2 Timothy 1:5

When I call to remembrance. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the reading “having been reminded.” Perhaps Paul had just received a letter from Timothy, or a traveler had passed through Rome and given Paul a good report on Timothy.

Unfeigned faith. See on 1 Tim. 1:5.

First. Paul here compares the rich religious background of Timothy’s family with that of his own (v. 3). Both came of sincere Israelite stock and now continued for worship of the same God in the new framework of Christianity. The full parallel between Paul and Timothy is not given, but the implication is clear — Paul now awaited execution because of his Christian faith, the same faith that Timothy shared. What was ahead for Timothy neither of them knew, but Paul took this last opportunity to exhort him to live nobly as a true servant of God (see on ch. 2:1-13).

Lois. There is no further information available concerning this noble woman.

Eunice. Gr. Eunike, “conquering well,” “good victory” (see on Acts 16:1). Paul emphasizes the influence of these Christian women because Timothy’s father, who possibly died when his son was a lad, was a Greek and thus perhaps indifferent to the true God.

I am persuaded. That is, the apostle was persuaded of the genuineness of Timothy’s consecration and his essential abilities prior to his ordination; and his consequent service has vindicated Paul’s earlier confidence. The sincere “faith” of his grandmother and mother was instilled in Timothy from his earliest years; yet the “faith” of his ancestors would not be saving “faith” for Timothy. Second- and third-generation church members cannot trust to mere acquaintance with the gospel for their salvation; it must become a personal “faith,” which brings courage and peace from day to day.