2 Timothy 1:1-2 - Homilies By T. Croskery

The apostle's address and greeting.

This Epistle, which has been well described as "the last will and testament" of the apostle, written as it was under the very shadow of death, opens with a touching evidence of personal interest in Timothy.

I. THE ORIGIN AND DESIGN OF THE APOSTLESHIP . "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God."

1 . He was an apostle.

2 . The design of his apostleship was " according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus. " Its design was to make known this promise.

(a) it was "promised before the world began" ( Titus 1:2 );

(b) in Christ, who is the Prince of life, who procured it, who applies it by his Spirit.

II. THE PERSON ADDRESSED . "To Timothy, my beloved son." Not, as in the former Epistle, "my true son," but a son specially dear to him in view of the approaching severance of the earthly tie that bound them together.

III. THE GREETING . "Grace, mercy, and peace." (See homiletical hints on 1 Timothy 1:2 .)—T.C.