2 Timothy 4:9
Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me:
Original Language Analysis
Σπούδασον
Do thy diligence
G4704
Σπούδασον
Do thy diligence
Strong's:
G4704
Word #:
1 of 5
to use speed, i.e., to make effort, be prompt or earnest
ἐλθεῖν
to come
G2064
ἐλθεῖν
to come
Strong's:
G2064
Word #:
2 of 5
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
Historical Context
Travel from Ephesus to Rome required weeks by sea and land, involving significant danger during Neronian persecution. Christians traveling to visit imprisoned believers risked arrest themselves. Yet Paul calls Timothy anyway, trusting his devotion. Whether Timothy arrived before Paul's execution is unknown. Church tradition suggests he did, receiving Paul's final words. The letter itself preserves those words for all generations. Paul's human need for companionship resonates across centuries—even heroes of faith face loneliness and crave fellowship.
Questions for Reflection
- Who are the spiritual fathers, mothers, or friends you should visit, support, or spend time with while opportunity remains?
- How quickly and diligently do you respond when those you love or respect need your presence and support?
- What risks are you willing to take to maintain fellowship and minister to those facing suffering or death?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me. After theological instruction, Paul makes personal request: "Do thy diligence" (spoudason, σπούδασον) means make every effort, be zealous, hurry. "To come shortly unto me" (elthein pros me tacheōs, ἐλθεῖν πρός με ταχέως). Tacheōs (ταχέως) means quickly, soon—Paul's time is short. This poignant request reveals Paul's humanity: though courageous in facing death, he longs for companionship. Even apostles need fellowship.
The request shows Timothy's importance to Paul—he wants his beloved spiritual son present during final days. It also demonstrates Paul's confidence in Timothy's faithfulness despite earlier concerns about timidity. Paul trusts Timothy will brave the dangerous journey to Rome during persecution to be with his imprisoned mentor. The urgency underscores the letter's occasion: Paul knows execution is imminent; this may be final opportunity for reunion.
This verse humanizes Paul, showing that spiritual maturity doesn't eliminate need for human relationships. Martyrs aren't superhuman but ordinary people sustained by God's grace. Paul's loneliness (v. 10-11 reveals most coworkers have left) makes fellowship especially precious. The request also implies Paul wants Timothy to receive final instructions, observe his death, and carry ministry forward—apostolic succession from dying leader to faithful successor.