Interpretation of the 2nd Epistle to Timothy by St. Paul the Apostle

Blessed Theophylact of Bulgaria gained experience in explaining the Holy Scriptures when, as a rhetorician of the Great Church, he instructed the people. Most of his written interpretations arose at the request of the Greek Empress Maria, whom he calls his pious patron. These works became an outstanding synthesis and transposition of the established patristic traditions, primarily the heritage of the Antiochian theological school and St. John Chrysostom. As a rule, the author presents abbreviated versions of extensive interpretations of the ancient Church Fathers, borrowing only what is necessary for understanding the text. The commentary also includes his own explanations, which often concern disputes with heretics, especially later ones, and issues of dialogue with the Latins. Thanks to his clear, concise presentation and clear semantic emphasis, his commentaries were accessible to a wide range of readers, became widespread and had a significant influence on both Byzantine and Western European theology. In the “Interpretation of the 2nd Epistle to Timothy of the Holy Apostle Paul” (4 chapters), Blessed Theophylact notes that the ap. Paul, being in prison and sensing his imminent death, writes this letter to comfort his disciple instead of personal presence. The commentaries reflect pastoral principles and instructions about perseverance in faith in the face of trials. Why does the apostle write this second letter to Timothy? In his first letter he said, “I hope to come to you soon” (1 Timothy 3:14). But this did not come true, for he was detained by Nero. Therefore, instead of his arrival, he consoles him with a letter, because Timothy grieved as much due to the absence of the apostle as because of the burden of episcopal power. For even great men find it difficult to steer the ship of the Church, being flooded on all sides by large waves, especially at a time when there are wars everywhere. At the same time, the apostle calls him to himself, for he was already close to death. You might be interested in: