2 Timothy 1:7
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God hath not given us the spirit of fear - Here is an allusion to the giving of the law on mount Sinai. This was communicated with such terrible majesty as to engender fear in all the Israelites: even Moses, on the occasion, did exceedingly fear and tremble. The Gospel was ushered in, in a much milder manner; every thing was placed on a level with the human intellect; and within reach of every human spirit. Nothing was terrific, nothing forbidding; but all was inviting. The very spirit and genius of it was a spirit of power, of love, and of a sound mind. Instead of δειλιας, fear, some MSS. and versions have δουλειας, servitude or bondage; God hath not given unto us the spirit of Bondage - but of power, δυναμεως, to work miracles, to confound enemies, to support us in trials, and enable us to do that which is lawful and right in his sight. And of love, which enables us to hear, believe, hope, and endure all things; and is the incentive to all obedience. Of a sound mind, σωφρονισμου, of self-possession and government, according to some. But a sound mind implies much more; it means a clear understanding, a sound judgment, a rectified will, holy passions, heavenly tempers; in a word, the whole soul harmonized in all its powers and faculties; and completely regulated and influenced so as to think, speak, and act aright in all things. The apostle says, God hath given the spirit of these things; they are not factitious; they are not assumed for times and circumstances; they are radical powers and tempers; each produced by its proper principle.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--implying that Timothy needed the exhortation "to stir up the gift of God in him," being constitutionally "timid": "For God did not give us (so the Greek, namely, at our ordination or consecration) the spirit of fear." The spirit which He gave us, was not the spirit of timidity (literally, "cowardice," which is weakness), but of "power" (exhibited in a fearless "testimony" for Christ, Ti2 1:8). "Power is the invariable accompaniment of the gift of the Holy Ghost. Luk 24:49; Act 1:8; compare Act 6:6, "full of faith and of the Holy Ghost," with Ti2 1:8, "full of faith and power." Fear is the result of "the spirit of bondage" (Rom 8:15). Fear within exaggerates the causes of fear without. "The spirit of power" is the spirit of man dwelt in by the Spirit of God imparting power; this power "casteth out fear" from ourselves, and stimulates us to try to cast it out of others (Jo1 4:18). love--which moves the believer while "speaking the truth" with power, when giving his testimony for Christ (Ti2 1:8), at the same time to do so "in love" (Eph 4:15). a sound mind--The Greek, is rather, "the bringing of men to a sound mind" [WAHL]. BENGEL supports English Version, "a sound mind," or "sober-mindedness"; a duty to which a young man like Timothy especially needed to be exhorted (Ti2 2:22; Ti1 4:12; Tit 2:4, Tit 2:6). So Paul urges him, in Ti2 2:4, to give up worldly entanglements, which as thorns (Luk 8:14) choke the word. These three gifts are preferable to any miraculous powers whatever.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear,.... A pusillanimous, cowardly spirit, so as to be afraid of men or devils, of what they will say or do; and so as to be discouraged in, sink under, or be deterred from the work of the Lord, the preaching of the Gospel, opposing the errors of false teachers, and reproving men for their sins, and doing other parts of the ministerial function; such a spirit is not from God, and such a fear brings a snare: but of power, and such is the Spirit of God, who is called "power from high"; Luk 24:49 by which the minds of Christ's servants are fortified against reproaches and persecutions for his sake, and are strengthened to resist Satan's temptations, to endure hardness as good soldiers of Christ, to quit themselves like men, in opposition to false teachers, and to do the will and work of God: and of love; to God, and Christ, and his church, and which is a fruit of the Holy Spirit; and such who have it seek not their own ease and credit, but the glory of God, the interest of Christ, and the good of souls; and having such a spirit, and fired with such love, they are not easily intimidated by the adversary; and of a sound mind: in the principles and doctrines of the Gospel; and which shows itself in a prudent conduct and behaviour; in sobriety, moderation, temperance, purity, and honesty; all which may be signified by the word here used: and these who have such dispositions and qualities from God, will not easily give way to the enemies of religion, or decline their duty for fear of them.
2 Timothy 1:7
Faithfulness under Persecution
6For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Prophetic Message
By David Wilkerson12K02:32Prophetic MessagePSA 46:1ISA 54:17MAT 6:33LUK 21:262TI 1:71JN 4:4REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher warns of fearful times ahead and the calamities that will come upon the nation. However, he encourages the listeners not to fear but to run to God in their minds and hearts. He assures them that if they come to God in confidence and faith, he will keep them safe and protect them from the wicked one and the spirit of this age. The preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting God and rising up in faith, even in the midst of a fearful world, and encourages the listeners to have the testimony of eagerly awaiting the return of Jesus.
"Too Intense?" "Radical?"
By Paul Washer10.0K03:56Radio ShowPSA 67:2ISA 64:1HOS 4:6MAT 16:24ACT 20:242TI 1:71PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker passionately shares his personal experiences of sacrifice and persecution for his faith in Jesus Christ. He recounts witnessing people dying and a young boy being shot for crying out in the name of Jesus. The speaker emphasizes the need for true holiness and godliness among believers, calling for a turning away from sin and a wholehearted pursuit of God. He challenges the audience to prioritize the proclamation of the gospel and the advancement of God's kingdom, even if it means risking their lives. The speaker also highlights the importance of knowing and living according to the Word of God.
Testimony - Part 1
By Corrie Ten Boom9.2K30:23TestimonyMAT 10:22JHN 13:34ROM 5:5ROM 12:20EPH 4:6PHP 3:82TI 1:7In this video, a woman shares her personal experience of being imprisoned by the Nazis for hiding Jewish people in Holland. She spent 11 months in prison, including time in solitary confinement and a concentration camp where her sister died. Despite the difficult circumstances, she credits God for keeping her sweet and tender. She shares a message of encouragement to the audience, reminding them that suffering for Jesus is a privilege and that God will provide the strength needed in those moments. She concludes by reading a passage from 1 Peter 4:12, emphasizing the joy that awaits those who share in Christ's sufferings.
Youth for Christ Rally
By Corrie Ten Boom6.2K53:51Women's MeetingISA 11:9MAT 10:30MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 1:82CO 2:42TI 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not waiting until the last week of one's life to surrender to God. He encourages the audience to surrender their lives to God and become channels of His love and light in the world. The preacher also shares a story about preaching the gospel in communist countries and how the message was received and shared. He emphasizes the need for believers to share the good news of Jesus Christ with a world in need of salvation. The sermon concludes with a conversation between Jesus and the angels about the redemption of the world and the importance of evangelizing the whole world.
Overcoming the Spirit of Fear
By David Wilkerson5.1K53:53PSA 23:4PSA 74:4ISA 41:10MAT 6:332TI 1:71PE 5:7REV 12:15In this sermon, the speaker addresses the causes of fear that are prevalent in society. They mention a flood that has occurred in Albania, leading to violence and death among the people. The speaker also discusses a child pornography ring that has been uncovered in France, causing shock and fear among the population. Additionally, the sermon highlights a disturbing incident in a charismatic church where people were seen crawling on all fours with dog leashes around their necks, claiming it to be a revival. The speaker urges the audience to anchor themselves in the Word of God and seek discernment to avoid being swayed by false teachings and fears.
Living a Life of Sacrifice
By Francis Chan5.1K30:59MAT 22:37ACT 7:54PHP 1:15PHP 1:272TI 1:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life of boldness and courage rooted in the spirit of power, love, and self-control that God has given believers. It highlights the need to focus on genuine love for God and others, rather than just going through religious motions. The speaker encourages a deep intimacy with God that naturally leads to courage and boldness in sharing the gospel, inspired by the example of Paul's unwavering commitment to Christ even in the face of adversity.
The Devil's Twins - Fret and Fear
By David Wilkerson4.9K1:01:18PSA 37:1PSA 46:10MAT 6:33ROM 8:152TI 1:71JN 4:18In this sermon, the speaker expresses his frustration and anger towards a wicked and vile man. He talks about reaching a breaking point and wanting to take action against this person. He mentions a story from the Bible where David planned to kill every man, woman, and child in a city out of anger and revenge. The speaker also discusses a news article about a group of young men who randomly assaulted and terrorized people in Central Park. Despite the anger and frustration, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not forgetting the souls of those who commit evil acts and encourages prayer for their hearts to be changed.
(Biographies) Athanasius
By John Piper4.6K1:21:05ROM 12:21CO 1:181CO 9:222CO 4:42TI 1:7HEB 13:71PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the gospel in a way that challenges and transforms people's understanding. He cautions against simply presenting the basic truths of Christianity without addressing the fallen human mind's limitations. The speaker highlights several key principles, including God's sovereignty over all things, the accountability of all people before Him, and the inability of humans to come to Christ on their own. He also emphasizes the need to defend and explain doctrine for the sake of the gospel and to aim at creating biblical categories of thought that may not be readily understood by the current generation.
Fear of Rejection
By Carter Conlon4.6K55:40RejectionPSA 27:1ISA 41:10ISA 43:1MAT 10:31ROM 8:152TI 1:71JN 4:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of maintaining our confidence in God, especially during difficult times. He explains that God knows our struggles and will send ministers to deliver a powerful word that cuts deep into our hearts. The speaker also highlights the purpose of the Old Testament, which is to lead us to Jesus Christ and empower us to become the resurrected bride of Christ. He warns that the world will become darker and more distant from God, but the Church will shine brighter and become more like Jesus. The sermon concludes with the anticipation of the Father speaking the word to Jesus to go and gather his beloved bride, and the joyous shout that will follow.
Led of the Spirit
By A.W. Tozer4.4K03:41Spirit LedMAT 28:19LUK 24:34JHN 14:16ACT 1:8ROM 1:16EPH 2:102TI 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being a witness for Christ. He highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to share their faith. The preacher discourages the reliance on books or methods on how to win souls, emphasizing the need for a genuine conversion and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He also emphasizes the need for Christians to live a righteous life that exemplifies the message they proclaim. The sermon concludes with the reminder that being a witness for Christ is not just an obligation, but also a privilege.
(Godly Home) Part 6 - Bible Pictures of Promise
By Denny Kenaston3.6K43:06Godly Home SeriesPSA 144:12TI 1:7In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the theme of vision and the pictures of promise found in the Bible. The sermon begins by discussing Psalm 144, which is a unique Psalm written by David. Despite being a Psalm about war, David expresses a burden for the home and the future of his children. The speaker encourages the audience to dream for their children and envision them building a spiritual house. The sermon emphasizes the importance of raising a holy generation of children and highlights the promise in 2 Timothy 1:7 that God has given us the Spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. The speaker concludes by praying for God's plan to be fulfilled and for the growth of a generation flowing with the Holy Spirit.
A Man Who Is Known in Hell
By Rolfe Barnard3.4K1:00:39MAT 5:15MAT 6:33MRK 16:17ACT 19:15ACT 28:311TH 2:132TI 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not hiding the truth of the gospel. He encourages the audience to boldly proclaim the truth they have received, acknowledging that no one has all the truth but should humbly share what they do have. The preacher also highlights the need for the power and demonstration of God in preaching, relying on God's confirmation and not just human effort. He urges the church to engage in spiritual warfare against the forces of evil and to proclaim the gospel with authority and belief in the truth of God's word.
Fighting the Blues
By Jim Cymbala2.8K38:53DiscouragementPSA 42:11ISA 41:10JHN 14:27ROM 8:31PHP 4:132TI 1:71PE 5:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing that we are not alone in facing challenges and doubts. He encourages listeners to reject negative thoughts and voices that contradict the truth of God's word. The preacher emphasizes the need to talk to oneself and remind the soul of God's faithfulness and past miracles. He also advises seeking the Lord's guidance before making any decisions or taking any actions. The sermon concludes with a prayer for strength, joy, and peace in the face of adversity.
Automobile Evangelism
By William Booth2.8K02:25JOS 1:9PSA 31:24PRO 16:91CO 16:13PHP 4:132TI 1:7This sermon reflects on the inspiring courage and determination of William Booth, a 75-year-old man who embraced innovative methods like using a motor car for campaigning in 1904, covering 1250 miles despite the challenges of primitive cars. Despite some disapproval, Booth's adoption of modern technology at an advanced age garnered worldwide sympathy and approval, drawing large crowds to hear his message of love and humanity. His work, marked by genuine inspiration, led to widespread recognition and established motor car campaigning as one of his successful methods despite occasional mishaps.
Fear of the Lord
By Winkie Pratney2.4K1:08:57Fear Of The LordReverence for GodEXO 15:11DEU 10:12PSA 86:11PRO 1:7PRO 28:14MAL 1:6MRK 4:36JHN 3:162TI 1:71JN 4:18Winkie Pratney emphasizes that the fear of the Lord is the foremost requirement from God, as stated in Deuteronomy 10:12. He explains that while love, service, and obedience are important, they stem from a proper understanding of God's greatness and holiness. Pratney explores the dual nature of fear in the Bible, contrasting the fear of the Lord with the fear that God does not give us, and highlights that true reverence for God leads to wisdom and understanding. He encourages believers to seek a deeper revelation of God's beauty and majesty, which will transform their lives and lead to genuine worship and obedience.
(Matthew) ch.16:13-17:8
By Zac Poonen2.2K50:39EXO 34:29MAT 6:33MAT 17:1MAT 17:6MAT 17:82TI 1:71PE 5:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of valuing our souls over worldly possessions and achievements. They explain that Jesus taught that gaining the whole world would mean forfeiting our souls. The speaker highlights the immense value of a human soul, stating that it outweighs everything the world can offer. They urge listeners to prioritize eternal matters and live for the things of God rather than temporal pursuits. The sermon also discusses Jesus' return and the concept of being rewarded according to our deeds and motives in the day of judgment.
War on Earth - Part 3
By Derek Prince2.2K28:18PRO 3:7PRO 28:13MAT 18:34MRK 16:91CO 6:19GAL 5:1GAL 5:222TI 1:7JAS 4:71JN 1:9This sermon delves into the manifestations and effects of demonic influence in our lives, such as anger, defilement, torture, compulsion, enslavement, and weakness. It emphasizes the importance of deliverance through faith in Christ, humility, confession of sin, forgiveness, breaking ties with the occult, and expelling demonic influences. The speaker shares personal experiences and practical steps for receiving deliverance and living in freedom from curses and demonic oppression.
A Disciplined Life
By Zac Poonen2.1K31:07EPH 5:152TI 1:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of self-evaluation as the new year approaches, focusing on discipline in three key areas: time management, financial stewardship, and bodily discipline. It highlights the need to make the most of our time, be faithful in handling money, and practice self-control over our bodies to grow spiritually and fulfill God's purposes.
"Buts" Need to End (Clip)
By Shane Idleman2.1K02:542CH 7:14PSA 34:4MAT 6:62TI 1:7JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of fearing God and spending time in prayer as the most powerful tools to move the hand of God, rather than relying on worldly actions like petitions or protests. It calls for a return to repentance, humility, and seeking God's face for revival in the nation, highlighting the need to prioritize spiritual disciplines over fear-driven responses to current events.
Cost of Discipleship - Part 10
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K06:05PSA 34:4PRO 3:5ISA 41:10JER 29:11ROM 12:21CO 1:27EPH 3:20PHP 4:132TI 1:7JAS 4:7This sermon shares powerful testimonies of individuals who faced fears, doubts, and uncertainties but found courage and strength through surrendering to God. It emphasizes the transformative power of God's presence and how He can equip and empower anyone, regardless of their background or education, for His purposes.
Attack of the Devil - Part 4
By Joshua Daniel1.9K09:04NUM 13:301CO 13:8PHP 4:132TI 1:71JN 4:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of overcoming defeatism and having faith in God's power to conquer challenges. It contrasts the defeatist attitude of the majority with the faith-filled perspective of God's people, highlighting the need to trust in God's promises and not look back in fear. The message also addresses the destructive nature of pride and the impact of love in a world filled with terror and hatred.
Prayer, the Holy Spiirt and Boldness and David Platt
By Francis Chan1.9K07:02MAT 18:19ACT 4:31ROM 15:30EPH 6:19COL 4:21TH 5:112TI 1:7HEB 10:24JAS 5:161PE 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of believers coming together in prayer to seek supernatural courage and boldness to share the gospel, drawing inspiration from the early church's practice of praying for one another's boldness. It highlights the need for believers to support and pray for each other's spiritual growth, encouraging a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit for empowerment in evangelism and disciple-making.
The Last Days and the Lord's Coming - Faith That Overcomes Fear
By Zac Poonen1.7K59:22Last Days1SA 3:1JHN 14:26JHN 20:192TI 1:7HEB 8:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the fear that many people experience when thinking about the future and the events that will occur in the last days. He mentions that God will shake everything that can be shaken, as stated in Hebrews 12, and that this shaking will cause fear among people. Jesus also spoke about this fear in Luke 21, saying that men will faint from fear when they see the things that are coming upon the world. The preacher emphasizes the importance of not succumbing to fear but instead straightening up and lifting up our heads, as Jesus instructed. He also highlights the tendency for convictions and truths to evaporate over time unless they are set on fire by the Holy Spirit. The sermon concludes by referencing the disciples' fear even after witnessing Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, emphasizing the need to overcome fear with the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Gospel: The Power of God (Rockport Baptist Church)
By Paul Washer1.7K29:59JHN 3:3JHN 10:24ROM 1:161CO 1:18GAL 6:142TI 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the consequences of sin and the freedom that comes from following God's commandments. He highlights the power of God to save and sanctify individuals from the wrath and power of sin. The preacher challenges the idea of categorizing Christians into spiritual, carnal, and lost groups, stating that the Bible teaches there are only spiritual and carnal lost individuals. The sermon concludes with a call for self-reflection, urging listeners to examine their thoughts, desires, and obedience to God's commands.
Self Discipline
By William MacDonald1.7K40:09Self-DisciplineISA 50:4MAT 6:332TI 1:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline in studying the Bible and managing time effectively. He highlights the distraction and negative influence of television, urging listeners to prioritize the eternal value of God's Word over worldly entertainment. The speaker also encourages young people to discipline their lives by limiting their TV consumption in order to avoid being brainwashed by worldly attitudes and sensuality. He compares the discipline required in sports and music to the discipline needed in the Christian life, emphasizing that success in both areas comes from consistent effort and dedication.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God hath not given us the spirit of fear - Here is an allusion to the giving of the law on mount Sinai. This was communicated with such terrible majesty as to engender fear in all the Israelites: even Moses, on the occasion, did exceedingly fear and tremble. The Gospel was ushered in, in a much milder manner; every thing was placed on a level with the human intellect; and within reach of every human spirit. Nothing was terrific, nothing forbidding; but all was inviting. The very spirit and genius of it was a spirit of power, of love, and of a sound mind. Instead of δειλιας, fear, some MSS. and versions have δουλειας, servitude or bondage; God hath not given unto us the spirit of Bondage - but of power, δυναμεως, to work miracles, to confound enemies, to support us in trials, and enable us to do that which is lawful and right in his sight. And of love, which enables us to hear, believe, hope, and endure all things; and is the incentive to all obedience. Of a sound mind, σωφρονισμου, of self-possession and government, according to some. But a sound mind implies much more; it means a clear understanding, a sound judgment, a rectified will, holy passions, heavenly tempers; in a word, the whole soul harmonized in all its powers and faculties; and completely regulated and influenced so as to think, speak, and act aright in all things. The apostle says, God hath given the spirit of these things; they are not factitious; they are not assumed for times and circumstances; they are radical powers and tempers; each produced by its proper principle.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--implying that Timothy needed the exhortation "to stir up the gift of God in him," being constitutionally "timid": "For God did not give us (so the Greek, namely, at our ordination or consecration) the spirit of fear." The spirit which He gave us, was not the spirit of timidity (literally, "cowardice," which is weakness), but of "power" (exhibited in a fearless "testimony" for Christ, Ti2 1:8). "Power is the invariable accompaniment of the gift of the Holy Ghost. Luk 24:49; Act 1:8; compare Act 6:6, "full of faith and of the Holy Ghost," with Ti2 1:8, "full of faith and power." Fear is the result of "the spirit of bondage" (Rom 8:15). Fear within exaggerates the causes of fear without. "The spirit of power" is the spirit of man dwelt in by the Spirit of God imparting power; this power "casteth out fear" from ourselves, and stimulates us to try to cast it out of others (Jo1 4:18). love--which moves the believer while "speaking the truth" with power, when giving his testimony for Christ (Ti2 1:8), at the same time to do so "in love" (Eph 4:15). a sound mind--The Greek, is rather, "the bringing of men to a sound mind" [WAHL]. BENGEL supports English Version, "a sound mind," or "sober-mindedness"; a duty to which a young man like Timothy especially needed to be exhorted (Ti2 2:22; Ti1 4:12; Tit 2:4, Tit 2:6). So Paul urges him, in Ti2 2:4, to give up worldly entanglements, which as thorns (Luk 8:14) choke the word. These three gifts are preferable to any miraculous powers whatever.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear,.... A pusillanimous, cowardly spirit, so as to be afraid of men or devils, of what they will say or do; and so as to be discouraged in, sink under, or be deterred from the work of the Lord, the preaching of the Gospel, opposing the errors of false teachers, and reproving men for their sins, and doing other parts of the ministerial function; such a spirit is not from God, and such a fear brings a snare: but of power, and such is the Spirit of God, who is called "power from high"; Luk 24:49 by which the minds of Christ's servants are fortified against reproaches and persecutions for his sake, and are strengthened to resist Satan's temptations, to endure hardness as good soldiers of Christ, to quit themselves like men, in opposition to false teachers, and to do the will and work of God: and of love; to God, and Christ, and his church, and which is a fruit of the Holy Spirit; and such who have it seek not their own ease and credit, but the glory of God, the interest of Christ, and the good of souls; and having such a spirit, and fired with such love, they are not easily intimidated by the adversary; and of a sound mind: in the principles and doctrines of the Gospel; and which shows itself in a prudent conduct and behaviour; in sobriety, moderation, temperance, purity, and honesty; all which may be signified by the word here used: and these who have such dispositions and qualities from God, will not easily give way to the enemies of religion, or decline their duty for fear of them.