2 Timothy 2:24

And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,

Word-by-Word Analysis

δοῦλον

G1401

the servant

a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)

δὲ

G1161

And

but, and, etc

κυρίου

G2962

of the Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

οὐ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

δεῖ

G1163

must

also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)

μάχεσθαι

G3164

strive

to war, i.e., (figuratively) to quarrel, dispute

ἀλλ'

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

ἤπιον

G2261

gentle

properly, affable, i.e., mild or kind

εἶναι

G1511

to exist

#10

πρὸς

G4314

unto

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

#11

πάντας

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

#12

διδακτικόν

G1317

men apt to teach

instructive ("didactic")

#13

ἀνεξίκακον

G420

patient

enduring of ill, i.e., forbearing

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within 2 Timothy chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?