2Ti 2:8-13 | TNotes | STEP | Summary for 2Tim 2:8-13: 2:8-13 Paul’s suffering (1:12 ) reflects the suffering of Jesus Christ and points to the cross and resurrection as the inner meaning of that Good News (see 1:8 ). Paul’s suffering, like Christ’s, was instrumental in bringing salvation to others. Christ gives his approval to those who suffer and endure with him. 2:8 Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead: Cp. Rom 1:3-4 . Suffering with Christ should be viewed from the perspective of the resurrection to come.

Summary for 2Tim 2:8-13: 2:8-13 ^a Paul’s suffering (1:12 ^b) reflects the suffering of Jesus Christ and points to the cross and resurrection as the inner meaning of that Good News (see 1:8 ^c). Paul’s suffering, like Christ’s, was instrumental in bringing salvation to others. Christ gives his approval to those who suffer and endure with him. 2:8 ^d Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead: Cp. Rom 1:3-4 ^e. Suffering with Christ should be viewed from the perspective of the resurrection to come.
2:9 ^f like a criminal: Paul was identifying with Jesus’ death (2:11 ^g; Phil 3:10-11 ^h).

• the word of God cannot be chained: Both Paul and the Good News would be victorious through the power of Christ’s resurrection (see 2 Tim 4:17-18 ⁱ; see also 2 Cor 12:8-10 ^j; Phil 1:12-14 ^k).
2:11 ^l a trustworthy saying: See study notes on 1 Tim 1:15; 2:5-6.
2:13 ^m he remains faithful: This could mean that (1) he allows those who have stumbled an opportunity for repentance; (2) he faithfully judges unbelievers in accord with his unchanging will; (3) he himself is an example of faithfulness for his people to follow; and/or (4) he will faithfully accomplish his purposes in history, to save those who trust in him through the Good News (1:12 ⁿ; 2:19 ^o). See also Rom 3:3-4 ^p; 1 Cor 10:13 ^q; 1 Jn 1:9 ^r.