October 25, 2008

2 Timothy 4:1-22

v8) What is the "crown of righteousness" Paul is expecting?

In Roman athletic games, a laurel wreath was given to the winners. A symbol of triumph and honor, it was the most coveted prize in ancient Rome. This is probably what Paul was referring to when he spoke of a "crown". But his would be a crown of righteousness.

v10) Who was Demas?

Demas had been one of Paul's co-workers (Col. 4:14; Philem. 24), but he had deserted Paul because he "loved this world." In other words, Demas loved worldly values and worldly pleasures. There are two ways to love the world. God loves the world as he created it and as it could be if it were rescued from evil. Others, like Demas, love the world as it is, sin and all. Mentioning Demas reminded Paul of more faithful co-workers. Only Luke was with Paul, and Paul was feeling lonely. Tychicus, one ofhis most trusted companions, had already left for Ephesus.

v13) If Paul was in prison why did he need his coat?

Paul's arrest probably occurred so suddenly that he was not allowed to return home to gather his personal belongings. Because he was a prisioner in a damp and chilly dungeon, Paul asked Timothy to bring him his coat. Even more than the cloak, Paul wanted his scrolls and parchments. The scrolls ma have included books of the Old Testament; the parchments may have included copies of his own letters or have been blank sheets for writing.

(The One Year Bible Companion)