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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comVincent Word Studies - 2 Timothy 1:4 - 1:4
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
Greatly desiring (ἐπιποθῶν)
Better, longing. Pastorals only here. Quite frequent in Paul. See Rom 1:11; 2Co 5:2; 2Co 9:14; Phi 1:8, etc. The compounded preposition ἐπὶ does not denote intensity, as A.V. greatly, but direction. Comp. 2Ti 4:9, 2Ti 4:21.
Being mindful of thy tears (μεμνημένος σου τῶν δακρύων)
The verb, μιμνήσκεσθαι in Paul, only 1Co 11:2. In Pastorals only here. The words give the reason for the longing to see Timothy. The allusion is probably to the tears shed by Timothy at his parting from Paul. One is naturally reminded of the parting of Paul with the Ephesians elders at Miletus (Act 20:17 ff., see especially Act 20:37). Holtzmann remarks that Paul's discourse on that occasion is related to this passage as program to performance. Bonds await the apostle (Act 20:23), and Paul appears as a prisoner (2Ti 1:8). He must fulfill his course {Act 20:24); here he has fulfilled it (2Ti 4:7). He bids the overseers take heed to the flock, for false teachers will arise in the bosom of the church (Act 20:29, Act 20:30); these letters contain directions for the guidance of the flock, and denunciations of heretical teachers.
That I may be filled with joy
Const. with longing to see you.