21 You therefore , my son , be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus . 2 The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses , entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also . 3 Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus . 4 No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life , so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier . 5 Also if anyone competes as an athlete , he does not win the prize unless e he competes according to the rules . 6 The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops . 7 Consider what I say , for the Lord will give you understanding in everything .
8 Remember Jesus Christ , risen from the dead , descendant of David , according to my gospel , 9 for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal ; but the word of God is not imprisoned . 10 For this reason I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen , so that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Timothy 2:1-10
Commentary on 2 Timothy 2:1-7
(Read 2 Timothy 2:1-7)
As our trials increase, we need to grow stronger in that which is good; our faith stronger, our resolution stronger, our love to God and Christ stronger. This is opposed to our being strong in our own strength. All Christians, but especially ministers, must be faithful to their Captain, and resolute in his cause. The great care of a Christian must be to please Christ. We are to strive to get the mastery of our lusts and corruptions, but we cannot expect the prize unless we observe the laws. We must take care that we do good in a right manner, that our good may not be spoken evil of. Some who are active, spend their zeal about outward forms and doubtful disputations. But those who strive lawfully shall be crowned at last. If we would partake the fruits, we must labour; if we would gain the prize, we must run the race. We must do the will of God, before we receive the promises, for which reason we have need of patience. Together with our prayers for others, that the Lord would give them understanding in all things, we must exhort and stir them up to consider what they hear or read.
Commentary on 2 Timothy 2:8-13
(Read 2 Timothy 2:8-13)
Let suffering saints remember, and look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of their faith, who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despised the shame, and is now set down at the right hand of the throne of God. We must not think it strange if the best men meet with the worst treatment; but this is cheering, that the word of God is not bound. Here we see the real and true cause of the apostle's suffering trouble in, or for, the sake of the gospel. If we are dead to this world, its pleasures, profits, and honours, we shall be for ever with Christ in a better world. He is faithful to his threatenings, and faithful to his promises. This truth makes sure the unbeliever's condemnation, and the believer's salvation.