William Burkitt Notes and Observations - 2 Timothy 1:1 - 1:1

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William Burkitt Notes and Observations - 2 Timothy 1:1 - 1:1


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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:

In these verses, we have the penman of this epistle described, by his name, Paul; by his office, an apostle; by the person that sent him, Jesus Christ; by the end of his mission to preach, the promise of life; that is, the gospel in which the promise of life eternal is contained.

Note here, 1. That it is God's call, and not barely God's permission; his commanding will, and not barely his permitting will, which must warrant a person's undertaking the sacred office, and prove him a true minister of Jesus Christ; Paul an apostle by the will of God.

Note, 2. That as Adam brought the sentence of death upon us all, and the promise of life is made to us in and through Jesus Christ; so that the promise of life must have ministers to proclaim it, and to preach this promise is their proper work.

Observe, 2. The person described, to whom this epistle is directed, and that by his name, Timothy; by his relation, a son; by his affection. a beloved son, a dearly beloved son.

Some think St. Paul calls him his son, because converted by him to Christianity; others, because more thoroughly instructed, edified, and encouraged by our apostle; possibly because he was assistant to him, a co-worker and fellow-labourer with him in the work of the gospel, and for that reason most affectionately beloved by him.

From whence learn, With what fervour of sincere affection the ministers of Christ should love one another, speak respectfully of each other, secure the reputation one of another, strengthen each other's hands, and encourage one another's hearts in the work of God. We have little love from the world;

Lord! how sad is it that we should have less one for another? Behold here how St. Paul's and his assistant Timothy's heart were knit one to another; like father and son, to the great reputation, as well as successful furtherance, of the gospel.

Observe, 3. The apostle's salutation, in form of a prayer; Grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father, and Christ Jesus our Lord.

Learn hence, That all spiritual blessings flow from God as the Father in Christ unto us; and that no grace, mercy, or peace can be had from God the Father, but in, by, and through our Lord Jesus Christ.