To Timothy, my well-loved child: Grace, mercy, peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well.

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].

For I am suffering these things [See verse 8] for this reason [i.e., because of being a Gospel preacher]. Yet I am not ashamed because I know whom I have believed in [i.e., Jesus], and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him [i.e., Paul's spiritual well-being] until that day [i.e., the day of judgment].

The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.

What you have heard from me through many witnesses entrust to faithful people who will be able to teach others as well.

Mark well what I am saying: the Lord will give you discernment in everything.

Therefore if any one may cleanse himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, having been sanctified, well pleasing to the Lord, having been prepared unto every good work.

But thou art well acquainted with my teaching, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, patience,

as well as the persecutions and sufferings that happened to me in Antioch, in Iconium, and in Lystra. I endured these persecutions and the Lord delivered me from them all.

But you should continue [to believe and practice] what you have learned and been convinced of, knowing those from whom you learned it. [Note: These persons would include Lois and Eunice (See 1:5), as well as Paul himself].

so that the man of God may be complete and proficient, outfitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.

I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith!

When you come, bring the cloak I left in Troas with Carpus, as well as the scrolls, especially the parchments.