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2 Timothy 1:3

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

2 Timothy 1:3

Verse 3 of 18

Scripture focus

I thank God, whom I serve from [my] forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;

2 Timothy 1:3 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on 2 Timothy 1:3

Theological / Devotional

I thank God. Instead of complaining or pitying himself as he languishes in the Roman prison, Paul recalls pleasant memories of beloved comrades. Truly great men are grateful for life’s sweet moments, whereas others can see only the inconveniences and hardships.

Forefathers. Paul is grateful for strict religious training provided by his parents. His family were loyal to the principles of the strict sect of the Pharisees, as reflected in their early care and eventual interest in his strict Pharisaic education at Jerusalem. For a full discussion of Paul’s family background see Additional Notes on Acts 7, Note 2.

Pure conscience. Even though the Roman emperor Nero was now severely punishing Christians because of their religion, Paul could serve God with a clean conscience, because he worshiped the same God as his forefathers — he had violated no law. His whole life was lived in “pure conscience,” even though he had committed some reprehensible deeds (see on 1 Tim. 1:13).

By SdaBc