1. Fan into flame the gift of God (1-14)

Paul wrote this second letter to Timothy at what was probably the very end of his life. Yet his letter was full of encouragement to Timothy. Paul reminded Timothy of the sincere faith he had received from his mother. He reminded this young disciple that his God-given spirit was not one of timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline. Through this spirit, Timothy could develop the gifts God had given him. The spirit would also help Timothy to hold firmly to the gospel given to him (14). Through this gospel, Timothy would suffer along with Paul (8). Paul suffered because he knew Jesus, who "destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." (10)

2. God's mercy for Onesiphorus (15-18)

Everyone else had deserted Paul in his time of great need, except for loyal Onesiphorus. While in Rome, he searched hard for Paul until he found him and gave him much comfort and encouragement. We need more like Timothy and Onesiphorus in this world!