Theme - Timothy had apparently given up his work in Ephesus, and Tychicus had been sent by Paul to take up the work in that city (2Timothy 4:12). In requesting that Timothy come to Rome, Paul felt impelled to encourage him in the fight against false teachers and to fortify him for the increased responsibilities to come.

Outline - The contents of this Epistle may be outlined as follows: I. Salutation (1:1-3) II. The Appeal for Faithfulness and Endurance (1:4-2:13) III. Instructions Concerning Private and Ministerial Conduct (2:14-26) IV. Warnings Concerning Grievous Times to Come ((3:1-9) V. Encouragement to Faithfulness (3:10-17) VI. An Exhortation for Faithful Preaching of the Truth (4:1-8) VII. Greetings and Conclusions (4:9-22)