2 Tim 1:2 To my beloved child....

To Timothy, my beloved child:

Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

2 Tim 1:2

Who is Timothy? He served alongside Paul in 2nd? and 3rd missions?

my beloved child: A greater intimacy is introduced in the description of Timothy as his dearly beloved son, and there can be no doubt that this young man was helf in the most affectionate esteem by the great apostle. (Guthrie)
Paul mentioned Timothy in all of his inspired epistles except Galatians, Ephesians, and Titus. (Constable)


Grace, mercy, and peace: Spurgeon used this verse, along with 1 Timothy 1:2 and Titus 1:4 to show that ministers need more mercy than other believers do. After all, in the beginning to his letters to churches in general, Paul only says grace and peace in his greeting (Romans 1:7, 1 Corinthians 1:3, 2 Corinthians 1:2, Galatians 1:3, Ephesians 1:2, Philippians 1:2, Colossians 1:2, 1 Thessalonians 1:1, 2 Thessalonians 1:2). But when he starts writing the pastors – Timothy and Titus – he is compelled to say grace, mercy, and peace to him!

From W.Grudem's Systematic Theology pg 200 Chpt 12 Communicable Attributes of God

God's mercy, patience and grace may be seen as 3 separate attributes or as specific aspects of God's goodness. The definations given here show these attributes as special examples of God's goodness when it is used for the benefit of specific classes of people.

God's mercy means God's goodness toward those is misery and distress
God's grace means God's goodness toward those who deserve only punishment.
God's patience means God's goodness in withholding of punishment towards those who sin over a period of time

Ryan:

1) God is the ultimate giver of grace, mercy and peace.

2) Christ: It is interesting to note that Christ Jesus is mentioned 3 times within the first 2 verses of this letter. Goes to show the Christ-centered-ness of this letter and how much Paul wants Christ to be glorified in the midst of his suffering in the prison.

3) Also worthy of mention would be "my beloved child": Timothy is a trusted friend who sticks with Paul through thick and thin. Little surprise that Paul calls him as a beloved child ( NIV: my dear son). Are there such close relationships in your christian circle?