2 Timothy 2:9
Verse
Context
Grace and Perseverance
8Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David, as proclaimed by my gospel,9for which I suffer to the extent of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained!10For this reason I endure all things for the sake of the elect, so that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.
Sermons
James Bourne
St. John Chrysostom
Samuel Logan Brengle
Harriet N. Cook
John Gill
T. Austin-SparksSt. John ChrysostomSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer - This verse contains one of the proofs that this epistle was written while St. Paul was a prisoner the second time at Rome. See the preface, where this is particularly considered.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherein--in proclaiming which Gospel. suffer trouble--literally, "evil." I am a sufferer of evil as though I were a doer of evil. bonds-- (Ti2 1:16). word . . . not bound--Though my person is bound, my tongue and my pen are not (Ti2 4:17; Act 28:31). Or he alludes not merely to his own proclamation of the Gospel, though in chains, but to the freedom of its circulation by others, even though his power of circulating it is now prescribed (Phi 1:18). He also hints to Timothy that he being free ought to be the more earnest in the service of it.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherein I suffer trouble as an evildoer,.... As a malefactor, as if guilty of some capital crime; an enemy to the law of Moses, a pestilent fellow, a mover of sedition everywhere, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes, Act 24:5. The Ethiopic version renders it, "as a thief". The "trouble" he suffered were reproaches, persecutions, whipping, beating, stoning, imprisonment: for he adds, even unto bonds; for he was now a prisoner, and in chains; nor was it the first time, he was in prisons frequent; and all this for the sake of the Gospel, which he preached, concerning the incarnation, death, and resurrection of Christ: but the word of God is not bound; for the apostle, while a prisoner at Rome, had the liberty of dwelling by himself, in his own hired house, though held in chains, and guarded by a soldier, and of receiving his friends, and of preaching the Gospel to as many as would come to hear him, Act 28:16 as well as of sending letters to the churches; for several of his epistles were written by him when a prisoner, as those to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians; and this to Timothy, and also that to Philemon: so that the Gospel was not restrained, or the apostle restrained from publishing it, both by word of mouth, and by writing; which was a great support to him under his troubles. Moreover, the Gospel was the more spread through the bonds of the apostle, and met with great success; it became known in Caesar's palace, and was the means of the conversion of some of his household; and many of the brethren, through his bonds, became bolder to preach the Gospel of Christ; so that it had a free course, and was glorified: and sometimes so it is, that persecution is a means of the greater spread of the Gospel; which was an effect that followed upon the persecution raised against the church at Jerusalem, upon the death of Stephen, Act 8:1. And indeed, when God opens an effectual door, none can shut it, though there be many adversaries; and when he gives the word a commission, there is no stopping it; when it comes in power, it bears down all before it; it cannot be fettered and bound by men, though men may be fettered and bound for the sake of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:9 like a criminal: Paul was identifying with Jesus’ death (2:11; Phil 3:10-11). • the word of God cannot be chained: Both Paul and the Good News would be victorious through the power of Christ’s resurrection (see 2 Tim 4:17-18; see also 2 Cor 12:8-10; Phil 1:12-14).
2 Timothy 2:9
Grace and Perseverance
8Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David, as proclaimed by my gospel,9for which I suffer to the extent of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained!10For this reason I endure all things for the sake of the elect, so that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Letter 190.
By James Bourne0PSA 86:15PSA 92:14PSA 119:45GAL 2:202TI 2:9James Bourne reflects on the spiritual liberty found in Christ, emphasizing Luther's words on the Epistle to the Galatians about the inestimable love of Christ who gave Himself for sinners. Bourne shares his personal experience of feeling the precious love of Christ, which removes fears and misgivings, leading to a sense of freedom and peace. Despite facing battles against the world, the flesh, and the devil, Bourne finds solace in the unbinding power of the Word of God that softens his spirit in prayer and reveals God's mercy and long-suffering. He praises the faithfulness of fellow believers like Mr. Dore, highlighting the spiritual vitality that comes from making the Lord one's refuge, bringing forth fruit even in old age.
Homily 16 on the Statues
By St. John Chrysostom0JER 15:19MAT 7:26JHN 16:22ACT 26:28ROM 5:31CO 6:12CO 4:17EPH 4:1PHP 1:292TI 2:9John Chrysostom delivers a sermon addressing the Prefect's role in pacifying the people amidst rumors of danger, emphasizing the need for courage and faith in the face of adversity. He urges the congregation to avoid oaths and highlights the importance of enduring tribulations with patience and hope in God's deliverance. Chrysostom encourages the listeners to imitate Paul's example of finding joy and glory in suffering for Christ, showcasing the power of faith and perseverance. He concludes by exhorting the congregation to use the Lenten season as a time for spiritual growth, focusing on genuine repentance and good works that endure beyond the fasting period.
The Man God Uses
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Usability in God's ServiceFaithfulness Amid TrialsJOS 1:82CH 16:9JOB 13:15PSA 32:8JHN 7:382CO 6:12TI 2:92TI 2:21Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that while many desire to be used by God, they must first ensure they are humble, teachable, and sanctified for His service. He compares God's search for usable individuals to a merchant seeking qualified employees, highlighting that God looks for those whose hearts are perfect toward Him rather than those with great abilities. Brengle encourages believers to examine their own hearts and to trust in God's process of preparation, using the example of Paul, whose faithfulness led to immense impact despite his trials. Ultimately, he reassures the troubled that their perceived uselessness may not reflect their true value in God's eyes, urging them to be filled with the Spirit to flow rivers of holy influence. The message concludes with a promise of reward for those who faithfully serve God.
The Jerboa or Mouse
By Harriet N. Cook0MAT 10:34JHN 15:19JHN 17:14ROM 10:13EPH 6:19PHP 3:20COL 4:52TI 2:91PE 2:111PE 3:15John MacArthur preaches on the role of believers as ambassadors of Christ, emphasizing the threefold nature of being an ambassador: commissioning for a special assignment, representing the sender, and exercising the authority of the sender. Ambassadors of Christ are not always welcomed in a world opposed to God's truth, as warned by Jesus in John 15:19-20 and John 17:14. Paul exemplifies this role by being an ambassador in chains, boldly proclaiming the Gospel despite his circumstances, as seen in Ephesians 6:19-20.
1 Peter 2:18
By John Gill0ServanthoodSubmissionMAT 5:44ROM 13:11CO 7:20EPH 6:5COL 3:221TI 6:12TI 2:9TIT 2:91PE 2:181PE 3:1John Gill emphasizes the Apostle Peter's instruction to servants to be submissive to their masters, regardless of whether they are good or harsh. He addresses the misconception among believers that their faith exempts them from serving others, reminding them of the importance of respect, diligence, and faithfulness in their duties. Gill highlights that submission should be given not only to kind masters but also to those who are difficult and demanding, underscoring the call to maintain integrity and honor in all circumstances.
The Importance of Being in the Spirit
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual WarfareDivine PerspectiveROM 8:182CO 4:17EPH 3:20PHP 1:12COL 1:242TI 2:9HEB 12:1JAS 1:21PE 1:6REV 1:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of being 'in the Spirit' as a means of transcending earthly oppression, illustrated through John's experience on the island of Patmos. He highlights how John's revelation provided a profound understanding of heaven's governance over earthly trials, transforming limitations into a fruitful ministry for the Church. The sermon draws parallels with Paul's imprisonment, showing that adversity can lead to spiritual richness and benefit the Church across generations. Ultimately, the message conveys that the trials faced by believers can be transformed into avenues for divine purpose and abundance. The overarching theme is the power of heavenly perspective in overcoming earthly struggles.
John 14:15-31
By St. John Chrysostom0JHN 14:15JHN 14:26JHN 14:30GAL 5:222TI 2:9John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of showing love for God through actions, not just words, by obeying His commandments. He explains the promise of another Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who will abide with believers forever, unlike the world which cannot receive Him. Chrysostom delves into the significance of Jesus asking the Father to send the Comforter, highlighting the difference in Person and connection of Substance within the Trinity. He reassures the disciples that the Spirit of truth will dwell within them, unlike Jesus' physical presence, and encourages them to keep His commandments as a sign of love for Him and the Father.
Isolation
By Charles E. Cowman0MRK 7:33EPH 3:1PHP 1:122TI 2:9HEB 13:3Charles E. Cowman preaches about the transformative power of being 'taken aside by Jesus' in times of solitude and confinement, drawing parallels to the experiences of Paul in prison and other imprisoned saints like Bunyan and Madam Guyon. He emphasizes how in moments of inactivity and isolation, God can work in us and through us to bring forth some of the most profound and impactful ministries of Christian liberty, turning prisons into palaces and darkness into light.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer - This verse contains one of the proofs that this epistle was written while St. Paul was a prisoner the second time at Rome. See the preface, where this is particularly considered.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherein--in proclaiming which Gospel. suffer trouble--literally, "evil." I am a sufferer of evil as though I were a doer of evil. bonds-- (Ti2 1:16). word . . . not bound--Though my person is bound, my tongue and my pen are not (Ti2 4:17; Act 28:31). Or he alludes not merely to his own proclamation of the Gospel, though in chains, but to the freedom of its circulation by others, even though his power of circulating it is now prescribed (Phi 1:18). He also hints to Timothy that he being free ought to be the more earnest in the service of it.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherein I suffer trouble as an evildoer,.... As a malefactor, as if guilty of some capital crime; an enemy to the law of Moses, a pestilent fellow, a mover of sedition everywhere, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes, Act 24:5. The Ethiopic version renders it, "as a thief". The "trouble" he suffered were reproaches, persecutions, whipping, beating, stoning, imprisonment: for he adds, even unto bonds; for he was now a prisoner, and in chains; nor was it the first time, he was in prisons frequent; and all this for the sake of the Gospel, which he preached, concerning the incarnation, death, and resurrection of Christ: but the word of God is not bound; for the apostle, while a prisoner at Rome, had the liberty of dwelling by himself, in his own hired house, though held in chains, and guarded by a soldier, and of receiving his friends, and of preaching the Gospel to as many as would come to hear him, Act 28:16 as well as of sending letters to the churches; for several of his epistles were written by him when a prisoner, as those to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians; and this to Timothy, and also that to Philemon: so that the Gospel was not restrained, or the apostle restrained from publishing it, both by word of mouth, and by writing; which was a great support to him under his troubles. Moreover, the Gospel was the more spread through the bonds of the apostle, and met with great success; it became known in Caesar's palace, and was the means of the conversion of some of his household; and many of the brethren, through his bonds, became bolder to preach the Gospel of Christ; so that it had a free course, and was glorified: and sometimes so it is, that persecution is a means of the greater spread of the Gospel; which was an effect that followed upon the persecution raised against the church at Jerusalem, upon the death of Stephen, Act 8:1. And indeed, when God opens an effectual door, none can shut it, though there be many adversaries; and when he gives the word a commission, there is no stopping it; when it comes in power, it bears down all before it; it cannot be fettered and bound by men, though men may be fettered and bound for the sake of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:9 like a criminal: Paul was identifying with Jesus’ death (2:11; Phil 3:10-11). • the word of God cannot be chained: Both Paul and the Good News would be victorious through the power of Christ’s resurrection (see 2 Tim 4:17-18; see also 2 Cor 12:8-10; Phil 1:12-14).