front:intro s7fk 0 # Introduction to 2 Timothy\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the book of 2 Timothy\n\n1. Opening (1:1–2)\n2. Thanksgiving (1:3–5)\n3. Exhortation to remain faithful (1:6–18)\n4. Encouragement to persevere (2:1–13)\n5. Instructions for opposing false teaching (2:14–4:8)\n6. Travel plans and news (4:9–18)\n7. Greetings (4:19–21)\n8. Letter closing (4:22)\n\n### Who wrote the book of 2 Timothy?\n\nThe author identifies himself as Paul the apostle. Paul was originally from the city of Tarsus but lived in Jerusalem. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee, and he persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire, telling people about Jesus. Eventually, he was arrested and taken to Rome, the capital of the empire. After several years in jail, he was released. Sometime later, he was arrested again and eventually executed. Most likely, Paul wrote this letter during this final time in prison.\n\nPaul wrote this letter to Timothy, who was Paul’s disciple and his close friend. Most likely, Timothy was in Ephesus during this time. Paul may have written other letters to Timothy, but this is the second one that we still have. That is why it is known as 2 Timothy or Second Timothy.\n\n### What is the book of 2 Timothy about?\n\nWhen Paul wrote this letter, he knew that he would soon die. He wrote to encourage Timothy to continue serving God as a leader, no matter what would happen to Paul. More specifically, he warned Timothy against false teachers, urged him to teach what is true, cautioned him about evil people, and asked him to visit. Throughout the letter, it is clear that Paul cared for Timothy and wanted him to continue to serve God well even after Paul had died.\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nTranslators 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 “A Second Letter from Paul to Timothy.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### Who were the false teachers?\n\nThe only information we have about who these false teachers were and what they taught comes from this letter and from the letters called 1 Timothy and Titus. These false teachers were Christians, or at least claimed to be Christians. They taught by using texts and stories that Paul considered unreliable, they spoke about and debated things that Paul considered unimportant, and they caused divisions and controversies. According to 1 Timothy, they told people not to marry and to avoid eating certain kinds of food. According to 2 Timothy, some of them said that the resurrection had already happened. Since the only information about the false teachers and what they taught come from this letter and 1 Timothy and Titus, it is best not to specify precisely what false teaching this was. You should preserve what Paul said about the false teaching without making it fit into a type of false teaching that might be familiar in your area.\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### What did Paul mean by the expression “in Christ Jesus”?\n\nPaul uses the spatial metaphor “in Christ Jesus” seven times in this letter. This metaphor emphasizes that believers are as closely united to Christ as if they were inside him. Paul believes that this is true for all believers, and sometimes he uses “in Christ Jesus” simply to identify that what he is speaking about is true for those who believe in Jesus. At other times he emphasizes union with Christ as the means or the basis for some statement or exhortation. See the notes on specific verses for help in understanding the contextual meaning of “in Christ Jesus.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n### What does Paul mean when he uses the word “faith”?\n\nPaul uses the abstract noun “faith” eight time
1:intro p5lf 0 # 2 Timothy 1 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n1. Opening (1:1–2)\n2. Thanksgiving (1:3–5)\n3. Exhortation to remain faithful (1:6–18)\n * Paul urges Timothy not to be ashamed and to preserve the gospel (1:6–14)\n * Paul gives examples of unfaithful and faithful people (1:15–18)\n\n## Special Concepts in this Chapter\n\n### Timothy’s “gift”\n\nIn [1:6](../01/06.md), Paul speaks about the “gift” that Timothy received. He received it when Paul laid his hands on Timothy to commission him. It is clear from the context that this “gift” is a special skill or ability that Timothy had. Most likely, this skill or ability enabled Timothy to teach and lead believers well. Since Paul does not state or even imply what the “gift” was, you should use a general word or phrase that refers to a special skill or ability.\n\n### The “deposit”\n\nIn [1:12](../01/12.md) and [1:14](../01/14.md), Paul refers to a “deposit.” These two uses of the word “deposit” can be understood in two ways:\n1. In verse 12, Paul is referring to something he “deposits” with God, which would be his life or his eternal blessings. In verse 14, Paul is referring to something that God has “deposited” with Timothy, which would be the gospel or his ministry.\n2. In verse 12 and in verse 14, Paul is referring to something that God has “deposited” with himself and Timothy, which would be the gospel or their ministries.\n\nSee the notes on these verses for more information and translation options.\n\n## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter\n\n### Spiritual children\n\nIn [1:2](../01/02.md), Paul calls Timothy a “beloved child.” He means that Timothy is like a son to him in the context of their faith in Jesus. The phrase implies that Paul is a mentor to Timothy and that Timothy is a good student. Since the use of family language for fellow believers is an important metaphor in the New Testament, if possible preserve the metaphor or express the idea in simile form. See the notes on this verse for translation options. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:1 ha4l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person Παῦλος, ἀπόστολος 1 In this culture, letter writers would give their own names first, referring to themselves in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the first person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “From Paul. I am an apostle”
1:1 vl2g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns διὰ θελήματος Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **will**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “because that is what God wanted” or “because of what God decided”
1:1 e1lg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit κατ’ 1 Here, the phrase **according to** could indicate: (1) that the purpose for which Paul is an **apostle** is to tell others about **the promise of life**. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of declaring” (2) that the reason why Paul is an **apostle** is **the promise of life**. Alternate translation: “because of” (3) that God’s **will** contains or includes **the promise of life**. Alternate translation: “which will contains”
1:1 o2st rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession ἐπαγγελίαν ζωῆς 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe a **promise** that promises **life**. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the promise that guarantees life”
1:1 m9kv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ζωῆς τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe **life** that can only be experienced when someone is in union with **Christ Jesus**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that this **life** can only be experienced when people are united to **Christ Jesus**. Alternate translation: “of life that is received in union with Christ Jesus” or “of life that is gained when people are united to Christ Jesus”
1:1 e201 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ζωῆς τῆς 1 Here Paul is referring to new, eternal **life** with God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “of eternal life that is” or “of new life with God that is”
1:1 diuh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ζωῆς τῆς 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **life**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “about living forever, which people do”
1:2 rp5u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person Τιμοθέῳ 1 In this culture, after giving their own names, letter writers would name those to whom they sent the letter, referring to them in the third person. If that is confusing in your language, you could use the second person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the recipient of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “This letter is for you, Timothy”
1:2 ey7g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀγαπητῷ τέκνῳ 1 Paul speaks of his close relationship to Timothy as though Timothy were his **beloved child**. Paul means that he is Timothy’s spiritual father, and Paul loves Timothy in the way a father loves his child. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who is like a beloved child to me” or “a beloved spiritual son”
1:2 e1cp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἀγαπητῷ τέκνῳ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was Paul. Alternate translation: “child whom I love”
1:2 w43q rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing χάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη, ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν 1 After stating his name and the name of the person to whom he is writing, Paul adds a blessing for Timothy. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May you experience grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord” or “I pray that grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord will always be with you”
1:2 p003 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns χάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **Grace**, **mercy**, and **peace**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “May you be treated graciously, mercifully, and peacefully by God the Father and by Christ Jesus our Lord”
1:2 ub7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples Θεοῦ Πατρὸς 1 **Father** is an important title for God the **Father** that describes his relationship with **Jesus**, his Son.
1:2 dcr3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 In this letter, Paul uses the words **our**, “we,” and “us” to refer either to Timothy and himself or else to all believers, which would also include the two of them. So, use the inclusive forms of those words throughout your translation if your language marks that distinction.
1:3 p004 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns χάριν ἔχω 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **gratitude**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “I am grateful” or “I am thankful”
1:3 tvb7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom ᾧ λατρεύω ἀπὸ προγόνων 1 Here Paul means that he serves God in the same way that his **ancestors** did. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “whom I serve in the way I received from my ancestors” or “whom my ancestors served and I serve as well”
1:3 ha9d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom ἐν καθαρᾷ συνειδήσει 1 A **conscience** that is **pure** is one that does not convict a person of doing anything wrong. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “with a clean conscience” or “with a conscience that is not guilty”
1:3 rz7s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ὡς ἀδιάλειπτον ἔχω τὴν περὶ σοῦ μνείαν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **remembrance**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “as I remember you constantly” or “as I think about you constantly”
1:3 p005 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular σοῦ 1 In this letter, with one exception, the words **you**, “your,” and “yourself” refer to Timothy and so are singular. A note will discuss the one exception in [4:22](../04/22.md).
1:3 pa6q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας 1 Here, the phrase **night and day** indicates that Paul prays during both the day and the night. This means that he was praying very often every day. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “all the time” or “during every day and every night”
1:4 p006 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit μεμνημένος σου τῶν δακρύων 1 Here Paul implies that Timothy shed **tears** when Paul had to leave Timothy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “remembering your tears when we separated” or “remembering your tears when I said goodbye to you”
1:4 kk82 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy σου τῶν δακρύων 1 Here, the word **tears** represents the act of shedding **tears**, that is, crying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “your weeping” or “your sadness”
1:4 gu8c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor χαρᾶς πληρωθῶ 1 Paul speaks of himself as if he were a container that could be **filled with joy**. He means that he will experience very much **joy**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I may have very much joy” or “I may rejoice a lot”
1:4 p007 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive χαρᾶς πληρωθῶ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “joy may fill me”
1:4 n24s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns χαρᾶς πληρωθῶ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **joy**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “may become joyful”
1:5 ayl4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ὑπόμνησιν λαβὼν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **remembrance**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “having remembered” or “having been reminded”
1:5 buc3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τῆς ἐν σοὶ ἀνυποκρίτου πίστεως, ἥτις ἐνῴκησεν πρῶτον 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **faith**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “that you sincerely believe, which was true first”
1:5 p008 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τῆς ἐν σοὶ ἀνυποκρίτου πίστεως 1 Here Paul speaks of **faith** as if it were an object inside of Timothy. He means that Timothy truly has this **faith**, not that people are trusting in Timothy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of your genuine faith” or “of your faith that is genuine”
1:5 vgz2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification ἥτις ἐνῴκησεν πρῶτον ἐν τῇ μάμμῃ σου, Λωΐδι, καὶ τῇ μητρί σου, Εὐνίκῃ; πέπεισμαι δὲ ὅτι καὶ ἐν σοί 1 Here Paul speaks as if Timothy, **Lois**, and **Eunice** were houses that faith has **dwelt** in. He means that they all truly have faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “which your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice had, and I am persuaded that you also have it”
1:5 p009 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship τῇ μάμμῃ σου 1 Paul does not indicate whether this **grandmother** is the mother of Timothy’s father or mother. If you must specify, the connection with Timothy’s mother might imply that she was the mother of Timothy’s mother. Alternate translation: “your maternal grandmother”
1:5 l8wc rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Λωΐδι & Εὐνίκῃ 1 The words **Lois** and **Eunice** are the names of women.
1:5 swa6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive πέπεισμαι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I am sure” or “I am confident”
1:6 j58k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν 1 Here, the phrase **which reason** refers back to the fact of Timothy’s sincere faith (see [1:5](../01/05.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “because of which sincere faith”
1:6 h6eq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀναζωπυρεῖν τὸ χάρισμα 1 Here Paul speaks of Timothy’s **gift** as if it were a fire that he needed **to rekindle**. He could mean that: (1) Timothy needs to use his **gift** more than he has in the past. Alternate translation: “to make use even more of the gift” (2) Timothy needs to start using his **gift** again, with the implication being that he has stopped using it consistently. Alternate translation: “to be eager once more to use the gift”
1:6 p010 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸ χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἐν σοὶ 1 Paul speaks of Timothy as if he were a container that could hold **the gift of God**. He means that Timothy has this gift. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the gift of God that you have”
1:6 s6vb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὸ χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἐν σοὶ 1 Here Paul implies that this **gift** is a specific ability or skill that **God** had given Timothy for his ministry. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the skill that you have as a gift from God” or “the gift of God in you, your special ability,”
1:6 i977 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction διὰ τῆς ἐπιθέσεως τῶν χειρῶν μου 1 Here Paul is speaking of a ceremony during which he put his **hands** on Timothy. When he did that, he was commissioning Timothy to use his gift and to proclaim the gospel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could refer to a comparable action in your culture, or you could explain what this action means. Alternate translation: “through the laying on of my hands to commission you” or “once I authorized you by laying my hands on you”
1:7 u8vl rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces a reason why Timothy should rekindle his gift ([1:6](../01/06.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a reason or basis for an exhortation, or you could leave **For** untranslated. Alternate translation: “You should do that because” or “I remind you of that because”
1:7 h1z3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit πνεῦμα δειλίας, ἀλλὰ δυνάμεως, καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ σωφρονισμοῦ 1 Here, the word **spirit** could refer to: (1) the **spirit** of a person, which refers to the inner life of a person, that is, how that person thinks, feels, and makes decisions. Alternate translation: “an attitude of fear but of power and of love and of disposition” or “a heart of fear but a heart of power and of love and of disciple” (2) the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit to make us cowardly but to make us powerful and loving and self-controlled”
1:7 p011 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns δειλίας, ἀλλὰ δυνάμεως, καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ σωφρονισμοῦ 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **fear**, **power**, **love**, and **self-control**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “that makes us cowardly but one that makes us powerful, loving, and self-controlled”
1:7 k6g7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit σωφρονισμοῦ 1 Here, the word **self-control** could refer to: (1) the ability to control or restrain one’s desires. Alternate translation: “of moderation” or “of personal restraint” (2) the ability to make wise decisions. Alternate translation: “of prudence” or “of clear thinking”
1:8 pjby rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 Here, the word **Therefore** includes an exhortation that is based on what Paul said in the previous verse about having power, love, and self-control instead of fear. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different word or phrase that introduces an exhortation based on a previous statement. Alternate translation: “So then” or “Because you have that spirit”
1:8 hlks rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive μὴ & ἐπαισχυνθῇς τὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, μηδὲ ἐμὲ, τὸν δέσμιον αὐτοῦ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “do not let the testimony of our Lord, nor me, his prisoner, shame you”
1:8 fk9z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession τὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe **testimony** that is about **our Lord**. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the testimony concerning our Lord” or “testifying about our Lord”
1:8 blk9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession τὸν δέσμιον αὐτοῦ 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe himself as a **prisoner** because of how he serves Jesus. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “a prisoner for his sake” or “a prisoner because I serve the Lord”
1:8 ry82 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit συνκακοπάθησον 1 Here, the phrase **suffer together** could indicate that Timothy should suffer with: (1) Paul. Alternate translation: “suffer together with me” (2) all Christians who suffer. Alternate translation: “suffer together with other believers”
1:8 xa86 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ 1 Here Paul implies that Timothy should be willing to suffer as he believes in and proclaims **the gospel**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “as you preach the gospel” or “for the sake of believing and proclaiming the gospel”
1:8 hi9a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns κατὰ δύναμιν Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **power**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “as God empowers you” or “which God will make you able to do”
1:9 ld55 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy κλήσει ἁγίᾳ 1 Here, the phrase **holy calling** could refer to: (1) the result of being called, which is to be **holy**. Alternate translation: “to be holy people” (2) the way in which God called, which is a **holy** way. Alternate translation: “with a holy calling” “by means of a holy calling”
1:9 lmas rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns οὐ κατὰ τὰ ἔργα ἡμῶν, ἀλλὰ κατὰ ἰδίαν πρόθεσιν καὶ χάριν, τὴν δοθεῖσαν ἡμῖν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **works**, **purpose**, or **grace**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “not according to the things we do, but according to what he decided ahead of time and graciously did, which he did for us”
1:9 kyr5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys κατὰ ἰδίαν πρόθεσιν καὶ χάριν 1 Here, the words **purpose** and **grace** could: (1) refer to two separate things **according to** which God saved and called believers. Alternate translation: “according to both his own purpose and his grace” (2) refer to one thing described with two words connected by **and**. This is called hendiadys. Alternate translation: “according to his own gracious purpose”
1:9 p012 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive τὴν δοθεῖσαν 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “which God gave”
1:9 pq1z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ πρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων 1 Here Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with **Christ Jesus**. In this case, being **in Christ Jesus**, or united to Christ, is the only way in which believers are given grace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that the grace is given to believers as part of their union with **Christ Jesus**. Alternate translation: “before eternal times in union with Christ Jesus” or “before eternal times as part of being united to Christ Jesus”
1:9 zq7m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom πρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων 1 Here Paul is indicating that God did this **before** God made the world and before time began to be counted. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “before time began” or “before God made anything”
1:10 p013 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive φανερωθεῖσαν δὲ νῦν 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “which now God has revealed” or “which now God has allowed people to know”
1:10 h5e5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit διὰ τῆς ἐπιφανείας τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here, the word **appearance** refers to when Jesus became a human being, lived on earth, died, and rose again. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “through how our Savior Christ Jesus became a man and lived, died, and rose again” or “through the incarnation of our Savior Christ Jesus”
1:10 r489 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns καταργήσαντος μὲν τὸν θάνατον 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **death**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “both having enabled dead people to be dead no longer”
1:10 i3wl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor φωτίσαντος δὲ ζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 Here Paul speaks as if Jesus used **the gospel** to shine a **light** on **life and immortality**. He means that, by using **the gospel**, Jesus revealed how people can have **life and immortality**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and having taught us about life and immortality through the gospel” or “and having revealed life and immortality through the gospel”
1:10 a1n7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **life** and **immortality**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “being able to live and be immortal”
1:10 l871 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys ζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν 1 The two words **life** and **immortality** express a single idea. The word **immortality** describes what kind of **life** Paul is speaking about. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning in a different way. Alternate translation: “immortal life”
1:10 y25j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ζωὴν 1 Here Paul is referring to new, eternal life with God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “eternal life” or “new life with God”
1:11 clpw rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns εἰς ὃ 1 Here, the pronoun **which** refers back to “the gospel” in the previous verse. If this is not clear for your readers, you could refer to “the gospel” more directly. Alternate translation: “for which gospel”
1:11 tb9b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐτέθην ἐγὼ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “God appointed me”
1:11 p014 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown κῆρυξ 1 A **herald** is someone who is sent out to announce a message. If your readers would not be familiar with a person who performs this kind of task, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translations: “an announcer” or “a messenger”
1:11 p015 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants διδάσκαλος 1 Many ancient manuscripts read **a teacher**. The ULT follows that reading. Other ancient manuscripts read “a teacher of the Gentiles.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.
1:12 j37g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν 1 Here, the phrase which reason refers back to the fact that Paul was appointed to be a herald, apostle, and teacher (see [1:11](../01/11.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “because of which appointment” or “and so”
1:12 y8l4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit καὶ ταῦτα πάσχω 1 Here Paul does not mention the specific **things** that he is suffering, but from the context of the letter, Timothy would have known that he was referring to suffering as a prisoner (see [2:9](../02/09.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “I also suffer as a prisoner” or “I also suffer while I am in jail”
1:12 t22w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive οὐκ ἐπαισχύνομαι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who would do the action, it is clear from the context that it would be the things that Paul is suffering. Alternate translation: “that does not shame me”
1:12 y2nj rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns ᾧ 1 The pronoun **whom** could refer: (1) to God generally. Alternate translation: “God, in whom” (2) to Jesus specifically. Alternate translation: “Jesus, in whom”
1:12 td39 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive πέπεισμαι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I am confident” or “I know”
1:12 hhu5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession τὴν παραθήκην μου φυλάξαι 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe a **deposit** that could be: (1) something that Paul has entrusted to God. Alternate translation: “to guard the deposit from me” (2) something that God has entrusted to Paul. Alternate translation: “to guard the deposit given to me”
1:12 p6pi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὴν παραθήκην μου φυλάξαι 1 Here Paul speaks as if God were guarding a **deposit** of money or goods. He means that God will protect or preserve the **deposit**. What the **deposit** represents depends on what you chose in the previous note about who gave the **deposit** to whom. If the **deposit**: (1) was given by Paul to God, then it could represent Paul himself, the rewards he will receive, or his resurrection life. Alternate translation: “to protect my true life” or “to preserve me” (2) was given by God to Paul, then it could represent the gospel or Paul’s ministry. Alternate translation: “to protect the gospel given to me” or “to preserve my ministry”
1:12 qcu3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐκείνην τὴν ἡμέραν 1 Here Paul is referring to the exact moment when Jesus will return to this world, which will also be the end of the current time period. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “that day when Jesus will return” or “Jesus’ second coming”
1:13 x27w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ὑποτύπωσιν ἔχε 1 Here Paul indicates that he wants Timothy to maintain the basic form and content of the **healthy words**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “Maintain the form” or “Preserve the core content”
1:13 h1qd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὑγιαινόντων λόγων 1 Here Paul speaks as if **words** could be **healthy**. He means that these **words** are good and reliable in every way and have no defect or corruption. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of words that are like healthy food” or “of correct words”
1:13 p016 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ὑγιαινόντων λόγων 1 Here, **words** represents things spoken using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “of healthy statements” or “of healthy declarations”
1:13 p017 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν πίστει καὶ ἀγάπῃ τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **faith** and **love**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “believing and loving, which you can do in Christ Jesus”
1:13 b2ld rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here, the phrase **in Christ Jesus** could describe: (1) both **faith** and **love**. Alternate translation: “that are both in Christ Jesus” (2) just **love**. Alternate translation: “that is in Christ Jesus”
1:13 ix6w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ Jesus**, or united to **Christ Jesus**, explains how Timothy can have **faith** and **love**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that Timothy can have **faith** and **love** as one who has been united to **Christ Jesus**. Alternate translation: “that are in union with Christ Jesus” or “that come from being united to Christ Jesus”
1:14 i5g5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὴν καλὴν παραθήκην φύλαξον 1 Here, the phrase **good deposit** refers to something that has been entrusted to Timothy and that he must **Guard**. More specifically, the **good deposit** is the gospel, which God entrusted to Timothy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “guard the good deposit of the gospel” or “guard the good gospel, which God entrusted to you,”
1:14 a3v2 διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου 1 Alternate translation: “with the help of the Holy Spirit”
1:14 cb5q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τοῦ ἐνοικοῦντος ἐν ἡμῖν 1 Here Paul speaks as if believers were buildings that the **Holy Spirit** were **dwelling in**. He means that the Holy Spirit is with believers in a special way and empowers them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who is always with us as if he were dwelling in us” or “the one who is with us to give us power”
1:15 h6z2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo οἶδας τοῦτο, ὅτι 1 Here, the word **this** refers directly ahead to the phrase **all the ones in Asia turned away from me**. Paul expresses the idea in this way because it was powerful in his language. If using the word **this** to refer to what someone is about to say would be redundant in your language, you could omit the redundant information and make the expression powerful in another way. Alternate translation: “You surely know that”
1:15 p018 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole πάντες οἱ ἐν τῇ Ἀσίᾳ 1 Paul says **all** here as an overstatement to emphasize how many believers turned away from him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “most of the people who believe in Asia”
1:15 orui rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit οἱ ἐν τῇ Ἀσίᾳ 1 Here, the phrase **the ones in Asia** could refer to: (1) believers who are living in **Asia**. Alternate translation: “the believers living in Asia” (2) believers who are from **Asia** but who were with Paul where he was imprisoned, which was probably Rome. Alternate translation: “the believers from Asia” or “the ones who came with me from Asia”
1:15 p6f4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀπεστράφησάν με 1 Here Paul speaks of people who stopped listening to him and helping him as if they had **turned away from** him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “turned their backs on me” or “abandoned me”
1:15 p020 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἀπεστράφησάν με 1 Here Paul implies that these people **turned away** because Paul was accused of doing what was wrong and put in jail. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “turned away from me when I was accused” or “turned away from me because I am in prison”
1:15 x6cc rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Φύγελος & Ἑρμογένης 1 The words **Phygelus** and **Hermogenes** are the names of men.
1:16 izk9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing δῴη ἔλεος ὁ Κύριος τῷ Ὀνησιφόρου οἴκῳ 1 Here Paul asks God to bless the family of **Onesiphorus**. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “I ask the Lord to give mercy to the household of Onesiphorus” or “I pray that the household of Onesiphorus will have mercy from the Lord”
1:16 a78q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns δῴη ἔλεος ὁ Κύριος 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **mercy**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “May the Lord be merciful”
1:16 e6hl rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ὀνησιφόρου 1 The word **Onesiphorus** is the name of a man.
1:16 zz44 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive τὴν ἅλυσίν μου οὐκ ἐπησχύνθη 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “my chain did not shame him”
1:16 td1q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy τὴν ἅλυσίν μου 1 Here, **chain** represents imprisonment, or being in jail. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my imprisonment” or “me being in prison”
1:17 xfg1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 Here, the word **but** introduces what Onesiphorus did instead of being ashamed of Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces this kind of contrast, or you could leave **but** untranslated. Alternate translation: “but instead,” or “and rather,”
1:17 ayef rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐν Ῥώμῃ 1 Here Paul implies that he was in prison in **Rome**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “in Rome, where I am,”
1:18 x0eo rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure (δῴη αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος, εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ), καὶ ὅσα ἐν Ἐφέσῳ διηκόνησεν, βέλτιον σὺ γινώσκεις 1 If it would be helpful in your language, you could reverse the order of these sentences, since the second sentence continues to describe what Onesiphorus did, as the previous verse does. Alternate translation: “And as much as he served in Ephesus, you know very well. May the Lord give to him to find mercy from the Lord in that day”
1:18 p3di rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing δῴη αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος, εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου 1 Here Paul again asks God to bless Onesiphorus. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. See how you translated the similar blessing in [1:16](../01/16.md). Alternate translation: “I ask the Lord to give to him to find mercy from the Lord” or “I pray that he will have mercy from the Lord”
1:18 x2dk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου 1 Here Paul speaks of **mercy** as if it were an object that Onesiphorus could **find**. He means that he wants Onesiphorus to experience **mercy**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to receive mercy from the Lord”
1:18 r54t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **mercy**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “to be treated mercifully by the Lord”
1:18 f3ep rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ 1 Here Paul is referring to the exact moment when Jesus will return to this world, which will also be when he judges everyone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “on that day when Jesus will return” or “at the final judgment”
1:18 p025 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ὅσα & διηκόνησεν 1 Here Paul could be implying that Onesiphorus **served**: (1) Paul specifically. Alternate translation: “as much as he served me” (2) believers in general. Alternate translation: “as much as he served believers”
2:intro k3zn 0 # 2 Timothy 2 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n4. Encouragement to persevere (2:1–13)\n * Paul instructs Timothy in how to serve Jesus (2:1–7)\n * Paul and the gospel he preaches (2:8–10)\n * A trustworthy saying (2:11–13)\n5. Instructions for opposing false teaching (2:14–4:8)\n * Paul instructs Timothy to teach what is right and avoid false teaching (2:14–19)\n * God’s people as a house (2:20–21)\n * Paul explains the traits that should characterize Timothy (2:22–26)\n\nIn [2:11–13](../02/11.md), Paul either quotes a poetic hymn or composes his own poetry. Because these verses are poetry, the ULT sets each line farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. Consider how you might express these verses as poetry in your language.\n\n## Special Concepts in this Chapter\n\n### False teaching\n\nIn [2:16–18](../02/16.md), Paul refers to false teaching. He describes the teaching as “profane empty sayings” that lead to ungodliness. He further indicates that the false teaching can spread like an infectious disease and destroy people’s faith in Jesus. Finally, in [2:23](../02/23.md), Paul refers to “foolish and uneducated controversies” that cause debates and divisions within the church. However, Paul writes very little about the content of this false teaching. The only information he gives is that two men who are false teachers say that the resurrection has already happened (see [2:18](../02/18.md)). This could mean that everyone already has their resurrected bodies, that there is only a spiritual resurrection, or that people who are on earth have somehow missed the resurrection. Paul does not give enough information to know which of these options is what the false teachers were saying. So, it is best to refer to the false teaching in very general terms, as Paul does, without including any information that might be implied.\n\n## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter\n\n### The three illustrations in [2:4–6](../02/04.md)\n\nIn these three verses, Paul describes a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer. He describes these people as illustrations for how Timothy should behave as a leader and teacher in the church. Since Paul tells Timothy to think carefully about these illustrations so that he can understand them (see [2:7](../02/07.md)), it is best not to explain the illustrations in your translation. However, if it would be helpful in your language, you could include footnotes that explain what the illustrations might mean. Here are likely interpretations:\n1. The soldier avoids becoming involved in matters of regular life. That way, he can please his commander. In the same way, Timothy should focus on pleasing Jesus. To do so, he will need to avoid becoming involved in many things that most people care about.\n2. The athlete can only be declared the winner if he or she competes according to the rules. In the same way, Timothy must do what God has required. Only then will he successfully lead and teach other believers.\n3. The farmer who works hard should receive a share of the crop before anyone else does. In the same way, if Timothy works hard to serve Jesus, he deserves to receive a reward. This reward could be payment and support from the believers he leads, or it could be the rewards that God will give him at the final judgment.\n\n### A house and the containers in it\n\nIn [2:19–21](../02/19.md), Paul speaks about a house and the containers within it in order to teach Timothy about the church. In [2:19](../02/19.md), Paul indicates that “the firm foundation of God” stands, despite the false teachers. The firm foundation could represent the gospel, which is the basis for the church, or it could represent the church itself. In [2:20](../02/20.md), Paul refers to “containers” that are found within “a great house.” The implication is that this “great house” is built on the “firm foundation” and so represents God’s people, the church. Paul then speaks about the “containers,”
2:1 tajf rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result σὺ οὖν 1 Here, the word **therefore** could introduce: (1) an inference from [1:15–18](../01/15.md). In this case, Paul wants Timothy to act like Onesiphorus and not like Phygelus and Hermogenes. Alternate translation: “Like those who have not abandoned me, you too” or “In contrast to Phygelus and Hermogenes, you” (2) an inference from most or all of chapter 1. Alternate translation: “Given all that, you” (3) further exhortation to Timothy that is not based on anything specific. Alternate translation: “Now you”
2:1 bll5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τέκνον μου 1 Paul speaks of his close relationship to Timothy as though Timothy were his **child**. Paul means that he is Timothy’s spiritual father, and Paul loves Timothy in the way a father loves his child. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who are like a child to me” or “my spiritual son”
2:1 p026 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐνδυναμοῦ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who does the action, you could indicate that it is: (1) God. Alternate translation: “let God strengthen you” (2) Timothy himself. Alternate translation: “strengthen yourself”
2:1 e6ex rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῇ χάριτι τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **grace**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in the way that God acts graciously toward you in Christ Jesus”
2:1 fc41 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐν τῇ χάριτι 1 Here, the word **in** could introduce: (1) the circumstance in which Timothy is **strengthened**. Alternate translation: “while you experience the grace” (2) the means by which Timothy is **strengthened**. Alternate translation: “by the grace”
2:1 di28 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with Christ Jesus. In this case, being **in Christ Jesus**, or united to **Christ Jesus**, is the way in which Timothy is given **grace**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that the **grace** is given to Timothy as part of his union with **Christ Jesus**. Alternate translation: “that is given in union with Christ Jesus” or “that you have because you are united to Christ Jesus”
2:2 ig9v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit διὰ πολλῶν μαρτύρων 1 Here, the phrase **through many witnesses** could indicate that: (1) many people have witnessed or testified to the truth of what Paul has taught Timothy. Alternate translation: “that many witnesses have affirmed” (2) Timothy has been taught by Paul in the presence of many people who can witness or testify to what Paul said. Alternate translation: “in the presence of many witnesses”
2:2 kv1m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ταῦτα παράθου 1 Paul speaks of his teachings as if they were objects that Timothy could physically **place** before other people. He means that Timothy should give these people the same teachings that Paul gave to Timothy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translations: “pass these things on to” or “speak these things to”
2:2 p027 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations πιστοῖς ἀνθρώποις 1 Although the term **men** is masculine, Paul is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “to faithful men and women”
2:3 yc1j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit συνκακοπάθησον 1 Here, the phrase **Suffer together** could indicate that Timothy should suffer with: (1) Paul. Alternate translation: “Suffer together with me” (2) all Christians who suffer. Alternate translation: “Suffer together with other believers”
2:3 vblo rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants συνκακοπάθησον 1 Many ancient manuscripts read **Suffer together**. The ULT follows that reading. Other ancient manuscripts read “You, therefore, suffer.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.
2:3 juu2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὡς καλὸς στρατιώτης Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Here Paul speaks as if Timothy were a **soldier** who fights for and serves **Jesus Christ**. A **good soldier** is one who obeys his commander even if that means suffering and pain. So, Timothy will be like **a good soldier** when he obeys Jesus even if that means that he will **Suffer together** with Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “as if you were a good soldier and Jesus Christ were your commander” or “as someone who faithfully serves Jesus Christ no matter what happens”
2:4 a4x7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor οὐδεὶς στρατευόμενος ἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις, ἵνα τῷ στρατολογήσαντι ἀρέσῃ 1 Here Paul continues to speak about a **soldier** to help Timothy understand how to behave. Just as a soldier focuses on pleasing his commander, so Timothy should focus on pleasing Jesus. To do so, he will have to avoid becoming **entangled in the affairs of life**. Since Paul tells Timothy in [2:7](../02/07.md) to think carefully about the examples that he gives in this verse and in [2:5–6](../02/05.md), you should not explain the meaning of this metaphor here. However, if it would be helpful in your language, you could use a form that indicates that Paul is using a metaphor or giving an example. Alternate translation: “Imagine that you are a soldier. No one serving as a soldier is entangled in the affairs of life, so that he may please the one having enlisted him”
2:4 p7n5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις 1 Paul speaks of **the affairs of life** as if they were a net that could trap people and keep them from being able to move freely. He means that **the affairs of life** would prevent a soldier from doing what he is supposed to do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is trapped by the affairs of life” or “is distracted by the affairs of life”
2:4 p028 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐμπλέκεται 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “entangles himself”
2:4 p029 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις 1 Here, the phrase **the affairs of life** refers to the normal things that people who are not soldiers do and care about, including having a job and owning a home. If it would be helpful in your language, you could refer to those things more explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the normal tasks of everyday life” or “in the everyday jobs of civilian life”
2:5 e7ru rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ καὶ 1 Here, the phrase **But also** introduces another example or metaphor that Paul uses to explain how Timothy should serve Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces another example, or you could leave **But also** untranslated. Alternate translation: “Further” or “Similarly”
2:5 d483 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐὰν & ἀθλῇ τις, οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ 1 Here Paul speaks about an athlete who **competes** in a sport. He speaks about this to help Timothy understand how to behave. Just as an athlete will only receive the crown given to the winner if he competes **lawfully**, so Timothy will only be rewarded if he serves Jesus **lawfully**, that is, as Jesus desires. Since Paul tells Timothy in [2:7](../02/07.md) to think carefully about the examples that he gives in this verse and in [2:4](../02/04.md) and [2:6](../02/06.md), you should not explain the meaning of this metaphor here. However, if it would be helpful in your language, you could use a form that indicates that Paul is using a metaphor or giving an example. Alternate translation: “imagine that you are an athlete. If anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned if he has not competed lawfully”
2:5 p031 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo ἐὰν & ἀθλῇ τις, οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ 1 Here Paul uses an imaginary situation to show what happens when athletes do not compete **lawfully**. Use a natural method in your language for introducing an imaginary situation. Alternate translation: “suppose someone did not compete lawfully. In that case, he would not be crowned”
2:5 p032 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἀθλῇ 1 Here, the word **competes** refers specifically to competing in an athletic event. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “competes in an athletic event” or “competes as an athlete”
2:5 xbn6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ 1 If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning in positive form. Alternate translation: “he can only be crowned is he has competed lawfully”
2:5 p033 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive οὐ στεφανοῦται 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who would do the action, it is clear from the context that it would be the officials or referees who were judging the competition. Alternate translation: “the officials will not crown him”
2:5 lea8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown οὐ στεφανοῦται 1 In Paul’s culture, when athletes won competitions, they were **crowned** with wreaths made from the leaves of plants. If your readers would not be familiar with this custom, you could refer to how athletes are recognized as winners in your culture, or you could use a more general statement. Alternate translation: “he is not given an award” or “he is not declared the winner”
2:5 reg6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ 1 Here Paul refers 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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “he has not competed according to the rules of the competition”
2:6 wz35 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸν κοπιῶντα γεωργὸν δεῖ πρῶτον τῶν καρπῶν μεταλαμβάνειν 1 Here Paul speaks about a **farmer** who is **hardworking**. He speaks about this to help Timothy understand how to behave. Just as this kind of **farmer** should be **first to share in the fruits**, so Timothy will be **first** to receive rewards if he works hard to serve Jesus. Since Paul tells Timothy in [2:7](../02/07.md) to think carefully about the examples that he gives in this verse and in [2:4–5](../02/04.md), you should not explain the meaning of this metaphor here. However, if it would be helpful in your language, you could use a form that indicates that Paul is using a metaphor or giving an example. Alternate translation: “Now imagine that you are a farmer. It is necessary for the hardworking farmer first to share in the fruits”
2:6 s6bz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun τὸν κοπιῶντα γεωργὸν 1 The word **farmer** represents farmers in general, not one particular farmer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “any hardworking farmer”
2:6 p035 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit πρῶτον τῶν καρπῶν μεταλαμβάνειν 1 Here Paul implies that other people will **share in the fruits**, but the farmer is one who should **share in** them **first**. In other words, he is the one who deserves to receive the benefits of his work before anyone else does. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “to share in the fruits before anyone else does” or “to receive the first share of the fruits”
2:7 bdk9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit νόει ὃ λέγω 1 Here Paul means that Timothy should **Think about** what Paul has written about soldiers, athletes, and farmers ([2:4–6](../02/04.md)). He wants Timothy to apply these examples to himself as he serves Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “Think about the examples I have given” or “Think about what I have said about soldiers, athletes, and farmers”
2:7 p036 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns δώσει & σοι & σύνεσιν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **understanding**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “will help you to understand”
2:7 a22q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐν πᾶσιν 1 Here, the phrase **in everything** could refer to: (1) everything related to the three examples that Paul has given to Timothy in the previous verses. Alternate translation: “about everything that I have just said” or “about all those examples” (2) everything that Timothy needs to know to serve Jesus well. Alternate translation: “about everything that you need to know” or “about all things related to serving him”
2:8 rwlv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit μνημόνευε 1 Here, the word **Remember** indicates that Timothy should think consistently about **Jesus Christ**. It does not imply that Timothy might completely forget about **Jesus Christ**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “Concentrate on” or “Consistently think about”
2:8 y6ff rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events ἐγηγερμένον ἐκ νεκρῶν, ἐκ σπέρματος Δαυείδ 1 Jesus was born **from the seed of David** before he was **raised from the dead**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses to express the ideas in sequential order. Alternate translation: “from the seed of David, having been raised from the dead”
2:8 wt31 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom ἐγηγερμένον 1 Here, the word **raised** refers to someone who died coming back to life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “having been restored to life”
2:8 p038 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐγηγερμένον 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, Paul implies that God did it. Alternate translation: “whom God has raised”
2:8 ssfl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 Paul is using the adjective **dead** as a noun in order to refer to people who are **dead**. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “from among the dead people” or “from the corpses”
2:8 mh1k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐκ σπέρματος Δαυείδ 1 Here Paul speaks as if Jesus were a plant that grew from a **seed** that came from **David**. He means that Jesus is a descendant of **David**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who is descended from David”
2:8 s4vh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession κατὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιόν μου 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe the **gospel** that God gave to him to preach. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “according to the gospel message that I preach” or “according to the gospel that was given to me”
2:9 t2ax rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy μέχρι δεσμῶν 1 Here, **chains** represents imprisonment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “even to imprisonment” or “even up to being imprisoned”
2:9 p039 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile ὡς κακοῦργος 1 Paul is saying that he is being treated **like a criminal** because he has been put in jail with those who break laws. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “like someone who has committed crimes” or “like someone who has disobeyed the government”
2:9 pc6t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐ δέδεται 1 Here Paul speaks as if **the word of God** could have been **bound**, as Paul has been. However, even when Paul is in jail and cannot preach the gospel in many places, **the word of God** cannot be restrained or contained in one place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the word of God cannot be restrained as a prisoner can be restrained by chains” or “nothing is holding back the message from God”
2:9 p040 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐ δέδεται 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, you could use an indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “nothing has bound the word of God” or “nobody has bound the word of God”
2:9 c3qb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe a **word** that comes from God. Alternate translation: “the word that comes from God”
2:9 p041 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος 1 Here, **word** represents the gospel, which people speak using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the gospel”
2:10 uywb rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns διὰ τοῦτο, πάντα ὑπομένω 1 The pronoun **this** could refer to: (1) what Paul said in the previous verse about how God’s word is not bound. Alternate translation: “Because God’s word has not been bound, I endure all things” (2) what Paul is about to say about **the elect** and their **salvation**. Alternate translation: “Here is why I endure all things:”
2:10 p042 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole πάντα ὑπομένω 1 Paul says **all** here as an overstatement to emphasize that he endures every bad thing that happens to him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “I endure all of these sufferings” or “I endure many things”
2:10 aa1x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj τοὺς ἐκλεκτούς 1 Paul is using the adjective **elect** as a noun to mean people whom God has chosen. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “the elect people” or “those who have been chosen”
2:10 p043 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns καὶ αὐτοὶ σωτηρίας τύχωσιν τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **salvation**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “they also may be saved, which happens in Christ Jesus”
2:10 j2bk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with **Christ Jesus**. In this case, being **in Christ Jesus**, or united to **Christ Jesus**, is the only way in which believers **obtain salvation**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that believers **obtain salvation** as part of their union with **Christ Jesus**. Alternate translation: “that is received in union with Christ Jesus” or “that they have because they are united to Christ Jesus”
2:10 sehs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit μετὰ δόξης αἰωνίου 1 Here, the phrase **with eternal glory** could refer to **glory**: (1) that goes along with salvation. Alternate translation: “along with eternal glory” (2) that characterizes salvation. Alternate translation: “salvation that has eternal glory”
2:10 el68 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns μετὰ δόξης αἰωνίου 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **glory**, you could express the same idea in another way. Be sure that your translation fits with the option you chose in the previous note. Alternate translation: “and they will live gloriously forever” or “along with being eternally great”
2:11 nr7u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy πιστὸς ὁ λόγος 1 Here, **word** represents what Paul is about to write using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “What I am about to write is trustworthy” or “The following words are trustworthy”
2:11-13 p045 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks εἰ γὰρ συναπεθάνομεν, καὶ συνζήσομεν & εἰ ὑπομένομεν, καὶ συνβασιλεύσομεν; εἰ ἀρνησόμεθα, κἀκεῖνος ἀρνήσεται ἡμᾶς & εἰ ἀπιστοῦμεν, ἐκεῖνος πιστὸς μένει; ἀρνήσασθαι γὰρ ἑαυτὸν οὐ δύναται 1 These words are the **word** that Paul shares with Timothy. To indicate this, the ULT and UST put quotation marks around these words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use quotation marks or another form to indicate which words are the ones that Paul introduces as the word.
2:11 g6e4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** could: (1) be part of the **word** that Paul quotes here. In this case, **For** does not connect directly with anything that Paul has previously said. Alternate translation: “In fact,” (2) introduce the **word** as the reason for what Paul has said in the previous verses about remembering Jesus and enduring in suffering. Alternate translation: “We should endure because” or “Remember Christ Jesus because”
2:11 a1k6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ & συναπεθάνομεν 1 Paul speaks as if this were a hypothetical situation, but he means that this does certainly happen. If your language does not state something as a condition if it does happen, and if your readers might think that what Paul is saying is uncertain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “when we died with him”
2:11 in38 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor συναπεθάνομεν 1 Here Paul refers to how believers, in their union with Christ, share in Christ’s death. In this way, they too have died. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we died, as it were, with him” or “we participated in the Messiah’s death”
2:11 p046 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit καὶ συνζήσομεν 1 Here Paul refers to the new life that believers receive in their union with Christ. This new life can be experienced now, but Paul seems especially to be speaking about the eternal life that believers will have after Jesus comes back. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “we will also experience new life with him” or “we will also have eternal life with him”
2:12 flds rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ὑπομένομεν 1 Here Paul implies that believers must **endure** suffering and persecution. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “we endure suffering” or “we endure persecution”
2:12 p048 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἀρνησόμεθα 1 Here Paul refers to people denying that they know and believe in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “we deny that we believe in him”
2:12 p049 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit κἀκεῖνος ἀρνήσεται ἡμᾶς 1 Here Paul implies that at the final judgment Jesus **will deny** that these people know him and believe in him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “he also will deny that we believe in him” or “he also will deny at the final judgment that we are his followers”
2:13 ke4w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἀπιστοῦμεν 1 Here, the word **unfaithful** could refer to: (1) failing to be loyal to Jesus and disobeying him. Alternate translation: “we disobey Jesus” or “we are disloyal to Jesus” (2) failing to believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “we stop believing in Jesus” or “if we no longer trust Jesus”
2:13 p050 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐκεῖνος πιστὸς μένει 1 Here, the word **faithful** could indicate that: (1) Jesus remains loyal to these people. In other words, he still does what he said he would, even if they do not. Alternate translation: “he continues to do what he said he would” or “he remains true to them” (2) Jesus consistently acts based on who he is. In this case, Jesus will be **faithful** to his promise to deny those who deny him. Alternate translation: “he remains consistent and will deny them” or “he is true to himself and will judge them”
2:13 ihd4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἀρνήσασθαι & ἑαυτὸν οὐ δύναται 1 Here, the phrase **deny himself** refers to a person choosing not to do what they would naturally do. Here, then, Paul means that Jesus is able to do only what he would naturally do. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he is not able to stop doing what he does” or “he will always do what fits with who he is”
2:14 u661 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ὑπομίμνῃσκε 1 Here Paul implies that Timothy should **Remind** the believers who are with him and over whom he has responsibility. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “Remind the believers there of”
2:14 j3i5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ταῦτα 1 Here, the phrase **these things** refer to what Paul has previously written. This includes the trustworthy word in [2:11–13](../02/11.md) and perhaps also [2:1–10](../02/01.md). If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “what I have written” or “the things I have just said”
2:14 p051 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula διαμαρτυρόμενος ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here Paul wants Timothy to put the believers under oath, making them swear by **God**, that they will do what Timothy tells them to do. Use a natural way in your language to express an oath. Alternate translation: “making them swear before God” or “requiring that they solemnly promise God”
2:14 r5lq rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Many ancient manuscripts read **God**. The ULT follows that reading. Other ancient manuscripts read “the Lord.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.
2:14 g6p7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μὴ λογομαχεῖν 1 Here Paul refers to arguments about what **words** mean as if they were battles. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “not to dispute about words”
2:14 ywty rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐπὶ καταστροφῇ τῶν ἀκουόντων 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **destruction**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “and it destroys the ones hearing”
2:14 x7gx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐπὶ καταστροφῇ τῶν ἀκουόντων 1 Here Paul implies that battling about words damages the faith **of the ones hearing** and stops their spiritual growth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “to the destruction of the faith of the ones hearing” or “to the ruin of the spiritual growth of the ones hearing”
2:15 m3vy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom σπούδασον σεαυτὸν, δόκιμον παραστῆσαι τῷ Θεῷ 1 Here Paul means that Timothy should **Strive** to be the kind of person who is **approved** by **God**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Work hard so that God approves of you” or “Do your best to please God”
2:15 rj6y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐργάτην 1 Here Paul speaks as if Timothy were a skilled **worker**. He means that Timothy works for God as a teacher and leader. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “like a craftsman” or “someone who works for God and is”
2:15 app2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἀνεπαίσχυντον 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say what would do the action, it is clear from the context that it would be his work. Alternate translation: “without shame” or “whose work does not shame him”
2:15 xgz9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὀρθοτομοῦντα τὸν λόγον τῆς ἀληθείας 1 Paul refers to **the word of truth** as if it were wood or cloth that Timothy should cut **straight**. He means that Timothy should understand and teach **the word of truth** carefully and properly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “teaching the word of truth rightly as if it were a piece of cloth that you were cutting straight” or “instructing others properly in the word of truth”
2:15 u349 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession τὸν λόγον τῆς ἀληθείας 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe a **word** that could be: (1) true. Alternate translation: “the word that is true” (2) that is about something that is true. Alternate translation: “the word about what is true”
2:15 p053 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τὸν λόγον τῆς ἀληθείας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **truth**, you could express the same idea in another way. Be sure that your translation fits with the option you chose in the previous note. Alternate translation: “the true word”
2:15 p052 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy τὸν λόγον 1 Here, **word** represents the gospel, which people speak using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the gospel”
2:16 r8k0 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces how Timothy should treat **profane empty sayings** in contrast with how he should treat “the word of truth” ([2:15](../02/15.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces this kind of contrast, or you could leave **But** untranslated. Alternate translation: “In contrast,”
2:16 oww8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὰς & βεβήλους κενοφωνίας 1 Here Paul implies that the **sayings** are **empty** of useful or true information. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the profane sayings that have no meaning”
2:16 ke4v rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns προκόψουσιν 1 The pronoun **they** could refer to: (1) the people who speak and listen to the **profane empty sayings**. When Paul refers to “their word” in [2:17](../02/17.md), he seems to be speaking about these people. Alternate translation: “the people who indulge in them will advance” or “those who speak and listen to them will advance” (2) the **profane empty sayings** themselves. In this case, Paul means that the **sayings** become more and more ungodly as people use them. Alternate translation: “these sayings will advance”
2:16 e27q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐπὶ πλεῖον & προκόψουσιν ἀσεβείας 1 Here Paul speaks of people who speak the **profane empty sayings** as if they could physically **advance further** or progress in a certain direction, and he speaks of **ungodliness** as that direction. He means that these people become more and more ungodly as they speak these **sayings**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they have even more ungodliness” or “they will be characterized by even more ungodliness”
2:16 pxdn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἀσεβείας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **ungodliness**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in being ungodly”
2:17 p054 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος αὐτῶν 1 Here, **word** represents what people say using words. In this case, Paul is referring specifically to the “profane empty sayings” to which he referred in [2:16](../02/16.md). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “their sayings” or “their message”
2:17 i73t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile ὡς γάγγραινα νομὴν ἕξει 1 Paul is saying that profane empty sayings will spread **like gangrene** because both these sayings and **gangrene** spread quickly and are dangerous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “will spread quickly and destroy things, just as gangrene does”
2:17 p055 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown γάγγραινα 1 The word **gangrene** refers to a type of tissue death caused by infection or lack of blood circulation. The type of **gangrene** that Paul is referring to can spread quickly through a person’s body and can lead to death. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of infection, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “a contagious infection” or “a deadly disease”
2:17 x2k6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ὑμέναιος, καὶ Φίλητος 1 The words **Hymenaeus** and **Philetus** are names of men.
2:18 fi9z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor περὶ τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἠστόχησαν 1 Paul speaks as if **the truth** were a mark or target that these two men have **missed**. Paul means that these men have failed to maintain **the truth**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “have not remained in the truth” or “have ceased to have the truth”
2:18 p057 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns περὶ τὴν ἀλήθειαν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **truth**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “concerning what is true”
2:18 pu22 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἀνάστασιν ἤδη γεγονέναι 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **resurrection**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “that people have already resurrected”
2:18 ura5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀνατρέπουσιν τήν τινων πίστιν 1 Here Paul speaks of **faith** as if it were an object that these two men could **overturn**. He means that they are disrupting or destroying people’s faith in Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who tear down the faith of some” or “who cause some to lose their faith”
2:18 fj45 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τήν τινων πίστιν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **faith**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “how some believed” or “some who used to believe”
2:19 ir1z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὁ & στερεὸς θεμέλιος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἕστηκεν 1 Here Paul speaks of a **firm foundation** that **stands** to indicate that something that **God** has established is secure and will remain. Paul could be referring to: (1) God’s people, the church. In this case, God has established his people as a **firm foundation**, and no false teaching can make them stop believing. Alternate translation: “the church of God stands like a firm foundation” (2) the gospel. In this case, God has established the gospel as a **firm foundation**, and no false teaching can corrupt it. Alternate translation: “the gospel of God stands like a firm foundation”
2:19 p058 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἔχων τὴν σφραγῖδα ταύτην 1 Here Paul speaks as if the **foundation** had a **seal** on it. He means that God has made official statements about the **foundation**. These official statements guarantee that the **foundation** is valid and belongs to God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “having these official statements from God which are like a seal” or “about which God has officially said”
2:19 p059 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations ἔγνω Κύριος τοὺς ὄντας αὐτοῦ, καί, ἀποστήτω ἀπὸ ἀδικίας πᾶς ὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου 1 Here Paul introduces a quotation and a summary that both come from the Old Testament scriptures. The first quotation is from [Numbers 16:5](../num/16/05.md). Paul quotes these words from an ancient translation into Timothy’s language. The second quotation is a summary of many verses in the Old Testament. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could format these words as quotations, as the ULT and UST do, and you could include information about the quotations in a footnote.
2:19 ntoh rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Κύριος & Κυρίου 1 Here, the word **Lord** could refer to: (1) Jesus specifically. Alternate translation: “Jesus the Lord … of Jesus the Lord” (2) God generally. Alternate translation: “The Lord God … of the Lord God”
2:19 ifmm rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense ἔγνω 1 Here the author of the quotation uses the past tense to refer to something that is always true. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use whatever tense is natural for stating a general truth. Alternate translation: “has known”
2:19 qi40 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀποστήτω ἀπὸ & πᾶς ὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου 1 Here Paul speaks of **unrighteousness** if it were a location from which people should **depart**. He means that these people should stop doing what is unrighteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Let everyone naming the name of the Lord avoid” or “Let everyone naming the name of the Lord reject”
2:19 sd6m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative3p ἀποστήτω & πᾶς ὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου 1 If your language does not use the third-person imperative in this way, you could state this in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Everyone naming the name of the Lord should depart”
2:19 nd7t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom ὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου 1 Here, the phrase **naming the name of the Lord** refers to claiming that one serves and believes in **the Lord**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who claims to follow the Lord” or “who claims to believe in the Lord”
2:19 y3bc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἀπὸ ἀδικίας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **unrighteousness**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “from acting unrighteously”
2:20 mvjp rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the word **Now** introduces the next thing that Paul wants to write about. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces the next topic, or you could leave **Now** untranslated. Alternate translation: “Further,”
2:20 p060 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor ἐν μεγάλῃ & οἰκίᾳ, οὐκ ἔστιν μόνον σκεύη χρυσᾶ καὶ ἀργυρᾶ, ἀλλὰ καὶ ξύλινα καὶ ὀστράκινα; καὶ ἃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν, ἃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν 1 To teach Timothy, Paul speaks of the church as if it were **a great house** that contained **containers**, which represent people who are part of the church. This is an important figure of speech that Paul continues in the next verse, so you should preserve it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use a form that introduces an illustration or example. Alternate translation: “here is an illustration: in a great house, there are not only gold and silver containers, but also wood and clay, and some for honor and some for dishonor”
2:20 j75l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit σκεύη 1 The word translated as **container** is a general term for items that people use when they are performing household duties. These items include bowls and pots but also tools such as knives and shovels. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a general word that refers to this kind of item, or you could list several examples. Alternate translation: “bowls, knives, and similar items”
2:20 p061 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ καὶ ξύλινα καὶ ὀστράκινα 1 Paul is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but there are also wood and clay containers”
2:20 vefb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis ἃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν, ἃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν 1 Paul is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “some are made for honor and some are made for dishonor”
2:20 mt5e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν, ἃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **honor** and **dishonor**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “some for being used in honorable ways and some for being used in dishonorable ways”
2:21 jm3p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor ἐὰν & τις ἐκκαθάρῃ ἑαυτὸν ἀπὸ τούτων, ἔσται σκεῦος εἰς τιμήν, ἡγιασμένον εὔχρηστον τῷ Δεσπότῃ, εἰς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἡτοιμασμένον 1 Here Paul continues to speak of believers as if they were each a **container**. In this verse, Paul gives some explanation of this figure of speech. When people cleanse themselves, they become like clean containers that can be used in honorable ways and that are useful to the **master** of the house, who represents God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form to explain the figure of speech. Alternate translation: “if someone has cleansed himself from these, he will be like a container for honor. Like such a container, he will be sanctified and useful to God, who is like the master of the house. He will be prepared for every good work”
2:21 deyt rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τούτων 1 Here, the word **these** could refer to: (1) what Paul has said in [2:16–18](../02/16.md) about what the false teachers do and say. The particular focus, then, is on ungodliness and false teaching. Alternate translation: “from ungodliness and false teaching” or “these ungodly things” (2) the vessels for dishonor that Paul mentioned in [2:20](../02/20.md). In this case, the focus could be on the vessels or the dishonor. Alternate translation: “these vessels for dishonor” or “that dishonor”
2:21 gi36 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations ἑαυτὸν & ἔσται 1 Although the terms **himself** and **he** are masculine, Paul is using the words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “himself or herself … he or she will be”
2:21 p062 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns εἰς τιμήν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **honor**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “that is used in honorable ways”
2:21 p063 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἡγιασμένον 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “having become holy” or “one that God has sanctified”
2:21 p065 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἡτοιμασμένον 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “being ready” or “one that God has prepared”
2:22 bnph rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces the next thing that Paul wants to write about. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces the next idea, or you could leave **But** untranslated. Alternate translation: “Now”
2:22 h9p6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor φεῦγε 1 Paul speaks of **youthful lusts** as if they were things a person could physically run away from. He means that Timothy should always avoid these **lusts**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “make sure that you do not have”
2:22 p066 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὰς & νεωτερικὰς ἐπιθυμίας 1 Here Paul is referring to **lusts** that generally characterize **youthful** people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the lusts that youthful people often have”
2:22 hg99 δίωκε & δικαιοσύνην, πίστιν, ἀγάπην, εἰρήνην, μετὰ τῶν ἐπικαλουμένων τὸν Κύριον ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας 1 Here, the phrase **with the ones calling on the Lord from a pure heart** could modify: (1) **pursue**. In this case, Timothy is supposed to **pursue** these good qualities along with the people who are **calling on the Lord from a pure heart**. Alternate translation: “pursue, with the ones calling on the Lord from a pure heart, righteousness, faith, love, peace” (2) **peace**. In this case, the people with whom Timothy should have peace are those **calling on the Lord from a pure heart**. Alternate translation: “pursue righteousness, faith, and love, and pursue peace with the ones calling on the Lord from a pure heart”
2:22 srb7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor δίωκε 1 Paul speaks of **righteousness** and other good qualities as if they were things that a person could run after and catch. He means that Timothy should try very hard to be characterized by these good things. Alternate translation: “seek to acquire” or “work hard to be characterized by”
2:22 p067 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns δικαιοσύνην, πίστιν, ἀγάπην, εἰρήνην 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for some or all of the ideas in this list, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “becoming more righteous, believing, loving, peaceful”
2:22 bp8b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit πίστιν 1 Here, the word **faith** could refer to: (1) belief in Jesus. Alternate translation: “faith in Jesus” (2) faithfulness in doing what God requires. Alternate translation: “faithfulness”
2:22 gl3q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom τῶν ἐπικαλουμένων τὸν Κύριον 1 The phrase **calling on the Lord** refers to worshiping and praying to **the Lord**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the ones praying to the Lord”
2:22 as17 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὸν Κύριον ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας 1 Here, the phrase **from a clean heart** could be: (1) another description of these people. Alternate translation: “the Lord who have a pure heart” (2) a description of how they are **calling on the Lord**. Alternate translation: “the Lord, which they do with a pure heart”
2:22 p068 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας 1 In Paul’s culture, the **heart** is the place where humans think and feel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate **heart** by referring to the place where humans think and feel in your culture or by expressing the idea plainly. Alternate translation: “from a pure mind” or “from pure thoughts”
2:23 tmf7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces how Timothy should treat **foolish and uneducated questions** in contrast to how he should “pursue” the good qualities that Paul listed in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces this kind of contrast, or you could leave **But** untranslated. Alternate translation: “In contrast,”
2:23 f5vb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τὰς & μωρὰς καὶ ἀπαιδεύτους ζητήσεις 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of controversies, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “debating about foolish and ignorant things”
2:23 p069 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet μωρὰς καὶ ἀπαιδεύτους 1 The terms **foolish** and **uneducated** mean similar things. Paul is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “very foolish” or “completely uneducated”
2:23 kh6p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor γεννῶσι 1 Here Paul speaks of the **controversies** as if they were women giving birth to children, the **battles**. He means that these **controversies** cause the **battles**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they cause”
2:23 p070 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μάχας 1 Here Paul speaks of strife and quarrels within a community as if they were **battles**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “quarrels that are like battles” or “strife”
2:24 ux2p rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces how **a slave of the Lord** acts in contrast to how the “controversies” that Paul mentioned in the previous verse cause people to act. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces this kind of contrast, or you could leave **But** untranslated. Alternate translation: “In contrast,”
2:24 u2mp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun δοῦλον & Κυρίου 1 The word **slave** represents any person who is a **slave of the Lord**, not one particular person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “each slave of the Lord”
2:24 p071 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor δοῦλον & Κυρίου 1 Here Paul speaks of people who worship and obey **the Lord**, and especially leaders in the church, as if they were each **a slave of the Lord**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “those who worship and obey the Lord” or “people who do what the Lord commands”
2:24 p072 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor οὐ & μάχεσθαι 1 Here Paul speaks of arguing and quarreling in a community as if it were battling. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. See how you expressed the similar figure of speech in [2:23](../02/23.md). Alternate translation: “not to quarrel, which is like fighting in a battle” or “not to cause strife”
2:24 s78b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj πάντας 1 Paul is using the adjective **all** as a noun to mean all people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “everyone”
2:25 un9l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν πραΰτητι 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **meekness**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “meekly” or “in a meek way”
2:25 u6rp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τοὺς ἀντιδιατιθεμένους 1 Here Paul could be implying that these people are **opposing**: (1) the “slave of the Lord” ([2:24](../02/24.md)). Alternate translation: “the ones opposing him” (2) the gospel. Alternate translation: “the ones opposing the gospel”
2:25 jt1r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μήποτε δώῃ αὐτοῖς ὁ Θεὸς μετάνοιαν 1 Here Paul speaks of **repentance** as if it were an object that God could give people. He means that God may enable these people to have **repentance**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “God may perhaps cause them to have repentance”
2:25 u8dy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns μήποτε δώῃ αὐτοῖς & μετάνοιαν εἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **repentance**, **knowledge**, and **truth**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “may perhaps cause them to repent so that they can know the true teaching”
2:26 ql9p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events ἀνανήψωσιν ἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος, ἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα 1 These people must have been **captured** by the devil before they can **become sober again from the trap of the devil**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses to express the ideas in sequential order. Alternate translation: “having in the past been captured by the devil for the will of that one, they may become sober again from the trap of the devil”
2:26 p073 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἀνανήψωσιν ἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος 1 Here Paul implies that being **sober again** also means escaping **from the trap of the devil**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “they may become sober again and escape from the trap of the devil”
2:26 ef3q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀνανήψωσιν 1 Here Paul speaks of being able to think clearly about what is true as if it were becoming **sober again**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they may be able to reason properly again”
2:26 mql8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος, ἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ 1 Here Paul speaks of how the devil has gained power or control over these people as if he had **captured** them in a **trap**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from what is like a trap of the devil, in which they have been captured like animals by him” or “from the power of the devil, having been dominated by him”
2:26 p074 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he having captured them”
2:26 sawl rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα 1 Here Paul uses the pronoun **him** and the phrase **that one**. He could be: (1) using both terms to refer to the devil. Alternate translation: “the devil for the devil’s own will” (2) be using the word **him** to refer to the devil and the phrase **that one** to refer to God. In this case, the phrase **for the will of that one** gives the result of these people becoming sober again. Alternate translation: “the devil, but now they can do the will of God”
2:26 dj4j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **will**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “for what that one desires”
3:intro k2cr 0 # 2 Timothy 3 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n5. Instructions for opposing false teaching (2:14–4:8)\n * False teachers in the last days (3:1–9)\n * Instructions to Timothy to remain faithful (3:10–15)\n * The nature of Scripture (3:16–17)\n\n## Special Concepts in this Chapter\n\n### The last days\n\nMany Christians understand the phrase “last days” ([3:1](../03/01.md)) to refer to the entire time from when Jesus first came to when he will return, which includes Paul’s time. If so, then what Paul says about false teachers and evil people applies to his time, the present time, and the future. In contrast, some Christians understand the phrase “last days” to refer to a time in the future just before Jesus returns. If that is the meaning, then what Paul says about false teachers and evil people applies primarily to the future. Since Christians disagree about what time period the phrase “last days” refers to, if possible use a phrase that is general enough to allow for several interpretations. See the notes on [3:1](../03/01.md) for translation options.\n\n### Jannes and Jambres\n\nIn [3:8–9](../03/08.md), Paul refers to two men named Jannes and Jambres. These were the traditional names in Paul’s culture for two of the sorcerers or magicians who served Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. When God told Moses to tell Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses by doing the same kind of miracle that he did (see [Exodus 7:8–13](../exo/07/08.md)). However, later on they were not able to imitate the miracles that Moses did (see [Exodus 8:18–19](../exo/08/18.md)), and they were even affected directly by one of the miracles that Moses did (see [Exodus 9:11](../exo/09/11.md)). Paul compares the false teachers he is speaking about to these two men. Just like Jannes and Jambres, they oppose what is true but will eventually be proven foolish. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could include some of this information in a footnote.\n\n## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter\n\n### “God-breathed”\n\nIn [3:16](../03/16.md), Paul states that all Scripture is “God-breathed.” This is an important metaphor that indicates that God is the origin of Scripture as surely as if it were a breath that he had exhaled. This means that Scripture contains God’s words and is as true and reliable as God himself is. Paul does not mean that Scripture was not written by humans. Rather, Paul means that God enabled and guided humans as they wrote Scripture so that it truly is God’s words. If possible, preserve this important metaphor or express the idea in simile form. See the notes on this verse for translation options. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:1 dtw5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces the next thing that Paul wants to write about. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces the next idea, or you could leave **But** untranslated. Alternate translation: “Now”
3:1 k9xi rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo τοῦτο & γίνωσκε, ὅτι 1 The expression **know this, that** contains extra information that would be unnatural to express in some languages. If this is true of your language, you could shorten the expression. Alternate translation: “know that”
3:1 g65r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom ἐν ἐσχάταις ἡμέραις 1 Here, the phrase **last days** refers to the period of time before Jesus comes back. Christians have different understandings about whether Paul believed that this time period had already begun or would begin sometime in the future. If possible, your translation should refer to this time period without indicating whether it had already begun. Alternate translation: “during the time before Jesus’ second coming” or “in the final time period”
3:1 n7gs rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐνστήσονται καιροὶ χαλεποί 1 Here Paul implies that the **times** will be **difficult** for believers because of what other people do and say that may harm or injure them (see [3:2–5](../03/02.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “believers will face difficult situations” or “believers will be in danger”
3:2 b1z2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces a reason why the times will be difficult. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a reason or basis for a claim, or you could leave **For** untranslated. Alternate translation: “That is because” or “Here is why:”
3:2 wh7c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun οἱ ἄνθρωποι 1 The phrase **the men** represents people in general, not one particular set of **men**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “men”
3:2 p075 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations οἱ ἄνθρωποι 1 Although the term **men** is masculine, Paul is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “the men and women”
3:2 jb27 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit φίλαυτοι 1 Here, the phrase **lovers of self** refers people who love themselves more than they love other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “lovers of themselves more than others” or “lovers of themselves most of all”
3:3 ks9y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj ἀφιλάγαθοι 1 Paul is using the adjective **good** as a noun to mean good things and actions. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “not lovers of good things”
3:4 d6ng rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τετυφωμένοι 1 Here Paul speaks of proud people as if it they were **puffed up** by air. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “conceited”
3:4 p076 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive τετυφωμένοι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “proud” or “haughty”
3:5 aagz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἔχοντες μόρφωσιν εὐσεβείας, τὴν δὲ δύναμιν αὐτῆς ἠρνημένοι 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **godliness** and **power**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “seeming to be godly, but denying how powerful being godly really is”
3:5 k5dc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἔχοντες μόρφωσιν εὐσεβείας 1 Here, the phrase **a form of godliness** refers to the appearance of **godliness**. In other words, these people appear to be acting in godly ways. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “seeming to have godliness” or “looking like people characterized by godliness”
3:5 xjxa rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὴν & δύναμιν αὐτῆς ἠρνημένοι 1 Here Paul implies that these people refuse to experience and act upon the **power** that comes with real godliness. In other words, they do not actually do what is godly, and they do not allow God to change them so that they become more godly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “refusing to experience its power” or “ignoring the work that it requires”
3:5 p077 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result καὶ 1 Here, the word **And** introduces an inference based on what Paul has said about these people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an inference, or you could leave **And** untranslated. Alternate translation: “So”
3:5 xm1c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τούτους ἀποτρέπου 1 Here Paul speaks of avoiding people as if it were turning **away from** them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “turn your back on these” or “avoid these”
3:5 p078 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj τούτους 1 Paul is using the adjective **these** as a noun to mean the people he has been describing. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “these people” or “the kind of people I have described”
3:6 edvm rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces a reason why Timothy should “turn away from these” people (see [3:5](../03/05.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a reason or basis for a command, or you could leave **For** untranslated. Alternate translation: “Turn away from them because” or “I say that because”
3:6 yvp3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj ἐκ τούτων 1 Paul is using the adjective **these** as a noun to mean the people he has described in the previous verses. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. See how you translated the word “these” in [3:5](../03/05.md). Alternate translation: “from these people” or “from the kind of people I have described”
3:6 la4m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit οἱ ἐνδύνοντες εἰς τὰς οἰκίας 1 Here Paul is referring to how these people visit other people’s homes. The word translated **entering** implies that these people used false pretenses and deception to visit these homes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the ones using deceit to enter into households” or “the ones sneaking into other people’s households”
3:6 gu4b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor αἰχμαλωτίζοντες 1 Here Paul speaks about how these people influence **little women** as if they were **taking** these women **captive**. He means that they gain control and power over these women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “gaining influence over” or “manipulating”
3:6 u9m5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor γυναικάρια 1 Here, Paul refers to the **women** who are deceived by the false teachers as if they were physically **little**. He could mean that: (1) these women are spiritually weak and immature. Alternate translation: “women who are spiritually weak” (2) gullible or easily deceived. Alternate translation: “gullible women” or “silly women”
3:6 e9ex rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor σεσωρευμένα ἁμαρτίαις 1 Paul speaks of these women’s **sins** as if they were **heaped** on their backs. He could mean that: (1) these women sin often or even continually. Alternate translation: “who sin frequently” (2) these women feel terrible guilt because of their sins. Alternate translation: “who feel very guilty for their sins”
3:6 p079 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive σεσωρευμένα ἁμαρτίαις 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, you could indicate that they themselves did. Alternate translation: “who carry many sins” “having heaped themselves with sins”
3:6 izz9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification ἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις 1 Paul speaks about these **various desires** as if they could physically lead the women away. He means that these women do whatever they desire without trying to control themselves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “following various desires” or “always doing the various things that they desire”
3:6 p080 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “various desires leading them away”
3:7 qxz4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases καὶ 1 Here, the word **and** introduces something that contrasts with how these women are **always learning**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a contrast. Alternate translation: “yet”
3:7 p082 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μηδέποτε εἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας ἐλθεῖν δυνάμενα 1 Here Paul speaks of the **knowledge of the truth** as if it were a destination at which people could arrive. He is indicating that these women cannot gain the **knowledge of the truth**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “never able to grasp knowledge of the truth” or “never able to gain knowledge of the truth”
3:7 akxp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns εἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **knowledge** and **truth**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “to know the true teaching”
3:8 p084 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit Ἰάννης καὶ Ἰαμβρῆς ἀντέστησαν Μωϋσεῖ 1 Here Paul refers to something that happened when God sent **Moses** to tell Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, to set the Israelites free. When Moses performed a miracle, some of the magicians and sorcerers who served Pharaoh also performed that miracle. In this way, they tried to prevent **Moses** from doing what God had told him to do. You can read this story in [Exodus 7:8–13](../exo/07/08.md). While the names of these magicians are not mentioned in the story in Exodus, their traditional names are **Jannes** and **Jambres**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make some of this information more explicit, or you could include a footnote that gives this information. Alternate translation: “Jannes and Jambres, who were two of Pharaoh’s sorcerers, opposed Moses when he spoke to Pharaoh”
3:8 b8el rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ἰάννης καὶ Ἰαμβρῆς 1 The words **Jannes** and **Jambres** are names of men.
3:8 p085 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj οὗτοι 1 Here, as in [3:5](../03/05.md), Paul is using the adjective **these** as a noun to refer to the false teachers that he has described. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “these people” or “the kind of people I have described”
3:8 p086 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τῇ ἀληθείᾳ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **truth**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the true teaching”
3:8 p083 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωποι 1 Although the term **men** is masculine, Paul is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “men and women”
3:8 p087 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive κατεφθαρμένοι τὸν νοῦν 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was they themselves. Alternate translation: “whose mind is corrupt” or “who have corrupted their mind”
3:8 g4kk rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns τὸν νοῦν 1 If it would not be natural in your language to speak as if a group of people had only one **mind**, you could use the plural form of that word in your translation. Alternate translation: “in their minds”
3:8 sppy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἀδόκιμοι περὶ τὴν πίστιν 1 Here Paul implies that, when God tests the **faith** of these people, he will not approve of it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “whose faith is not approved by God”
3:8 qtij rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit περὶ τὴν πίστιν 1 Here, the word **faith** could refer to: (1) the act of having **faith** in Jesus. Alternate translation: “concerning the faith that they claim to have” (2) what people believe about Jesus when they have **faith** in him. Alternate translation: “concerning what Christians believe”
3:8 pfh1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns περὶ τὴν πίστιν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **faith**, you could express the same idea in another way. Make sure that your translation fits with the option you chose in the previous note. Alternate translation: “in how they claim to believe in Jesus”
3:9 x9kx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἀλλ’ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces what will happen to these false teachers in contrast to what they are trying to do, which is to oppose the truth (see [3:8](../03/08.md)) If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different word or phrase that introduces this kind of contrast. Alternate translation: “Despite that,” or “Although they try to oppose the truth”
3:9 c6xx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor οὐ προκόψουσιν ἐπὶ πλεῖον 1 Here Paul speaks of people having success in teaching as if they were advancing **further** in a direction. He means that these people will cease to have success in teaching. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they will not be able to teach even more people” or “they will not succeed in continuing to teach”
3:9 funz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἡ & ἄνοια αὐτῶν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **foolishness**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “how foolish they are”
3:9 ffy0 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj πᾶσιν 1 Paul is using the adjective **all** as a noun to mean all people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “to all people”
3:9 mv4j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole πᾶσιν 1 Paul says **all** here as an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “to most”
3:9 z4fu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj ἡ ἐκείνων 1 Paul is using the adjective **that** as a noun to mean foolishness. He is using the adjective **those** to refer to Jannes and Jambres, Pharaoh’s magicians. Your language may use adjectives in these same ways. If not, you could translate these words with equivalent phrases. Alternate translation: “the foolishness of Jannes and Jambres”
3:9 yfep rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis ἐγένετο 1 Paul is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “became obvious”
3:9 v6wd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐγένετο 1 Here Paul is referring to how Pharaoh’s magicians failed to oppose Moses. They could not copy some of the miracles that Moses did (see [Exodus 8:18–19](../exo/08/18.md)), and they were affected by other miracles that Moses did (see [Exodus 9:11](../exo/09/11.md)). In that way, everyone realized that they were foolish. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make some of that information more explicit or include the information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “became when they failed to stop Moses”
3:10 ioph rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast σὺ δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces how Timothy behaves in contrast to how the false teachers behave. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces this kind of contrast, or you could leave **But** untranslated. Alternate translation: “You, however,” or “As for you, though, you”
3:10 vw42 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor σὺ & παρηκολούθησάς 1 Here Paul speaks as if Timothy **followed** the things that Paul has done and experienced. He means that Timothy has paid attention to these things and imitates how Paul does and experiences them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you have observed and emulated” or “you have modeled your behavior on”
3:10-11 wma6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns μου τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ, τῇ ἀγωγῇ, τῇ προθέσει, τῇ πίστει, τῇ μακροθυμίᾳ, τῇ ἀγάπῃ, τῇ ὑπομονῇ & τοῖς διωγμοῖς, τοῖς παθήμασιν, οἷά 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for some or all of the ideas in this list, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what I teach, how I conduct myself, what I have chosen to do, how I have believed, how patient I am, how I love others, how I endure everything, how I am persecuted, and how I suffer. Things such as those”
3:11 lk0g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit οἷά 1 Here, the phrase **such as** could refer back to: (1) just the **sufferings**. Alternate translation: “sufferings such as those that” (2) both the **sufferings** and the **persecutions**. Alternate translation: “sufferings and persecutions such as those that”
3:11 p093 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit οἵους διωγμοὺς ὑπήνεγκα 1 Here, the phrase **what kind of persecutions I endured** could be: (1) a further definition of what Paul experienced in the three cities to which he has referred. Alternate translation: “how I endured various persecutions” (2) an explanation that indicates how much Paul experienced. Alternate translation: “what persecutions I endured!” or “I endured so many persecutions!”
3:11 q4j5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns οἵους διωγμοὺς ὑπήνεγκα 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **persecutions**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “how I was persecuted and had to endure it”
3:11 a0bt rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases καὶ 1 Here, the word **And** introduces what **the Lord** did in contrast to what Paul was experiencing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces this kind of contrast. Alternate translation: “And yet” or “But”
3:12 ke7f rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases καὶ & δὲ 1 Here, the phrase **But also** introduces the idea that what has been true for Paul will be true for all true believers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an expansion or further application of an idea. Alternate translation: “In fact,” or “Beyond that,”
3:12 xm9l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive πάντες & οἱ θέλοντες ζῆν εὐσεβῶς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ διωχθήσονται 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, you could use an indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “people will persecute all the ones wanting to live godly in Christ Jesus”
3:12 nhwa rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with **Christ Jesus**. In this case, being **in Christ Jesus**, or united to **Christ Jesus**, is how believers **live piously**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that believers can **live** in this way because of their union with **Christ Jesus**. Alternate translation: “in union with Christ Jesus” or “as those who are united to Christ Jesus”
3:13 hsq7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces what happens to **evil men and impostors** in contrast with what happens to people who want to live in godly ways. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces this kind of contrast, or you could leave **But** untranslated. Alternate translation: “However,” or “In contrast,”
3:13 p094 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωποι 1 Although the term **men** is masculine, Jesus is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “men and women”
3:13 xo4q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys πονηροὶ & ἄνθρωποι καὶ γόητες 1 Here, the phrase **evil men and impostors** could: (1) refer to two different groups of people. Alternate translation: “men who are evil and men who are impostors” (2) describe one group of people using two terms connected with **and**. Alternate translation: “evil people who are impostors” or “evil impostors”
3:13 imc8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor προκόψουσιν ἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον 1 Here Paul speaks of these people as if they could physically **advance** or progress in a certain direction, and he speaks of **the worse** as that direction. He means that these people become **worse** and **worse**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will grow worse and worse” or “will be characterized by being increasingly worse”
3:13 p095 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj ἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον 1 Paul is using the adjective **worse** as a noun to mean behavior and character that is worse. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “to worse behavior” or “to worse character”
3:13 eyx5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor πλανῶντες καὶ πλανώμενοι 1 Here Paul speaks as if the **evil men and impostors** could literally lead people **astray** and be **led astray**. He means that they will deceive others and be deceived themselves. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “causing people to believe what is wrong and themselves believing what is wrong”
3:13 p096 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive πλανώμενοι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, you could use an indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “others leading them astray”
3:14 r7hw rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast σὺ δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces how Timothy should behave in contrast to how the false teachers behave. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces that kind of contrast. Alternate translation: “You, however” or “As for you, though”
3:14 rob2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result μένε ἐν οἷς ἔμαθες καὶ ἐπιστώθης, εἰδὼς παρὰ τίνων ἔμαθες 1 If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses, since the second clause gives the reason for the result that the first clause describes. Alternate translation: “you know from whom you learned what you learned and were convinced of. So, remain in those things, knowing that truth”
3:14 ytg9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μένε ἐν 1 Here Paul speaks as if what Timothy **learned** and was **convinced of** were place in which Timothy could **remain**. He means that Timothy should continue to believe and trust those things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “continue to trust” or “maintain”
3:14 p097 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐπιστώθης 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “were confident about”
3:14 aajp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit εἰδὼς παρὰ τίνων ἔμαθες 1 Here Paul implies that Timothy knows that these people are trustworthy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “knowing that the people from whom you learned are trustworthy”
3:15 y8su rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἀπὸ βρέφους 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **childhood**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “since you were an infant”
3:15 p098 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns εἰς σωτηρίαν διὰ πίστεως τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **salvation** and **faith**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “so that you are saved through believing in Christ Jesus”
3:15 blt8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ Jesus**, or united to **Christ Jesus**, explains how Timothy can have **faith**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that Timothy can have **faith** as one who has been united to **Christ Jesus**. Alternate translation: “that you have in your union with Christ Jesus” or “that comes from being united to Christ Jesus”
3:16 dz99 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive πᾶσα Γραφὴ θεόπνευστος καὶ ὠφέλιμος 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God has breathed out all Scripture, and it is profitable”
3:16 s274 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor πᾶσα Γραφὴ θεόπνευστος καὶ 1 Here Paul speaks as if God had **breathed** all **Scripture**. He means that God is the one who spoke or gave **Scripture** through his Spirit. In other words, **All Scripture** has its origin in God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “All Scripture comes from God, as if he had breathed it out, and it” or “All Scripture is produced by God and” or “All Scripture originates in God and”
3:16 hvr1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit πᾶσα Γραφὴ 1 Here, the phrase translated as **All Scripture** refers to what we call the Old Testament. Paul could be referring to: (1) the entirety of **Scripture**. Alternate translation: “The whole of Scripture” (2) each of the individual scriptures. Alternate translation: “Every scripture”
3:16 uv35 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ὠφέλιμος 1 Here Paul could be implying that Scripture is **profitable**: (1) for someone to use in the following ways. Alternate translation: “is profitable for people to use for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” (2) as it functions in the following ways for those who read or hear it. Alternate translation: “is profitable for our teaching, for our reproof, for our correction, for our training in righteousness”
3:16 vl2n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns πρὸς διδασκαλίαν, πρὸς ἐλεγμόν, πρὸς ἐπανόρθωσιν, πρὸς παιδείαν τὴν ἐν δικαιοσύνῃ 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for some or all of the ideas in this list, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “for instructing, for reproving, for correcting, for training to be righteous”
3:17 v9w3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ἵνα 1 Here, the phrase **so that** could introduce: (1) a result that comes from how Scripture is God-breathed and profitable in the ways that Paul has described. Alternate translation: “and so” (2) a purpose for which Scripture is God-breathed and profitable in the ways that Paul has described. Alternate translation: “in order that”
3:17 h675 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession ὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe a **man** who serves and obeys **God**. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translations: “the man who obeys God” or “the man who worships God”
3:17 nstf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun ὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος 1 The word **man** represents men in general, not one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “men of God”
3:17 nb12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations ὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος 1 Although the term **man** is masculine, Paul is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “the person of God”
3:17 uu7i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ἄρτιος & πρὸς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἐξηρτισμένος 1 The terms **complete** and **equipped for every good work** mean similar things. Paul is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “fully equipped for every good work” or “fully capable for every good work”
3:17 p099 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐξηρτισμένος 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “having everything he needs” or “one whom God has equipped”
4:intro k2xa 0 # 2 Timothy 4 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n5. Instructions for opposing false teaching (2:14–4:8)\n * Paul gives a solemn charge to Timothy (4:1–8)\n6. Travel plans and news (4:9–18)\n7. Greetings (4:19–21)\n8. Letter closing (4:22)\n\n## Special Concepts in this Chapter\n\n### Paul’s situation and his defense\n\nIn this chapter, Paul writes about how many people abandoned him and failed to support at his “first defense.” These people behaved in that way because Paul had been accused of acting against the Roman Empire. While he was waiting to defend himself at his trial, he was held as a prisoner, almost certainly in the capital of the empire, Rome. By the time he wrote this letter, he had already had his “first defense,” which was the first time he appeared in court to defend himself against the accusations. Paul implies that the judge did not decide what to do with him, so Paul would have to appear in court at least one more time. So, people abandoned Paul because they might also be arrested and accused if they stayed with him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could include some of this information in a footnote.\n\n## Important Figures of Speech in this Chapter\n\n### Sports and military metaphors\n\nIn [4:7–8](../04/07.md), Paul speaks as if he were a soldier who has fought well and an athlete who has competed well. Just as athletes in his culture received crowns when they won, so Paul is sure that he will receive a “crown” from Jesus. Paul means that he has persisted in believing in and serving Jesus, even when it was difficult, and he is sure that Jesus will reward him for that. If possible, preserve these metaphors or express the ideas in simile form. See the notes on these verses for translation options. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4:1 eh3x rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula διαμαρτύρομαι ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ, τοῦ μέλλοντος κρίνειν ζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς, καὶ τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ, καὶ τὴν βασιλείαν αὐτοῦ 1 Here Paul puts Timothy under oath, making him swear by **God** and **Christ Jesus**, that he will do what Paul is about to write. Also, he wants Timothy to be as sure about doing what Paul is about to write as Timothy is sure about Jesus’ **appearing** and **kingdom**. Use a natural way in your language to express this kind of oath. Alternate translation: “I make you swear before God and Christ Jesus, the one being about to judge living and dead, and as you think about his appearing and his kingdom” or “I require that you solemnly promise God and Christ Jesus, the one being about to judge living and dead, that you will do what I am about to write, and I want you to guarantee it as much as Jesus’ appearing and kingdom are guaranteed”
4:1 p100 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj ζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς 1 Paul is using the adjectives **living** and **dead** as nouns to mean people who are living and people who are dead. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “those who are still alive and those who are dead”
4:1 z1uq rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants καὶ τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ 1 Many ancient manuscripts read **and by his appearing**. The ULT follows that reading. Other ancient manuscripts read “according to his appearing.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.
4:1 lwt2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ 1 Here, the phrase **his appearing** refers to when Jesus will come back to this world, which is when he will **judge** everyone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “by his second coming”
4:2 j2z7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy τὸν λόγον 1 Here, **word** represents the gospel, which people speak using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the gospel” or “God’s message”
4:2 o1ea rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐπίστηθι 1 Here Paul speaks as if Timothy should **stand by** something. He could mean that Timothy: (1) should be ready or prepared to preach the gospel. Alternate translation: “be prepared” (2) should be persistent in preaching the gospel. Alternate translation: “be persistent”
4:2 zzh4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit εὐκαίρως, ἀκαίρως 1 Here Paul could be implying that it will be opportune sometimes and inopportune sometimes for: (1) Timothy’s audience. Alternate translation: “when people are ready to hear and when people are not ready to hear” or “when people are receptive and when they are not” (2) Timothy. Alternate translation: “when it is convenient for you and when it is not”
4:2 p102 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys ἐν πάσῃ μακροθυμίᾳ καὶ διδαχῇ 1 Here, the words **patience** and **teaching** could: (1) describe two separate things. Alternate translation: “with all patience and with all teaching” (2) refer to one thing described with two words connected by **and**. Alternate translation: “with all patient teaching” or “with teaching that is very patient”
4:2 g5r0 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν πάσῃ μακροθυμίᾳ καὶ διδαχῇ 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **patience** and **teaching**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “and act very patiently and teach as you do so”
4:3 t6p3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces a basis for the commands that Paul gave in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a basis for a command, or you could leave **For** untranslated. Alternate translation: “Here is why I command those things:” or “I urge you to do those things because”
4:3 jv7a ἔσται & καιρὸς ὅτε 1 Alternate translation: “the time will come when” or “here is what will eventually happen:”
4:3 ilx7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns οὐκ ἀνέξονται 1 The pronoun **they** refers to people in general with a special focus on people who claim to be believers. If this is not clear for your readers, you could refer to those people more directly. Alternate translation: “those who claim to be believers will not endure” or “some people will not endure”
4:3 u2cc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom οὐκ ἀνέξονται 1 Here, the phrase **bear with** refers to listening to something charitably. Paul means that these people no longer be willing to listen to **the healthy teaching**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they will not listen patiently to” or “they will not accept”
4:3 fyl3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τῆς ὑγιαινούσης διδασκαλίας 1 Here Paul speaks as if **teaching** could be **healthy**. He means that this **teaching** is good and reliable in every way and has no defect or corruption. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the teaching that is like healthy food” or “the correct teaching”
4:3 m3bx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure κατὰ τὰς ἰδίας ἐπιθυμίας, ἑαυτοῖς ἐπισωρεύσουσιν διδασκάλους 1 Here, the phrase **according to their own desires** could modify: (1) the phrase **heap up for themselves**. Alternate translation: “according to their own desires they will heap up for themselves teachers” (2) the word **teachers**. Alternate translation: “they will heap up for themselves teachers who teach according to these people’s own desires”
4:3 e5t2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἑαυτοῖς ἐπισωρεύσουσιν διδασκάλους 1 Paul speaks of how these people gather many **teachers** as if they were heaping these teachers up in a pile. Paul implies that these **teachers** teach many different things that are wrong. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they will gather many different teachers” or “they will listen to many different false teachers”
4:3 s375 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor κνηθόμενοι τὴν ἀκοήν 1 Here Paul speaks as if these people had an **ear** that was **itching**, and the only way to scratch the itch was to hear what they wanted to hear. He means that these people want to hear things that make them feel good about themselves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “wanting to hear what they like” or “desiring to be told things that make them feel good about themselves”
4:3 p104 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns τὴν ἀκοήν 1 If it would not be natural in your language to speak as if a group of people had only one **ear**, you could use the plural form of that word in your translation. Alternate translation: “in their ears”
4:4 rh2i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀπὸ μὲν τῆς ἀληθείας τὴν ἀκοὴν ἀποστρέψουσιν 1 Paul speaks about people no longer paying attention as if they were physically turning their ears away so that they could not hear. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they will no longer pay attention to the truth”
4:4 p105 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns τὴν ἀκοὴν 1 If it would not be natural in your language to speak as if a group of people had only one **ear**, you could use the plural form of that word in your translation. Alternate translation: “their ears”
4:4 gra7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τῆς ἀληθείας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **truth**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the true teaching”
4:4 p106 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐπὶ & ἐκτραπήσονται 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was the teachers they gathered. Alternate translation: “their teachers will turn them away to”
4:4 xrv7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐπὶ & ἐκτραπήσονται 1 Here Paul speaks about people paying attention to **myths** as if someone were getting them to turn away in the wrong direction. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “be distracted by” or “start paying attention to”
4:4 s7yt rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown τοὺς μύθους 1 The word **myths** refers to a certain kind of story that is generally considered to be untrustworthy. This kind of story is often about what important people did a long time ago. Often, many people in a culture know these stories but do not consider them to be reliable historical narratives. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of story, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “fictional narratives” or “traditional tales”
4:5 xu9r rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast σὺ δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces how Timothy should behave in contrast to how the people he has been describing behave. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces that kind of contrast. Alternate translation: “You, however” or “As for you, though”
4:5 ehz7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor νῆφε 1 Here Paul speaks as if he wants Timothy to avoid getting drunk so that he is **sober**. While Paul did write that Christians should not get drunk (see [Ephesians 5:18](../eph/05/18.md)), here he primarily means that Timothy should control himself and be alert. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “stay alert” or “be self-controlled”
4:5 rmva ἐν πᾶσιν 1 Alternate translation: “in every situation” or “in everything”
4:5 rsf0 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns κακοπάθησον 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **hardship**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “When bad things are going to happen to you, be willing to experience them” or “Be willing to be hurt”
4:5 tv3k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession ἔργον & εὐαγγελιστοῦ 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe **work** that **an evangelist** does. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the work that an evangelist does”
4:5 dqn6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τὴν διακονίαν σου πληροφόρησον 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **service**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “Serve in all the ways that you should” or “Serve in every way that is required of you”
4:6 p107 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces a reason why Timothy should do the things that Paul has commanded him to do in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a reason or basis for a command, or you could leave **For** untranslated. Alternate translation: “I command those things because” or “Here is why I say those things:”
4:6 sh23 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐγὼ & ἤδη σπένδομαι 1 Here Paul describes himself as if he were the wine that people in his culture would pour on a sacrifice before they offered it to God. He means that he is experiencing the final days of his life, and both these days and his death will honor God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I am nearing the end of my life, which is like being poured out as an offering” or “I honor God as I experience the last days of my life”
4:6 p108 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐγὼ & ἤδη σπένδομαι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “God is already pouring me out as an offering”
4:6 fb7l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism τῆς ἀναλύσεώς μου 1 Paul is referring to his death in a polite way by using the phrase **my departure**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a polite way of referring to this in your language, or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “when I will pass away” or “of my death”
4:7 d9ts rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸν καλὸν ἀγῶνα ἠγώνισμαι 1 Here, Paul speaks about how he has persevered in believing in and obeying Jesus as if he had been a warrior fighting in a **good fight** or an athlete doing his best to win an event. He means that he has encountered opposition, pain, and problems, but he has persisted and persevered in believing in and obeying Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I have lived as if I were fighting a good fight” or “I have persevered, no matter how hard it was”
4:7 v7we rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὸν καλὸν ἀγῶνα 1 Here, the phrase **the good fight** could indicate: (1) that the **fight** is right or just. Alternate translation: “the just fight” or “the correct fight” (2) that someone is fighting well. Alternate translation: “the fight well”
4:7 kq83 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸν δρόμον τετέλεκα 1 Here Paul speaks of how he has served God as if it were a **race** that he has now **finished**. He means that he has served God well, and now his time of service is about to end, since he will soon die. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I have completed what God wanted me to do, just as a runner has finished the race” or “I have completed what I needed to do”
4:7 vk2p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὴν πίστιν τετήρηκα 1 Here Paul speaks of **the faith** as if it were a valuable object that he has **kept** safe. He means that he has preserved and protected **the faith**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I have guarded the faith” or “I have preserved the faith”
4:7 nwun rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὴν πίστιν τετήρηκα 1 Here, the word **faith** could refer to: (1) the act of having **faith** in Jesus. Alternate translation: “I have kept the faith that I have” (2) what Christians believe about Jesus when they have **faith** in him. Alternate translation: “I have kept what Christians believe” (3) the act of being faithful. Alternate translation: “I have remained faithful”
4:7 m5q4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τὴν πίστιν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **faith**, you could express the same idea in another way. Make sure that your translation fits with the option you chose in the previous note. Alternate translation: “the way that I believe in Jesus”
4:8 ptc4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit λοιπὸν 1 Here, the word translated as **From now on** could introduce: (1) something that is true from that moment and into the future. Alternate translation: “Now and in the future” or “Henceforth” (2) the last thing that Paul wants to say about how he has lived his life. Alternate translation: “Finally”
4:8 ujg5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἀπόκειταί & ὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “God is reserving the crown of righteousness”
4:8 t7hf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession ὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος 1 Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe a **crown** that could be: (1) the reward for his **righteousness**. Alternate translation: “the crown given to the righteous” or “the crown that is received because of righteousness” (2) **righteousness** itself. In this case, God rewards people by declaring them righteous. Alternate translation: “the crown that is righteousness”
4:8 hg8i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος 1 Here Paul describes the reward that he expects to receive as if it were **the crown** that athletes in his culture received when they won an event. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what God will give me to honor me, which is like a crown of righteousness,” or “what God will give me to honor me”
4:8 n3k8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐν, ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ 1 Here Paul is referring to the exact moment when Jesus will return to this world, which will also be the end of the current time period and the time when Jesus judges everyone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. See how you expressed the similar phrase in [1:12](../01/12.md). Alternate translation: “on that day when Jesus will return” or “at his second coming”
4:8 dvqk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis οὐ μόνον δὲ ἐμοὶ, ἀλλὰ καὶ πᾶσιν τοῖς 1 Paul is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and he will not give it to me only, but he will also give it to all the ones”
4:8 uh88 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit πᾶσιν τοῖς ἠγαπηκόσι τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ 1 Here, the phrase **having loved his appearing** indicates that these people care about, long for, and rejoice at **his appearing**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “to all the ones looking forward to his appearing” or “to all the ones who care about his appearing”
4:8 p109 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ 1 Here, the phrase **his appearing** refers to when Jesus will come back to this world, which is when he will act as a **judge**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. See how you expressed this phrase in [4:1](../04/01.md). Alternate translation: “his second coming” or “his return”
4:9 t8b7 σπούδασον ἐλθεῖν & ταχέως 1 Alternate translation: “Come to me as soon as you can”
4:9 qgld rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go ἐλθεῖν 1 In a context such as this, your language might say “go” instead of **come**. Alternate translation: “to go”
4:10 ie1d rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 Here, the word **for** introduces a reason why Paul wants Timothy to come to him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a reason or basis for a command, or you could leave **for** untranslated. Alternate translation: “which I request because” or “since”
4:10 e4xx rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Δημᾶς & Κρήσκης 1 The words **Demas** and **Crescens** are names of men.
4:10 ji2l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὸν νῦν αἰῶνα 1 Here, the phrase **the present age** refers to the time period in which Paul and Timothy lived, the time period before Jesus comes back and God transforms everything. Here Paul implies that **Demas** loves what he can have and experience during this time period. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what he has in the current time period” or “things that exist during this time before Jesus returns”
4:10 rx10 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go ἐπορεύθη 1 In a context such as this, your language might say “come” instead of **gone**. Alternate translation: “has come”
4:10 u2qb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis Κρήσκης εἰς Γαλατίαν, Τίτος εἰς Δαλματίαν 1 Paul is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus has gone to Dalmatia”
4:10 gs61 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Δαλματίαν 1 The word **Dalmatia** is the name of a Roman province on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea. This area is now part of the countries Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
4:11 w21u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit μοι εὔχρηστος εἰς διακονίαν 1 Here Paul could be implying that Mark is **useful**: (1) in helping Paul minister to others, especially by preaching and teaching. Alternate translation: “useful to me in my ministry” (2) in helping Paul to take care of his personal needs. Alternate translation: “he is useful in taking care of my needs”
4:11 vxmg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns εἰς διακονίαν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **service**, you could express the same idea in another way. Be sure that your translation fits with the option you chose in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “for ministering to others” or “in serving people”
4:12 pr6v rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces the next thing that Paul wants to write about. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces the next idea, or you could leave **But** untranslated. Alternate translation: “Now”
4:12 y60r rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense ἀπέστειλα 1 Here Paul could be using the past tense to indicate: (1) that he **sent Tychicus** when he sent this letter to Timothy in **Ephesus**. It may be that Tychicus is the one who carried this letter to Timothy at Ephesus. In this case, Paul had not yet **sent Tychicus** when he wrote this sentence. Consider what tense would be natural in your language for this situation. Alternate translation: “I am about to send” or “I am sending” (2) that he **sent Tychicus to Ephesus** before he wrote this letter. Alternate translation: “I have sent”
4:13 d5rw rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown φελόνην 1 The term **cloak** refers to a heavy garment that was worn over other clothes. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of garment, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “coat”
4:13 v9b6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Κάρπῳ 1 The word **Carpus** is the name of a man.
4:13 p9ae rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go ἐρχόμενος 1 In a context such as this, your language might say “going” instead of **coming**. Alternate translation: “going”
4:13 mup7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit μάλιστα τὰς μεμβράνας 1 Here, the phrase **especially the parchments** could indicate: (1) that some of **the scrolls** are especially important to Paul. Alternate translation: “of which I especially want the parchments” (2) that **the scrolls** that Paul wants are **the parchments**. Alternate translation: “that is, the parchments”
4:13 e395 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown τὰς μεμβράνας 1 The word **parchments** refers to documents written on specially treated animal skins. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of writing material, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “those made from animal skins” or “the ones written on leather”
4:14 un4v rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown Ἀλέξανδρος ὁ χαλκεὺς 1 A **coppersmith** is a person who makes things out of copper and other metals. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of worker, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “Alexander the metalworker” or “Alexander, who works with metals,”
4:14 kv94 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ἀλέξανδρος 1 The word **Alexander** is the name of a man.
4:14 clr0 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom πολλά μοι κακὰ ἐνεδείξατο 1 Here Paul means that Alexander did many evil things to him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “acted in many evil ways toward me” or “did many evil things to me”
4:14 wbx4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀποδώσει αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος 1 Here Paul speaks of how the **Lord** will punish Alexander as if the **Lord** were repaying Alexander for his **works**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The Lord will judge him” or “The Lord will treat him”
4:15 ilar rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ὃν καὶ σὺ φυλάσσου, λίαν γὰρ ἀντέστη τοῖς ἡμετέροις λόγοις 1 If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses, since the second clause gives the reason for the result that the first clause describes. Alternate translation: “whom, because he opposed our words very much, you also must guard yourself against”
4:15 i4aj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy τοῖς ἡμετέροις λόγοις 1 Here, **words** represents the message that Paul and the people with him proclaimed using **words**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “our message” or ‘what we teach’
4:16 v847 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown ἐν τῇ πρώτῃ μου ἀπολογίᾳ 1 Here, the phrase **first defense** refers to the first time that Paul was in court and had to defend himself against accusations. Paul implies that he already had appeared in court again or that he would have to do so again in the future. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of legal proceeding, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “At the opening session of my trial” or “When I first appeared in court to answer the accusations against me”
4:16 f2c3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit οὐδείς μοι παρεγένετο 1 Here Paul means that **no one** went with Paul to the court to help him defend himself. They might have been able to help Paul by testifying that he had not done anything wrong, or they might have just sat in the court to show that they approved of Paul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “no one went with me to testify on my behalf” or “no one was there to help me”
4:16 kqf4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj πάντες 1 Paul is using the adjective **all** as a noun to mean all the believers who were there with Paul. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “all the believers here”
4:16 npgu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit μὴ αὐτοῖς λογισθείη 1 Here Paul means that he does not want his fellow believers to be punished for not appearing with him in court. He uses this form as a way to ask God to forgive them for forsaking him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “May they not be punished for that” or “May they not be held responsible for that”
4:16 rm2t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive μὴ αὐτοῖς λογισθείη 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who would do the action, it is clear from the context that it would be God. Alternate translation: “May God not count it against them”
4:17 rk55 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Here, the word **But** introduces what **the Lord** did in contrast to what the rest of the believers did (see [4:16](../04/16.md)). If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces this kind of contrast, or you could leave **But** untranslated. Alternate translation: “In contrast,”
4:17 t1fw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὁ & Κύριός μοι παρέστη 1 Here Paul speaks as if **the Lord** had physically **stood** with him. He means that **the Lord** supported and helped him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the Lord was with me” or “the Lord helped me”
4:17 y69m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive δι’ ἐμοῦ τὸ κήρυγμα πληροφορηθῇ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I might fulfill the proclamation”
4:17 ffbg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit δι’ ἐμοῦ τὸ κήρυγμα πληροφορηθῇ 1 Here, Paul may mean that **the proclamation** was **fulfilled**: (1) because he was able to proclaim the good news in every place and way that God required of him. Alternate translation: “I might accomplish my task of proclamation” or “I might complete the proclamation that I was called to perform” (2) because he proclaimed the entire gospel message. Alternate translation: “I could proclaim the full message” or “through me the complete proclamation might be made”
4:17 xcml rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τὸ κήρυγμα πληροφορηθῇ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **proclamation**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the gospel might be fully proclaimed”
4:17 p113 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole πάντα τὰ ἔθνη 1 Paul says **all** here as an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “very many Gentiles”
4:17 gsr8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐρύσθην ἐκ στόματος λέοντος 1 Here Paul speaks as if he was about to be eaten by a **lion** when he was **rescued out of the mouth** of that lion. He means that he was protected from terrible danger, which was most likely the danger of being executed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea in simile form or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I was rescued from danger, as if I had been in the mouth of a lion” or “I was rescued from being executed”
4:17 p114 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐρύσθην 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “God rescued me”
4:18 jsp8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ᾧ ἡ δόξα 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **glory**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “May people glorify him”
4:18 p115 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας τῶν αἰώνων 1 Here, the phrase **forever {and} ever** identifies an action that will never end, and it strongly emphasizes that it will never end. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that emphasizes that an action will never end. Alternate translation: “without ever ceasing” or “from now on and always”
4:19 tasz ἄσπασαι 1 As was customary in his culture, near the end of his letter, Paul asks Timothy to extend greetings for him to other people that both he and the Timothy know. Your language may have a particular way of sharing greetings in a letter. If so, you could use that form here. Alternate translation: “Remember me to” or “Give my regards to”
4:19 mef8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ὀνησιφόρου 1 **Onesiphorus** is the name of a man. See how you translated this name in [1:16](../01/16.md).
4:20 lie9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ἔραστος & Τρόφιμον 1 The words **Erastus** and **Trophimus** are the names of men.
4:20 wp9h rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Μιλήτῳ 1 The name **Miletus** is the name of a city on the western coast of what is now Turkey, south of Ephesus.
4:21 cvc7 σπούδασον & ἐλθεῖν 1 Alternate translation: “Do your best to come”
4:21 eh95 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown πρὸ χειμῶνος 1 Where Paul and Timothy lived, **winter** is the time of year when it is cold and travel is difficult. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a term for a season in which it would be difficult to travel, or you could translate winter with a general expression. Alternate translation: “before the rainy season” or “before the cold season”
4:21 dgqi ἀσπάζεταί σε Εὔβουλος, καὶ Πούδης, καὶ Λίνος, καὶ Κλαυδία, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ 1 As was customary in his culture, near the end of his letter, Paul extends greetings from people who are with him and who know the person to whom he is writing, Timothy. Your language may have a particular way of sharing greetings in a letter. If so, you could use that form here. Alternate translation: “Eubulus asks to be remembered to you, and Pudens and Linus and Claudia and the brothers” or “Eubulus and Pudens and Linus and Claudia and the brothers send their regards”
4:21 z1j9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis ἀσπάζεταί σε Εὔβουλος, καὶ Πούδης, καὶ Λίνος, καὶ Κλαυδία, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ 1 Paul is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Eubulus greets you, and so do Pudens and Linus and Claudia and the brothers”
4:21 p7px rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Εὔβουλος & Πούδης & Λίνος 1 The words **Eubulus**, **Pudens**, and **Linus** are the names of three men.
4:21 er77 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Κλαυδία 1 The word **Claudia** is the name of a woman.
4:21 oo7u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit οἱ ἀδελφοὶ 1 Here Paul refers to **the brothers** to include all the other believers who wanted to greet Timothy. Paul does not mean that **Eubulus**, **Pudens**, **Linus**, and **Claudia** are not **brothers**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make that idea more explicit. Alternate translation: “the other brothers”
4:21 offa rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor οἱ ἀδελφοὶ 1 Paul is using the term **brothers** to mean people who share the same faith. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the believers”
4:21 mk26 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations οἱ ἀδελφοὶ 1 Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If you retain the metaphor in your translation, and if it would be helpful in your language, you could say “brothers and sisters” to indicate this.
4:22 tx26 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing ὁ Κύριος μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματός σου 1 As was customary in his culture, Paul closes his letter with a blessing for Timothy. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May the Lord be with your spirit” or “I pray that the Lord will be with your spirit”
4:22 es7k rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants ὁ Κύριος 1 Many ancient manuscripts read **The Lord**. The ULT follows that reading. Other ancient manuscripts read “The Lord Jesus Christ.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.
4:22 p119 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματός σου 1 Paul is using **spirit** to represent Timothy as a whole person. He may use this figure of speech to indicate that the **Lord** will be with Timothy in a spiritual way, not a physical way. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “be with you spiritually”
4:22 p120 rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing ἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν 1 As was customary in his culture, Paul closes his letter with a blessing for Timothy and the believers with him. He implies that the **Grace** is from God. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May you experience kindness from God within you” or “I pray that you will have grace from God”
4:22 iefg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **grace**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “May God act graciously toward you”
4:22 k85y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you ὑμῶν 1 Because Paul gives this blessing to Timothy and all the believers who are with him, this is the only place in the letter where **you** is plural.
4:22 t7vx rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants ὑμῶν 1 Many ancient manuscripts read **you**. The ULT follows that reading. Other ancient manuscripts read “you. Amen.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.
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