2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
Chapter 4
6
Final Recommendations and Greetings
As for me, I am already poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come.7
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
8
Now, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award me on that day— and not only me but also all who have eagerly anticipated his appearance.
16
At my first court appearance, no one supported me; all deserted me. May God not hold it against them.
17
But the Lord was with me and gave me the strength to fully preach the message, so that all the Gentiles could hear it. I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.
18
The Lord will rescue me from every evil and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Commentaries
Final Recommendations and Greetings.
At the end of his testament, Paul sees himself clearly as a servant of the Word who faces the certainty of his final departure. The Apostle’s imminent and violent death, like his entire apostolic life dedicated to the Gospel, has the character of a liturgical sacrifice, a libation (6). His departure will be like raising anchor. He is an athlete who has competed to the finish and now prepares to receive the crown of victory (1 Cor 9:25). In this competition, it is not just one person who is crowned, but all who run with unwavering hope.