Bible Commentaries
Abbott's Illustrated New Testament
2 Timothy 4
Heap to themselves teachers; by listening to every teacher that offers instruction, however false his pretensions.
Is at hand. This passage (2 Timothy 4:6-8) has been by some considered as indicating that Paul wrote this Epistle when very near the close of his life, during a second imprisonment, which tradition teaches that he suffered at Rome, and which terminated in his martyrdom The directions, however, which follow, (2 Timothy 4:11-13,21,) seem to imply that he did not consider his work as yet absolutely ended. If the latter supposition is correct, this passage must mean only that he felt that he was gradually drawing towards the close of his labors. In either case, it is interesting to observe that the faith and hope which had given him activity and guidance during his long life of suffering and danger, now became his solace and support when he found himself near its end.
Demas is mentioned as with the apostle when he wrote his Epistles to the Colossians and to Philemon. (Colossians 4:14; Philemon 1:24.)
Luke had accompanied Paul to Rome, and remained there with him, as he is repeatedly alluded to in Epistles written by Paul from that city.
Tychicus. He is mentioned, Acts 20:4, as belonging in Asia. He was sent once to Asia from Rome as the bearer of Epistles from Paul. (Ephesians 6:21; Colossians 4:7.)
Alexander. An Alexander of Ephesus is mentioned, Acts 19:33, as taking a part in the disturbances created by Demetrius. One of this name is also referred to in 1 Timothy 1:20.
Erastus; mentioned, Romans 16:23, as the chamberlain of the city. He was afterwards sent by Paul into Macedonia. (Acts 19:22.) Trophimus is also mentioned elsewhere as an Ephesian. (Acts 20:4,21:29.)
Before winter; when the navigation would be no longer safe.
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