Several references in the epistles as well as some of the early “Church Fathers” indicate that Paul was ultimately released from his imprisonment and traveled for a few more years. After the great fire that destroyed much of Rome, the Emperor Nero, who was suspected of starting it, blamed the Christians. Some leaders, including Paul, were brought to Rome. Paul was again imprisoned.

The enemy, always active, had been working, as we see repeatedly in Acts. Paul had warned the Ephesian elders of dangers ahead (Acts 20:29–31) and had written epistles to correct errors with sound teaching. But in his second letter to Timothy, he mentions sadly that all in the province of Asia had turned away from him. We understand that this was not just against him personally, but much of the truth he taught about the Assembly was corrupted or given up. We see the full results of this in Christendom today.

Timothy, who had earlier been left in Ephesus to counter this very kind of thing, was discouraged. Paul writes from his prison, encouraging him to go on and laying out teaching needed for the then already present “perilous times” of the “last days.” God in grace has made adequate provision: the importance of studying, preaching, teaching, holding fast, and passing on God’s Word is stressed. We have nothing to be ashamed of, but there will be suffering and persecution for the gospel. What Paul wrote his “beloved son” in the faith is of vital importance for us today. May we too “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus”!