2 Timothy 1:5
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The unfeigned faith that is in thee - Timothy had given the fullest proof of the sincerity of his conversion, and of the purity of his faith. Which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois - In Act 16:1, we are informed that Paul came to Derbe and Lystra; and behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, who was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek. Luke, the historian, it appears, was not particularly acquainted with the family; Paul evidently was. Luke mentions the same circumstance which the apostle mentions here; but in the apostle's account there are particulars which argue an intimate acquaintance with the family and its history. Luke says Timothy's father was a Greek, consequently we may believe him to have been then in his heathen state; Paul, in mentioning the grandmother, mother, and son, passes by the father in silence; which intimates that either the father remained in his unconverted state, or was now dead. Lois and Eunice are both Grecian, and indeed heathen names; hence we are led to conclude that, although Timothy's mother was a Jewess according to St. Luke, yet she was a Grecian or Hellenist by birth. Lois, the grandmother, appears to have been the first convert to Christianity: she instructed her daughter Eunice, and both brought up Timothy in the Christian faith; so that he had a general knowledge of it before he met with St. Paul at Lystra. There, it appears the apostle was the instrument of the conversion of his heart to God; for a man may be well instructed in Divine things, have a very orthodox creed, and yet his heart not be changed. Instruction precedes conversion; conversion should follow it. To be brought up in the fear of God is a great blessing; and a truly religious education is an advantage of infinite worth.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
When I call to remembrance--This increased his "desire to see" Timothy. The oldest manuscripts read, "When I called to remembrance"; implying that some recent incident (perhaps the contrasted cowardice of the hypocrite Demas, who forsook him) had reminded him of the sincerity of Timothy's faith. faith that is in thee--ALFORD translates, "that was in thee." He remembers Timothy's faith in the past as a fact; its present existence in him is only matter of his confident persuasion or hope. which--Greek, "such as." dwelt--"made its dwelling" or abode (Joh 14:23). The past tense implies they were now dead. first--before it dwelt in thee. She was the furthest back of the progenitors of Timothy whom Paul knew. mother Eunice--a believing Jewess; but his father was a Greek, that is, a heathen (Act 16:1). The faith of the one parent sanctified the child (Ti2 3:15; Co1 7:14). She was probably converted at Paul's first visit to Lystra (Act 14:6). It is an undesigned coincidence, and so a mark of truth, that in Act 16:1 the belief of the mother alone is mentioned, just as here praise is bestowed on the faith of the mother, while no notice is taken of the father [PALEY, HorÃ&brvbr PaulinÃ&brvbr]. and--Greek, "but," that is, notwithstanding appearances [ALFORD]. persuaded that--it dwells, or it shall dwell "in thee also." The mention of the faith of his mother and grandmother is designed as an incentive to stir up his faith.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee,.... This caused him to give thanks to God for it, whose gift it is and made him the more desirous of seeing one, who was a true believer, and an Israelite indeed. This is to be understood of the grace of faith, which was implanted in the heart of Timothy by the Spirit of God, and was genuine and sincere; he believed with the heart unto righteousness; his faith worked by love to God, and Christ, and to his people, and was attended with good works; which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois: who was his grandmother, not by his father's side, who was a Greek, but by his mother's side; and so the Syriac version renders it, "thy mother's mother"; who, though she might not know that the Messiah was come in the flesh, and that Jesus of Nazareth was he, yet believed in the Messiah to come, and died in the faith of it, and in a dependence upon righteousness and salvation by him; and so her faith was of the same kind with Timothy's; and which dwelt in her, and continued with her to the last: and thy mother Eunice: who was a Jewess, and a believer in Christ, Act 16:1 though her name is a Greek one, and so is her mother's name; hers signifies "good victory", and is the name of one of the Nereides, the daughters of Oceanus (a); and her mother's signifies "better", or "more excellent". She lived, it seems, if her mother did not, to know that Christ was come, and that Jesus, the son of Mary, was he; and she believed in him for righteousness, life, and salvation; and in her this faith dwelt and abode to the end. And I am persuaded that in thee also; not only that faith was in him, and that that was unfeigned, but that it also dwelt, remained, and would continue with him to the end of life; for true faith is an abiding grace, it is a gift of God, that is irrevocable, and without repentance; Christ is the author and finisher of it, and prays that it fail not, whose prayers are always heard; it is begun, carried on, and performed by the power of God, and has salvation inseparably connected with it. Now when the same faith is said to dwell, first in his grandmother, and in his mother, and in him, this is not to be understood as if this grace was conveyed from one to another by natural generation; for grace comes not that way, only sin; men are not born of blood, but of God; but the sense is, that the same like precious faith was obtained by one, as by another. This was a rich family mercy, and deserved special notice, as being a thing uncommon, and required a particular thanksgiving; and is designed as a motive and encouragement to stir up Timothy to the exercise of that grace, and every other gift God had bestowed upon him, as in the following verse. (a) Hesiod. Theogonia, Apollodorus de Deor. Orig. l. 1. p. 5. Vid. Theocrit. Idyll. 13.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5-14 Paul gently but firmly summons Timothy to Rome (see also 4:9, 21; cp. 1 Tim 1:3-11, 12-17). Suffering seemed certain if Timothy remained faithful, and Paul wanted to strengthen Timothy’s resolve. • The allusions to the Spirit in 2 Tim 1:6-7 and 1:14 form an inclusio (literary bookends) around this section. 1:5 On Timothy’s parentage, see Acts 16:1-3; 1 Tim 1:2. • Faith means Christian faith, but Timothy’s Jewish heritage through his grandmother and mother explains how he was rooted in Old Testament instruction (2 Tim 3:14-15). Their Christian faith was an example for him to follow.
2 Timothy 1:5
Faithfulness under Persecution
4Recalling your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy.5I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am convinced is in you as well.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Testimony
By G.W. North9062:28:49TestimonyPSA 42:1PSA 119:11MAT 6:33ACT 8:172TI 1:52TI 3:15JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of preaching the Gospel and witnessing God's work. He talks about how he prayed for healing for hundreds of people who stood up during the service. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of showing love to others and sharing the message of Jesus. He concludes by mentioning that he was asked to share what makes him "tick" and decides to share his testimony to explain his faith.
Child Dedication
By Zac Poonen57924:14EXO 2:7PRO 22:6MAL 2:151CO 7:142TI 1:5HEB 11:23This sermon emphasizes the importance of raising children as gifts from God, drawing parallels to the story of Moses being entrusted to his mother and the significance of nurturing children for the Lord's purposes. It highlights the impact parents have in shaping their children's faith and character, stressing the value of raising godly offspring and instilling sincere faith from a young age. The speaker encourages parents to share personal testimonies of God's faithfulness to inspire and strengthen their children's faith.
It Ends With Me! Breaking Bloodline Curses
By Vlad Savchuk28137:54Spiritual WarfareCursesGenerational CursesEXO 20:5EST 2:5EST 3:1EST 8:11PRO 3:33LUK 10:19ROM 5:17EPH 6:102TI 1:5JAS 4:7Vlad Savchuk delivers a powerful message on breaking generational curses, emphasizing that many struggles stem from ancestral demons that are passed down through family lines. He proclaims that the cycle of these curses can end with the current generation, encouraging listeners to take authority over their spiritual battles and not to pass on the burdens of their ancestors. Using the story of Esther and Mordecai, he illustrates the importance of confronting and defeating these generational issues through spiritual means rather than natural ones. Savchuk urges the congregation to recognize their identity as curse breakers and to dress in the armor of God, preparing for spiritual warfare against the enemy. Ultimately, he reassures that with faith and action, individuals can claim victory over the curses that have plagued their families for generations.
The Deep Dealings of God Pt 27 - Let Us Go on Unto Perfection - Now Faith and God's Love
By Phil Beach Jr.291:01:59PerfectionFaithHumilityISA 55:8MRK 11:22JHN 15:5ROM 4:181CO 13:42TI 1:5HEB 11:1HEB 11:6JAS 4:61PE 5:5Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the necessity of 'now faith' and God's transformative love in our lives, urging believers to recognize that true faith is birthed in the midst of impossibilities. He explains that God often diminishes our strengths and resources to lead us to a place of hopelessness, where we can truly rely on His power. The sermon highlights the importance of humility and the dangers of pride, encouraging the congregation to seek a deeper relationship with Jesus and to be transformed into His likeness. Beach calls for a faith that transcends human limitations and a love that is selfless, reflecting the character of Christ.
Are You Facing a Giant?
By David Wilkerson0Remembering God's FaithfulnessFaithEXO 13:3DEU 6:71SA 17:331SA 17:36PSA 77:11PSA 105:5ISA 46:92TI 1:5HEB 11:1David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of remembering God's past miracles as a source of strength when facing life's giants. He draws on the example of Moses reminding Israel to recall their deliverance from Egypt and David's confidence in confronting Goliath, rooted in his memories of defeating a lion and a bear. Wilkerson encourages believers to guard these memories and share them with future generations to build faith. He reminds us that recalling God's faithfulness can empower us to face our current challenges without fear. Ultimately, he calls us to trust in God's ability to deliver us once again.
A Little Boy Converts His Mother
By D.L. Moody0Faith of a ChildFamily SalvationDEU 6:6PSA 78:4PRO 22:6MAT 19:14MRK 10:14LUK 18:16ACT 16:31EPH 6:11TI 4:122TI 1:5D.L. Moody shares a touching story about a little boy who, after becoming a Christian, felt a deep desire for his mother to know Christ as well. Despite initial resistance from her, the boy's heartfelt plea and genuine transformation moved her to seek faith. After a night of prayer and reflection, she reached out to Moody, expressing her wish to become a Christian, inspired by her son's love and commitment. This story emphasizes the powerful impact children can have on their parents' faith journeys and the importance of sharing one's faith with family.
An Anxious Enquiry for a Beloved Son
By C.H. Spurgeon0Spiritual SafetyParental LovePSA 127:3PRO 22:6MAT 7:13LUK 15:20JHN 3:16ROM 12:10EPH 6:42TI 1:51PE 5:71JN 5:13C.H. Spurgeon reflects on King David's poignant inquiry about his son Absalom after a devastating battle, emphasizing the depth of a father's love and anxiety for his child, even one who has rebelled against him. Spurgeon highlights the natural inclination of parents to worry about their children's safety, both physically and spiritually, and urges listeners to consider the implications of their actions on their parents' hearts. He stresses the importance of nurturing a relationship with God and the dangers of straying from faith, while also encouraging parents to actively engage in their children's spiritual upbringing. Ultimately, Spurgeon calls for a recognition of the eternal state of loved ones, urging that the question of their safety should be paramount in our hearts and prayers.
Are the Children In?
By C.H. Spurgeon0Prayer for ChildrenGod's PromisesGEN 17:181SA 1:11PSA 127:3PRO 22:6ISA 44:3MAT 7:7JHN 3:5ACT 2:39EPH 6:42TI 1:5C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of praying for our children, acknowledging that they do not possess the Spirit of God by nature and expressing concern for their spiritual future. He draws on Isaiah 44:3 to remind parents of God's promise to pour out His Spirit on their offspring, encouraging them to seek this blessing through fervent prayer. Spurgeon highlights the need for parents to intercede for their children, trusting that the Holy Spirit can transform their hearts and bring them into a relationship with God. He reassures parents that God delights in their prayers and will respond to their cries for their children's salvation.
The Glorious Calling of Women as Mothers
By Zac Poonen0PSA 127:3PSA 127:5ACT 16:1GAL 6:71TI 2:122TI 1:52TI 3:14Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of recognizing the ministry of motherhood as ordained by God, highlighting how sin and worldly influences have distorted the view of motherhood as a blessing. Through examples like Timothy's mother, Eunice, and Susannah Wesley, he illustrates the profound impact a godly mother can have on her children and the world, far surpassing any other worldly achievements. Poonen stresses that motherhood is a significant ministry in the church, where women are called to raise their children in the fear of God, echoing Paul's teachings to Timothy.
Motherhood
By Billy Sunday0MotherhoodFaith and ResponsibilityEXO 2:91SA 1:27PSA 127:3PRO 22:6PRO 31:28ISA 49:15MAT 19:14LUK 1:48EPH 6:42TI 1:5Billy Sunday emphasizes the profound impact of motherhood through the story of Moses' mother, who defied Pharaoh's decree to save her child. He illustrates her unwavering faith and determination, highlighting how she prepared an ark for Moses and entrusted him to God. Sunday argues that the role of a mother is crucial in shaping the character and future of children, asserting that a mother's love and guidance can lead to greatness. He calls on mothers to recognize their divine responsibility and the importance of raising their children in faith, as they are entrusted by God. Ultimately, he encourages mothers to commit to nurturing their children for the Lord, promising that God will reward their efforts.
What to Leave Children
By C.H. Spurgeon0IntegrityLegacyPSA 37:25PSA 112:1PRO 20:7PRO 22:6ISA 59:21MAT 7:11EPH 6:42TI 1:5JAS 5:161PE 3:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the significance of a father's integrity and character as the most valuable inheritance for his children, surpassing material wealth. He argues that a holy life serves as a powerful legacy, influencing descendants positively and enhancing their reputation in society. Spurgeon highlights the importance of leaving behind not just an example, but also prayers that invoke God's blessings, which can lead to the salvation of future generations. He encourages fathers to live righteously, as their integrity may be the means through which their children come to faith in Jesus. Ultimately, Spurgeon prays for the fulfillment of God's promises to his household.
Let No One Despise Your Youth
By Erlo Stegen0Living ExemplarilyYouth in FaithEXO 3:101SA 17:452KI 22:1MAT 5:16LUK 2:491TI 4:121TI 4:152TI 1:52TI 2:221PE 5:8Erlo Stegen emphasizes that youth should not be despised, as God can work through young people to fulfill His purposes, citing biblical examples like Joseph, David, and Josiah. He encourages young believers to live exemplary lives in faith, purity, and conduct, as their actions can influence others' perceptions of Christianity. Stegen warns against hypocrisy, highlighting that the behavior of Christians can lead others away from the faith. He urges young people to commit to God now rather than waiting until they are older, and to avoid ungodliness in all forms. The sermon calls for a commitment to integrity and accountability in living out one's faith.
Great Women of the Bible
By John R. Rice01SA 1:19PSA 68:6PSA 127:3PRO 31:10LUK 1:13EPH 5:222TI 1:5John R. Rice preaches about the virtues of a godly woman as described in Proverbs 31, emphasizing the importance of a woman's value, trustworthiness, wisdom, kindness, and dedication to her household. He highlights the significance of a woman's role as a wife and mother, stressing the need for reverence towards her husband and the impact of her influence on her children. Rice also discusses the biblical examples of women like Hannah, Suzannah Wesley, and Timothy's mother and grandmother, showcasing the powerful influence of a godly mother in shaping the lives of their children and the importance of prayer in raising up preachers and godly offspring.
The Lord's Loving Remembrances of Youth
By Octavius Winslow0YouthCommitment to GodPSA 119:9PRO 22:6ECC 12:1JER 2:2MAT 6:33ROM 12:1EPH 6:11TI 4:122TI 1:5JAS 4:8Octavius Winslow emphasizes the significance of youth in a Christian's life, describing it as a precious time when one first dedicates themselves to God. He reflects on how God remembers the kindness shown during this formative period, highlighting the importance of making a conscious decision to forsake the world and embrace a relationship with Christ. Winslow encourages the congregation to seize their youth for spiritual growth, drawing parallels to biblical figures like Josiah and Samuel who devoted themselves to God early in life. He reminds believers that their early commitment to Christ is a kindness to Him, and urges them to renew their vows of dedication and service. Ultimately, he calls for a heartfelt remembrance of God's love and grace throughout one's life.
Protected on God's Highway
By Erlo Stegen0HolinessUnity in the Body of ChristPSA 51:10PRO 16:18ISA 35:8MAT 11:11GAL 6:1EPH 6:162TI 1:5HEB 10:24JAS 4:71PE 5:8Erlo Stegen emphasizes the importance of staying on the 'highway of holiness' as described in Isaiah 35, where even the simple-minded will not go astray if they remain on this path. He highlights the dangers of straying from this way, which exposes individuals to the attacks of the devil, and stresses the necessity of unity among believers to withstand spiritual attacks. Stegen reflects on the example of John the Baptist, who, despite not performing miracles, prepared the way for Jesus through his faithfulness. He warns against the dangers of pride and sin, urging listeners to remain humble and teachable, and to return to Jesus for cleansing if they have strayed. The sermon calls for a collective faith, as seen in the faith of Timothy's family, emphasizing that isolation can lead to harm.
Keeping Fresh
By A.W. Tozer0DEU 4:21JHN 14:26ACT 20:252CO 5:12TI 1:52TI 4:62PE 1:142PE 3:1The preacher delves into the concept of 'hupomnesis,' which means to actively remind or be passively reminded of something, often prompted by another. This act of remembering is crucial in the Christian faith, as it stirs believers to action and keeps them stable in their walk with God. The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in bringing to remembrance God's Word, as seen in John 14:26. The sermon emphasizes the importance of continually stirring up one's mind with the truths of Scripture, as exemplified in 2 Timothy 1:5 and 2 Peter 3:1.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The unfeigned faith that is in thee - Timothy had given the fullest proof of the sincerity of his conversion, and of the purity of his faith. Which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois - In Act 16:1, we are informed that Paul came to Derbe and Lystra; and behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, who was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek. Luke, the historian, it appears, was not particularly acquainted with the family; Paul evidently was. Luke mentions the same circumstance which the apostle mentions here; but in the apostle's account there are particulars which argue an intimate acquaintance with the family and its history. Luke says Timothy's father was a Greek, consequently we may believe him to have been then in his heathen state; Paul, in mentioning the grandmother, mother, and son, passes by the father in silence; which intimates that either the father remained in his unconverted state, or was now dead. Lois and Eunice are both Grecian, and indeed heathen names; hence we are led to conclude that, although Timothy's mother was a Jewess according to St. Luke, yet she was a Grecian or Hellenist by birth. Lois, the grandmother, appears to have been the first convert to Christianity: she instructed her daughter Eunice, and both brought up Timothy in the Christian faith; so that he had a general knowledge of it before he met with St. Paul at Lystra. There, it appears the apostle was the instrument of the conversion of his heart to God; for a man may be well instructed in Divine things, have a very orthodox creed, and yet his heart not be changed. Instruction precedes conversion; conversion should follow it. To be brought up in the fear of God is a great blessing; and a truly religious education is an advantage of infinite worth.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
When I call to remembrance--This increased his "desire to see" Timothy. The oldest manuscripts read, "When I called to remembrance"; implying that some recent incident (perhaps the contrasted cowardice of the hypocrite Demas, who forsook him) had reminded him of the sincerity of Timothy's faith. faith that is in thee--ALFORD translates, "that was in thee." He remembers Timothy's faith in the past as a fact; its present existence in him is only matter of his confident persuasion or hope. which--Greek, "such as." dwelt--"made its dwelling" or abode (Joh 14:23). The past tense implies they were now dead. first--before it dwelt in thee. She was the furthest back of the progenitors of Timothy whom Paul knew. mother Eunice--a believing Jewess; but his father was a Greek, that is, a heathen (Act 16:1). The faith of the one parent sanctified the child (Ti2 3:15; Co1 7:14). She was probably converted at Paul's first visit to Lystra (Act 14:6). It is an undesigned coincidence, and so a mark of truth, that in Act 16:1 the belief of the mother alone is mentioned, just as here praise is bestowed on the faith of the mother, while no notice is taken of the father [PALEY, HorÃ&brvbr PaulinÃ&brvbr]. and--Greek, "but," that is, notwithstanding appearances [ALFORD]. persuaded that--it dwells, or it shall dwell "in thee also." The mention of the faith of his mother and grandmother is designed as an incentive to stir up his faith.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee,.... This caused him to give thanks to God for it, whose gift it is and made him the more desirous of seeing one, who was a true believer, and an Israelite indeed. This is to be understood of the grace of faith, which was implanted in the heart of Timothy by the Spirit of God, and was genuine and sincere; he believed with the heart unto righteousness; his faith worked by love to God, and Christ, and to his people, and was attended with good works; which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois: who was his grandmother, not by his father's side, who was a Greek, but by his mother's side; and so the Syriac version renders it, "thy mother's mother"; who, though she might not know that the Messiah was come in the flesh, and that Jesus of Nazareth was he, yet believed in the Messiah to come, and died in the faith of it, and in a dependence upon righteousness and salvation by him; and so her faith was of the same kind with Timothy's; and which dwelt in her, and continued with her to the last: and thy mother Eunice: who was a Jewess, and a believer in Christ, Act 16:1 though her name is a Greek one, and so is her mother's name; hers signifies "good victory", and is the name of one of the Nereides, the daughters of Oceanus (a); and her mother's signifies "better", or "more excellent". She lived, it seems, if her mother did not, to know that Christ was come, and that Jesus, the son of Mary, was he; and she believed in him for righteousness, life, and salvation; and in her this faith dwelt and abode to the end. And I am persuaded that in thee also; not only that faith was in him, and that that was unfeigned, but that it also dwelt, remained, and would continue with him to the end of life; for true faith is an abiding grace, it is a gift of God, that is irrevocable, and without repentance; Christ is the author and finisher of it, and prays that it fail not, whose prayers are always heard; it is begun, carried on, and performed by the power of God, and has salvation inseparably connected with it. Now when the same faith is said to dwell, first in his grandmother, and in his mother, and in him, this is not to be understood as if this grace was conveyed from one to another by natural generation; for grace comes not that way, only sin; men are not born of blood, but of God; but the sense is, that the same like precious faith was obtained by one, as by another. This was a rich family mercy, and deserved special notice, as being a thing uncommon, and required a particular thanksgiving; and is designed as a motive and encouragement to stir up Timothy to the exercise of that grace, and every other gift God had bestowed upon him, as in the following verse. (a) Hesiod. Theogonia, Apollodorus de Deor. Orig. l. 1. p. 5. Vid. Theocrit. Idyll. 13.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5-14 Paul gently but firmly summons Timothy to Rome (see also 4:9, 21; cp. 1 Tim 1:3-11, 12-17). Suffering seemed certain if Timothy remained faithful, and Paul wanted to strengthen Timothy’s resolve. • The allusions to the Spirit in 2 Tim 1:6-7 and 1:14 form an inclusio (literary bookends) around this section. 1:5 On Timothy’s parentage, see Acts 16:1-3; 1 Tim 1:2. • Faith means Christian faith, but Timothy’s Jewish heritage through his grandmother and mother explains how he was rooted in Old Testament instruction (2 Tim 3:14-15). Their Christian faith was an example for him to follow.