2 Timothy 4:2

Authorized King James Version

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
κήρυξον
Preach
to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth (the gospel)
#2
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
λόγον
the word
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
#4
ἐπίστηθι
be instant
to stand upon, i.e., be present (in various applications, friendly or otherwise, usually literal)
#5
εὐκαίρως
in season
opportunely
#6
ἀκαίρως
out of season
inopportunely
#7
ἔλεγξον
reprove
to confute, admonish
#8
ἐπιτίμησον
rebuke
to tax upon, i.e., censure or admonish; by implication, forbid
#9
παρακάλεσον
exhort
to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)
#10
ἐν
with
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#11
πάσῃ
all
all, any, every, the whole
#12
μακροθυμίᾳ
longsuffering
longanimity, i.e., (objectively) forbearance or (subjectively) fortitude
#13
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#14
διδαχῇ
doctrine
instruction (the act or the matter)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Timothy. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection