate translation: “as God is watching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 14 r5lq figs-explicit ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 before God The implication is that Paul is telling Timothy to tell the believers, when he gives them this command, that God will be watching what they do. Alternate translation: “with God as their witness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 14 g6p7 figs-metaphor μὴ λογομαχεῖν 1 not to battle about words Paul uses the term **battle** figuratively to describe arguments. This could mean one of two things. (1) The believers are not to argue about foolish things that people say. Alternate translation: “not to fight about foolish comments” (2) The believers are not to argue about what words mean. Alternate translation: “not to fight about the meanings of words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 14 rke6 ἐπ’ οὐδὲν χρήσιμον 1 it is useful for nothing Paul adds that battling about words has no benefit for those involved. Alternate translation: “it does not benefit anyone”
2TI 2 15 m3vy σεαυτὸν, δόκιμον παραστῆσαι τῷ Θεῷ, ἐργάτην ἀνεπαίσχυντον 1 to present yourself approved to God, a worker not ashamed Alternate translation: “do your best to please God and to seek God’s approval”
2TI 2 15 rj6y figs-metaphor ἐργάτην 1 a worker Paul says figuratively that Timothy will be a skilled workman if he correctly teaches God’s word. Alternate translation: “like a craftsman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 15 xgz9 figs-metaphor ὀρθοτομοῦντα τὸν λόγος τῆς ἀληθείας 1 cutting the word of truth straight Paul refers figuratively to **the word of truth** as if it were a path that someone was cutting through difficult terrain. When such a path is **straight**, travelers can follow it directly to their destination. By contrast, the useless discussions that Paul describes in [2:14](../02/14.md) and [2:16](../02/16.md) would be needless detours in terms of this same metaphor. Alternate translation: “show people how to follow the Scriptures directly” or “teach the Scriptures correctly so that people can follow them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 15 p052 figs-metonymy τὸν λόγος τῆς ἀληθείας 1 the word of truth Paul uses the term **word** figuratively to refer to something that is expressed in words. This could mean one of two things. (1) It could refer to the message that Timothy is to teach. Alternate translation: “the true message” (2) It could refer to the Scriptures. Alternate translation: “the true things that God has said in the Scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 2 15 p053 figs-abstractnouns τὸν λόγος τῆς ἀληθείας 1 the word of truth If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **truth** with an adjective. Alternate translation: “the true message” or “the true things that God has said in the Scriptures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 16 e27q figs-metaphor ἐπὶ πλεῖον…προκόψουσιν ἀσεβείας 1 for they will advance into greater ungodliness Paul speaks of these discussions figuratively as if they could physically progress in a certain direction, and he speaks of godlessness as that direction. Paul is figuratively describing the effect that these discussions have on people. Alternate translation: “because they cause people to become more and more ungodly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 17 i73t figs-simile ὁ λόγος αὐτῶν ὡς γάγγραινα νομὴν ἕξει 1 their word will have a spreading like gangrene This is a simile. It means that what the people who were taking part in empty discussions were saying would spread from person to person and harm the faith of those who heard it. Alternate translation: “what people who take part in these discussions say will spread quickly and cause destruction like an infectious disease” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2TI 2 17 p054 figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος αὐτῶν 1 their word Paul uses the term **word** figuratively to refer to something that is expressed in words. Alternate translation: “what people who take part in these discussions say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 2 17 p055 translate-unknown ὡς γάγγραινα 1 like gangrene The illness **gangrene** is an infection that destroys bodily tissues. It quickly spreads in a person’s body and can lead to death. If your readers would not know what **gangrene** was, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “like an infectious disease” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2TI 2 17 p056 ὧν ἐστιν Ὑμέναιος, καὶ Φίλητος 1 among whom are Hymenaeus and Philetus Paul gives Timothy the names of two men who are examples of ungodliness and foolish talk. To make the relationship between these names and the preceding **their word** clear in your language, you may have to make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Hymeneus and Philetus are such people”
2TI 2 17 x2k6 translate-names Ὑμέναιος, καὶ Φίλητος 1 Hymenaeus and Philetus These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 2 18 fi9z figs-metaphor οἵτινες περὶ τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἠστόχησαν 1 who have missed the mark regarding the truth Paul uses this expression to speak figuratively of faith in Christ as if it were a target that people should aim at. Those who have **missed the mark** no longer believe or teach what is true. Alternate translation: “who have started saying things that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 18 p057 figs-abstractnouns οἵτινες περὶ τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἠστόχησαν 1 who have missed the mark regarding the truth If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **truth** with an adjective. Alternate translation: “who have started saying things that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 18 pu22 figs-abstractnouns ἀνάστασιν ἤδη γεγονέναι 1 the resurrection has already happened If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **resurrection** with an equivalent expression. Alternative translation: “God has already raised the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 18 ura5 figs-metaphor ἀνατρέπουσιν τήν τινων πίστιν 1 who are destroying the faith of some Paul refers to **faith** as though it were an object that could be destroyed. Alternate translation: “they are causing some people to stop believing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 19 ir1z figs-metaphor ὁ…στερεὸς θεμέλιος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἕστηκεν 1 the firm foundation of God stands Paul uses the image of the foundation of a building to explain that even though a destructive message has been destroying the faith of some people, God has nevertheless given people who want to continue in the faith a safe and secure “place to stand,” as it were. Alternate translation: “God has provided a secure basis for people to continue to believe in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 19 p058 figs-metonymy ἔχων τὴν σφραγῖδα ταύτην 1 having this seal Paul speaks figuratively of the inscription on this foundation as if it were a **seal**, since seals on the outside of documents often bore inscriptions describing their contents. Alternate translation: “having this inscription” or “which can be described in this way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 2 19 p059 figs-quotemarks ἔχων τὴν σφραγῖδα ταύτην 1 having this seal Paul uses this phrase to introduce two direct quotations. The statements that follow in the rest of this verse describe two aspects of the basis that God has provided for people to continue to believe in him. It may be helpful to your readers if you indicate this by marking these statements as quotations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks]])
2TI 2 19 nd7t figs-idiom ὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου 1 who names the name of the Lord The expression **names the name of the Lord** is an idiom that refers to saying the name of the Lord in order to declare that one belongs to him. Alternate translation: “who says he believes in the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 2 19 y3bc figs-abstractnouns ἀποστήτω ἀπὸ ἀδικίας 1 must abstain from unrighteousness If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **unrighteousness** with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “must stop doing evil things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 20 p060 figs-metaphor ἐν μεγάλῃ δὲ οἰκίᾳ, οὐκ ἔστιν μόνον σκεύη χρυσᾶ καὶ ἀργυρᾶ, ἀλλὰ καὶ ξύλινα καὶ ὀστράκινα 1 Now in a great house, there are not only gold and silver containers, but also wood and clay To help Timothy understand something important about following Jesus, Paul introduces the metaphor of the containers that are in the home of a wealthy person. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this. Alternate translation: “Consider that in the home of a wealthy person, there are containers made of gold and silver, and there are also containers made of wood and clay” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 20 p061 figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ καὶ ξύλινα καὶ ὀστράκινα 1 but also wood and clay Paul leaves out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. Alternate translation: “and there are also containers made of wood and clay” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2TI 2 20 j75l σκεύη 1 containers The word **container** is a general term for items used to hold food or drink. If your language does not have a general word, you can use a specific word such as “bowl” or “pot.”
2TI 2 20 mt5e figs-abstractnouns ἃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν, ἃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν 1 both some for honor and some for dishonor If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **honor** and **dishonor** with equivalent phrases. This could mean one of two things. (1) Alternate translation: “dishes both for special occasions and for ordinary times” (2) Alternate translation: “dishes both for use in public and for use in private” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 21 jm3p figs-metaphor ἐκκαθάρῃ ἑαυτὸν ἀπὸ τούτων 1 has cleansed himself from these Paul speaks figuratively of a person washing himself to indicate giving up certain associations or activities. This could mean one of two things. (1) The word **these** could refer to the false teachers who are destroying the faith of some people. Alternate translation: “these false teachers” (2) The word **these** could refer to the quarrelling and false teaching that Paul has warned Timothy about. Alternate translation: “these ungodly actions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 21 g79f figs-metaphor ἔσται σκεῦος εἰς τιμήν 1 he will be a container for honor Paul speaks figuratively of a person who has given up these associations or activities as if he were a particular kind of container. Alternate translation: “he will be like a dish for special occasions” or “he will be like a dish for use in public” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 21 p062 figs-explicit ἔσται σκεῦος εἰς τιμήν 1 he will be a container for honor The implication is that God will be able to give important assignments to a person who is free from wrong associations or activities. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “he will be someone to whom God can give important assignments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 2 21 mh63 ἡγιασμένον εὔχρηστον τῷ Δεσπότῃ, εἰς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἡτοιμασμένον 1 having been sanctified, useful to the Master, having been prepared for every good work These three expressions could relate in one of two ways to the phrase **he will be a container for honor**. (1) They could be a further description of such a person. Alternate translation: “someone who is sanctified, useful to the Master, and ready for every good work” (2) They could be explaining the reason why the person is ready for honorable use. Alternate translation: “because he is sanctified, because he is useful to the Maser, and because he is ready for every good work”
2TI 2 21 p063 figs-activepassive ἡγιασμένον 1 having been sanctified If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea, and you can say who did the action. Alternate translation: “whom God has set apart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 2 21 nl5d figs-metaphor ἡγιασμένον 1 having been sanctified If this phrase is continuing the metaphor of objects in a house, then Paul is referring to a person who is free from wrong associations or activities as if he were a precious object whose owner keeps it in a special place. Whether this phrase is continuing the metaphor or not, it still expresses the idea of being “dedicated” for a special purpose. Alternate translation: “whom God has set apart for a special purpose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 21 p064 figs-metaphor εὔχρηστον τῷ Δεσπότῃ 1 useful to the Master In the context of the metaphor of the house, Paul speaks of God figuratively as the head of the household. Alternate translation: “useful to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 21 p065 figs-activepassive εἰς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἡτοιμασμένον 1 having been prepared for every good work If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “who has gotten ready to do any good work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 2 22 h9p6 figs-metaphor τὰς…νεωτερικὰς ἐπιθυμίας φεῦγε 1 flee youthful lusts Paul speaks about youthful desires as if they were a dangerous person or animal that Timothy should run away from. Alternate translation: “Control your youthful desires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 22 p066 figs-metonymy τὰς…νεωτερικὰς ἐπιθυμίας φεῦγε 1 flee youthful lusts Paul speaks figuratively of immoral activities by association with the desires that lead a person to engage in them. Alternate translation: “Refuse to do the wrong things that young people want to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 2 22 srb7 figs-metaphor δίωκε δὲ δικαιοσύνην, πίστιν, ἀγάπην, εἰρήνην 1 and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace Paul is using the verb **pursue** in contrast to **flee**. He speaks of these positive things as if Timothy should run towards them because they will do him good. Alternate translation: “Be eager to do what is right, to believe in God, to love other people, and to live peacefully with other people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 22 p067 figs-abstractnouns δικαιοσύνην, πίστιν, ἀγάπην, εἰρήνην 1 righteousness, faith, love, and peace If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **righteousness**, **faith**, **love**, and **peace** with equivalent expressions. Alternate translation: “do what is right, believe in God, love other people, and live peacefully with other people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 22 hg99 μετὰ τῶν ἐπικαλουμένων τὸν Κύριον ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας 1 with those who call on the Lord from a clean heart This likely means that Paul wants Timothy to pursue these positive things together with others who are sincere in their faith. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could put this phrase at the beginning of Paul’s command to Timothy, before **pursue**. Alternate translation: “together with those who worship the Lord with sincere intentions”
2TI 2 22 gl3q figs-idiom τῶν ἐπικαλουμένων τὸν Κύριον 1 those who call on the Lord The expression **call on the Lord** is an idiom that means to trust and worship the Lord. Alternate translation: “those who worship the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 2 22 p068 figs-metonymy ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας 1 from a clean heart Paul uses a physical part of the body, the **heart**, figuratively to represent the intentions and desires of a person. Alternate translation: “with sincere intentions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 2 22 b2ti figs-metaphor ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας 1 from a clean heart Paul uses the word **clean** to describe the intentions or thoughts of a person as though they were an object that could be made clean. Alternate translation: “with sincere intentions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 23 tmf7 figs-metonymy τὰς…μωρὰς καὶ ἀπαιδεύτους ζητήσεις παραιτοῦ 1 avoid foolish and ignorant questions Paul refers to certain kinds of discussions figuratively by association with the questions people might ask that would lead to these discussions. Alternate translation: “do not become involved in foolish and ignorant discussions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 2 23 p069 figs-doublet μωρὰς καὶ ἀπαιδεύτους ζητήσεις 1 foolish and ignorant questions Paul may be using the words **foolish** and **ignorant** together to emphasize a single idea. Alternate translation: “stupid questions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2TI 2 23 kh6p figs-metaphor γεννῶσι μάχας 1 they give birth to battles Paul speaks of the **questions** figuratively as if they were women giving birth to children. Alternate translation: “they cause arguments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 23 p070 figs-metaphor μάχας 1 battles Paul uses the term **battle** figuratively to describe arguments. Alternate translation: “they cause arguments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 24 p071 figs-metaphor δοῦλον…Κυρίου 1 the servant of the Lord Paul is using the expression **servant of the Lord** figuratively to refer to leaders in the church, including Timothy, who teach and must interact with the quarrelsome teachers who challenge their authority and the truth. Alternate translation: “a leader in the church” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 24 p072 figs-metaphor οὐ δεῖ μάχεσθαι 1 must not battle Paul uses the term **battle** figuratively to describe arguments. Alternate translation: “must not argue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 25 un9l figs-abstractnouns ἐν πραΰτητι 1 in meekness If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **meekness** in this expression with an adverb. Alternate translation: “meekly” or “gently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 2 25 u6rp παιδεύοντα 1 educating Paul presents this as the godly response to quarrels. This term can mean “teach” or “correct.” Alternate translation: “teaching” or “correcting”
2TI 2 25 jt1r figs-metaphor μήποτε δώῃ αὐτοῖς ὁ Θεὸς μετάνοιαν 1 God may perhaps give them repentance Paul speaks of **repentance** as if it were an object that God could give people. Alternate translation: “God may cause them to repent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 25 u8dy εἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας 1 for the knowledge of the truth Paul speaks of the result of **repentance** as knowing the truth. Alternate translation: “so that they will know the truth”
2TI 2 26 p073 figs-ellipsis ἀνανήψωσιν ἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος 1 they may become sober again from the trap of the devil As Paul moves from one metaphor into another, he leaves out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. Alternate translation: “they may become sober again and escape from the trap of the devil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2TI 2 26 ef3q figs-metaphor ἀνανήψωσιν 1 they may become sober again Paul speaks of sinners learning to think correctly about God as if they were drunk people becoming sober again. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 26 mql8 figs-metaphor ἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος 1 from the trap of the devil Paul refers to the deception of the devil as a physical trap that sinners are captured in. Alternate translation: “and escape from the devil’s deception” or “and reject the devil’s deception” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 2 26 p074 figs-activepassive ἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα 1 having been captured by him for his will If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “after the devil has captured them and made them do what he wanted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 2 26 dj4j figs-metaphor ἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα 1 having been captured by him for his will Paul speaks of the devil’s deception as if the devil had physically captured them and made them do what he wanted. Alternate translation: “after the devil has deceived them and made them do what he wanted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 intro k2cr 0 # 2 Timothy 03 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>Some scholars understand the **last days** to mean a time in the future just before Jesus returns. If that is the meaning, then Paul is prophesying in verses 1-9 and 13 about those days. Other scholars understand the **last days** to mean the Christian age, including Paul’s time. If so, then what Paul teaches in this chapter about being persecuted applies to all Christians. Translators should be careful not to let how they understand this issue affect how they translate these verses. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday]])
2TI 3 1 g65r figs-idiom ἐν ἐσχάταις ἡμέραις 1 in the last days Paul is using the term **days** figuratively to refer to a particular time. Alternate translation: “during the period of time before the end” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 3 1 n7gs figs-explicit ἐνστήσονται καιροὶ χαλεποί 1 there will be difficult times The implication from what Paul goes on to say about people becoming ungodly and violent is that it will be difficult for believers in this time period. Alternate translation: “Christians will face difficult situations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 3 2 p075 figs-gendernotations οἱ ἄνθρωποι 1 men Here Paul is using the term **men** in a generic sense that includes all people. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TI 3 2 jb27 φίλαυτοι 1 self-loving Here **self-loving** refers to loving oneself more than family or friends with a natural human love. This is not the kind of love that comes from God. Alternate translation: “self-centered”
2TI 3 3 u3n7 ἄστοργοι 1 unloving The term **unloving** means that they will not love other people whom they should love. Alternate translation: “They will not love their own families”
2TI 3 3 r2uv ἄσπονδοι 1 irreconcilable The term **irreconcilable** means they will not agree to make peace with others and insist on living in a state of conflict. Alternate translation: “They will not agree with anyone” or “They will not live in peace with anyone”
2TI 3 3 ks9y ἀφιλάγαθοι 1 not good-loving The phrase **not good-loving** could be translated with **not** and **loving** expressed with the positive term “hating.” Alternate translation: “They will hate what is good”
2TI 3 4 dw5z προπετεῖς 1 reckless The adjective **reckless** conveys the idea of doing things without thinking about the negative things that could happen as a result. Alternate translation: “heedless of consequences”
2TI 3 4 d6ng figs-metaphor τετυφωμένοι 1 puffed up The expression **puffed up** is a metaphor for being proud and considering oneself better than others. Alternate translation: “haughty” or “conceited” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 4 p076 figs-activepassive τετυφωμένοι 1 puffed up If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “haughty” or “conceited” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 3 5 k5dc figs-idiom ἔχοντες μόρφωσιν εὐσεβείας 1 having a form of godliness The expression **a form of** indicates that their **godliness** is not genuine or true. Alternate translation: “appearing to have godliness” or “appearing to honor God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 3 5 p077 grammar-connect-logic-result καὶ 1 And Paul uses this word to introduce the results of what the previous sentence described. Alternate translation: “So” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
2TI 3 5 p078 figs-nominaladj τούτους ἀποτρέπου 1 turn away from these The term **these** is a demonstrative adjective that refers to the people who show the ungodly qualities that Paul lists in the previous verses. Paul is using the term as a noun. If your language does not use adjectives in that way, you can add the word “people” in your translation. Alternate translation: “avoid these people” or “avoid such people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2TI 3 5 xm1c figs-metaphor τούτους ἀποτρέπου 1 turn away from these The expression **turn away** is a metaphor for avoiding someone. Alternate translation: “avoid these people” or “avoid such people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 6 gu4b figs-metaphor αἰχμαλωτίζοντες 1 captivating Here Paul uses the term **captivating** figuratively to mean greatly influencing someone by the use of deception. Alternate translation: “manipulating” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 6 u9m5 γυναικάρια 1 foolish women The term **foolish women** refers to women who are spiritually weak and immature. They allow these men into their homes and listen to them because they are weak, idle, and have many sins. Alternate translation: “women who are spiritually weak”
2TI 3 6 e9ex figs-metaphor σεσωρευμένα ἁμαρτίαις 1 who are loaded with sins Paul speaks figuratively of these **sins** as if they were heaped up on the backs of these women. Paul is explaining why these men can easily influence these women. This could mean one of two things. (1) These women sin often or even continually. Alternate translation: “who sin often” (2) These women feel terrible guilt because they sin. Alternate translation: “who feel terrible guilt for their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 6 p079 figs-activepassive σεσωρευμένα ἁμαρτίαις 1 who are loaded with sins If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “who sin often” or “who feel terrible guilt for their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 3 6 p080 figs-activepassive ἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις 1 led away by various desires If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “various desires lead them away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 3 6 izz9 figs-personification ἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις 1 led away by various desires Paul speaks figuratively about these **various desires** as if they could lead a person away. He means that the women decide to do evil things in order to satisfy their desires. Alternate translation: “they decide to sin in various ways” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2TI 3 6 p081 figs-explicit ἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις 1 led away by various desires The implication is that the women decide to sin with the men who are influencing them and deceiving them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “they decide to sin in various ways with these evil men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 3 7 p082 figs-metaphor μηδέποτε εἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας ἐλθεῖν δυνάμενα 1 never able to come to the knowledge of the truth Paul speaks figuratively of the **knowledge of the truth** as if it were a destination at which people could arrive. Alternate translation: “never able to understand the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 8 p084 figs-explicit Ἰάννης καὶ Ἰαμβρῆς 1 Jannes and Jambres Paul assumes that Timothy will know that these were the magicians in Pharaoh’s court who tried to duplicate the miracles that Moses was doing to show that Pharaoh did not have to obey Yahweh. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could identify them more explicitly. Alternate translation: “Jannes and Jambres, Pharaoh’s magicians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 3 8 p085 figs-nominaladj οὗτοι 1 these As in [3:5](../03/05.md), the term **these** is a demonstrative adjective that refers to the people who show the ungodly qualities that Paul has described. Paul is using the term as a noun. If your language does not use adjectives in that way, you can add the word “people” in your translation. Alternate translation: “these people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2TI 3 8 p086 figs-abstractnouns τῇ ἀληθείᾳ 1 the truth If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **truth** with an adjective. Alternate translation: “what is true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 8 g4kk figs-metonymy ἄνθρωποι κατεφθαρμένοι τὸν νοῦν 1 men whose mind is corrupted Paul uses the word **mind** to refer to the way these evil men think. Alternate translation: “men who cannot think rightly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 3 8 p087 figs-activepassive ἄνθρωποι κατεφθαρμένοι τὸν νοῦν 1 men whose mind is corrupted If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “men who cannot think rightly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 3 8 pfh1 ἀδόκιμοι περὶ τὴν πίστιν 1 unapproved regarding the faith Paul uses the adjective **unapproved** to convey the idea that these men have been tested regarding how well they trust in Christ and obey him, and they have failed the test. Alternate translation: “without sincere faith” or “whose faith is not genuine”
2TI 3 9 c6xx figs-metaphor οὐ προκόψουσιν ἐπὶ πλεῖον 1 they will not advance unto more Paul uses an expression about physical movement to mean that the false teachers will not have much success among the believers. Alternate translation: “they will not have much success” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 9 mv4j figs-hyperbole ἡ…ἄνοια αὐτῶν ἔκδηλος ἔσται πᾶσιν 1 their foolishness will be obvious to all The word **all** is a generalization. Paul has just said that these men will have a little success in deceiving some people. But ultimately their foolishness will become widely apparent, as happened to Jannes and Jambres, who were publicly discredited when they were not able to equal the powerful miracles of Moses. Alternate translation: “their foolishness will become widely apparent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2TI 3 9 z4fu figs-nominaladj ἐκείνων 1 of those The term **those** is a demonstrative adjective that refers to Jannes and Jambres. Paul is using the term as a noun. If your language does not use adjectives in that way, you can supply the names of the two men. Alternate translation: “of Jannes and Jambres” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2TI 3 10 vw42 figs-metaphor σὺ…παρηκολούθησάς 1 you have followed Paul speaks of giving close attention to the things he lists in this verse as if one were physically following them as they moved. Alternate translation: “you have observed” or “you have paid close attention to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 10 wma6 figs-abstractnouns μου τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ 1 my teaching If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **teaching** with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “what I have taught others to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 10 lq3v figs-abstractnouns μου…τῇ ἀγωγῇ 1 my conduct If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **conduct** with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “how I live my life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 10 p088 figs-abstractnouns μου…τῇ προθέσει 1 my purpose If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **purpose** with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “what goal I have in life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 10 p089 figs-abstractnouns μου…τῇ πίστει 1 my faith If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **faith** with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “what I believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 10 l4pp figs-abstractnouns μου…τῇ μακροθυμίᾳ 1 my longsuffering If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **longsuffering** with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “how I endure when I suffer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 10 p090 figs-abstractnouns μου…τῇ ἀγάπῃ 1 my love If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **love** with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “how I love others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 10 p091 figs-abstractnouns μου…τῇ ὑπομονῇ 1 my patience If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **love** with a relative clause. Alternative translation: “how I am patient with others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 11 p092 translate-names ἐν Ἀντιοχείᾳ, ἐν Ἰκονίῳ, ἐν Λύστροις 1 in Antioch, in Iconium, in Lystra These are the names of three cities. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 3 11 p093 οἵους διωγμοὺς ὑπήνεγκα 1 what kind of persecutions I endured Paul is reminding Timothy that he knows of the various ways in which Paul suffered and how he endured until God rescued him. Alternate translation: “how I endured various persecutions”
2TI 3 11 r9vk figs-metaphor ἐκ πάντων, με ἐρρύσατο ὁ Κύριος 1 the Lord rescued me from them all Paul speaks figuratively as if God had physically removed him from a situation of danger. Alternate translation: “the Lord preserved me through them all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 12 ke7f ζῆν εὐσεβῶς 1 to live piously The term **piously** means to live in an obedient way that honors God. Alternate translation: “to live in a way that honors God”
2TI 3 12 xm9l figs-activepassive διωχθήσονται 1 will be persecuted If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “people will persecute” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 3 13 p094 figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωποι 1 men Here Paul is using the term **men** in a generic sense that includes all people. Alternate translation: “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TI 3 13 s7f2 γόητες 1 impostors The term **impostor** refers here to a person who wants other people to think he is a true Christian when he is not. Alternate translation: “people who are pretending to be Christians”
2TI 3 13 imc8 figs-metaphor προκόψουσιν ἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον 1 will advance unto the worse Paul speaks figuratively of evil people and their character as something that moves forward physically, making gradual progress in a direction. Alternate translation: “will become worse and worse” or “will become even more evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 13 p095 figs-idiom ἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον 1 unto the worse This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “worse and worse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 3 13 eyx5 figs-metaphor πλανῶντες καὶ πλανώμενοι 1 leading astray and being led astray The expression **leading astray** uses the image of physically taking a person to a place that he didn’t think he was going to. This is a figurative reference to persuading someone to believe something that is not true. Alternate translation: “teaching lies and believing lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 13 p096 figs-activepassive πλανῶντες καὶ πλανώμενοι 1 leading astray and being led astray If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “teaching lies and believing lies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 3 14 ytg9 figs-metaphor μένε ἐν οἷς ἔμαθες 1 remain in the things you have learned Paul speaks of biblical instruction as if it were a place that Timothy could stay in. Alternate translation: “continue doing what you have learned” or “continue believing what you have learned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 14 p097 figs-activepassive ἐπιστώθης 1 become convinced of If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “have firmly believed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 3 15 w9l5 figs-personification τὰ δυνάμενά σε σοφίσαι 1 which are able to make you wise Paul speaks of the Scriptures as if they were a teacher who could instruct people and help them become wise. It may be convenient in your translation to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “By studying them you can become wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2TI 3 15 p098 figs-abstractnouns εἰς σωτηρίαν διὰ πίστεως τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 for salvation through the faith that is in Christ Jesus If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **salvation** with a verb such as “save.” Alternate translation: “so that you will know enough to trust Christ Jesus to save you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 16 s274 figs-metaphor πᾶσα Γραφὴ θεόπνευστος 1 All Scripture is God-breathed The term **God-breathed** uses the image of breathing to indicate that the Scriptures come directly from God through his Spirit. Characteristically in the Bible the breath of God represents the Spirit of God. Alternate translation: “God produced the Scriptures as his Spirit directed people what to write” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 3 16 uv35 ὠφέλιμος 1 is profitable Paul refers to the Scriptures as **profitable** to convey the idea that Timothy and all believers will benefit when they use the Scriptures to teach, reprove, correct, and train. Alternate translation: “you will benefit from them as you use them”
2TI 3 16 vl2n figs-abstractnouns πρὸς ἐλεγμόν 1 for reproof Paul instructs Timothy to use the Scriptures as the standard for knowing what is right and wrong and showing people that they are wrong. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **reproof** with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “for showing people that they are wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 16 e5h9 figs-abstractnouns πρὸς ἐπανόρθωσιν 1 for correction Paul instructs Timothy to use the Scriptures as the standard for showing people how to make something right. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **correction** with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “for showing people how to make things right” or “for showing how to fix errors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 16 y1hf figs-abstractnouns πρὸς παιδείαν τὴν ἐν δικαιοσύνῃ 1 for the training that is in righteousness Paul instructs Timothy to use the Scriptures as the standard for training people how to live lives that are right with God. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **righteousness** with an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “for training people how to do what is right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TI 3 17 nb12 figs-gendernotations ὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος 1 the man of God This expression could mean one of two things. (1) Paul could be using it to refer to Timothy as the leader of his congregation, to encourage him to use the Scriptures in his teaching. Alternate translation: “you, man of God” (2) Paul could be using the word **man** in a generic sense that includes all believers in God, whether male or female. Alternate translation: “the person who serves God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TI 3 17 p099 figs-activepassive ἐξηρτισμένος 1 equipped If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “and have everything he needs” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 4 intro k2xa 0 # 2 Timothy 04 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>### “I adjure you”<br>Paul gives personal instructions to Timothy.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Crown<br>Scripture uses different kinds of crowns as images for different things. It appears Christ will award the crown in this chapter to believers as a reward and confirmation for living rightly.
2TI 4 1 eh3x διαμαρτύρομαι 1 I adjure you Alternate translation: “I want you to swear an oath”
2TI 4 1 cb15 figs-explicit ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 before God and Christ Jesus Here the word **before** means “in front of,” that is, “in the presence of.” The implication is that God and Christ Jesus will witness the oath that Paul wants Timothy to swear. Alternate translation: “in the presence of God and Christ Jesus” or “with God and Christ Jesus as the witnesses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 4 1 u32g figs-merism ζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς 1 the living and the dead Paul refers to **the living** and **the dead** together to mean all people, whether they are alive at the time of judgment or have died. Alternate translation: “those who are still alive and those who have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2TI 4 1 p100 figs-nominaladj ζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς 1 the living and the dead The terms **living** and **dead** are adjectives that Paul is using as nouns to refer to groups of people. If your language does not use adjectives in that way, you can translate these terms with equivalent phrases. Alternate translation: “those who are still alive and those who have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2TI 4 1 lwt2 figs-metonymy καὶ τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ, καὶ τὴν βασιλείαν αὐτοῦ 1 and by his appearing and his kingdom Paul wants Timothy to swear the oath on these things. Paul refers figuratively to Christ’s return by association to the fact that he will appear once again to people on earth when he returns, and he refers figuratively to Christ’s rule as king by association to the kingdom that he will rule. It may be helpful to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “I want you to swear this oath on Christ’s return and on his rule as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 4 2 j2z7 figs-metonymy τὸν λόγον 1 the word Paul is using the term **word** to refer figuratively to the whole message about Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “the Gospel message” or “the Good News” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 4 2 zzh4 figs-merism εὐκαίρως, ἀκαίρως 1 opportunely, inopportunely Paul means that Timothy should be ready to preach about Jesus when it seems like a good time to do so and also when it does not seem like a good time. He is using the two types of occasions together figuratively to indicate all occasions. Alternate translation: “when it is convenient and when it is not convenient” or “at all times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2TI 4 2 g7ax figs-explicit ἔλεγξον 1 reprove The command to **reprove** implies that the action is directed toward people who have done something wrong and are in need of correction. Alternate translation: “correct those who have sinned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 4 2 p101 ἐπιτίμησον 1 rebuke The word **rebuke** involves telling someone that they have done something wrong and warning them not to do it again. Alternate translation: “tell them not to sin”
2TI 4 2 p102 ἐν πάσῃ μακροθυμίᾳ καὶ διδαχῇ 1 with all patience and teaching The implication is that this is how Timothy should preach, reprove, rebuke, and exhort. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “do these things by teaching very patiently” or “always do these things by teaching patiently”
2TI 4 2 p103 figs-hyperbole ἐν πάσῃ μακροθυμίᾳ 1 with all patience This could mean one of two things. (1) Timothy should be patient all the time. Alternate translation: “always … patiently” (2) The word **all** could be a generalization for emphasis, meaning that Timothy should be very patient. Alternate translation: “very patiently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2TI 4 3 jv7a ἔσται…καιρὸς ὅτε 1 there will be a time when Alternate translation: “the time will come when”
2TI 4 3 u2cc οὐκ ἀνέξονται 1 they will not endure Alternate translation: “they will no longer listen patiently to”
2TI 4 3 ilx7 figs-explicit οὐκ ἀνέξονται 1 they will not endure The context indicates that **they** means people who are a part of the community of believers. Alternate translation: “some believers will no longer listen patiently to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 4 3 fyl3 figs-metonymy τῆς ὑγιαινούσης διδασκαλίας 1 healthy teaching The expression **healthy teaching** figuratively means “correct teaching” by association, since a healthy mind would recognize that correct teaching was reasonable. Alternate translation: “correct teaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 4 3 e5t2 figs-metaphor κατὰ τὰς ἰδίας ἐπιθυμίας, ἑαυτοῖς ἐπισωρεύσουσιν διδασκάλους 1 they will heap up for themselves teachers according to their own desires Paul speaks of how people will obtain many teachers as if they were putting them into a heap or pile. They will want many teachers, but not value these teachers for how they live godly lives or how accurately they teach. Alternate translation: “they will gather many teachers for themselves who will teach what they want” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 3 s375 figs-idiom κνηθόμενοι τὴν ἀκοήν 1 their ear itching Paul speaks of people badly wanting to hear something as if their ears itched and could only be relieved if they found many teachers who would tell them what they wanted to hear. Alternate translation: “because they want to hear it so badly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 4 3 p104 figs-metonymy κνηθόμενοι τὴν ἀκοήν 1 their ear itching Paul uses the **ear** figuratively to mean hearing. Alternate translation: “because they want to hear it so badly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 4 4 rh2i figs-metaphor ἀπὸ…τῆς ἀληθείας τὴν ἀκοὴν ἀποστρέψουσιν 1 will…turn their ear away from the truth Paul speaks about people no longer paying attention as if they were physically turning their ears away so they could not hear. Alternate translation: “will no longer pay attention to the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 4 p105 figs-metonymy ἀπὸ…τῆς ἀληθείας τὴν ἀκοὴν ἀποστρέψουσιν 1 will…turn their ear away from the truth Paul uses the **ear** figuratively to mean listening. Listening, in turn, figuratively means paying attention. Alternate translation: “will no longer pay attention to the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 4 4 xrv7 figs-metaphor τοὺς μύθους ἐκτραπήσονται 1 be turned aside to myths Paul speaks about people starting to pay attention to myths as if someone were getting them to wander off in the wrong direction. Alternate translation: “these teachers will get them to pay attention to stories that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 4 p106 figs-activepassive τοὺς μύθους ἐκτραπήσονται 1 be turned aside to myths If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form, and you could say who would do the action. Alternate translation: “these teachers will get them to pay attention to stories that are not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 4 5 ehz7 figs-metaphor νῆφε 1 be sober Paul wants his readers to think correctly about everything, and so he speaks as if he wanted them to be sober rather than drunk. Alternate translation: “think clearly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 5 tv3k εὐαγγελιστοῦ 1 an evangelist Alternate translation: “a person who proclaims the good news about Jesus”
2TI 4 6 p107 ἐγὼ…ἤδη σπένδομαι 1 I am already being poured out While Paul speaks of his death as **already** happening, he means that it is an event that will happen soon. Alternate translation: “I will soon be poured out”
2TI 4 6 sh23 figs-metaphor ἐγὼ…ἤδη σπένδομαι 1 I am already being poured out Paul speaks of himself as if he were wine in a cup that was being poured out as a sacrifice to God. Alternate translation: “I will soon sacrifice my life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 6 p108 figs-activepassive ἐγὼ…ἤδη σπένδομαι 1 I am already being poured out If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “I will soon sacrifice my life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 4 6 fb7l figs-euphemism ὁ καιρὸς τῆς ἀναλύσεώς μου ἐφέστηκεν 1 the time of my departure is here Paul refers to his death as a **departure**. This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant. Alternate translation: “Soon I will die and leave this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2TI 4 7 d9ts figs-metaphor τὸν καλὸν ἀγῶνα ἠγώνισμαι 1 I have fought the good fight Paul speaks of himself figuratively as if he has been competing in an athletic contest. This could mean one of two things. (1) The word **good** could describe the kind of effort Paul has made. Alternate translation: “I have done my best” (2) The word **good** could mean that Paul has pursued a worthwhile endeavor. Alternate translation: “I have worked hard for what really matters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 7 kq83 figs-metaphor τὸν δρόμον τετέλεκα 1 I have finished the race Paul speaks of his life of service to God as if he had been running a race on foot. Alternate translation: “I have completed what I needed to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 7 vk2p figs-metaphor τὴν πίστιν τετήρηκα 1 I have kept the faith Paul speaks of his trust in Christ and his obedience to God as if they were a valuable object that he has kept in his possession. This could mean one of two things. (1) Paul was faithful to do what God told him to do. Alternate translation: “I have remained faithful in doing my ministry” (2) Paul was faithful to teach the truth. Alternate translation: “I have preserved the teachings from any error” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 8 ujg5 figs-activepassive ἀπόκειταί μοι ὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος 1 the crown of righteousness has been reserved for me If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “God has reserved the crown of righteousness for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 4 8 hg8i figs-metaphor τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος 1 the crown of righteousness This could mean one of two things: (1) The **crown** figuratively represents the reward that God gives to people who have lived the right way. Alternate translation: “the reward for the righteous” (2) The **crown** may represent righteousness itself. Just as the judge of a race gives a crown to the winner, when Paul finishes his life, God will declare that Paul is righteous. Alternate translation: “the reward that is righteousness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 8 dwn6 translate-unknown στέφανος 1 crown See how you translated this in [2:5](../02/05.md). The **crown** was a wreath made of laurel tree leaves that was given to winners of athletic contests. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2TI 4 8 n3k8 figs-explicit ἐν, ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ 1 on that day As in [1:12](../01/12.md), this refers to the **day** when Jesus returns for judgment. Alternate translation: “on the day of judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 4 8 uh88 τοῖς ἠγαπηκόσι τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ 1 those who have loved his appearing Alternate translation: “those who are looking forward to his return”
2TI 4 8 p109 figs-metonymy τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ 1 his appearing See how you translated this in [4:1](../04/01.md). Paul is referring figuratively to Christ’s return by association with the fact that he will appear once again to people on earth when he returns. Alternate translation: “his return” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 4 10 ji2l figs-metonymy τὸν νῦν αἰῶνα 1 the present age The expression **the present age** refers to worldly things as opposed to the things of God. Paul refers to these worldly things figuratively by association with the present time when people generally desire them, as opposed to the future time when the things of God will be established throughout the earth. Alternate translation: “the temporary comforts of this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 4 10 u2qb figs-ellipsis Κρήσκης εἰς Γαλατίαν, Τίτος εἰς Δαλματίαν 1 Crescens to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia Here Paul leaves out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. He means that like Demas, Crescens and Titus have left him. However, he is probably not saying that they did this because they also “loved this present age” like Demas. Alternate translation: “Crescens has left me and gone to Galatia, and Titus has left me and gone to Dalmatia” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2TI 4 10 gs61 translate-names Γαλατίαν…Δαλματίαν 1 Galatia…Dalmatia This are the names of Roman provinces. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 4 11 p110 translate-names Λουκᾶς…Μᾶρκον 1 Luke… Mark These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 4 11 w21u μοι εὔχρηστος εἰς διακονίαν 1 he is useful to me for service This could mean one of two things. (1) Mark is **useful** in helping Paul minister to others, especially by preaching and teaching. Alternate translation: “he is helpful to me in my ministry” (2) Mark is **useful** in helping Paul to take care of his personal needs. Alternate translation: “he can help take care of my needs”
2TI 4 12 p111 translate-names Τυχικὸν 1 Tychicus This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 4 12 p112 translate-names Ἔφεσον 1 Ephesus This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 4 13 d5rw translate-unknown φελόνην 1 cloak The term **cloak** refers to a heavy garment worn over clothes. Alternate translation: “coat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2TI 4 13 k6tj translate-unknown τὰ βιβλία 1 the books The term **books** refers to scrolls. A scroll was a type of book made of one long sheet of papyrus or leather. After writing on a scroll or reading it, people would roll it up using rods on the ends. Alternate translation: “the scrolls” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2TI 4 13 e395 translate-unknown μάλιστα τὰς μεμβράνας 1 especially the parchments The term **parchments** may refer to a specific type of scroll. Alternate translation: “especially those made from animal skins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2TI 4 14 un4v translate-unknown Ἀλέξανδρος ὁ χαλκεὺς 1 Alexander the coppersmith The term **coppersmith** refers to a person who worked with things made of copper and other metals. Alternate translation: “Alexander, who works with metal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2TI 4 14 wbx4 figs-metaphor ἀποδώσει αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος κατὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ 1 The Lord will repay him according to his deeds Paul speaks figuratively of punishment as if it were repayment. Alternate translation: “The Lord will give him the right punishment for what he has done” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 15 i4aj figs-metonymy ἀντέστη τοῖς ἡμετέροις λόγοις 1 opposed our words The term **words** refers to the message that Paul and Timothy and their co-workers teach. Alternate translation: “opposed the message that we teach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 4 16 v847 ἐν τῇ πρώτῃ μου ἀπολογίᾳ 1 At my first defense Paul is referring to the opening session of his trial. By writing **first**, he is likely indicating that he will have to appear in court again. Alternate translation: “At the opening session of my trial” or “When I first appeared in court and explained my actions”
2TI 4 16 f2c3 οὐδείς μοι παρεγένετο 1 no one appeared with me Paul explains to Timothy that he had to go to court alone, without any supporters. Alternate translation: “no one testified on my behalf”
2TI 4 16 rm2t figs-activepassive μὴ αὐτοῖς λογισθείη 1 May it not be counted against them If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “May God not hold it against them” or “I pray that God does not punish those believers for deserting me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 4 17 t1fw figs-metaphor ὁ…Κύριός μοι παρέστη 1 the Lord stood with me Paul is speaking as if the Lord had physically stood with him. Alternate translation: “the Lord helped me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 17 y69m figs-activepassive ἵνα δι’ ἐμοῦ τὸ κήρυγμα πληροφορηθῇ 1 so that through me, the proclamation might be fully carried out If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. This could mean one of two things. (1) At his trial, Paul was able to explain the entire message God had given him to proclaim. Alternate translation: “so that I was able to proclaim all of the Lord’s message” (2) Paul was able to continue proclaiming God’s message right through to this time when he expected to sacrifice his life. Alternate translation: “so that I was able to continue proclaiming the Lord’s message right to the end” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 4 17 p113 figs-hyperbole καὶ ἀκούσωσιν πάντα τὰ ἔθνη 1 and all the Gentiles might hear The word **all** is a figurative generalization. Alternate translation: “so that as many Gentiles as possible could hear it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2TI 4 17 gsr8 figs-metaphor ἐρύσθην ἐκ στόματος λέοντος 1 I was rescued out of the mouth of the lion Paul speaks figuratively as if he had been in danger of being killed by a lion at his court appearance. He could mean the physical danger of being sentenced to execution, or the spiritual danger of being tempted not to speak boldly for Jesus, or both. It would probably be best to leave both possibilities open in your translation. Alternate translation: “I was rescued from great danger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TI 4 17 p114 figs-activepassive ἐρύσθην ἐκ στόματος λέοντος 1 I was rescued out of the mouth of the lion If your language does not use passive verbal forms, you can use an active form to express this same idea. Alternate translation: “God rescued me from great danger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TI 4 18 p115 figs-idiom εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας τῶν αἰώνων 1 to the ages of the ages This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “forever and ever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TI 4 19 p116 translate-names Πρίσκαν 1 Priscilla These is the name of a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 4 19 p117 translate-names Ἀκύλαν 1 Aquila These is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 4 19 n4zc figs-metonymy τὸν Ὀνησιφόρου οἶκον 1 the household of Onesiphorus See how you translated this in [1:16](../01/16.md). The word **household** refers to **Onesiphorus** and all the people in his family, possibly even his servants. Alternate translation: “Onesiphorus and everyone who lives with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TI 4 19 mef8 translate-names Ὀνησιφόρου 1 Onesiphorus This is the name of a man. See how you translated this name in [1:16](../01/16.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 4 21 cvc7 σπούδασον…ἐλθεῖν 1 Hasten to come Alternate translation: “Do your best to come” or “Try as hard as you can to come”
2TI 4 21 eh95 figs-explicit πρὸ χειμῶνος 1 before winter The implication is that Timothy should try to come to Paul before the cold weather arrives and makes travel difficult or even impossible. If winter is the warm season in your area and summer is the cold season, or if your area does not have a cold season but a rainy season, you can use a more general expression. Alternate translation: “before the cold weather makes travel difficult” or “before the weather changes and makes travel difficult” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TI 4 21 z1j9 figs-ellipsis ἀσπάζεταί σε Εὔβουλος, καὶ Πούδης, καὶ Λίνος, καὶ Κλαυδία, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ 1 Eubulus greets you, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and the brothers Here Paul leaves out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. To make sure that the meaning is clear, you can supply these words. The people listed after Eubulus are also greeting Timothy. Eubulus is not greeting them. Alternate translation: “Eubulus greets you, and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the believers here” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2TI 4 21 p7px translate-names Εὔβουλος…Πούδης…Λίνος 1 Eubulus…Pudens…Linus These are the names of three men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 4 21 er77 translate-names Κλαυδία 1 Claudia This is the name of a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TI 4 21 mk26 figs-gendernotations οἱ ἀδελφοὶ 1 the brothers The word **brothers** means all believers, whether male or female. Alternate translation: “all the believers here” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TI 4 22 tx26 figs-you ὁ Κύριος μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματός σου 1 The Lord be with your spirit Paul ends his letter with a blessing for Timothy. Here **you** is singular and refers to Timothy. Alternate translation: “I pray that the Lord makes your spirit strong.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
2TI 4 22 p119 figs-synecdoche ὁ Κύριος μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματός σου 1 The Lord be with your spirit Paul figuratively describes Timothy as a whole person by reference to his **spirit**, perhaps because he is wishing particularly for Timothy to receive spiritual strengthening. Alternate translation: “I pray that the Lord makes you strong” or “I pray that the Lord will strengthen you spiritually” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2TI 4 22 k85y figs-you ἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν 1 Grace be with you Paul ends his letter with a second blessing. The **you** is plural and refers to all the believers who are with Timothy. Alternate translation: “May grace be with all of you there.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
2TI 4 22 p120 ἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν 1 Grace be with you If it would be clearer in your language, you could say who Paul wishes will make this happen. Alternate translation: “May God give grace to all of you.”
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