2 Timothy 1 4

2 Timothy 1:4 kjv

Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy;

2 Timothy 1:4 nkjv

greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears, that I may be filled with joy,

2 Timothy 1:4 niv

Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy.

2 Timothy 1:4 esv

As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy.

2 Timothy 1:4 nlt

I long to see you again, for I remember your tears as we parted. And I will be filled with joy when we are together again.

2 Timothy 1 verses

2 Timothy 1 4 Meaning

The Apostle Paul expresses a deep, personal affection for Timothy, recalling their shared emotional experiences, particularly Timothy's tears. This memory ignites a strong desire within Paul to be reunited with Timothy, knowing that such a meeting would fill him with profound joy. It reveals the genuine warmth of their pastoral and personal bond.

2 Timothy 1 4 Context

The letter of 2 Timothy is Paul's last inspired writing, penned from a Roman prison during the reign of Nero, shortly before his execution. It is deeply personal, functioning as a pastoral charge to his spiritual son, Timothy. Chapter 1 begins with a characteristic Pauline greeting and thanksgiving. This verse specifically introduces the affectionate, almost parental bond Paul shared with Timothy, setting the tone for the exhortations that follow. Paul reflects on Timothy's faith and character, providing the bedrock for the challenging call to persevere in ministry despite suffering and false teaching, which dominates the rest of the letter. The mention of tears humanizes Paul and highlights the depth of their relationship amidst perilous times.

2 Timothy 1 4 Word analysis

• Remembering (μνείαν ἔχων - mneian echōn): Literally "having a remembrance" or "keeping in memory." This signifies a specific, vivid recollection rather than a vague awareness. Paul’s memory is active and informs his present emotion, underscoring the enduring impact of Timothy's visible sorrow on Paul.
• your tears (σου τῶν δακρύων - sou tōn dakryōn): These were likely tears shed at their last parting, perhaps a deeply emotional farewell, given the perilous context of Paul's mission and imprisonment. Such tears would indicate Timothy's deep affection for Paul, his sensitivity, and his concern for his spiritual mentor. Biblically, tears can express deep sorrow (Ps 6:6), empathetic grief (Rom 12:15), earnest prayer (Heb 5:7), or even the difficult path to joy (Ps 126:5). Here, they point to Timothy's emotional nature and devotion.
• I long (ἐπιποθῶν - epipothōn): A very strong Greek verb expressing intense longing, yearning, or craving. It's used by Paul elsewhere to describe his fervent desire for fellowship with believers (Rom 1:11; Phil 1:8). This is not a casual wish but a powerful, earnest desire for personal communion.
• to see you (σε ἰδεῖν - se idein): The direct object of Paul's longing is visual and relational contact with Timothy. For Paul, physical presence was vital for mentorship, encouragement, and mutual comfort, demonstrating the high value placed on face-to-face Christian fellowship.
• that I may be filled (ἵνα πληρωθῶ - hina plērōthō): A purpose clause indicating the desired outcome. The verb "filled" (πληρόω - plēroo) means to make full, complete, or to abundantly supply. It suggests a deep satisfaction and spiritual contentment that only meeting Timothy can bring. This "fullness" is holistic, impacting his spirit and mind.
• with joy (χαρᾶς - charas): This is the ultimate goal Paul expresses. Biblical joy is often distinct from fleeting happiness; it is a profound spiritual state, often rooted in God's presence and the fellowship of believers, capable of existing even amidst suffering (Rom 14:17; 1 Pet 1:8). Paul's joy here is not self-centered but springs from a healthy, Christ-centered relationship with his beloved disciple. It would be joy at seeing Timothy steadfast in faith, fulfilling his calling.

2 Timothy 1 4 Bonus section

Paul’s expressed longing for Timothy is deeply illustrative of the biblical emphasis on interpersonal relationships within the body of Christ. His personal need for the comfort and presence of Timothy, even as an apostle facing execution, debunks any notion of solitary spiritual strength in ministry. It highlights the interdependent nature of Christian community, where even the strongest spiritual leaders draw encouragement and joy from fellow believers. This verse also serves as a poignant reminder of the bittersweet nature of goodbyes among believers who deeply love each other, yet holds the promise of future reunion, here on earth, or ultimately, in glory.

2 Timothy 1 4 Commentary

In 2 Timothy 1:4, Paul reveals the personal, vulnerable heart of a devoted mentor and spiritual father. His recollection of Timothy’s tears highlights a bond forged in shared faith and mutual affection, perhaps reflecting Timothy’s sorrow at a parting, or simply his tender and compassionate nature. This memory serves as the wellspring of Paul's profound longing to see his young colleague again. The phrase "I long to see you" is far more than a casual greeting; it communicates an urgent and fervent desire for renewed fellowship. Paul’s joy was intimately tied to the spiritual well-being and physical presence of his fellow laborers in the gospel, particularly Timothy. This anticipated reunion, envisioned to fill him "with joy," underscores the deep spiritual refreshment and encouragement Paul derived from personal contact with those he had discipled. Despite facing imminent martyrdom, Paul finds his joy not in personal liberation but in the prospect of strengthening and being strengthened by a brother in Christ, reinforcing that true Christian joy is often communal and stems from healthy spiritual relationships.