The Crown of Righteousness

Paul gives a solemn command before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead. He writes: preach the word; be urgent in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort with all patience and teaching. He warns that someday people will refuse sound teaching and, having itching ears, will heap up teachers to suit their own desires and turn away to fables. Timothy, however, must be sober in all things, suffer hardship, do the work of an evangelist, and fulfill his ministry.

Paul explains that he is already being poured out as an offering, and his departure is near. He writes: I have fought the good fight. I have finished the course. I have kept the faith. From now on, the crown of righteousness is stored up for him. The Lord, the righteous judge, will hand it to him on that day, and not to him only, but to all those who have loved His appearing.

Paul asks Timothy to come soon. Demas left him, having loved this present world, and others have gone to other places. Only Luke is with him. Paul asks Timothy to take Mark and bring him, for he is useful to him for service, and to bring the cloak, the books, and especially the parchments. He warns Timothy about Alexander the coppersmith. At Paul's first defense, everyone left him; Paul asks that it not be held against them. But the Lord stood by him, so the whole message could be preached for the Gentiles to hear. Paul is confident: the Lord will rescue him from every evil and keep him safe for His heavenly Kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever.