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2front:intros7fk0# Introduction to 2 Timothy\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the book of 2 Timothy\n\n1. Opening (1:12)\n2. Thanksgiving (1:35)\n3. Exhortation to remain faithful (1:618)\n4. Encouragement to persevere (2:113)\n5. Instructions for opposing false teaching (2:144:8)\n6. Travel plans and news (4:918)\n7. Greetings (4:1921)\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 Pauls 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 “Pauls 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 times in this letter. The word “faith” could refer to the act of having “faith” or to the content of the “faith,” that is, what it is that Christians believe. In many places in 2 Timothy, Christians have different understandings of which meaning Paul intended. In each of these places, a translation note provides examples of how to express the two possible meanings, and the UST models how to express the idea when the word “faith” refers to the act of believing. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])\n\n### Who receives the “love” that Paul mentions in the letter?\n\nPaul uses the abstract noun “love” four times in this letter. He could mean that believers should love each other or that they should love God or that they should love both God and each other. If possible, though, you should express the idea so that it could include all of these possibilities. If you must express whom people are to love, it is recommended that you indicate that it is fellow believers. The UST models how to express the idea in that way. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/love]])\n\n### To whom does Paul refer with the words “we,” “us,” and “our”?\n\nPaul always uses the first-person plural to refer to both himself and Timothy, and often he includes other believers as well. So, you should always use the inclusive form of the first-person plural in your translation if your language marks that distinction. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])\n\n### When is “you” singular, and when is “you” plural?\n\nSince this letter is addressed to an individual, Timothy, every form of “you” throughout the letter is singular except for “you” in the final blessing in [4:22](../04/22.md). A note will point out this occurrence of a plural form of “you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])\n\n### What are the major textual issues in the text of the book of 1 Timothy?\n\nIn the following verses, ancient manuscripts do not all have the same words. The ULT uses the words that are found in most of the earliest manuscripts. When you translate these verses, you should compare the ULT with any translations with which your readers may be familiar to see what your readers may expect. Unless there is a good reason to use the alternate words, you should follow the ULT. See the footnotes and notes at each of these verses for more information. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])\n\n* “a teacher” ([1:11](../01/11.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “a teacher of the Gentiles.”\n* “Suffer together” ([2:3](../02/03.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “You, therefore, suffer.”\n* “God” ([2:14](../02/14.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “the Lord.”\n* “and by his appearing” ([4:1](../04/01.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “according to his appearing.”\n* “The Lord” ([4:22](../04/22.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “The Lord Jesus Christ.”\n* “you” ([4:22](../04/22.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “you. Amen.”
31:introp5lf0# 2 Timothy 1 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n1. Opening (1:12)\n2. Thanksgiving (1:35)\n3. Exhortation to remain faithful (1:618)\n * Paul urges Timothy not to be ashamed and to preserve the gospel (1:614)\n * Paul gives examples of unfaithful and faithful people (1:1518)\n\n## Special Concepts in this Chapter\n\n### Timothys “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]])
41:1ha4lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personΠαῦλος, ἀπόστολος1In 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”
51:1vl2grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsδιὰ θελήματος Θεοῦ1If 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”
61:1e1lgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκατ’1Here, 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 Gods **will** contains or includes **the promise of life**. Alternate translation: “which will contains”
71:1o2strc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionἐπαγγελίαν ζωῆς1Here, 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”
81:1m9kvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorζωῆς τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Here 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”
91:1e201rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitζωῆς τῆς1Here 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”
101:1diuhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsζωῆς τῆς1If 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”
111:2rp5urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123personΤιμοθέῳ1In 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”
121:2ey7grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀγαπητῷ τέκνῳ1Paul speaks of his close relationship to Timothy as though Timothy were his **beloved child**. Paul means that he is Timothys 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”
131:2e1cprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀγαπητῷ τέκνῳ1If 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”
141:2w43qrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessingχάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη, ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν1After 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”
151:2p003rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsχάρις, ἔλεος, εἰρήνη1If 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”
161:2ub7crc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesΘεοῦ Πατρὸς1**Father** is an important title for God the **Father** that describes his relationship with **Jesus**, his Son.
171:2dcr3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἡμῶν1In 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.
181:3p004rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsχάριν ἔχω1If 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”
191:3tvb7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomᾧ λατρεύω ἀπὸ προγόνων1Here 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”
201:3ha9drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐν καθαρᾷ συνειδήσει1A **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”
211:3rz7src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsὡς ἀδιάλειπτον ἔχω τὴν περὶ σοῦ μνείαν1If 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”
221:3p005rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingularσοῦ1In 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).
231:3pa6qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomνυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας1Here, 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”
241:4p006rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμεμνημένος σου τῶν δακρύων1Here 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”
251:4kk82rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyσου τῶν δακρύων1Here, 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”
261:4gu8crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorχαρᾶς πληρωθῶ1Paul 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”
271:4p007rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveχαρᾶς πληρωθῶ1If 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”
281:4n24src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsχαρᾶς πληρωθῶ1If 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”
291:5ayl4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsὑπόμνησιν λαβὼν1If 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”
301:5buc3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτῆς ἐν σοὶ ἀνυποκρίτου πίστεως, ἥτις ἐνῴκησεν πρῶτον1If 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”
311:5p008rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῆς ἐν σοὶ ἀνυποκρίτου πίστεως1Here 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”
321:5vgz2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationἥτις ἐνῴκησεν πρῶτον ἐν τῇ μάμμῃ σου, Λωΐδι, καὶ τῇ μητρί σου, Εὐνίκῃ; πέπεισμαι δὲ ὅτι καὶ ἐν σοί1Here 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”
331:5p009rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinshipτῇ μάμμῃ σου1Paul does not indicate whether this **grandmother** is the mother of Timothys father or mother. If you must specify, the connection with Timothys mother might imply that she was the mother of Timothys mother. Alternate translation: “your maternal grandmother”
341:5l8wcrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΛωΐδι & Εὐνίκῃ1The words **Lois** and **Eunice** are the names of women.
351:5swa6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπέπεισμαι1If 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”
361:6j58krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδι’ ἣν αἰτίαν1Here, the phrase **which reason** refers back to the fact of Timothys 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”
371:6h6eqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀναζωπυρεῖν τὸ χάρισμα1Here Paul speaks of Timothys **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”
381:6p010rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸ χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἐν σοὶ1Paul 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”
391:6s6vbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὸ χάρισμα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅ ἐστιν ἐν σοὶ1Here 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,”
401:6i977rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionδιὰ τῆς ἐπιθέσεως τῶν χειρῶν μου1Here 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”
411:7u8vlrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultγὰρ1Here, 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”
421:7h1z3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπνεῦμα δειλίας, ἀλλὰ δυνάμεως, καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ σωφρονισμοῦ1Here, 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”
431:7p011rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsδειλίας, ἀλλὰ δυνάμεως, καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ σωφρονισμοῦ1If 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”
441:7k6g7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitσωφρονισμοῦ1Here, the word **self-control** could refer to: (1) the ability to control or restrain ones desires. Alternate translation: “of moderation” or “of personal restraint” (2) the ability to make wise decisions. Alternate translation: “of prudence” or “of clear thinking”
451:8pjbyrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultοὖν1Here, 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”
461:8hlksrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμὴ & ἐπαισχυνθῇς τὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, μηδὲ ἐμὲ, τὸν δέσμιον αὐτοῦ1If 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”
471:8fk9zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionτὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν1Here, 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”
481:8blk9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionτὸν δέσμιον αὐτοῦ1Here, 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”
491:8ry82rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitσυνκακοπάθησον1Here, 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”
501:8xa86rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτῷ εὐαγγελίῳ1Here 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”
511:8hi9arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsκατὰ δύναμιν Θεοῦ1If 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”
521:9ld55rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκλήσει ἁγίᾳ1Here, 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”
531:9lmasrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsοὐ κατὰ τὰ ἔργα ἡμῶν, ἀλλὰ κατὰ ἰδίαν πρόθεσιν καὶ χάριν, τὴν δοθεῖσαν ἡμῖν1If 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”
541:9kyr5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadysκατὰ ἰδίαν πρόθεσιν καὶ χάριν1Here, 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”
551:9p012rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὴν δοθεῖσαν1If 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”
561:9pq1zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ πρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων1Here 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”
571:9zq7mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomπρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων1Here 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”
581:10p013rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveφανερωθεῖσαν δὲ νῦν1If 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”
591:10h5e5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδιὰ τῆς ἐπιφανείας τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1Here, 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”
601:10r489rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsκαταργήσαντος μὲν τὸν θάνατον1If 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”
611:10i3wlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorφωτίσαντος δὲ ζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1Here 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”
621:10a1n7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν1If 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”
631:10l871rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadysζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν1The 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”
641:10y25jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitζωὴν1Here 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”
651:11clpwrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronounsεἰς ὃ1Here, 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”
661:11tb9brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐτέθην ἐγὼ1If 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”
671:11p014rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownκῆρυξ1A **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”
681:11p015rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariantsδιδάσκαλος1Many 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.
691:12j37grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδι’ ἣν αἰτίαν1Here, 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”
701:12y8l4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκαὶ ταῦτα πάσχω1Here 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”
711:12t22wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐκ ἐπαισχύνομαι1If 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”
721:12y2njrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns1The pronoun **whom** could refer: (1) to God generally. Alternate translation: “God, in whom” (2) to Jesus specifically. Alternate translation: “Jesus, in whom”
731:12td39rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπέπεισμαι1If 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”
741:12hhu5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionτὴν παραθήκην μου φυλάξαι1Here, 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”
751:12p6pirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὴν παραθήκην μου φυλάξαι1Here 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 Pauls ministry. Alternate translation: “to protect the gospel given to me” or “to preserve my ministry”
761:12qcu3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐκείνην τὴν ἡμέραν1Here 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”
771:13x27wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὑποτύπωσιν ἔχε1Here 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”
781:13h1qdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὑγιαινόντων λόγων1Here 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”
791:13p016rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὑγιαινόντων λόγων1Here, **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”
801:13p017rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐν πίστει καὶ ἀγάπῃ τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1If 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”
811:13b2ldrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Here, 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”
821:13ix6wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Paul 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”
831:14i5g5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὴν καλὴν παραθήκην φύλαξον1Here, 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,”
841:14a3v2διὰ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου1Alternate translation: “with the help of the Holy Spirit”
851:14cb5qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτοῦ ἐνοικοῦντος ἐν ἡμῖν1Here 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”
861:15h6z2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfoοἶδας τοῦτο, ὅτι1Here, 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”
871:15p018rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντες οἱ ἐν τῇ Ἀσίᾳ1Paul 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”
881:15oruirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοἱ ἐν τῇ Ἀσίᾳ1Here, 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”
891:15p6f4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀπεστράφησάν με1Here 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”
901:15p020rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀπεστράφησάν με1Here 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”
911:15x6ccrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΦύγελος & Ἑρμογένης1The words **Phygelus** and **Hermogenes** are the names of men.
921:16izk9rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessingδῴη ἔλεος ὁ Κύριος τῷ Ὀνησιφόρου οἴκῳ1Here 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”
931:16a78qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsδῴη ἔλεος ὁ Κύριος1If 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”
941:16e6hlrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesὈνησιφόρου1The word **Onesiphorus** is the name of a man.
951:16zz44rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὴν ἅλυσίν μου οὐκ ἐπησχύνθη1If 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”
961:16td1qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὴν ἅλυσίν μου1Here, **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”
971:17xfg1rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastἀλλὰ1Here, 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,”
981:17ayefrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν Ῥώμῃ1Here 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,”
991:18x0eorc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure(δῴη αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος, εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ), καὶ ὅσα ἐν Ἐφέσῳ διηκόνησεν, βέλτιον σὺ γινώσκεις1If 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”
1001:18p3dirc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessingδῴη αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος, εὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου1Here 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”
1011:18x2dkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου1Here 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”
1021:18r54trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsεὑρεῖν ἔλεος παρὰ Κυρίου1If 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”
1031:18f3eprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ1Here 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”
1041:18p025rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὅσα & διηκόνησεν1Here 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”
1052:introk3zn0# 2 Timothy 2 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n4. Encouragement to persevere (2:113)\n * Paul instructs Timothy in how to serve Jesus (2:17)\n * Paul and the gospel he preaches (2:810)\n * A trustworthy saying (2:1113)\n5. Instructions for opposing false teaching (2:144:8)\n * Paul instructs Timothy to teach what is right and avoid false teaching (2:1419)\n * Gods people as a house (2:2021)\n * Paul explains the traits that should characterize Timothy (2:2226)\n\nIn [2:1113](../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 [2:1618](../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 peoples 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 [2:46](../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 [2:1921](../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 Gods people, the church. Paul then speaks about the “containers,” some of which are valuable and durable and some of which are cheap and breakable. The valuable and durable containers are used for honorable tasks, while the cheap and breakable containers are used for dishonorable tasks. The valuable and durable containers probably represent people who serve God well, while the cheap and breakable containers probably represent people who are failing to serve God well, including the false teachers. Then, in [2:21](../02/21.md) Paul urges people to cleanse themselves so that they can be like the valuable and durable containers. Since this is an extended metaphor that Paul partly explains in [2:21](../02/21.md), you should preserve the figure of speech in some form. See the notes on these verses for translation options. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])\n\n## Other Possible Translation Difficulties in this Chapter\n\n### The poetry in [2:1113](../02/11.md)\n\nIn these verses, Paul either quotes or composes a short work of poetry. Some scholars think that Paul is quoting part of an early hymn. These verses describe the union of believers with Jesus and how Jesus responds when Christians deny and are unfaithful to him. Consider what form your language uses for poetry and for hymns. If possible, express these verses using that form. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]])
1062:1tajfrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultσὺ οὖν1Here, the word **therefore** could introduce: (1) an inference from [1:1518](../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”
1072:1bll5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτέκνον μου1Paul speaks of his close relationship to Timothy as though Timothy were his **child**. Paul means that he is Timothys 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”
1082:1p026rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐνδυναμοῦ1If 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”
1092:1e6exrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐν τῇ χάριτι τῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1If 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”
1102:1fc41rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν τῇ χάριτι1Here, 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”
1112:1di28rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῇ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Here 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”
1122:2ig9vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδιὰ πολλῶν μαρτύρων1Here, 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”
1132:2kv1mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorταῦτα παράθου1Paul 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”
1142:2p027rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsπιστοῖς ἀνθρώποις1Although 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”
1152:3yc1jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitσυνκακοπάθησον1Here, 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”
1162:3vblorc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariantsσυνκακοπάθησον1Many 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.
1172:3juu2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὡς καλὸς στρατιώτης Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1Here 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”
1182:4a4x7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphorοὐδεὶς στρατευόμενος ἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις, ἵνα τῷ στρατολογήσαντι ἀρέσῃ1Here 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 [2:56](../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”
1192:4p7n5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐμπλέκεται ταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις1Paul 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”
1202:4p028rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐμπλέκεται1If 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”
1212:4p029rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitταῖς τοῦ βίου πραγματίαις1Here, 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”
1222:4d2lgτῷ στρατολογήσαντι1Alternate translation: “his leader” or “the one who commands him”
1232:5e7rurc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesδὲ καὶ1Here, 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”
1242:5d483rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐὰν & ἀθλῇ τις, οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1Here 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”
1252:5p031rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypoἐὰν & ἀθλῇ τις, οὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1Here 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”
1262:5p032rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀθλῇ1Here, 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”
1272:5xbn6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesοὐ στεφανοῦται, ἐὰν μὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1If 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”
1282:5p033rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐ στεφανοῦται1If 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”
1292:5lea8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownοὐ στεφανοῦται1In Pauls 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”
1302:5reg6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμὴ νομίμως ἀθλήσῃ1Here 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”
1312:6wz35rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸν κοπιῶντα γεωργὸν δεῖ πρῶτον τῶν καρπῶν μεταλαμβάνειν1Here 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 [2:45](../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”
1322:6s6bzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnounτὸν κοπιῶντα γεωργὸν1The 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”
1332:6p035rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπρῶτον τῶν καρπῶν μεταλαμβάνειν1Here 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”
1342:7bdk9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitνόει ὃ λέγω1Here Paul means that Timothy should **Think about** what Paul has written about soldiers, athletes, and farmers ([2:46](../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”
1352:7p036rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsδώσει & σοι & σύνεσιν1If 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”
1362:7a22qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν πᾶσιν1Here, 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”
1372:8rwlvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμνημόνευε1Here, 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”
1382:8y6ffrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-eventsἐγηγερμένον ἐκ νεκρῶν, ἐκ σπέρματος Δαυείδ1Jesus 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”
1392:8wt31rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐγηγερμένον1Here, 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”
1402:8p038rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐγηγερμένον1If 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”
1412:8ssflrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjἐκ νεκρῶν1Paul 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”
1422:8mh1krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐκ σπέρματος Δαυείδ1Here 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”
1432:8s4vhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionκατὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιόν μου1Here, 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”
1442:9t2axrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyμέχρι δεσμῶν1Here, **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”
1452:9p039rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileὡς κακοῦργος1Paul 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”
1462:9pc6trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐ δέδεται1Here 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”
1472:9p040rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐ δέδεται1If 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”
1482:9c3qbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ1Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe a **word** that comes from God. Alternate translation: “the word that comes from God”
1492:9p041rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὁ λόγος1Here, **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”
1502:10uywbrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronounsδιὰ τοῦτο, πάντα ὑπομένω1The pronoun **this** could refer to: (1) what Paul said in the previous verse about how Gods word is not bound. Alternate translation: “Because Gods 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:”
1512:10p042rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντα ὑπομένω1Paul 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”
1522:10aa1xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjτοὺς ἐκλεκτούς1Paul 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”
1532:10p043rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsκαὶ αὐτοὶ σωτηρίας τύχωσιν τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1If 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”
1542:10j2bkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Here 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”
1552:10sehsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμετὰ δόξης αἰωνίου1Here, 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”
1562:10el68rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsμετὰ δόξης αἰωνίου1If 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”
1572:11nr7urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyπιστὸς ὁ λόγος1Here, **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”
1582:11-13p045rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarksεἰ γὰρ συναπεθάνομεν, καὶ συνζήσομεν & εἰ ὑπομένομεν, καὶ συνβασιλεύσομεν; εἰ ἀρνησόμεθα, κἀκεῖνος ἀρνήσεται ἡμᾶς & εἰ ἀπιστοῦμεν, ἐκεῖνος πιστὸς μένει; ἀρνήσασθαι γὰρ ἑαυτὸν οὐ δύναται1These 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.
1592:11g6e4rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesγὰρ1Here, 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”
1602:11a1k6rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-factεἰ & συναπεθάνομεν1Paul 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”
1612:11in38rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorσυναπεθάνομεν1Here Paul refers to how believers, in their union with Christ, share in Christs 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 Messiahs death”
1622:11p046rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκαὶ συνζήσομεν1Here 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”
1632:12fldsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὑπομένομεν1Here 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”
1642:12p048rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀρνησόμεθα1Here 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”
1652:12p049rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκἀκεῖνος ἀρνήσεται ἡμᾶς1Here 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”
1662:13ke4wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀπιστοῦμεν1Here, 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”
1672:13p050rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐκεῖνος πιστὸς μένει1Here, 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”
1682:13ihd4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀρνήσασθαι & ἑαυτὸν οὐ δύναται1Here, 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”
1692:14u661rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὑπομίμνῃσκε1Here 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”
1702:14j3i5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitταῦτα1Here, the phrase **these things** refer to what Paul has previously written. This includes the trustworthy word in [2:1113](../02/11.md) and perhaps also [2:110](../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”
1712:14p051rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformulaδιαμαρτυρόμενος ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1Here 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”
1722:14r5lqrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariantsτοῦ Θεοῦ1Many 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.
1732:14g6p7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμὴ λογομαχεῖν1Here 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”
1742:14ywtyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐπὶ καταστροφῇ τῶν ἀκουόντων1If 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”
1752:14x7gxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐπὶ καταστροφῇ τῶν ἀκουόντων1Here 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”
1762:15m3vyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomσπούδασον σεαυτὸν, δόκιμον παραστῆσαι τῷ Θεῷ1Here 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”
1772:15rj6yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐργάτην1Here 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”
1782:15app2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀνεπαίσχυντον1If 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”
1792:15xgz9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὀρθοτομοῦντα τὸν λόγον τῆς ἀληθείας1Paul 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”
1802:15u349rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionτὸν λόγον τῆς ἀληθείας1Here, 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”
1812:15p053rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὸν λόγον τῆς ἀληθείας1If 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”
1822:15p052rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον1Here, **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”
1832:16r8k0rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastδὲ1Here, 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,”
1842:16oww8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὰς & βεβήλους κενοφωνίας1Here 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”
1852:16ke4vrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronounsπροκόψουσιν1The 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”
1862:16e27qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπὶ πλεῖον & προκόψουσιν ἀσεβείας1Here 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”
1872:16pxdnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀσεβείας1If 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”
1882:17p054rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὁ λόγος αὐτῶν1Here, **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”
1892:17i73trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileὡς γάγγραινα νομὴν ἕξει1Paul 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”
1902:17p055rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownγάγγραινα1The 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 persons 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”
1912:17x2k6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesὙμέναιος, καὶ Φίλητος1The words **Hymenaeus** and **Philetus** are names of men.
1922:18fi9zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπερὶ τὴν ἀλήθειαν ἠστόχησαν1Paul 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”
1932:18p057rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsπερὶ τὴν ἀλήθειαν1If 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”
1942:18pu22rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀνάστασιν ἤδη γεγονέναι1If 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”
1952:18ura5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀνατρέπουσιν τήν τινων πίστιν1Here Paul speaks of **faith** as if it were an object that these two men could **overturn**. He means that they are disrupting or destroying peoples 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”
1962:18fj45rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτήν τινων πίστιν1If 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”
1972:19ir1zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ & στερεὸς θεμέλιος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἕστηκεν1Here 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) Gods 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”
1982:19p058rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἔχων τὴν σφραγῖδα ταύτην1Here 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”
1992:19p059rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotationsἔγνω Κύριος τοὺς ὄντας αὐτοῦ, καί, ἀποστήτω ἀπὸ ἀδικίας πᾶς ὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου1Here 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 Timothys 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.
2002:19ntohrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitΚύριος & Κυρίου1Here, 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”
2012:19ifmmrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tenseἔγνω1Here 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”
2022:19qi40rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀποστήτω ἀπὸ & πᾶς ὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου1Here 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”
2032:19sd6mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative3pἀποστήτω & πᾶς ὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου1If 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”
2042:19nd7trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomὁ ὀνομάζων τὸ ὄνομα Κυρίου1Here, 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”
2052:19y3bcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀπὸ ἀδικίας1If 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”
2062:20mvjprc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesδὲ1Here, 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,”
2072:20p060rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphorἐν μεγάλῃ & οἰκίᾳ, οὐκ ἔστιν μόνον σκεύη χρυσᾶ καὶ ἀργυρᾶ, ἀλλὰ καὶ ξύλινα καὶ ὀστράκινα; καὶ ἃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν, ἃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν1To 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”
2082:20j75lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitσκεύη1The 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”
2092:20p061rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἀλλὰ καὶ ξύλινα καὶ ὀστράκινα1Paul 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”
2102:20vefbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν, ἃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν1Paul 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”
2112:20mt5erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἃ μὲν εἰς τιμὴν, ἃ δὲ εἰς ἀτιμίαν1If 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”
2122:21jm3prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphorἐὰν & τις ἐκκαθάρῃ ἑαυτὸν ἀπὸ τούτων, ἔσται σκεῦος εἰς τιμήν, ἡγιασμένον εὔχρηστον τῷ Δεσπότῃ, εἰς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἡτοιμασμένον1Here 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”
2132:21deytrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτούτων1Here, the word **these** could refer to: (1) what Paul has said in [2:1618](../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”
2142:21gi36rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἑαυτὸν & ἔσται1Although 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”
2152:21p062rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsεἰς τιμήν1If 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”
2162:21p063rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἡγιασμένον1If 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”
2172:21p065rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἡτοιμασμένον1If 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”
2182:22bnphrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesδὲ1Here, 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”
2192:22h9p6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorφεῦγε1Paul 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”
2202:22p066rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὰς & νεωτερικὰς ἐπιθυμίας1Here 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”
2212:22hg99δίωκε & δικαιοσύνην, πίστιν, ἀγάπην, εἰρήνην, μετὰ τῶν ἐπικαλουμένων τὸν Κύριον ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας1Here, 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”
2222:22srb7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδίωκε1Paul 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”
2232:22p067rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsδικαιοσύνην, πίστιν, ἀγάπην, εἰρήνην1If 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”
2242:22bp8brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπίστιν1Here, 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”
2252:22gl3qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomτῶν ἐπικαλουμένων τὸν Κύριον1The 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”
2262:22as17rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὸν Κύριον ἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας1Here, 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”
2272:22p068rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐκ καθαρᾶς καρδίας1In Pauls 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”
2282:23tmf7rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastδὲ1Here, 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,”
2292:23f5vbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὰς & μωρὰς καὶ ἀπαιδεύτους ζητήσεις1If 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”
2302:23p069rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletμωρὰς καὶ ἀπαιδεύτους1The 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”
2312:23kh6prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorγεννῶσι1Here 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”
2322:23p070rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμάχας1Here 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”
2332:24ux2prc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastδὲ1Here, 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,”
2342:24u2mprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnounδοῦλον & Κυρίου1The 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”
2352:24p071rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδοῦλον & Κυρίου1Here 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”
2362:24p072rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοὐ & μάχεσθαι1Here 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”
2372:24s78brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjπάντας1Paul 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”
2382:25un9lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐν πραΰτητι1If 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”
2392:25u6rprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτοὺς ἀντιδιατιθεμένους1Here 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”
2402:25jt1rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμήποτε δώῃ αὐτοῖς ὁ Θεὸς μετάνοιαν1Here 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”
2412:25u8dyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsμήποτε δώῃ αὐτοῖς & μετάνοιαν εἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας1If 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”
2422:26ql9prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-eventsἀνανήψωσιν ἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος, ἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα1These 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”
2432:26p073rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀνανήψωσιν ἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος1Here 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”
2442:26ef3qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀνανήψωσιν1Here 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”
2452:26mql8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐκ τῆς τοῦ διαβόλου παγίδος, ἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ1Here 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”
2462:26p074rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐζωγρημένοι ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ1If 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”
2472:26sawlrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronounsὑπ’ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα1Here 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 devils 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”
2482:26dj4jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsεἰς τὸ ἐκείνου θέλημα1If 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”
2493:introk2cr0# 2 Timothy 3 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n5. Instructions for opposing false teaching (2:144:8)\n * False teachers in the last days (3:19)\n * Instructions to Timothy to remain faithful (3:1015)\n * The nature of Scripture (3:1617)\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 Pauls 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 [3:89](../03/08.md), Paul refers to two men named Jannes and Jambres. These were the traditional names in Pauls 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 7:813](../exo/07/08.md)). However, later on they were not able to imitate the miracles that Moses did (see [Exodus 8:1819](../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 Gods 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 Gods 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]])
2503:1dtw5rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesδὲ1Here, 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”
2513:1k9xirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfoτοῦτο & γίνωσκε, ὅτι1The 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”
2523:1g65rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐν ἐσχάταις ἡμέραις1Here, 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”
2533:1n7gsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐνστήσονται καιροὶ χαλεποί1Here 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 [3:25](../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”
2543:2b1z2rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultγὰρ1Here, 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:”
2553:2wh7crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnounοἱ ἄνθρωποι1The 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”
2563:2p075rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsοἱ ἄνθρωποι1Although 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”
2573:2jb27rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitφίλαυτοι1Here, 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”
2583:3ks9yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjἀφιλάγαθοι1Paul 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”
2593:4d6ngrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτετυφωμένοι1Here 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”
2603:4p076rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτετυφωμένοι1If 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”
2613:5aagzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἔχοντες μόρφωσιν εὐσεβείας, τὴν δὲ δύναμιν αὐτῆς ἠρνημένοι1If 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”
2623:5k5dcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔχοντες μόρφωσιν εὐσεβείας1Here, 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”
2633:5xjxarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὴν & δύναμιν αὐτῆς ἠρνημένοι1Here 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”
2643:5p077rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultκαὶ1Here, 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”
2653:5xm1crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτούτους ἀποτρέπου1Here 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”
2663:5p078rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjτούτους1Paul 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”
2673:6edvmrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultγάρ1Here, 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”
2683:6yvp3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjἐκ τούτων1Paul 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”
2693:6la4mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοἱ ἐνδύνοντες εἰς τὰς οἰκίας1Here Paul is referring to how these people visit other peoples 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 peoples households”
2703:6gu4brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorαἰχμαλωτίζοντες1Here 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”
2713:6u9m5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorγυναικάρια1Here, 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”
2723:6e9exrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorσεσωρευμένα ἁμαρτίαις1Paul speaks of these womens **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”
2733:6p079rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveσεσωρευμένα ἁμαρτίαις1If 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”
2743:6izz9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις1Paul 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”
2753:6p080rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀγόμενα ἐπιθυμίαις ποικίλαις1If 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”
2763:7qxz4rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesκαὶ1Here, 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”
2773:7p082rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμηδέποτε εἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας ἐλθεῖν δυνάμενα1Here 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”
2783:7akxprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsεἰς ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας1If 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”
2793:8p084rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἸάννης καὶ Ἰαμβρῆς ἀντέστησαν Μωϋσεῖ1Here 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 7:813](../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 Pharaohs sorcerers, opposed Moses when he spoke to Pharaoh”
2803:8b8elrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἸάννης καὶ Ἰαμβρῆς1The words **Jannes** and **Jambres** are names of men.
2813:8p085rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjοὗτοι1Here, 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”
2823:8p086rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτῇ ἀληθείᾳ1If 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”
2833:8p083rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἄνθρωποι1Although 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”
2843:8p087rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκατεφθαρμένοι τὸν νοῦν1If 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”
2853:8g4kkrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenounsτὸν νοῦν1If 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”
2863:8sppyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀδόκιμοι περὶ τὴν πίστιν1Here 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”
2873:8qtijrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπερὶ τὴν πίστιν1Here, 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”
2883:8pfh1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsπερὶ τὴν πίστιν1If 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”
2893:9x9kxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀλλ’1Here, 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”
2903:9c6xxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοὐ προκόψουσιν ἐπὶ πλεῖον1Here 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”
2913:9funzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἡ & ἄνοια αὐτῶν1If 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”
2923:9ffy0rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjπᾶσιν1Paul 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”
2933:9mv4jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπᾶσιν1Paul 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”
2943:9z4furc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjἡ ἐκείνων1Paul is using the adjective **that** as a noun to mean foolishness. He is using the adjective **those** to refer to Jannes and Jambres, Pharaohs 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”
2953:9yfeprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἐγένετο1Paul 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”
2963:9v6wdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐγένετο1Here Paul is referring to how Pharaohs magicians failed to oppose Moses. They could not copy some of the miracles that Moses did (see [Exodus 8:1819](../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”
2973:10iophrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastσὺ δὲ1Here, 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”
2983:10vw42rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorσὺ & παρηκολούθησάς1Here 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”
2993:10-11wma6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsμου τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ, τῇ ἀγωγῇ, τῇ προθέσει, τῇ πίστει, τῇ μακροθυμίᾳ, τῇ ἀγάπῃ, τῇ ὑπομονῇ & τοῖς διωγμοῖς, τοῖς παθήμασιν, οἷά1If 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”
3003:11lk0grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοἷά1Here, 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”
3013:11p093rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοἵους διωγμοὺς ὑπήνεγκα1Here, 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!”
3023:11q4j5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsοἵους διωγμοὺς ὑπήνεγκα1If 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”
3033:11a0btrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesκαὶ1Here, 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”
3043:12ke7frc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesκαὶ & δὲ1Here, 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,”
3053:12xm9lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπάντες & οἱ θέλοντες ζῆν εὐσεβῶς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ διωχθήσονται1If 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”
3063:12nhwarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Here 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”
3073:13hsq7rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastδὲ1Here, 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,”
3083:13p094rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsἄνθρωποι1Although 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”
3093:13xo4qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadysπονηροὶ & ἄνθρωποι καὶ γόητες1Here, 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”
3103:13imc8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπροκόψουσιν ἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον1Here 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”
3113:13p095rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον1Paul 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”
3123:13eyx5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπλανῶντες καὶ πλανώμενοι1Here 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”
3133:13p096rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπλανώμενοι1If 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”
3143:14r7hwrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastσὺ δὲ1Here, 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”
3153:14rob2rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultμένε ἐν οἷς ἔμαθες καὶ ἐπιστώθης, εἰδὼς παρὰ τίνων ἔμαθες1If 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”
3163:14ytg9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμένε ἐν1Here 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”
3173:14p097rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπιστώθης1If 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”
3183:14aajprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitεἰδὼς παρὰ τίνων ἔμαθες1Here 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”
3193:15y8surc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἀπὸ βρέφους1If 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”
3203:15p098rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsεἰς σωτηρίαν διὰ πίστεως τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1If 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”
3213:15blt8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Here 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”
3223:16dz99rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπᾶσα Γραφὴ θεόπνευστος καὶ ὠφέλιμος1If 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”
3233:16s274rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπᾶσα Γραφὴ θεόπνευστος καὶ1Here 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”
3243:16hvr1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπᾶσα Γραφὴ1Here, 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”
3253:16uv35rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὠφέλιμος1Here 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”
3263:16vl2nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsπρὸς διδασκαλίαν, πρὸς ἐλεγμόν, πρὸς ἐπανόρθωσιν, πρὸς παιδείαν τὴν ἐν δικαιοσύνῃ1If 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”
3273:17v9w3rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultἵνα1Here, 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”
3283:17h675rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος1Here, 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”
3293:17nstfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnounὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος1The 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”
3303:17nb12rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος1Although 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”
3313:17uu7irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletἄρτιος & πρὸς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἐξηρτισμένος1The 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”
3323:17p099rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐξηρτισμένος1If 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”
3334:introk2xa0# 2 Timothy 4 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n5. Instructions for opposing false teaching (2:144:8)\n * Paul gives a solemn charge to Timothy (4:18)\n6. Travel plans and news (4:918)\n7. Greetings (4:1921)\n8. Letter closing (4:22)\n\n## Special Concepts in this Chapter\n\n### Pauls 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 [4:78](../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]])
3344:1eh3xrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformulaδιαμαρτύρομαι ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ, τοῦ μέλλοντος κρίνειν ζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς, καὶ τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ, καὶ τὴν βασιλείαν αὐτοῦ1Here 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”
3354:1p100rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς1Paul 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”
3364:1z1uqrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariantsκαὶ τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ1Many 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.
3374:1lwt2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ1Here, 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”
3384:2j2z7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὸν λόγον1Here, **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 “Gods message”
3394:2o1earc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπίστηθι1Here 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”
3404:2zzh4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitεὐκαίρως, ἀκαίρως1Here Paul could be implying that it will be opportune sometimes and inopportune sometimes for: (1) Timothys 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”
3414:2p102rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadysἐν πάσῃ μακροθυμίᾳ καὶ διδαχῇ1Here, 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”
3424:2g5r0rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐν πάσῃ μακροθυμίᾳ καὶ διδαχῇ1If 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”
3434:3t6p3rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultγὰρ1Here, 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”
3444:3jv7aἔσται & καιρὸς ὅτε1Alternate translation: “the time will come when” or “here is what will eventually happen:”
3454:3ilx7rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronounsοὐκ ἀνέξονται1The 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”
3464:3u2ccrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomοὐκ ἀνέξονται1Here, 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”
3474:3fyl3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῆς ὑγιαινούσης διδασκαλίας1Here 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”
3484:3m3bxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructureκατὰ τὰς ἰδίας ἐπιθυμίας, ἑαυτοῖς ἐπισωρεύσουσιν διδασκάλους1Here, 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 peoples own desires”
3494:3e5t2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἑαυτοῖς ἐπισωρεύσουσιν διδασκάλους1Paul 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”
3504:3s375rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκνηθόμενοι τὴν ἀκοήν1Here 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”
3514:3p104rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenounsτὴν ἀκοήν1If 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”
3524:4rh2irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀπὸ μὲν τῆς ἀληθείας τὴν ἀκοὴν ἀποστρέψουσιν1Paul 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”
3534:4p105rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenounsτὴν ἀκοὴν1If 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”
3544:4gra7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτῆς ἀληθείας1If 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”
3554:4p106rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπὶ & ἐκτραπήσονται1If 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”
3564:4xrv7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπὶ & ἐκτραπήσονται1Here 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”
3574:4s7ytrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownτοὺς μύθους1The 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”
3584:5xu9rrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastσὺ δὲ1Here, 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”
3594:5ehz7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorνῆφε1Here 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”
3604:5rmvaἐν πᾶσιν1Alternate translation: “in every situation” or “in everything”
3614:5rsf0rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsκακοπάθησον1If 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”
3624:5tv3krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionἔργον & εὐαγγελιστοῦ1Here, 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”
3634:5dqn6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὴν διακονίαν σου πληροφόρησον1If 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”
3644:6p107rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultγὰρ1Here, 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:”
3654:6sh23rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐγὼ & ἤδη σπένδομαι1Here 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”
3664:6p108rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐγὼ & ἤδη σπένδομαι1If 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”
3674:6fb7lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismτῆς ἀναλύσεώς μου1Paul 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”
3684:7d9tsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸν καλὸν ἀγῶνα ἠγώνισμαι1Here, 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”
3694:7v7werc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὸν καλὸν ἀγῶνα1Here, 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”
3704:7kq83rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸν δρόμον τετέλεκα1Here 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”
3714:7vk2prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὴν πίστιν τετήρηκα1Here 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”
3724:7nwunrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὴν πίστιν τετήρηκα1Here, 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”
3734:7m5q4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὴν πίστιν1If 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”
3744:8ptc4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitλοιπὸν1Here, 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”
3754:8ujg5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀπόκειταί & ὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος1If 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”
3764:8t7hfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possessionὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος1Here, 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”
3774:8hg8irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος1Here 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”
3784:8n3k8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν, ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ1Here 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”
3794:8dvqkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisοὐ μόνον δὲ ἐμοὶ, ἀλλὰ καὶ πᾶσιν τοῖς1Paul 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”
3804:8uh88rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπᾶσιν τοῖς ἠγαπηκόσι τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ1Here, 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”
3814:8p109rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ1Here, 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”
3824:9t8b7σπούδασον ἐλθεῖν & ταχέως1Alternate translation: “Come to me as soon as you can”
3834:9qgldrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goἐλθεῖν1In a context such as this, your language might say “go” instead of **come**. Alternate translation: “to go”
3844:10ie1drc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultγάρ1Here, 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”
3854:10e4xxrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΔημᾶς & Κρήσκης1The words **Demas** and **Crescens** are names of men.
3864:10ji2lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὸν νῦν αἰῶνα1Here, 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”
3874:10rx10rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goἐπορεύθη1In a context such as this, your language might say “come” instead of **gone**. Alternate translation: “has come”
3884:10u2qbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisΚρήσκης εἰς Γαλατίαν, Τίτος εἰς Δαλματίαν1Paul 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”
3894:10gs61rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΔαλματίαν1The 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.
3904:11w21urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμοι εὔχρηστος εἰς διακονίαν1Here 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”
3914:11vxmgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsεἰς διακονίαν1If 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”
3924:12pr6vrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrasesδὲ1Here, 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”
3934:12y60rrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tenseἀπέστειλα1Here 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”
3944:13d5rwrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownφελόνην1The 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”
3954:13v9b6rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΚάρπῳ1The word **Carpus** is the name of a man.
3964:13p9aerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goἐρχόμενος1In a context such as this, your language might say “going” instead of **coming**. Alternate translation: “going”
3974:13mup7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμάλιστα τὰς μεμβράνας1Here, 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”
3984:13e395rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownτὰς μεμβράνας1The 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”
3994:14un4vrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownἈλέξανδρος ὁ χαλκεὺς1A **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,”
4004:14kv94rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἈλέξανδρος1The word **Alexander** is the name of a man.
4014:14clr0rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomπολλά μοι κακὰ ἐνεδείξατο1Here 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”
4024:14wbx4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀποδώσει αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος1Here 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”
4034:15ilarrc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-resultὃν καὶ σὺ φυλάσσου, λίαν γὰρ ἀντέστη τοῖς ἡμετέροις λόγοις1If 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”
4044:15i4ajrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτοῖς ἡμετέροις λόγοις1Here, **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
4054:16v847rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownἐν τῇ πρώτῃ μου ἀπολογίᾳ1Here, 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”
4064:16f2c3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοὐδείς μοι παρεγένετο1Here 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”
4074:16kqf4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjπάντες1Paul 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”
4084:16npgurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitμὴ αὐτοῖς λογισθείη1Here 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”
4094:16rm2trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμὴ αὐτοῖς λογισθείη1If 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”
4104:17rk55rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrastδὲ1Here, 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,”
4114:17t1fwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ & Κύριός μοι παρέστη1Here 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”
4124:17y69mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδι’ ἐμοῦ τὸ κήρυγμα πληροφορηθῇ1If 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”
4134:17ffbgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδι’ ἐμοῦ τὸ κήρυγμα πληροφορηθῇ1Here, 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”
4144:17xcmlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὸ κήρυγμα πληροφορηθῇ1If 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”
4154:17p113rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleπάντα τὰ ἔθνη1Paul 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”
4164:17gsr8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐρύσθην ἐκ στόματος λέοντος1Here 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”
4174:17p114rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐρύσθην1If 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”
4184:18jsp8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsᾧ ἡ δόξα1If 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”
4194:18p115rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomεἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας τῶν αἰώνων1Here, 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”
4204:19taszἄσπασαι1As 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”
4214:19mef8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesὈνησιφόρου1**Onesiphorus** is the name of a man. See how you translated this name in [1:16](../01/16.md).
4224:20lie9rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἜραστος & Τρόφιμον1The words **Erastus** and **Trophimus** are the names of men.
4234:20wp9hrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΜιλήτῳ1The name **Miletus** is the name of a city on the western coast of what is now Turkey, south of Ephesus.
4244:21cvc7σπούδασον & ἐλθεῖν1Alternate translation: “Do your best to come”
4254:21eh95rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownπρὸ χειμῶνος1Where 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”
4264:21dgqiἀσπάζεταί σε Εὔβουλος, καὶ Πούδης, καὶ Λίνος, καὶ Κλαυδία, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ1As 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”
4274:21z1j9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἀσπάζεταί σε Εὔβουλος, καὶ Πούδης, καὶ Λίνος, καὶ Κλαυδία, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ1Paul 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”
4284:21p7pxrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΕὔβουλος & Πούδης & Λίνος1The words **Eubulus**, **Pudens**, and **Linus** are the names of three men.
4294:21er77rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΚλαυδία1The word **Claudia** is the name of a woman.
4304:21oo7urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitοἱ ἀδελφοὶ1Here 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”
4314:21offarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοἱ ἀδελφοὶ1Paul 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”
4324:21mk26rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotationsοἱ ἀδελφοὶ1Although 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.
4334:22tx26rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessingὁ Κύριος μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματός σου1As 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”
4344:22es7krc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariantsὁ Κύριος1Many 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.
4354:22p119rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheμετὰ τοῦ πνεύματός σου1Paul 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”
4364:22p120rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessingἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν1As 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”
4374:22iefgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἡ χάρις μεθ’ ὑμῶν1If 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”
4384:22k85yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-youὑμῶν1Because 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.
4394:22t7vxrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariantsὑμῶν1Many 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.