2 Timothy 4:9 - Meaning and Application

Paul closes this letter with several personal requests to Timothy. First, he asks him to come quickly if he can. Timothy was an evangelist, a worker who was not tied to one church, but helped in the wider mission of the apostles. Paul wanted Timothy’s help and friendship, especially because several others had left him.

One of those who left was Demas, and Paul speaks sadly about him. Demas forsook Paul because he loved this present world. He may have left out of fear of suffering, since Paul was then a prisoner, or he may have been pulled away by worldly business and duties. In either case, his first love for Christ and the gospel was lost. Love for this present world is often the reason people turn away from the truth and ways of Jesus Christ. Demas had gone to Thessalonica, perhaps for trade or some other worldly concern.

Paul then mentions that Crescens had gone to one place and Titus to another, while Luke stayed with him. Even that was not enough for Paul, for he valued the company of his friends. He also speaks well of Mark, saying, “He is useful to me for the ministry.” This Mark is likely the same man Paul and Barnabas had once disagreed about (Acts 15:39). Paul had once refused to take him along because Mark had turned back before, but now Paul asks Timothy to bring him. This shows that Paul was reconciled to Mark and now trusted him again. We should learn from this to have a forgiving spirit, and not reject forever those who later prove useful.

Paul also asks Timothy to bring some items when he comes through Troas. He mentions the cloak he left there, which he may have needed in a cold prison. It was likely the plain outer garment Paul normally wore. Some understand his request to mean a roll of parchment, and others a writing case. Paul was guided by God, yet he still wanted his books with him. He had told Timothy to give attention to reading, and he did the same, even when he was near death. As long as we live, we should keep learning. He also asks for the parchments, which some think were the original copies of his letters, while others think they were the skins he used for making tents to support himself.

Then Paul warns Timothy about Alexander, who had done him much harm. This seems to be the same Alexander mentioned in (Acts 19:33). He may once have professed Christian faith and even been an open supporter, yet he caused Paul great trouble. Paul had to deal with false brothers as well as open enemies. He says the Lord will repay Alexander according to his works, which is a warning that God will give him the judgment he deserves. Timothy is told to watch out for him, because such a man could pretend friendship and still betray him. It is dangerous to have much to do with those who are hostile to a servant like Paul.

Paul’s words here give several lessons. Some who once heard him or admired him did not leave a pleasant memory, because one deserted him and another opposed him strongly. Yet Paul does not let the badness of some make him forget the goodness of others, such as Timothy, Titus, Mark, and Luke. He leaves a lasting mark on the names of Demas and Alexander, one for loving the present world and one for opposing his message. God will reward evildoers, especially those who fall away. And we should be careful around people with Alexander’s spirit, because they will do no good and will do as much harm as they can.