2 Timothy 4:9-13

The Initial List Of Heroes (2 Timothy 4:9-13 ).

The two lists of names in this passage are separated by the reference to Alexander the coppersmith and what follows. Initially the list is of his active co-workers, although the final list also appears to contain the names of two of Paul’s lieutenants, named among his friends, thus connecting the second list with the first list. It may, however, be that Erastus was now independent of Paul while Trophimus was very sick and out of action. They were not therefore at this stage under Paul’s direction.

Analysis.

a Give diligence to come shortly to me (2 Timothy 4:9).

b For Demas forsook me, having loved this present world, and went to Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia (2 Timothy 4:10).

c Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministering (2 Timothy 4:11).

b But Tychicus I sent to Ephesus (2 Timothy 4:12).

a The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, bring when you come, and the books, especially the parchments (2 Timothy 4:13).

Note that in ‘a’ Timothy is to come to him as quickly as possible and in the parallel is told what to bring when he comes. In ‘b’ we learn where Paul’s lieutenants went, and the same in the parallel. Centrally in ‘c’ he describes who is with him and whose presence he desires.